Empowering New York: Empire State University’s Bold Academic Expansion

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — June 25, 2025) With the recent fluctuations in the landscape of higher education, it is rare to see universities implementing expansive strategies with as much vigor as Empire State University is. This fall alone, nine new academic programs are launching, ranging from microcredentials to advanced degrees. At the heart of the process behind implementing new programs is Brian Goodale, director of academic programs and partnerships at Empire State University.

Goodale, who has been with the university for 18 years, holds a crucial role in fleshing out new offerings ideated by Empire State University faculty members. “I’m the shepherd, advisor, and consultant for academic program proposals,” he says. One of Goodale’s functions is to watch over a program from inception to final approval by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and ensure that it aligns with the university’s strategic goals. The program must also be carefully planned out to inhabit a niche that other programs do not, and must undergo an extensive vetting process, which Goodale also oversees.

“This is a high priority for us,” Goodale says. “We’re aligning closely with our strategic plan and positioning ourselves for long-term success.” Since 2024, the university has developed and launched 20 new programs, with several others pending approval. New offerings target areas such as digital media arts, organizational psychology, and health care analytics, among others.

Goodale mentions that Empire State University employees can access the internal dashboard detailing which new programs are moving through the approval process, which shows real-time updates. “The more people use it, the better,” says Goodale, explaining that this tool will help keep employees informed and engaged with the university’s projects.

The purpose of driving forth new programs is not only to expand the quantity of offerings, but to target areas of need in New York state’s workforce and boost upward mobility.  In launching new programs, the university also strengthens community college and industry partnerships that support student goals and serve the state’s economic development mission. “We’re being very thoughtful and intentional,” Goodale said. “This is exactly what [the] SUNY [system], and the governor want to see.”

Relevant to the many Spanish speakers throughout the state is the university’s new Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program taught in Spanish, which provides a thorough business administration curriculum delivered in the Spanish language. Luis Camacho, assistant professor at the School of Business, comments, “We worked hard in order to identify the highest-level faculty in Latin America from different higher institutions… we have faculty from Chile, Peru, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Colombia.”  

The program’s approval by NYSED emphasizes its significance and potential to serve the substantial population of Spanish speakers in the region by removing the language barrier. Regarding the Spanish BBA’s approval process, Camacho explains: “… we needed to develop at least 40–45 courses in order to be prepared for the student population demand.”

With its active pursuit of education for all, Empire State University sets an example of how higher education institutions can strive to serve the needs of diverse communities. Broadening access to education and professional opportunities for New York state residents and beyond remains at the core of the university’s mission—at a time where higher education seems to shrink, Empire State University is determined to stand tall and support learners.

In Spanish, Online, and On Your Time: Ronnie Rivera’s Trajectory as Spanish BBA Specialist

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(MANHATTAN, NY — June 13, 2025) Ronnie Rivera joined Empire State University as a bilingual assistant registrar eight months ago, with an already layered understanding of hard work. His passion for helping students succeed in academic settings draws upon a lifetime of resilience and a deep commitment to assisting others.

Rivera was born in the Bronx, where he oscillated between English and Spanish at different points of his early years. “When I was born, and before I started school, I only spoke Spanish,” he explains. “Then, I started kindergarten and transitioned to English.” The summers of his childhood unfolded speaking Spanish with relatives in Puerto Rico, where he would help with coffee harvests on the family farm: “Before I even ate breakfast, [I was] already in the coffee fields, taking coffee in “sacos”, “sacks,” all the way up to the house,” Rivera recalls. Growing up this way established a work ethic built upon discipline and persistence.

This same work ethic came into play during Rivera’s time in the U.S. Marine Corps as an IT technician from 2004 to 2009, where he learned many of the technical skills he now applies in his role at Empire State University. “[The military] was very grueling work, which I enjoyed because I had that [earlier] experience of very grueling work,” he says. “Then, I started college and realized there’s also grueling work in academics.” His experience navigating often-tedious landscapes, particularly that of higher education, motivates him to convey information to prospective Spanish BBA students clearly in both English and Spanish—to do the heavy lifting for their benefit, so to speak.

Rivera’s life changed abruptly in 2010 following his mother’s passing, when he saw a need to return to Puerto Rico and run her business. “I found out that I wasn’t very good at [Spanish] until I was living in a country where the predominant language is Spanish.” Immersed into his life on the island, he newly sharpened the Spanish language skills he grew up with and acquired an entrepreneurial mindset.

