Reason & Respect Unplugged: National Civility Month 

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — August 4, 2025) In celebration of National Civility Month, the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion heard from members of the Peer Mediation Student Organization who shared their perspectives on the importance of constructive dialogue and conflict resolution practices for this month’s Reason & Respect: Unplugged! We invite the university community to join us in this celebration by reading the Q&A below and sharing your reflections, questions, and experiences on our community discussion board.  

The Peer Mediation Organization at SUNY Empire is a student-led organization  that empowers trained student mediators to support their peers in collaboratively resolving disputes and conflicts. 

In this article we will hear from Serrina Goodman, Peggy Belles, and George Lopez. 

Serrina Goodman is a SUNY Empire MBA student, cancer advocate, community activist, ministry leader, writer, producer, and director of faith-based stage, television and film. 

Peggy Belles holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice and is in the Master of Public Administration program at Empire State University. She is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and earned her paralegal certification from Katharine Gibbs School in Manhattan. She has over 31 years of experience in law enforcement and executive leadership, and for the last ten years has owned a consulting business. She is the mother of five children, grandmother of four, and an active member of the Empire community. In addition to being a member of the Peer Mediation Group, she is the current president of the Criminal Justice Club, vice president of the Alpha Sigma Lambda Omega Tau Chapter, chairperson of the Mental Health and Psychology Club, member of the Student Health Advisory Committee. 

George Lopez is the assistant director of Opportunity Programs at Empire State University. He is Puerto Rican, originally from South Troy in the Capital Region of New York state. His identity and background have been shaped by growing up in a community where he greatly benefited from nonprofit organizations, mentors, and community support — people who saw a version of him that was greater than what he saw for myself. These experiences drive his commitment to paying it forward through his career and community involvement. George has worked in various capacities including youth work, charter schools (Green Tech High Charter School), the YMCA, Boys and Girls Club, and various nonprofits. He is also a board member at Mediation Matters, an alternative dispute resolution center. 

 
What inspired you to be involved with the Peer Mediation group? 

Serrina: My inspiration to become involved with the Peer Mediation group is deeply rooted in over two decades of community service, during which I’ve worked with diverse and often underserved populations. One of the most impactful experiences of my career was developing a gun violence suppression program for inner-city youth—an initiative that required direct engagement with individuals involved in gang activity. Through strategic communication and trust-building, I was able to facilitate critical conversations that led to temporary ceasefires and planted the seeds for long-term change. 
These experiences reinforced my belief that even the most intense conflicts can be addressed through dialogue, empathy, and collaboration. My background in conflict resolution, combined with a deep desire to foster peace, drive my commitment to helping others navigate difficult situations. Becoming a peer mediator allows me to continue this mission—empowering individuals to find common ground, resolve disputes, and create more harmonious communities. 

Peggy: My career and role in law enforcement, training in conflict management, and study of human behavior and psychology inspired me to join this group. Serving others in this role allows me to be a part of a valuable process that can only add to the wellness and mental well-being of our community here at Empire. I am so grateful for the opportunity to help others in this way. 

George: My involvement stems from a transformative training experience I had with Mediation Matters on conflict resolution. Growing up in an area where social issues and violence were prevalent, I initially avoided conflict because my only reference point for conflict was violence — I’d witnessed serious harm and even murders in my community resulting from unresolved disputes. The training gave me language to understand that conflict isn’t the problem — it’s a symptom of deeper issues like violations of identity, unmet needs, or dysregulated emotional states. This understanding was so powerful that I wanted to help spread this knowledge to students so they could help their peers, family members, and ultimately make the world a better place. 

How has learning about and engaging in mediation practices changed the way you approach your own conflicts? 

Serrina: As a 13-year breast cancer survivor, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the value of time, peace, and purposeful living. My experience has taught me that life is too short for unnecessary conflict and that, at our core, most people truly desire peace—even if they don’t always know how to achieve it. 
Engaging in mediation practices has significantly influenced the way I approach conflict. I’ve learned to value open dialogue, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving. Rather than avoiding conflict, I choose to face it directly—with a mindset rooted in empathy, clarity, and a willingness to find common ground. I thrive in peaceful, cooperative environments, and I’ve come to understand that I have the ability to help create them. Mediation has empowered me to transform tense situations into opportunities for growth, understanding, and resolution. 

