Scholars Across the University Look Back on 2025-2026 Term

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During the past year, Ian Reifowitz, SUNY distinguished professor, and Melissa Wells, associate professor and director of teaching, learning, and faculty development, have shared their scholarship across the Empire community as part of the Scholars Across the University program. The university selects two mentors for the initiative each year, which provides funding dedicated to sharing their research across the university across a variety of formats. As their term comes to an end, they reflect on their participation in the initiative, the scholarship they have shared with various constituency groups, and the significance of receiving institutional support for academic researchers.

What the Rhetoric Reveals

Reifowitz has frequently been featured in the media for his expertise on current political events.  The research he shared throughout his term pulls from his book, “Riling up the Base: Examining Trump’s Use of Stereotypes through an Interdisciplinary Lens.”

Reifowitz was thrilled to be selected for the initiative, adding: “Seeing that other Empire colleagues are conducting scholarship and achieving at a high level, not to mention getting support for doing so from the university, help motivate and encourage more people to pursue that path.” His words underscore the impact of such initiatives and of institutional support, which is key to conducting research while being an active faculty member.

Each of Reifowitz’s three presentations pulled from a chapter of his book, and participants chose which presentation they wanted to hear. For the professor, presenting his findings to colleagues provided valuable feedback. He saw and appreciated a deep desire to understand how political rhetoric molds the perceptions of its target audience.

Mapping Pathways to Improved Student Support

In her role at SUNY Empire, Wells is immersed in the study of accessibility in education, helping keep the university’s accessibility practices current. “My work has always centered on improving access, belonging, and success for students, particularly students with disabilities and those navigating online and adult-learning environments,” Wells says.

At an online university with a mission to serve as many students as possible, the importance of accessibility is paramount. “This work is deeply connected to the university’s commitment to equity, innovation, and student-centered learning,” says the associate professor, who was honored to be chosen for the initiative.

Wells focuses on investigating how to rethink systems of support to prevent students from running into barriers while pursuing higher education, including the areas of disability services, universal design for learning, artificial intelligence use, faculty development, and data-informed approaches to teaching and learning.  She presented her findings at SUNY Empire’s Annual Meeting earlier this year, also offering online professional development sessions throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

At SUNY Empire, the implications of this research mean shifting “from reactive accommodations alone toward more proactive, inclusive course design and faculty support. The goal is to strengthen the student experience across modalities while supporting faculty in practical, sustainable ways,” Wells says.

Empire State University’s Alan Belasen Named a SUNY Distinguished Professor

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When Professor Alan Belasen first began teaching at Empire State University in 1994, it marked a “significant milestone” in his career, he says. Now, more than 30 years later, the longtime business, management, and leadership educator is celebrating another professional landmark: being named a SUNY Distinguished Professor, the highest academic rank conferred by the SUNY Board of Trustees.  

Bestowed upon Belasen this spring, the title is awarded to faculty who have “achieved national or international prominence and a distinguished reputation within [their] chosen field through significant contributions to research and scholarship,” according to SUNY. With this promotion, the College of Business (COB) professor becomes the fourth current SUNY Empire faculty member to be inducted into the Distinguished Academy. 

For Belasen, a widely published author of books, journal articles, and conference papers, the honor is more than a personal achievement; it’s a “recognition of Empire State University itself, an institution that has long been a leader in innovative approaches to adult learning, competency-based education, and student-centered teaching,” he says. “Throughout my academic career, Empire has provided an environment that encourages faculty scholarship and serves as an incubator for new learning modalities informed by research and high-impact scholarly work.” 

Belasen’s own research has taken on various subjects over the years. Guided by an approach that is “fundamentally interdisciplinary and applied in nature,” he says, he has explored numerous interconnected topics under the larger umbrella of leadership, communication, and organizational effectiveness. His wide-ranging areas of focus include everything from resilience in healthcare leadership and decision-making under pressure to equity and bias in professional sports and the impact of AI on leadership practices.  

“The evolution of my research agenda has been shaped by a combination of intellectual curiosity, appreciative inquiry, impactful events, and collaborative opportunities,” Belasen explains. 

The latter is evident in projects like his recently published book, “Disruptive Leadership: Breaking the Mold, Outlasting the Competition,” which—in addition to two chapters co-authored with COB Dean Julie Gedro—features contributions from scholars based at universities around the world. Collaboration is also central to his new book project, “Blended Leadership: Managing the Hybrid Organization,” a joint venture developed with Assistant Professor Thomas Wiese. 