Because his business experience inherently entwines with bilingualism, Rivera clearly sees the value of Empire State University’s new Spanish BBA. The initiative, designed to serve degree-seeking Spanish speakers, is meant to equip its students with business skills in their native language—skills through which they can uplift enterprises in their local communities. “This program is the first of its kind in the SUNY system,” says Rivera. “If more people knew [about it], they would make a great decision in their life by joining.”

A high school graduate who dreams of a better job but struggles with English. A working parent who studies at night in hopes of gaining upward mobility in their field. These are just a few of the examples Rivera lists of people who may thrive with Empire State University’s program taught entirely in Spanish. “They want to progress in life. They want to help their family,” he says. “This program can benefit them.”

A current MBA student at the university, Rivera adds, “[Empire State University] has mastered online learning for years—trust the fact that we can help you. We are here; we are real.” He emphasizes the workflows that have been implemented specifically for the Spanish BBA, the team of specialists that will be at the disposal of its students, and the ease of use when it comes to the university’s online learning interfaces. Having found his path, Rivera is ever determined to help others find theirs.

Support and Advocacy: How Employee Affinity Groups Enrich Our University Community

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — June 5, 2025) Often informally, workplaces give rise to connections among colleagues who share commonalities, which sparked discussions surrounding employee affinity groups (EAGs) at Empire State University. Seeing how such groups had naturally formed, the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) formally established affinity groups to promote connection, support, and belonging among university employees in 2024.

“The decision to formalize EAGs … reflects SUNY Empire’s commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable work environment. ODEI now provides dedicated resources and support to ensure these groups are empowered to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the university community,” says Ade Byron, program manager for the ODEI.

The ODEI defines EAGs as “voluntary, employee-led teams within organizations that share a common identity, interest, background or goal.” Their value is evidenced through increased employee productivity, improved recruitment outcomes, and higher employee retention rates.

The benefits of EAGs are many, including fostering open dialogue, empowering employees to feel authentically themselves at work, and facilitating resource-sharing as well as cross-campus collaboration. “EAGs are helping to strengthen our institutional culture by promoting inclusion, visibility, and building a university community that centers intentional community and belonging,” comments Byron.

At Empire State University, EAGs have brought forth important conversations that spark authentic connection and deepen the university community’s understanding of the experiences of those who form it. Byron speaks to an event hosted by the NeuroDiverse Collective, which “sparked deep engagement—people shared personal stories, exchanged valuable resources, and began building a collective understanding of the experiences of neurodiverse colleagues and students. It was a powerful moment of connection, learning, and empathy, and a great example of how Employee Affinity Groups can help shift culture and foster inclusion.”

The ODEI encourages interested employees to join an existing EAG or form one of their own. The application can be found on their webpage. They also have created an interest form with suggestions for new groups that have been recommended by employees. In the same form, employees can propose additional EAG ideas.

“EAGs are truly open, welcoming spaces that thrive on connection, shared experiences, and community. If you’re thinking about starting a group—even if you only know one other person who shares your interest—I encourage you to go for it. ODEI is here to support you,” says Byron.

Pamela Doran, digital accessibility coordinator at Empire State University, is a co-convenor of the NeuroDiverse Collective, along with Andrea Piazza, assistant director of accessibility resources and services. Doran said, “The Neurodiverse Affinity Group at SUNY Empire creates space for connection, understanding, and advocacy. It reminds me that neurodivergent perspectives are not only welcome here but also essential to our growth as a community. This group helps build a culture where everyone can contribute authentically and thrive.”

The ODEI has curated a list of guidelines for EAGs, which aim to help employees structure the group while following the university’s policies and procedures. “Whether you’re looking to build belonging, share experiences, or be a part of an inclusive workplace community, EAGs are a powerful and rewarding way to get involved,” Byron says.

Love of Language: Perla Zamitiz on Being a Linguist and the Spanish BBA

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – June 2, 2025) Linguist Perla Zamitiz joined Empire State University on October 10, 2024—the day of the 2024 Fall Academic Conference and, coincidentally, her birthday. “It was my birthday gift,” she jokes. Zamitiz has since held a crucial role in the large-scale translation project to prepare Empire State University to receive the inaugural cohort of the new Spanish BBA.