Peggy: I have had training and courses in mediation and conflict management which required me to study conflict theory as well as my own conflict management style. To mediate any conflict with anyone, a person must understand their conflict management style and regulate their own emotions. I approach conflict with an interest-based approach that focuses on a win-win rather than a win-lose model. Deep listening is one of the greatest skills in mediation. 

George: Learning about mediation fundamentally shifted my understanding of conflict from seeing it as something to avoid to recognizing it as a symptom of underlying dynamics. Instead of viewing conflict as inherently dangerous or violent, I now understand the root causes and can address violations of identity, unmet needs, and emotional dysregulation. This knowledge has given me tools to engage constructively rather than avoid difficult situations. 

If you could teach everyone one thing about resolving conflict, what would it be? 

Serrina: It would be to truly listen—not just to respond, but to understand. So often, conflict escalates simply because people don’t feel heard. Being fully present in the moment, setting aside assumptions, and instead listening with empathy can shift the entire dynamic of a conversation. When we give others the space to express themselves honestly and openly, we create the foundation for mutual respect, understanding, and resolution. 

Peggy: I love a teaching from William Ury that I always find useful. He says, “Go to the balcony.” That means pause, go higher to get a broader view, and try to see other perspectives. It is so important to shift your mindset from seeing conflict as a battle to be won to a problem that can be solved collaboratively. What are the interests of each party? Through the process of conflict management, we can find that answer, which is the root to solving the conflict. 

George: When we understand the underlying dynamics [of conflict], we can address the real causes instead of just reacting to the surface-level disagreement. We’re all here for each other, and sometimes we lose sight of that fundamental truth. 

 
Is there anything else you would like to add? 

Serrina: Initially, I believed since most interactions take place virtually, the potential for conflict was minimal. I quickly realized the opposite can be true. Virtual communication often lacks the tone, body language, and immediate accountability of in-person dialogue. As a result, people may feel more emboldened to say things they wouldn’t express face-to-face, leading to increased misunderstandings and tension. This has shown me how essential mediation skills are in today’s digital world—helping people navigate conflict with empathy, clarity, and respect, regardless of the platform. 

Peggy: Thank you Empire State University and Peer Mediation Group for creating a space that is essential for any school or workplace. I am so grateful to be a part of a community that makes such an effort to contribute to student and faculty wellness! 

Ways to get involved: 

In celebration of National Civility Month, we encourage you to engage in the following ways: 

  • Community discussion board- Share your experiences, thoughts, and questions on civil discourse and conflict resolution on this month’s community discussion board!  
  • Get involved with Peer Mediation: If you’re interested in getting involved in the Peer Mediation organization, please email peermediators@sunyempire.edu.  
  • Participate in the upcoming skill-building series: Beginning Wednesday, August 20, George Lopez and Ade Byron, Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program manager, will be hosting a four-part skill-building series on restorative practices. The first session will take place from 11 a.m.-noon.  

Eight Empire State University Students Receive Inaugural SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship 

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – August 1, 2025) State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. recently announced the recipients of SUNY’s inaugural Healthcare Educator Scholarship. The program will increase SUNY’s ability to provide nursing education as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s healthcare workforce agenda.  

Twelve students were awarded the inaugural scholarship, eight of which are Empire State University nursing students. Congratulations to: 

  • Ashanti Bishop  
  • Desiree Charles 
  • Chinyere Dike 
  • Kristen Hassett 
  • Nora Kruger 
  • Carly Messitte 
  • Abigail Semenetz 
  • Isgoohi Washington 

Scholarship recipients are baccalaureate-prepared nurses pursuing a master’s degree in nursing. As part of the program, they will commit to a three-year faculty position at a SUNY associate-level nursing program.  

The SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship will cover up to $25,000 per academic year, including up to $20,000 for tuition and fees toward a qualifying master’s in nursing degree program at SUNY, plus a $5,000 annual stipend for each year of eligible enrollment. 

“I am incredibly proud to see eight of our Empire State University students recognized with the inaugural SUNY Healthcare Educator Scholarship,” said Empire State University Provost Rai Kathuria. “This award highlights their potential as future nursing educators and speaks to our commitment to advancing healthcare education and workforce development across New York state. Congratulations to these outstanding students on this well-deserved recognition.” 

Empire State University Hosts Alumni Day at the Races

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — July 28, 2025) The Office of Advancement hosted its 29th annual Alumni Day at the Races on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

The event drew more than 80 alumni and their family and friends to the Alumni House at 28 Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs, where they enjoyed a light breakfast and met other alumni and staff before going to the historic racetrack.

See photos from the event.

Empire State University and Brentwood High School Launch Groundbreaking Spanish-Language Initiative for High School Students

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The dual enrollment partnership fosters access to higher education by eliminating the language barrier. 

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — July 24, 2025) In a bold step toward educational equity and access, Empire State University has partnered with Brentwood High School to launch a first-of-its-kind initiative offering college-level business courses in Spanish to high-achieving high school students. This innovative program is designed to empower Spanish-speaking students with early exposure to higher education and a clear pathway to a Bachelor of Business Administration (Spanish BBA) degree in their native language. 

Brentwood High School, located in Suffolk County, Long Island, serves a student body that is approximately 80% Spanish-speaking. Recognizing the need for culturally and linguistically responsive education, the school has identified 20 academically distinguished 11th and 12th graders to participate in the dual enrollment initiative’s inaugural cohort. 

Luis Camacho, academic coordinator for the Spanish BBA and assistant professor of business and marketing, said: “Offering a bachelor’s degree in business administration entirely in Spanish not only acknowledges the linguistic wealth of our communities, but also provides students with a tangible opportunity to advance academically without giving up their identity.” 

Beginning in fall 2025, students will take Introduction to Business, followed by Marketing in spring 2026. These courses are core components of SUNY Empire’s Spanish BBA program and will count toward both high school completion and college credit. 

Jason Lloyd, assistant director of community partnerships, said: “This partnership is about more than just coursework—it’s about creating opportunity. By offering these courses in Spanish, we’re removing a major barrier and opening the door to higher education for students who have historically been underserved.” 

Brentwood High School is covering all costs associated with the program, including tuition, books, and materials. A bilingual teacher at the school will serve as the teacher of record, working closely with SUNY Empire faculty to deliver instruction. Students will also receive support through the university’s Office of Student Success and other comprehensive wraparound services. 

The program includes customized orientation sessions to prepare students for the college experience, including how to navigate online learning, communicate with instructors, and access academic resources. 

This partnership represents a significant step toward enhancing educational opportunities for Spanish-speaking students in the Brentwood community, aligning with SUNY Empire’s commitment to fostering equitable access, diversity, and inclusion in higher education. 

Read more about the Spanish BBA.

Empire State University Honors International Students in Series of Commencement Ceremonies 

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – July 15 2025) Empire State University celebrated the Class of 2025’s international students through commencement ceremonies held in four different cities around the globe. One hundred-twenty students participated in the Prague ceremony on June 28; 15 crossed the stage in Athens, Greece on July 2; 12 received their degrees in Tirana, Albania on July 3; and 1 accepted a diploma in Beirut on July 9. In total, over 150 international graduates were celebrated at European commencements in June and July. 

“Our international graduates exemplify what it means to be global citizens, and they are a testament to the strength of international education and the reach of SUNY Empire around the world,” shared Senior Executive Director of the Center for International Education Francesca Cichello. 

Please see photos from the ceremonies below.  

