Empire State University Foundation Acquires Historic Clarke House in Saratoga Springs 

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1832 Greek Revival property to serve as venue for donor events, alumni gatherings, and community engagement 

The Empire State University Foundation has acquired the Clarke House, a historic 1832 Greek Revival property located at 46 Circular Street in Saratoga Springs, adjacent to the university’s 2 Union Avenue location. 

The Foundation purchased the property for $2.5 million, thanks in part to a $1.1 million gift from the property’s former owners, Cathy and Elliott Masie.  

The Clarke House will serve as a venue for donor cultivation, alumni gatherings, community engagement, and other official university functions. Situated on .85 acres in the heart of Saratoga Springs, the property features a beautifully preserved interior suitable for small receptions, a screened porch, landscaped gardens, and outdoor space for events. 

“This acquisition reflects the generosity of Cathy and Elliott Masie and the strategic vision of our Foundation board,” said Veronica Fitzgerald, vice president of advancement and executive director of the Foundation. “The Clarke House will allow us to deepen relationships with donors and community partners in ways that directly benefit our students through enhanced scholarship support and program funding.” 

The Foundation plans to begin renovations in early 2026, including HVAC upgrades, accessibility improvements, and historic preservation work. The property is expected to be operational by late summer 2026. 

“We are committed to preserving the historic character of this landmark property,” said Marian Conway, Ph.D., Chair of the Foundation Board. “We are working with the City of Saratoga Springs to ensure the Clarke House continues to be a treasured part of the community for generations to come.” 

The Empire State University Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises private funds to support student scholarships, academic programs, and university infrastructure.  

Empire State University Honors Class of 2025 Winter Graduates in Albany Ceremonies 

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Empire State University celebrated 360 graduates during two ceremonies on Friday, December 5 at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. Empire State University Provost Rai Kathuria and New York State Assemblymember Carrie Woerner were in attendance. 

The graduates honored collectively live in 62 different New York State counties, 25 U.S. states and territories, and 19 countries around the world. They ranged from ages 19 to 74. 132 of the graduates were military-affiliated students including active-duty Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, National Guard, Reserve, veterans, spouses, and other dependents. 

The ceremony featured student speakers Michelle Panchana Mendez, who earned a Bachelor of Science in human resources management, and Hailey Cox ‘20, who earned a Master of Arts in adult learning. 

Empire State University Provost Rai Kathuria said, “Your journeys have been different. But you all share the simple fact that you refused to give up. You earned your degree, and today we proudly celebrate your tenacity.” 

New York State Assemblymember Carrie Woerner said, “You are not just graduates today. You are warriors. Because let’s face it, this moment didn’t come easy. You have been juggling work deadlines, kids’ soccer practices, and the occasional existential crisis while writing research papers at 2 a.m. with a half-empty cup of coffee you reheated three times. And, yet, you made it.” 

Professor in the College of Business and Faculty Speaker Alan Belasen said, “To our SUNY Empire graduates—many of whom returned to school while raising children, caring for loved ones, working full-time jobs, and navigating the complexities of life—this moment belongs to you. You have balanced diapers and deadlines, board meetings and Brightspace assignments, and still found the time to study, reflect, and grow. That is no small feat. It is a triumph of spirit.” 

Professor in the College of Health and Human Services and Faculty Speaker Carrie Steinman said, “Today is certainly a celebration of your achievement, but also one of your grit, resilience, and determination. You have unlocked new opportunities, not just for yourselves, but for your families and communities. And we hope that earning your degree is not the end of your educational journey, but rather the beginning of the next one.” 

Student speaker Michelle Panchana Mendez said, “My fellow graduates, I hope you recognize your strength and all that you have achieved. Every late assignment, every chapter you read while tired, every time you showed up despite doubt… it all mattered. You earned this moment. Carry the determination that brought you here into every dream and every new beginning.” 

Student speaker Hailey Cox ‘20 said, “My fellow graduates, your voices, your ideas, your perspectives, and your lived experiences have power. You carry that power into your communities, workplaces, and families. My hope is that you leave this moment with two takeaways: First, that your voice matters. Even when the world feels uncertain or you feel unseen, your perspective can create real impact. And second, that there is power in the collective. Alone, we move forward, but together, we can change systems, lift communities, and shape the future.” 

A recording of the ceremony can be found on the university’s commencement webpage. 

Empire State University Students Inducted Into Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society 

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Empire State University held an induction for the Alpha Sigma Lambda honor society on December 1, 2025.    