Hailing from Puebla, Mexico, Zamitiz grew up surrounded by the greenery of her father’s coffee farm. Her childhood unfolded between harvests and daily dips in the river where she learned how to swim. “That’s what I most remember about my childhood,” she says, “going to swim every day for hours and hours, and helping my dad with the coffee harvest.”

When Zamitiz was college-aged, she moved to the city— “It’s completely different. Every break, my brother and I would run to our home in the mountains,” she comments. This transition from country to city life was not the last big change Zamitiz would learn to navigate; she went on to live in Tennessee throughout graduate school and later moved to Ohio. “I adapt really well,” says Zamitiz, who enjoys the presence of lakes and rivers near her home in New York, and has grown accustomed to seasonal weather changes.

“Spanish was my native language, but I feel that my experience might be the opposite of what most people go through because my bachelor’s degree in Mexico was taught in English,” says Zamitiz. Her experience during the program, particularly learning from American faculty members, cultivated a strong foundation in English before she ever set foot in the United States. She studied linguistics with the aim of teaching foreign languages later on.

In graduate school, Zamitiz’s program was in Latin American literature, which flipped the linguistic structure of her BA on its head. Stemming from her master’s degree, Zamitiz was invited to continue her studies by doing a Ph.D. in same subject, which required learning different languages. This led her to not only have command over Spanish and English, but also Portuguese—in which she taught classes—and Russian, in which she acquired basic conversational skills.

Zamitiz taught at various colleges and universities early on in her professional career. Her passion for languages and words drew her to the world of editing, and eventually, her role at Empire State University came into view. “Linguistics—being able to proofread and edit is wonderful,” she comments about her current role as a linguist working on interdepartmental translation projects for the university.

“I love the team that we have and being a part of this [project from the] beginning, because it’s a first. So, it feels special to be part of that, doing what I really love,” says Zamitiz regarding her role in helping establish the new Spanish BBA program at Empire State University.

Zamitiz believes the program’s creation proves its value already, as it is designed to serve an existing demographic of Spanish speakers seeking academic credentials unimpeded by a language barrier. As for its upcoming first cohort of students, she says: “I really hope that they can feel some kind of ‘family warm welcome’ when they open the pages and see all the information.” She underscores the care and extensive work that has been put into preparing everything students will need to enroll, take classes, and participate in the university community. Excited to continue her translation, editing, and proofreading work, Zamitiz hopes the program reaches learners who may have been looking for it all along.

Kasie Roach: Navy Veteran and Victim Advocate Graduates from Empire State University

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — May 22, 2025) Kasie Roach, a Spring 2025 graduate of Empire State University, has faced much change since leaving her hometown of Bloomer, Wisconsin. Stemming from her successful military career, Roach pivoted into sexual assault prevention and response victim advocacy.

The path of foregoing a college education and instead inhabiting the domestic sphere, as was expected of most women in her rural and traditional Midwestern town, was one that didn’t align with Roach’s aspirations as a teenager. “I decided I did not want to be the standard thing that ladies become in Wisconsin … during high school, I started attending classes to become an auto mechanic—I was approached by a recruiter from the Navy,” she says.

Thus began Roach’s military career: she joined the United States Navy in 2000 with the promise of better compensation for her mechanic skills. Having performed well in math and science classes in high school, she was directed to the nuclear power program and became a machinist mate, also referred to as a Navy mechanic.

“I spent the next 12 years working through the ranks as a nuclear machinist mate … turns out it’s nothing like auto mechanics,” comments Roach. While serving, she earned a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering and met her husband. In 2011, Roach left the military due to women being restricted from serving on submarines at the time; she was a chief petty officer.

“It led me to a life of social work rather than engineering,” says Roach, who began working for the Washington Youth Academy—a program designed to assist at-risk youth in getting back on track with high-school credits. “That was where I found my passion was not working with pipes,” jokes Roach.

Once Roach became a parent, she decided to stay at home with her children until they began kindergarten, which took place during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was then that Roach took on her favorite job: being a lunch lady. “My coworkers were always excited to see me because they were little, hungry, and happy,” she says, beaming.