Photo of three people at Tirana graduation

Outgoing Scholars Across the University Look Back on a Year of Community Engagement 

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — July 15, 2025) For the last year, Empire State University’s Assistant Professors Bernadet Dejonge, Cailyn Green, and Alexandra Rush have been sharing their research through SUNY Empire’s longstanding Scholars Across the University initiative. Now, as their time in the program comes to a close—and the recently announced 2025-2026 scholars prepare to begin their tenures—the educators are reflecting on the presentations they delivered to the university community.  

Rush, an assistant professor who teaches within the Psychology and Human Development department, used the Scholars Across the University platform to discuss her work on a trio of topics: the impacts of trauma on survivors and their descendants, the experience of the first female participants in the historically male Boy Scouts of America program, and the Scouts’ influence on young people’s sense of purpose. She says that engaging with faculty and students with varied research interests has made her a more conscientious presenter. 

“This experience pushed me to be more thoughtful in how I present my research to speak to the needs of the audience,” Rush explains. “By doing so, I was able to share my research findings in a way that was informative and deepened [the audience’s] understanding of my work, including the applicability to other contexts.” 

The opportunity to refine presentation skills was also a highlight for Green, who teamed up with Dejonge on talks about the pair’s OER textbook, “Social Justice & Advocacy in Human Services,” and research into the connection between neurodiversity and addiction. An assistant professor of addiction studies, Green says that focusing on the content and delivery of her presentations helped prepare her to participate in future events like the Northwest Behavioral Health Institute Conference, which she was asked to attend after conference organizers discovered her work.  

“If I did not have the practice speaking on this topic through Scholars Across the University, I am not sure I would feel ready to be an invited speaker at such a large conference setting,” she says.  

Green also noted that the presentations and ensuing discussions showcased the university community’s interest in the material—an observation shared by her collaborator Dejonge, also an assistant professor. Dejonge says that colleagues seemed particularly curious about their research on neurodiversity and addiction, which she describes as “kind of niche.” 

“This presentation seemed to generate the most conversation, and we found ourselves focusing on this a lot,” she says. “Turns out, it is showing up in the field a ton, and we aren’t sure how to serve that population quite yet.” 

 Overall, all three presenters look fondly upon their experience in the Scholars Across the University program. Dejonge says she “really enjoyed the discussions and conversations,” and Rush praised the program for providing “a space to foster meaningful connections between scholars and the broader Empire State University community, while also uncovering shared interests and potential avenues for collaboration.” Green, meanwhile, highlights the program’s role in helping her view her work in a new light. 

“Being able to present our work eight times in one academic year provided me the opportunity to see the research through a different, more intense lens,” she says. “I was able to dive deeper and received so much valuable feedback and insight on the work.” 

Ann Marie Scheidegger to Join SUNY Empire as Vice President for Administration and Finance

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — July 14, 2025) Ann Marie Scheidegger has been named vice president for administration and finance (VPAF), effective August 18, 2025.

Scheidegger brings more than 25 years of financial and executive leadership experience, including 15 years in higher education at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Paul Smith’s College, and SUNY Adirondack. As vice president for administration and finance, she will provide strategic leadership for finance, institutional operations, safety and security, internal controls and risk management. She also will be responsible for overseeing development of policies, procedures, and controls to ensure sound management of Empire State University’s financial and physical resources.

Scheidegger will also serve as the treasurer of the Empire State University Foundation Board and the Operations Manager for the Empire State University Research Foundation. She holds an M.B.A. degree and a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Siena College.

Veterans Tuition Award Opens Up New Possibilities for Veteran Students 

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(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – July 8, 2025) Beginning in Fall 2025, more veterans will qualify for the Veterans Tuition Award (VTA)—a New York state program offering tuition assistance for undergraduate, graduate, or vocational study for qualified veterans. 

“The expansion of the Veterans Tuition Award will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the veteran students we serve at SUNY Empire– especially women veterans,” said Director of the Veteran and Military Resource Center Desiree Drindak. “Not only does NYS VTA help remove financial barriers, it also empowers more veterans to pursue their academic and career goals.” 