Alpha Sigma Lambda is the oldest and largest national honor society for non-traditional students who meet exceptional academic standards and leadership requirements. During the ceremony, held virtually, 236 students were inducted into the Omega Tau chapter. To be recognized, students must complete a minimum of 24 credits toward an associate or bachelor’s degree at SUNY Empire, hold a cumulative GPA of at least 3.85, and participate in the annual induction ceremony.    

“This evening marks a significant milestone in the academic journey of some truly exceptional people,” President Lisa Vollendorf said. “Not only have you—tonight’s inductees—achieved academic excellence, but you did it while working full or part time, while raising families or caring for other family members, and while juggling all the responsibilities and obligations of being an adult in this increasingly complicated world.” 

Please join us in congratulating the new Empire State University inductees! 

Five-Minute Feature: Johanna Correa-Berry, Winter 2025 Graduate

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Get to know the Empire State University community through these special-edition Five-Minute Features celebrating our Winter 2025 graduates. What makes Empire State University exceptional? The diverse stories, achievements, and dreams of the students crossing the stage. Five minutes—starting now! 

Meet graduate Johanna Correa-Berry, who is receiving her Bachelor of Science in Community & Human Services.  

How has your experience at Empire State University shaped who you are?   

My experience at SUNY Empire has shaped who I am by encouraging and supporting me to be myself in every room (even the virtual ones). Our university has helped me become a leader and a peer to others in their academic studies. I have learned how easy it is to network and build relationships here, which has shaped me into being a strong, confident, and educated professional for my future endeavors.  

Can you tell me how your experience with SUNY Empire’s Opportunity Programs impacted you as a student?   

My experience with SUNY Empire’s Opportunity Programs has impacted me as a student positively by providing support and resources throughout my educational journey. My mentor Natalie provided a space for me to ask a plethora of questions whenever I had them. She would either provide answers to my questions or follow up with them by providing contact information to encourage independence. Small gestures like these give students encouragement in their studies when they’re feeling stuck to reach out for help, or if they’re feeling optimistic and want to try new things. My experience with SUNY Empire’s Opportunity Program has granted me long lasting connections, work study positions, and scholarships which positively impacted my success. 

What are your future plans? 

My future plans are to continue working full time while also looking into positions or promotions that best fit my degree. I also want to receive a Master’s of Social Work in the near future. 

If your college experience were a movie, what would the title be? 

“Homework, Sleep, Work & Repeat”  

What do you find the most rewarding about graduating?  

The most rewarding part about graduating is the realization that all of your hard work has paid off. The second most rewarding part about graduating is acknowledging the increase in opportunities you can receive because you’ve secured your degree. 

Meet Empire State University’s Winter 2025 Student Commencement Speakers 

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Empire State University will celebrate the Class of 2025 in two winter commencement ceremonies on December 5. Graduates Michelle Panchana Mendez and Hailey Cox ‘20 will take the stage to share their words of wisdom and lessons learned on the way to earning their degrees. Panchana Mendez earned a Bachelor of Science in human resources management, and Cox earned a Master of Arts in adult learning. Read more about their journeys below. 

Q: Looking back on your time at SUNY Empire, what experience or moment stands out as most impactful to your personal or academic growth? 

Michelle: Looking back, the moment that truly changed everything for me was receiving my acceptance letter saying I could register for my first semester right away. That single message brought so much clarity and reassurance. It impacted my personal and academic growth because it had taken me years to finally decide to return to school and pursue my degree. But SUNY Empire made the process feel so simple and supportive that all my doubts disappeared. In that moment, I knew I was ready, and that I was finally stepping into the right chapter of my life. 

Hailey: One of the most defining experiences was taking Families in Poverty. That course pushed me to move beyond statistics and really understand the systems families navigate, the gaps they fall into, the resilience they carry, and the ways policy has shaped inequities within marginalized communities. It taught me that inequity isn’t accidental; it’s often the result of decisions made long before families ever enter a classroom or a service system. 

That realization reshaped my entire approach. It shifted my work from “helping families” to partnering with families, and grounded my advocacy in both humanity and accountability. It made me more intentional about using my education not just to understand systems, but to change them. 

Q: Can you share an unexpected moment during the course of your educational journey that changed your perspective in some way? 

Michelle: From every course I took, I walked away with something meaningful and valuable. But what truly shifted my perspective was realizing how each class, each professor, and each module connected directly with both my personal and professional experiences. I didn’t expect to grow this much, as a student, as an HR professional, and as a person. Returning to school opened a door I didn’t even know I needed, and it transformed the way I think, work, and lead. 

Hailey: The most unexpected moment was finishing my bachelor’s during the pandemic. I was pregnant, navigating the shutdown, and like many others, I didn’t get the chance to walk the stage or celebrate that milestone in the traditional way. At first, it felt like something had been taken from me. But it taught me one of the most transformative lessons of my journey: sometimes you have to celebrate yourself, even when no one else is there to witness it. 