Following that experience, Roach rejoined the U.S. Navy, this time on the civilian side as a sexual assault prevention and response (SAPR) victim advocate. “I cannot overstate my passion for doing right by people who are in the shoes I was in 20 years ago—I feel like I’m in a good place,” she comments.

At that time, Roach’s coworker alerted her to having remaining GI bill benefits, which she previously thought were inactive. A former SUNY system employee, he recommended Empire State University, which prompted Roach to contact the university’s Veteran and Military Resource Center (VMRC). Desiree Drindak and Anne Sweet, director and associate director of the VMRC, respectively, facilitated Roach’s enrollment process and offered their continued support. “I owe the simplicity of it all to them,” she says.

Roach completed her master’s degree in public administration in a mere 10 months. “I was juggling two kiddos, I was a housewife, I was just starting a new job, volunteering all over the place … I never thought that I would have the time to do this,” she shares. The support of her family, as well as the supportive environment at Empire State University, made her transition into civilian life—and back into academia—a smoother one. “Every single professor was easily accessible and on it every time a question was asked,” Roach says.

Throughout her time as an Empire State University student, Roach looked to her professors for insights into complex current events: “[He] had a way of using history to calm us every time… it brought some peace,” she says about Associate Professor Edward Warzala.  Roach emphasizes the importance of having a network of supportive individuals, which she feels grateful to have found at the university.

As a Spring 2025 graduate, Roach has been planning the next step in her personal and professional growth journey. “I have no doubt there’s future education for me at SUNY Empire,” she says, “Dr. Warzala is helping me figure out what direction I would take with a higher education program.” Meanwhile, she continues her duties as a SAPR victim advocate, centering justice, resilience, and support in her work with and for women.

Clinic and Classroom: Meet Libby Miranda, ABA Program Graduate

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(MANHATTAN, NY — May 19, 2025) In Long Island, New York, Libby Miranda is preparing to receive her master’s degree in applied behavior analysis (ABA) from Empire State University after hard work in and out of the classroom. Miranda, who has experienced the value of applying course concepts in real-time clinic settings, has also recently been promoted to clinic supervisor at work.

Prior to joining Empire State University, Miranda felt uncertain about what career path to pursue. In initial conversations with university representatives, she was recommended the ABA program. “I just took a leap and went for it. I’m so happy that I did because it ended up being one of the best decisions of my life,” she says.

Though the idea of online learning was daunting, Miranda developed connections with faculty and peers who fueled her academic journey. “I constantly felt supported by professors and my advisor,” she comments, “It felt like such a personal experience, despite it being online.”

Her master’s degree program in ABA took Miranda through core components of the field, working closely with Empire State University’s Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports (CAARES), led by Dr. Noor Y. Syed, assistant professor and ABA program coordinator. Miranda says, “I just want to give a big thanks to Dr. Syed. She was my advisor, and I truthfully could not have done this without her.”

Through fulfilling coursework and balancing other responsibilities, Miranda learned the importance of staying organized. “Organization is significant to practice in the field I’m going into,” she says. With that skill in mind, she was able to maintain A’s throughout her entire academic career. “I’m really proud of myself for being able to accomplish that because it was something that I’d never been able to do before,” she explains.

Obtaining her degree in ABA has shed light on the path forward for Miranda, who had graduated with a bachelor’s degree in a field she didn’t find fulfilling. Through this experience, which began during the COVID-19 global pandemic, she has found her passion in helping others. “I’m entering an entirely new chapter in my life with graduation and having this promotion,” she says, smiling.

The ability to apply what she learned in the classroom to real-life settings in clinic work solidified her knowledge of the field, giving her confidence in her abilities. “[Experiential learning] made it a lot easier for me to understand the concepts that I was being taught,” Miranda explains. Similarly, being able to connect with peers has been a rewarding experience—through creating and participating in group chats, she was able to get to know her classmates and foster connections and friendships. “Even though we’re online, [it shows you that] you’re not alone in this situation,” she says.

Looking ahead, Miranda aspires to expand the range of populations she serves in the ABA field, particularly high school-aged individuals— “…it would be such a treat because I feel like we would have a lot to talk about,” she says. Miranda then adds, jokingly, “I’m getting married this month, so that’s all I can think about right now.”

Once the wedding festivities settle, she is eager to dive into new experiences in her field. Miranda looks forward to more interactions with families that will continue to shape her understanding of what it means to be a caregiver to individuals with autism diagnoses.