Belasen notes that his appointment to SUNY Distinguished Professor has provided him a chance to contemplate partnerships like these. 

“The recognition offered an opportunity to reflect on the many colleagues, mentors, and collaborators who have contributed to my scholarly development,” he says. “At the same time, it reaffirms my commitment to advancing knowledge, inspiring others, and contributing to the academic community with renewed purpose.” 

Empire State University Students Awarded Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarships

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Two Empire State University students have been awarded scholarships by Alpha Sigma Lambda, the oldest and largest national honor society for non-traditional students. Donald “Donnie” Semple received the organization’s Dr. William C. Hine Scholarship, and Ghislaine Posy received the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society Scholarship.  

Read on to learn more about the honorees, who are pursuing bachelor’s degrees at SUNY Empire. 

Donnie Semple 

Donnie Semple built a career in the telecommunications industry before enrolling at SUNY Empire, where he’ll complete his bachelor’s in business administration this August. A resident of St. Johnsville, New York, he says his interest in leadership, process improvement, training, and helping others succeed led him to the program.  

“Business administration offered the broad foundation I was looking for while allowing me to connect decades of professional experience with formal education,” he explains. 

For Semple, a part-time Amazon employee who has been accepted to SUNY Empire’s MBA program, receiving Alpha Sigma Lambda’s Dr. William C. Hine Scholarship “was both humbling and deeply encouraging.” 

“It tells adult learners like me that our experiences matter, that our hard work is seen, and that it is never too late to pursue new goals,” he says.  

Ghislaine Posy 

Ghislaine Posy is working toward a bachelor’s in addiction studies. On track to graduate in 2027, Posy selected the degree program because she has “witnessed the profound impact addiction has on individuals, families, and communities, both personally and professionally,” says the Queens resident, who currently serves as a clinical care coordinator for New York City’s Department of Mental Health and Hygiene. “These experiences have strengthened my commitment to expanding my knowledge and developing the skills needed to provide compassionate, evidence-based support.” 

Posy says winning the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society Scholarship “has reminded [her] of the value of perseverance.” 

“Even when the odds seem overwhelming or success feels out of reach, taking a chance can lead to incredible opportunities,” she says. “This scholarship has reinforced my belief that determination, resilience, and the courage to keep trying can open doors that once seemed impossible.” 

Empire State University Partners with Premier Medical Group 

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Empire State University has partnered with Premier Medical Group, a multi-specialty medical organization that serves communities throughout New York’s Hudson Valley. Born out of a shared commitment to workforce development and educational access, the collaboration connects Premier Medical Group employees, retirees, and household family members to SUNY Empire’s flexible online degree programs while offering an orientation fee waiver and a one-time $100 scholarship. Matriculated students may also earn credit for work experience, clinical training, professional development, military training, and/or prior learning—an important benefit that can both accelerate degree completion and reduce time and cost to graduation. 

With roughly 600 workers across multiple locations, Premier Medical Group is one of the Hudson Valley’s largest coordinated healthcare providers. The organization’s recently launched partnership with SUNY Empire aims to serve individuals at various stages of their careers, whether they be nurses, medical assistants, clinical support staff, or administrative employees.  

“Healthcare organizations across the country continue to face workforce shortages and increasing demand for skilled professionals. This partnership helps address those challenges by creating educational pathways that support employee growth, retention, and advancement,” says Alejandro Galindo, Empire’s assistant director for partnership engagement. “By making higher education more accessible for healthcare workers, we are helping strengthen the regional workforce while creating opportunities for individuals to advance their careers without leaving the communities they serve.” 

Five-Minute Feature: Michele Lee, Program Aide 

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Get to know the Empire State University community through this rapid-fire interview series that bridges professional accomplishments and personal interests. What makes Empire State University exceptional? The unique people behind the work. Five minutes—starting now!  

What led you to your career path?

In my younger years, I never imagined I would end up working in an office environment—in fact, the only course I ever failed was typing. I spent 10 years working as an animal care technician at my local Humane Society and a veterinary office, which I truly enjoyed. However, after having my first child, I began to recognize the importance of a career with stable hours and benefits. Transitioning into an office role was a big change, but it turned out to be the perfect fit. I’ve found that I genuinely enjoy the work and have been able to grow and thrive in this environment.

What’s your favorite thing about SUNY Empire?

My favorite thing about SUNY Empire is my team in Graduate Admissions. We work closely together to support prospective students and applicants throughout the admissions process. Everyone on the team is incredibly helpful, respectful, and kind, which creates a supportive and positive work environment. It makes a big difference knowing we can rely on each other while helping students.