You may qualify for VTA if you: 

  • Served at least four years on active duty OR served in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, or other eligible hostilities (and were awarded an Expeditionary Medal) 
  • Are enrolled full- or part-time in an approved NYS degree or training program 
  • Are a New York state resident 
  • Were not dishonorably discharged 

The VTA Award: 

  • Covers up to eight full-time semesters (undergrad + grad) 
  • Covers SUNY tuition or actual tuition, whichever is less (2024–25 rate: $7,070/year) 
  • Is not reduced by GI Bill or Pell Grants 
  • Is pro-rated for part-time students 

How to Apply: 

  • File the FAFSA and the NYS Payment Application each year 

Please share with fellow veterans! For more information about eligibility visit: www.hesc.ny.gov/vta. If you have questions, email the Veteran and Military Resource Center at military.programs@sunyempire.edu. 

Empire State University Honors Class of 2025 in Rochester Ceremony 

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(Rochester, NY – MAY 29, 2025) Empire State University celebrated the Class of 2025 in a ceremony on Thursday, May 29 at the Kodak Center, where over 155 graduates crossed the stage. Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf, Assembly Member Sarah Clark, and SUNY Trustee Robert Duffy were in attendance.  

Members of the SUNY Empire class of 2025 collectively live in 61 of the 62 New York state counties, 25 U.S. states and territories, and nine countries around the world. They range from ages 18 to 75. 97 of the graduates are military-affiliated students, including active-duty Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, National Guard, Reserve, veterans, spouses, and other dependents.  

The ceremony on Thursday, May 29 featured remarks from Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf, faculty speaker and Assistant Director of the Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports Lauren Allen, and student speaker Stephanie Weinman, as well as New York State Assembly Member Sarah Clark and member of the SUNY Board of Trustees Bob Duffy.   

SUNY Empire President Lisa Vollendorf said, “Empire State University encourages you to look beyond what you even thought possible. We want you to feel valued and heard. We want you to triumph. And now, it is up to you to take advantage of the possibilities before you.” 

Assembly Member Sarah Clark said, “Your path here wasn’t paved with ease, but it was forged with purpose. You embody what education should be: accessible, flexible, empowering, and rooted in community. You prove every day that it is never too late to pursue your goals, never too early to make an impact, and never out of reach to shape a better future.” 

SUNY Board of Trustees Member Bob Duffy said, “I’m proud of the veterans, the parents, the moms, dads, grandparents — everyone who’s worked so hard to earn this degree while you’re working, raising a family, and dealing with life’s issues every single day. You hung in there, you worked hard, you persevered, and you are graduating tonight — which I think is the ultimate reflection of the character and work ethic of the class of 2025.” 

SUNY Empire Faculty Speaker and Assistant Director of the Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports Lauren Allen said, “As you take your hard-earned degree into your next chapter, never doubt that you are supposed to be in the room and in your role. Remember that all of us at Empire State University, and all the people cheering you on today, never doubted you for a moment.” 

SUNY Empire Student Speaker Stephanie Weinman said, “Even if you fail, you are really just evolving into who you are meant to be. THAT is an accomplishment. I congratulate all of you here today for the accomplishment you have achieved by graduating from Empire State University in the Class of 2025!” 

Read more about commencement at Empire State University. 

President Vollendorf Named Trailblazer in Higher Education For Second Consecutive Year

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(SARATOGA, NY — May 28, 2025) Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf was named to City & State New York’s annual list of trailblazers in higher education. The list spotlights higher education leaders whose efforts contribute to making New York state a center for higher learning. This is President Vollendorf’s second consecutive year being named to the list.

The article recognizes President Vollendorf, noting, “Since taking office in 2022 at Empire State University, Lisa Vollendorf has developed a new strategic plan and spurred rising enrollment at the institution. One of the fastest growing public universities in the state, Vollendorf has seen double-digit enrollment increases at Empire State. She has established the university as the only designated autism-supportive university in New York and positioned it to serve more military-affiliated students than any other SUNY school. She also launched the first Spanish-language online degree program in the SUNY system and has formed partnerships with corporations, labor unions and state agencies.”

Read City & State’s 2025 list of Trailblazers in Higher Education.