The road to obtaining her master’s degree in ABA has been a challenging yet profusely gratifying one. Miranda advises prospective students of the ABA program at Empire State University: “Prepare yourself to be really overwhelmed by the amount of support and new set of skills that you’ll pick up.” Above all else, she highlights the compassion that characterizes the program, and the ABA field at large, saying, “I am surrounded by practitioners who care more than anyone I’ve ever seen in my entire life.”

Where Care and Career Intersect: Sara Luna’s Journey at Empire State University

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — May 15, 2025) After years of military service, Sara Margaret Elizabeth Luna decided she would work towards her bachelor’s degree to better serve her office and open the door to new possibilities. Born in Marathon, New York, she is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in government contracting and communications and will be walking in the Manhattan commencement ceremony on May 21.

Luna enlisted in the military in 2003, halfway through her senior year of high school. “I graduated high school on a Sunday in June, and then, the next day I was at MEPS processing—and the next day … I was on my very first airplane ride to BMT [basic military training] for the Air Force over in Texas,” she comments. Since, her assignments have taken her from Oklahoma to California and beyond. Currently, Luna is serving as the contracting superintendent at the New York Air National Guard.

What prompted Luna to initially join Empire State University was the goal of seeking out a higher warrant for signing contracts, something that comes with more advanced academic credentials. After a series of attempts to enroll at other institutions that didn’t feel “military-friendly,” she decided to switch her approach. “Come October 2023, I was like, you know what? I’m going to give Empire State University a try and just see what they do. Within 24 hours they had me enrolled,” she says.

Prior learning assessment (PLA)—another trait of the university’s that appealed to Luna upon enrollment—aims to recognize knowledge and skills that students may have gained outside of traditional classroom settings. Luna was one of many students who applied to obtain college credit befitting her career experience, which allowed her to focus on credits dedicated to new knowledge and skills.

Her father’s sudden passing is a significant challenge that Luna faced during her time at Empire State University. Yet, amid trying to earn her BA, while balancing school, work, and other responsibilities, there was, unexpectedly, also space for her grief: “This is the only college that had somebody texting me saying, ‘Hey, how’s it going? We’re here for you. Whatever you need,’” she notes about the university’s student support figures.

As her academic journey comes to a close, Luna feels pride in having fulfilled the requirements for her program of study and earned her bachelor’s degree. This comes with the achievement of obtaining a higher warrant for signing contracts, which boosts her career opportunities moving forward. “My goal was the degree. It was huge for me to achieve this based on talking with my current leadership and them saying, ‘We need you to get a higher warrant, which means you need a degree,’” she explains.

Luna’s experience at Empire State University has been underscored by the all-embracing support of faculty and staff members, for which she lightheartedly says, “The advice I have for prospective students is that they should enroll at Empire State University.” Then, thoughtfully, she adds, “Give yourself grace, and make sure that your time management skills are on par.”

Looking ahead, Luna aims to pursue a master’s degree at Empire State University— “I enjoy taking care of people, so [my advisor] gave me three different options, and they’re in the nonprofit realm of degrees,” she says.

Kamelyn Báez Peña on Empire State University’s Dual Degree Program and Keeping Your Culture Close

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(MANHATTAN, NY — May 13, 2025) Kamelyn Báez Peña has been working hard to earn a dual B.S. degree from Empire State University and Universidad APEC (UNAPEC) of the Dominican Republic in business management with a concentration in economics. On May 22, she will walk the stage at the New York City Center in Manhattan to celebrate her achievement.

Local to Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, Báez Peña resides in a multigenerational household with her mother, sister, and niece. She underscores the beauty of her hometown, and her eyes light up as she shares her love of Dominican cuisine. For first-time visitors, she recommends cultural staple dishes like “la bandera,” “the flag,” which contains rice, beans, chicken, fried plantains, and salami.

The dual degree program, which she has completed remotely from Santo Domingo, provides several concentrations students can choose from–including finance, economics, human resources, and management, among others. Báez Peña comments, “I chose economics—I like that concentration.”

Báez Peña was enrolled in UNAPEC prior to joining Empire State University through the dual degree program offered between both universities, which has stood since 2006. The program recently garnered new interest through its first residency hosted in the Dominican Republic since before the pandemic.