Finishing during that season showed me my own resilience. It reminded me that achievement isn’t validated by a ceremony, it’s validated by the courage it took to keep going. That moment changed how I carry myself, how I affirm myself, and how I encourage others to honor their wins, even in isolation. 

Q: What advice would you give to a student just beginning a program here?  

Michelle: My advice is to never stop believing in yourself and to always picture the moment you complete your journey. That vision will keep you grounded and focused. And I want students to know that if someone like me, a full-time housewife, full-time employee, and full-time student, could do this, then they absolutely can too. There are no limits or barriers; most of the challenges we face come from our own self-doubt. 

There will be days when you don’t have the energy or the time, but SUNY Empire gives you flexibility, whether you’re studying at home, at work, or anywhere in between. This university has been one of the most wonderful blessings in my life, and I truly hope new students take full advantage of the opportunity. 

Hailey: Embrace growth, change, and transition, all of it. People, places, and even parts of yourself won’t remain the same as you move through your education and career. That’s not a sign you’re lost; it’s proof you’re evolving. Lean into the discomfort. It means you’re becoming the version of yourself you were always meant to be. 

Q: Looking ahead, what do you hope to accomplish next? 

Michelle: Right now, my goal is to bring everything I’ve learned back into my workplace. I am deeply grateful to my managers and my HR team for supporting me through every semester. Their encouragement made me feel proud of my progress, and now I want to give back by applying the knowledge, leadership, and training I gained. 

I want my team, the group under my care, to know that everything I learned, I learned with them in mind. Their growth, effort, and accomplishments are also mine. And I want them to feel confident that I have given my very best these past years to be a strong representative of HR, and that I never wanted to fall short due to lack of knowledge. This degree is for my future, but it’s also for them. 

Hailey: I’m focused on deepening my work in educational justice and community-centered design. I want to build programs, influence policy, and elevate parent and student voices in ways that reshape how we think about learning, especially for children who are often misunderstood or underserved. My goal is to create spaces where young people can thrive, not just survive, and to help transform systems so they reflect the full humanity of the families they serve. 

SUNY Empire Spotlight: November 2025

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The latest news on research efforts, awards, grants, and media appearances from Empire State University faculty, staff, and leadership.  

Alan Belasen, professor, published “Transparent Leadership: Bridging the Trust Gap Between Senior Executives and Middle Managers”. 

Diana Centanni, director of Opportunity Programs, George Lopez, assistant director of Opportunity Programs, and Asia Moore, academic advisor, presented “From New Student to Role Model: An Intersectional Approach to Student Development” at the SUNY OER conference. 

Cailyn Green, assistant professor of addiction studies, was featured on The Academic Minute for her open access group counseling workbook. 

Bethany Hicks, assistant director of Military Academic and Student Services, and Matt Quinn, VMRC Manager, were honored as veterans working for New York state for the “Serving Then, Serving Now” ceremony. Desiree Drindak, director of the Veteran and Military Resource Center, was also recognized for her contributions as part of the New York state DVS Veteran Liaisons program. 

Heather Horowitz, assistant professor, co-authored a chapter in the newly released book Clutch Leadership: Harnessing the Qualities of a Gamechanger (edited by professor Alan Belasen and associate professor Barry Eisenberg). The chapter is titled “Navigating Disruption: Leading with Empathy.”  

She also presented on an inclusive AI literacy framework at the EDUCAUSE online conference via a Virtual Poster Session, “Designing with Intention: A Critical AI Literacy + Universal Design for Learning Framework.”  

Horowitz’s proposal for the SUNY/D2L Educators-in-Residence initiative was accepted. The study focuses on designing trauma-informed and inclusive doctoral learning environments using Brightspace. 

Andrew Hurd, Assistant Professor, spoke with Look Media about AI safety. 

Mindy Kronenberg, visiting assistant professor, had a review of “Son of Bird”, a memoir in prose-poems by Nin Andrews, published on the Mom Egg Review website. 

Empire State University’s Marketing Department won a MARCOM Award for its “How You Do University” Digital Media Campaign during a Nov. 20 ceremony in Albany, hosted by the American Marketing Association of the Capital Region. The organization also recognized the campaign as a finalist in the Video Series category. In addition, CASE (Council for Advancement and Support of Education) recently honored the Marketing team with Best of District II Awards for its “Why Empire?” video series, which profiled university employees, and the “El Imperio Bodega” event at the 2024 Student Conference. (The Bodega previously received a Silver Award from the global CASE organization). 