What’s one moment in your career that you’re especially proud of?

The obvious answer would be when I received Empire State University’s Foundation Award for Excellence in Support Services. But what I’m most proud of is the impact I have on students. I especially enjoy working with applicants to our graduate education programs who need to complete prerequisite coursework. The process can often feel confusing and overwhelming, and I take pride in helping guide them toward the options that work best for them. Being able to ease their concerns and support them through that process is incredibly rewarding.

What is your go-to way to unwind and recharge after a long day?

My go-to way to unwind is gaming—specifically on Xbox. My current therapy/stress relief is Call of Duty: Warzone. I also recently completed Elden Ring (best game ever!!!) and the Dark Souls trilogy.

What was your favorite cartoon or show growing up?

My favorite show growing up, including my teenage years, was “Little House on the Prairie.” I remember coming home from school and it being on every day at 4:00. While it may come across as simple by today’s standards, it had a wholesomeness and moral grounding that really stood out.

Alexander Yin to Join Empire State University as Vice President for Student Success and Institutional Effectiveness 

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Alexander Yin, Ph.D., has been appointed as Empire State University’s first-ever vice president for student success and institutional effectiveness (VPSSIE), effective Monday, July 20, 2026.

Yin brings over two decades of experience in institutional research and assessment, including roles at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Pennsylvania State University, and the University of Vermont.  As SUNY Empire’s vice president for student success and institutional effectiveness, he will be responsible for executing a data-informed strategy to drive strong student outcomes in alignment with the university’s strategic plan, Elevate ’28. He will also lead the integration of data analytics with core continuous improvement functions, including assessment and accreditation initiatives.

Yin holds a Ph.D. in higher education and master of applied statistics from the Pennsylvania State University, and an M.S. in electrical and computer engineering and a B.S. in electrical engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.

Five-Minute Feature: Tara Clark, Admissions Advisor 

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Get to know the Empire State University community through this rapid-fire interview series that bridges professional accomplishments and personal interests. What makes Empire State University exceptional? The unique people behind the work. Five minutes—starting now!  

What led you to your career path? 

As a Saratoga Springs native, I attended Saratoga Springs High School and studied criminal justice at Skidmore College. After graduating college, I moved to New York City and worked as an editor at an architecture/engineering firm. While I loved living in the city, I knew I wanted to work in higher education somewhere closer to home. After starting out in the Student Information Center (now 1Stop) here at SUNY Empire, I developed an interest in helping prospective students begin their college journey, which led me to my current role as admissions advisor. I’ve been with the admissions team for nearly 10 years! 

What’s your favorite thing about SUNY Empire? 

My favorite thing about SUNY Empire would be the people! I am lucky enough to work with amazing coworkers in the admissions office, all of whom are truly supportive and kind. I also love seeing all of the friendly faces throughout the larger SUNY Empire community, as well. 

What’s one moment in your career that you’re especially proud of? 

I am especially proud of being an ambassador for the Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports (CAARES) at SUNY Empire, serving on the CAARES advisory team. CAARES is an amazing support for Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, aiming to provide universally designed and community-informed resources through educational initiatives here at SUNY Empire. 

If you won an all-expenses-paid trip to any city or country around the world, where would you want to go and why? 

I desperately want to travel to New Zealand! Once our 7- and 11-year-old sons are a little older, my husband and I hope to brave the very long flight so we can explore this beautiful island country together as a family! 

What’s your ultimate comfort food? 

My favorite dish to eat or make is anything Indian—curry, tikka masala—you name it and I’ll love it! Just ask my coworkers 😉. 

Prepared for the Future: Meet Public Health Student Ritzy Kisel 

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When Ritzy Kisel finished her associate degree at Rockland Community College in 2022, she decided to take a break from school. Still, the idea of earning her bachelor’s one day was very much on her mind. 

“I was thinking about my education the whole time,” the Congers, NY resident says. “I just kept thinking, ‘I want to do more.’” 

That desire led her to Empire State University, where she enrolled in the public health program in 2024. Now, after two years of full-time study, the first-generation college student is on track to complete her bachelor’s this August.  

“It feels so rewarding to be able to say I’m done,” says Kisel, who participated in the Manhattan commencement ceremony on May 21.  

As a student, Kisel has balanced classes with full-time work as a pharmacy technician—a juggling act that hasn’t always been easy. Last summer, while she was taking a time-intensive lab class, Kisel says she began to fall behind in her schoolwork.  

“I was coming home unable to focus on my school stuff because I was already stressed and burned out from work,” she explains. “The hours were so demanding.” 