Receiving her first degree in international business is what incited Báez Peña to pursue the dual degree program, as it covers related areas such as finance, economics, and management. “[The dual degree program] gave me the confidence to do things—I never studied in another language [before]. It was a huge change,” she comments. Báez Peña feels that Empire State University has equipped her with tools for academic success that support both online learning and learning in a different language.

Seeing case studies from economies Báez Peña was familiar with in homework assignments and other course content fueled that sense of confidence, strengthening the learning outcomes of her academic journey. An experience that stands out to her is learning under Professor Luis Camacho, who is also from the Dominican Republic. To provide students with a comprehensive view of the subject matter, Camacho approached teaching Ethics for Global Economy from the perspective of both U.S. and Dominican economic and political processes. Now, Báez Peña is receiving two degrees that attest to her ability to apply economic principles across contexts, as well as her bilingual capabilities.

She feels fulfilled by her acceptance to the dual degree program between Empire State University and UNAPEC—an opportunity which not all students in her position were able to attain. The program has provided a multicultural lens for her studies—a useful vantage point in today’s increasingly globalized and interlinked world.

There may be a master’s degree on the horizon for Báez Peña—she comments that she would like to continue her studies abroad, in Spain. She is most drawn to e-commerce, international economy, or international commerce as potential areas of study. Báez Peña also hopes to apply for scholarships that will aid her academic journey. “I’m interested not only in the economies themselves, but in the way they shape and influence the lives of people who participate in them,” she explains, “It’s not just numbers.”

Being an international student has shaped Báez Peña’s academic journey in many ways, including navigating the balance between assimilation and staying true to one’s own cultural identity. She believes in the power of timing, and the importance of discipline when it comes to succeeding in online learning environments. “What’s most rewarding is the university providing opportunities [for students],” says Báez Peña about her journey as a forthcoming graduate of the dual degree program. She advises fellow international students to “always do your best, and keep your country with you.”

Committed to Care: Khavel Smith-Martin’s Journey in Applied Behavior Analysis

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – May 8, 2025) Among Empire State University’s impressive cohort of spring graduates is Khavel Smith-Martin, who is receiving her M.S. in applied behavior analysis (ABA) at Albany’s commencement ceremony on May 9. She is from “the beautiful island of Jamaica,” and currently lives in Queens, NY.

Smith-Martin is a soon-to-be two-time graduate of Empire State University, having received her bachelor’s degree in human development in 2016. She praises Empire State University’s user-friendly online system, which allowed her to balance coursework, personal, and professional life. “What really makes the difference, though, is the warm and welcoming nature of the professors… that sense of connection and flexibility made SUNY Empire the clear choice for continuing my education. [Its professors] don’t just teach, they build real connections with students, showing genuine care for our goals and growth,” Smith-Martin says.

While working with the New York City Administration for Children’s Services, Smith-Martin had the opportunity to connect with families raising children on the autism spectrum, an experience which brought her closer to her passion for ABA and inspired her to pursue her master’s degree. “Witnessing their daily challenges and unwavering commitment deeply moved me. I felt a strong desire to be more than just a supportive presence—I wanted to be equipped with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference in their lives,” comments Smith-Martin.

Parenthood was another important path that led her to pursue her M.S. in ABA—she believes in being a good role model and inspiring children through one’s own actions as a parent: “Saying ‘education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,’ and being the true, real-life example, was a realization that inspired me,” she explains, adding that she aims to provide meaningful support to families and their children through the skill she has learned in her degree program.

Working towards her M.S. in ABA has shown Smith-Martin the importance of self-discipline and time management, both of which were essential to her academic success in an online learning environment. “With the flexibility of online learning comes the responsibility of holding yourself accountable… this experience not only helped me grow academically but has also strengthened my confidence and independence as a student, parent, and professional,” she says.

The M.S. in ABA program enabled Smith-Martin to gain a deeper understanding of her field, and how to successfully apply that in real-world situations. “Through my coursework and practicum experiences, I’ve grown more confident in implementing behavior intervention plans, collecting and analyzing data, and supporting clients with greater precision and care,” comments Smith-Martin. This aligns with her long-term goal of becoming a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA).