Ian Reifowitz, SUNY distinguished professor, was featured on Political Pulse regarding the 2025 election results. 

Gayle Stever, professor, had research featured in The Atlantic’s article “How to Know If Your Friends Are Real” on parasocial relationships. 

Lisa Unangst, assistant professor, presented on her paper Prior Learning Assessment, Displacement, and Educational Equities: Website Content Analysis of 244 North American Universities at the International Conference of Education, Research, and Innovation (ICERI) in Seville, Spain.  

Melissa Wells, associate professor and director of teaching, learning, and faculty development, spoke on the EdUp Experience podcast about Universal Design for Learning. 

Lisa Vollendorf, president of Empire State University, appeared on the NYC Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC) podcast episode and discussed how Empire State University removes barriers to access for all learners. 

Empire State University’s Veteran and Military Resource Center Honors Student Veterans During Veteran and Military Families Month 

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For the second consecutive year, veteran and military students attending Empire State University were honored for their contributions to the nation and to the university community. The “Honoring Our Heroes” event was held Wednesday, November 19 at SUNY Empire’s Veteran and Military Resource Center (VMRC), located at 111 West Avenue in Saratoga. The banners featuring their photos are proudly displayed outside the VMRC. 

Empire State University leadership, faculty, and staff attended the event, as well as Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford, and representatives from SUNY, the Veteran Community Housing Coalition, Saratoga Economic Development Corporation, NYS Department of Veteran Services, and the Capital Region Chamber. The 14 honorees were nominated by mentors and staff across the university and selected by a committee. 

Empire State University serves more than 1,000 military-affiliated students, more than any other SUNY institution – granting 20% of all military-affiliated four-year degrees within SUNY.  

SUNY Empire serves active duty, guard, reserve, and veteran service members, as well as military spouses and dependents.  

“Each of our students being celebrated today has served our nation to protect the freedoms we cherish, the opportunities we enjoy, and the foundation of our democracy,” said President Lisa Vollendorf. “It is SUNY Empire’s honor and duty to support you on your educational journey.” 

“I am so proud to be doing the work I do every single day in service to military and veteran students and their families,” said Director of the Veteran and Military Resource Center Desiree Drindak. “I appreciate all of you—for your exceptional service, your dedication to your communities, and commitment to our country. You are remarkable.” 

“The Veteran and Military Resource Center is precious to Saratoga Springs and to Empire State University,” said Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford. 

2025 Honorees 

  • Ciaran Callahan, Army 
  • Andrew Cheatham II, Army   
  • Cameron Cortes, Air Force   
  • Carolyn Green, Army 
  • Thomas Hazelbaker, Navy   
  • Benjamin Lyndaker, Marine Corps 
  • Anthony Martinez ’20, ’23, Coast Guard 
  • Brian Murphy ’25, Navy   
  • Krista Nuite ’22, Air Force   
  • Elahni Ocean ’25, Army   
  • Marion Potter, Air Force   
  • Melvyn Rosario ’12, ’15, ’17, Army 
  • Thomas Ruffing ’19, ’25, Marine Corps and Army 
  • Brian Sherman ’17, Army and Marine Corps 

View photos from the event. 

Empire State University to Offer Scholarship for Firefighters 

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Empire State University will be launching a new scholarship for volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) providers, thanks to the generosity of Christopher Steadman ’96, a long-time volunteer firefighter in New Lebanon, NY and Winchester, NH. 

The scholarship represents a $500,000 commitment from Mr. Steadman and his wife Vimala, an artist. Once fully funded, the scholarship will benefit up to five students a year. Scholarship recipients must currently serve as volunteer firefighters or EMS providers and be active members of their local fire departments for at least a year.  

Exact scholarship amounts will vary, depending on student need. Students will be awarded scholarships valued at up to eight credits, plus fees, so they can complete their associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degrees at SUNY Empire.  

“We are so pleased to offer this new scholarship for these dedicated volunteers who face unique challenges due to their commitment to their communities,” said Veronica Fitzgerald, vice president of advancement at SUNY Empire. “The time, effort, and sacrifice it takes to be a volunteer firefighter or EMS provider can often delay or even prevent an individual from finishing their degree and pursuing a new career path.”  

SUNY Empire has a longstanding commitment to firefighters and a partnership with the Firefighters Association for the State New York, which will be a target pool of students for this scholarship.   

Mr. Steadman began his career as a carpenter. He received his B.A. in historical studies from SUNY Empire in 1996 and went on to get his J.D. from Albany Law School three years later. After practicing law in Albany, N.Y., he and his wife moved to Winchester, N.H., where he still lives. Although retired from active practice, he remains in good standing before the New York Bar, sits on four not-for-profit boards, and regularly uses his legal training in service to these organizations and others. After over 40 years in the fire service, he continues to serve as a volunteer in both New Lebanon and Winchester.   

Empire State University Announces Bluebird Award Recipients 

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Empire State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) recently announced five recipients of the 2025 Bluebird Award. The award recognizes students who embody volunteerism, community building, and leadership. Read more about the awardees below.  

Amanda Hulbert 

Hulbert is an artist, educator, and community leader whose work focuses on creativity, service, and equity. She holds multiple degrees from Empire State University — in Human and Community Services, Adult Learning, and is now pursuing a second bachelor’s in visual art to integrate her passion for creativity into her community work. 

She currently serves as Assistant Director of Donor Engagement at St. Bonaventure University, developing programs that connect alumni, students, and supporters. Beyond her professional role, she is deeply involved in her community — leading youth programs, organizing fundraisers through Rotary, and supporting her local library and arts council.  

Lenti Aier 

Aier is the founder and president of the Act of Kindness Society, a nonprofit she began in 2015 that promotes service, compassion, and community development. Through her leadership, the organization has become a platform that mobilizes others to take action — from volunteer work to awareness campaigns that address real social issues. 

Her mission is to inspire a culture of kindness, dignity, and equality — using art, music, and education to strengthen communities and promote hope. 

Megan Brauer 

Brauer is a Marine Corps veteran, mother of two, and an active community leader in Beaufort, South Carolina. She is completing her bachelor’s in public affairs at SUNY Empire and plans to pursue a Master of Public Administration to continue her work in public service. 

She serves as PTO president at her children’s elementary school and volunteers as a community educator with the Alzheimer’s Association.  

Sheriah Arnold 

Arnold is a leader, author, and advocate whose life reflects a deep commitment to service and transformation. She currently serves as chief of staff for the Student Government Association, overseeing committees in diversity, mental health, and academic affairs — helping to shape a stronger, more inclusive student experience. 

Outside of SGA, Arnold is an ordained minister and published author, known for her book Shattered Reflections. She’s now working on her upcoming memoir, I Turned Pain into Purpose.  

She is pursuing a dual B.S./MBA at SUNY Empire, with a vision to help others heal and grow through her program, Turning Pain into Purpose: An 8-Week Healing Journey.  

George Shaw 

Shaw is currently working towards his bachelor’s degree in addiction studies at SUNY Empire and toward his CASAC certification to become a licensed substance abuse counselor.  

He is actively involved in organizing food distributions, clothing drives, and back-to-school initiatives through his church and local community.  

Empire State University’s Basic Needs Program Supports Students During SNAP Benefit Shortage  

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With the longest federal government shutdown in history affecting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other benefits, many college students are facing basic needs insecurities. SUNY Empire’s Basic Needs Program is ready to help the online university’s unique community of students.  

In the United States alone, 59% of students experience at least one form of basic needs insecurity related to food or housing while pursuing their education. Through Empire State University’s Basic Needs programs, students have access to a virtual food pantry, emergency grants, 24/7 mental health support, a laptop loaner program, and more. In addition, the university’s partnership with the nonprofit organization Single Stop connects the university’s students with benefits in their own communities. 

“If you’re not meeting your basic needs then you might not be able to focus on your goals,” said SUNY Empire’s Basic Needs Coordinator Anna Zoodsma. “If you don’t have food on your table, it’s really difficult to write an essay.” 

As SUNY’s leading online university and New York state’s first and only public online university, SUNY Empire’s virtual food pantry allows students to order food online. Since its inception in 2024, the virtual food pantry has seen 285 applications. It has helped fill a critical need for nearly 1,000 beneficiaries with more than $67K in awarded funds. 

In the first week of November alone, the pantry received 70 requests. Seeing a need for more resources, Empire State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) approved a $35K allocation to the food pantry to support more students in their time of need. 

“In today’s challenging world, students should never have to choose between SUNY Empire and meeting their basic needs,” said SGA President Brady Stewart. “We want students to say, ‘I chose SUNY Empire because I feel supported here.’ Resources like the Virtual Food Pantry help make that possible. The SGA will continue championing initiatives that strengthen equity, belonging, and access so every student has what they need to thrive in and out of the classroom.” 

And the support doesn’t stop there. More than 470 emergency grants have been awarded to students who face emergencies or setbacks surrounding basic needs. 

“It’s human to struggle, and having these supports available so students don’t feel like they’re on their own when something out of their control happens is important,” said Zoodsma. “It’s affirming to know that someone has your back if the unexpected happens.”