Completing the M.S. in applied behavior analysis has made a tangible impact on her work with families and children: “The most rewarding part has been seeing how what I learn in class directly improves the lives of the clients I work with. Applying evidence-based strategies and watching a child gain a new skill or a family feel more supported—that’s where it all comes full circle,” she explains.

Smith-Martin says, “This program will challenge you—but in the best way.” Her advice to prospective students is: “Don’t be afraid to ask questions, lean on your professors and peers, and make time to reflect on your growth. Also—remember why you started. Keep that purpose close.”

She will be taking the BCBA exam following commencement, and aspires to continue growing in the field of applied behavior analysis. “I’m passionate about supporting children with autism and their families, and I hope to take on more leadership roles—I also plan to stay connected with mentors and continue learning, because growth in this field never really stops,” shares Smith-Martin.

The Bravery of Beginning: Spring 2025 Commencement Student Voices

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(MANHATTAN, NY – May 5, 2025) For each commencement ceremony, Empire State University selects a student representative to speak on behalf of their class by sharing their academic journey—typically, they are a student in good academic standing who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to learning despite any challenges.

This year’s student speakers have felt, each in their own way, scared to take the first step that got them where they are now: pursuing a college education. Today, they all look back on their journeys fondly and feel gratitude for having taken that leap into the unknown. They celebrate academic success, as well as personal and professional growth, because they were all brave enough to step in the direction of their dreams even if the path ahead was uncertain. Here is a snapshot of Empire State University’s four spring 2025 commencement student speakers:

Meet Jenny Edwards, Commencement student speaker for the Albany ceremony

Photo courtesy of Jenny Edwards.

Edwards, who hails from Cambridge, NY, considers the ability to personalize degree programs the most unique part of her education at Empire State University. As a graduate student, she focused on embodied learning theory for adult learning, and merged it with two other passions: cello-playing and writing. She is graduating with a Master of Arts degree in Adult Learning.

“I hadn’t played the cello in ten years and journaled that experience. Two whole years I was doing this… then my capstone project was on how to be a responsive educator through cello-playing and writing an educational biography—it all meshed together. I wrote a lengthy book this semester about it,” she explains.

Edwards stepped away from college at age 19 due to financial hardship, returning to her education in 2015 at the age of 40 after homeschooling her six children. As a non-traditional student, she has balanced academics with several professional experiences—from being a preschool teacher to lecturing at community colleges in the area—and excelled. In 2020, Edwards was recognized with the Chancellor’s award while pursuing her BA, and even got to graduate at the same time as her second son. Edwards also runs the Battenkill Valley Pride organization.

“I’ve always said I wanted to go back and teach at a community college level, in those introductory, very important, foundational classes for educating young children,” comments Edwards when asked about an objective she has fulfilled while at Empire State University. “That goal is fulfilled, right?” she adds, smiling.

While she is currently taking a moment to celebrate her successes, Edwards is also at a point she describes the following way: “When you get to what you think is the mountaintop but realize there’s still a little bit more to go. It’s funny that one goal has led to another, which was not one that I expected,” she laughs.

She thanks her first professor at Hudson Valley Community College, Eileen Mahoney, for encouraging her to pursue her passions: “[She was] the perfect person, at the perfect time, to set me on this path. 10 years later, I am graduating with honors, I get to be a commencement speaker, and I earned my master’s degree.”

Her advice to share is: “Do it, even if you’re scared.” Hear more about her journey and insights at the Albany Commencement ceremony on May 9.

Meet Deanna Barrera, student speaker for the first Manhattan ceremony

Photo courtesy of Deanna Barrera.

Born in Levittown, NY, Barrera is receiving her master’s degree from Empire State University in applied behavior analysis. She is a special education teacher at a D75 Title I school in Queens, and is constantly in pursuit of more knowledge with which she can better support her students.

“A goal I have accomplished [while at Empire State University] is expanding my knowledge of special education and people with exceptionalities and disabilities… I had more to learn, and I’m extremely grateful,” she shares.

Additionally, Barrera is receiving her master’s degree with a 4.0 GPA, which she considers another goal met, as she was just shy of 4.0 at the time she obtained her bachelor’s degree. She is a first-generation college student with a passion for education, and she aims to obtain her doctorate degree following graduation.

When asked what she considers the most unique part of her journey at Empire State University, Barrera comments, “Forming an online community—it’s something I hadn’t expected when I signed up for an asynchronous program. I’ve been able to connect with faculty, who have pointed me in the right direction, and have met many new people through this program, one of which I ended up doing my field work with—we’ve become such close friends.”

Barrera is involved in several initiatives that support individuals with disabilities and has worked closely with Empire State University’s Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports (CAARES), whose team of professionals have helped shape her understanding of autism and special education.

“I am extremely grateful for what this program has taught me in regard to the ethics code of clinical work,” says Barrera.

When it comes to encouraging her peers and community, Barrera’s advice is to “just take chances. You only regret the chances you don’t take. You never know where they might lead you.” She will be walking in the first Manhattan ceremony to receive her master’s degree and address ceremony attendees on May 21.

Meet Serrina Goodman, student speaker for the second Manhattan ceremony

Photo courtesy of Serrina Goodman.

Graduating with a Master of Business Administration degree in Business Management, Goodman strongly believes in doing things “on purpose.” The self-proclaimed Baltimorean-New Yorker considers the demystification of higher education the most unique aspect of being a student at Empire State University.

“In all the attempts I had made, it just seemed so complex. Then I met Amy Ruth Tobol, and she taught me how to break it down, understand it, and navigate it. It was an amazing journey, and it still is,” shares Goodman.

Her path has been one of resilience, which has led her towards living with intentionality, something that she encourages others to harness when they step into each new day. “I’m a 13-year breast cancer survivor,” says Goodman, “when I was faced with the possibility that life could be short for me, it was like ‘everything you said you’re going to do—do it.’ I had no time to waste.”

A personal goal she has fulfilled while working towards her degree is starting a production company. “I don’t want to work for anyone else—I have three adult children. One thing that I said was, ‘when you walk, I walk.’ What that meant was when my son graduated from college, that meant I’d put all three of my children through college, and it was now time for me to walk—for me… Eventually, I’ll get my doctoral degree. These are goals that I set for myself, and I aim to reach each and every one of them,” she explains.

At present, Goodman is working to create the Empire State Cancer Awareness Network, which aims to support survivors of cancer in the Empire State University community. “I work with the SHARE Cancer Support AfroSHARE division and Sister 2 Sister Mentorship Program, servicing all boroughs and doing presentations on breast cancer awareness and gynecologic cancers—that’s what I’m bringing to Empire State University as an additional resource available to everyone,” she says.

Her wish is for anyone who faces challenges, whether visible or not, to know that they can fulfill their dream— “that’s the reason why I agreed to speak,” Goodman adds. She will be receiving her MBA at the second Manhattan ceremony, and looks forward to sharing what she has learned with those in attendance.

Meet Stephanie Weinman, student speaker for the Rochester ceremony

Photo courtesy of Stephanie Weinman.

Weinman—a Rochester native—considers herself a non-traditional student given her 30-year pause in pursuing higher education, during which she tended to her family life, raising two sons, and worked full-time. Now, graduating at age 50, she celebrates the achievement of a goal that she never thought she would pursue again: being a student.

“I never considered myself going back to school after 30 years,” shares Weinman, “and being a student—a good student—that was a big goal for me. I really can’t believe that’s where I’m at right now.”

Weinman feels that the uniqueness of her journey at Empire State University was underscored by being part of an Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), as well as being a SUNY EOP Ambassador throughout the 2023-2024 academic year.

“Being part of an EOP was really special for me as well—it was a whole other community within the school community,” she comments. As an EOP student who has overcome great obstacles in pursuing academic and personal success, Weinman was also recognized with one of SUNY’s highest honors: the Norman R. McConney Jr. Award for Student Excellence.

Weinman has always gravitated towards activism, allyship, and social justice, which led her to enroll at Empire State University and focus on earning her bachelor’s degree in community and human services. Her passion lies in broadening access to proper health care and necessary resources for women and all marginalized communities.

Her recent work with international non-profit organization, Girls Rock! Rochester, involves using music as a conduit for personal growth and positive change for girls, women, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Weinman is a strong proponent of pursuing one’s goals even in the face of uncertainty. She advises, “Step over the line of fear and do the things that scare you, because that is where the good stuff is in life.”

She will be walking in the Rochester Commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 29, and sharing more insights and words of encouragement with graduates and attendees.