Unable to take off time from work to get caught up at school, Kisel faced a decision: She could keep her job and let her schoolwork suffer, or she could leave her job. She opted for the latter.  

“I’m glad I chose my degree and I chose SUNY Empire,” says Kisel, adding that she found a new full-time employer a month later. “I chose my studies at that moment because now I’m here and I can say I did it.” 

Another point of pride? Kisel made the Dean’s List that semester (as she has every semester since she first began her program). She was also inducted into the Alpha Sigma Lambda honor society.  She credits her advisor and professors with supporting her through challenging moments and helping her succeed. 

“I feel like SUNY Empire is great for people that have busy lives,” she says. “The resources are there and I was able to manage.” 

Looking ahead, Kisel says she hopes to study epidemiology in graduate school. She also dreams of working for a government agency like the CDC—a goal she thinks her SUNY Empire education has prepped her for. 

“I have gained so much knowledge and yeah, there is this uncertainty of what’s going to happen next because you don’t know what’s out there,” she says of her post-graduation plans. “But I feel like I’m prepared.” 

Empire State University Honors Trailblazing Journalist Melba Tolliver With Honorary Degree 

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Empire State University recognized Melba Tolliver ’98 with an honorary Doctor of Humane letters degree at the university’s commencement ceremony on Friday, May 29 in Albany, NY. Tolliver, who graduated from the university with a Bachelor of Science degree in cultural studies, is an acclaimed African American journalist whose career reshaped representation in American media.  

Tolliver began working as a registered nurse before pivoting to broadcast journalism at a time when African American women did not have a presence on national television. During a WABC-TV network strike in 1967, she became one of the first African American women to anchor a major television broadcast, beginning a storied career at WABC, WNBC and News 12 Long Island. Tolliver later covered the White House wedding of Tricia Nixon in 1971 wearing her natural hair, which challenged prevailing norms of that time.  

Throughout her career, Tolliver elevated underrepresented perspectives, led conversations on civil rights, and used her platform to push boundaries in media representation.   

“What I believe we all should understand is that being human, we have all the tools that we need to be our own unique power centers. Use your voice for kindness, your ears for compassion, your hands for charity, your mind for truth, and your heart for love,” said Tolliver in her address to the Class of 2026. 

Similar to the academic journeys of many Empire State University students, Tolliver completed her degree as an adult learner after taking classes at several institutions. She has embodied the university’s values throughout her life and career, forging new and groundbreaking pathways. 

“Melba Tolliver represents the ethos of perseverance and confidence that we embrace at Empire State University,” said Lisa Vollendorf, president of the university. “Her trailblazing career is a testament to her tenacity and an inspiration to those who seek to forge their own unique path. We are so proud to recognize Melba’s extraordinary achievements and impact with an honorary degree.” 

The State University of New York (SUNY) awards honorary degrees to individuals who have achieved distinction at the state, national, or international level, and whose accomplishments reflect SUNY’s mission and values. The honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree is awarded to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to public life, communication, civic leadership, and culture.  

Empire State University celebrated 275 graduates at its Albany commencement ceremony, which will take place at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. 

Dean’s Medal Awarded to Nine Empire State University Students 

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Nine Empire State University students have been awarded the Dean’s Medal. Presented annually, the honor recognizes outstanding undergraduate and graduate students demonstrating academic excellence and a positive influence on their communities or professions.  

Read on to learn more about this year’s honorees, who—in their own words—share what they found most rewarding about their experience at SUNY Empire. 

Meet the Honorees: 

Mary Barr, College of Education

Hometown: Westhampton Beach, NY 

“I enjoyed making connections during my SUNY Empire education. I have experience teaching English literature and writing classes to college students and English as a second language to students in South Korea, so I was fascinated to learn how my previous knowledge related to the new information I was learning in my classes. I also valued the connections I made with people in the program. I liked sharing insights with my coworkers who are also in the special education Master of Arts in teaching program. I appreciated the mentoring relationships I built with teachers at my workplace when I interviewed them for class assignments. Synchronous Microsoft Teams classes enabled me to engage in thought-provoking discussions with my professors and colleagues. Building connections between my previous knowledge and new knowledge and with my professors and fellow students was rewarding.” 

Gena Bartlett, College of Business 

Hometown: Granby, NY 

“One of the most rewarding parts of my experience at Empire State University has been the opportunity to strengthen my decision-making skills and develop a deeper understanding of identifying important trends through data and analysis. This growth has allowed me to better recognize patterns that not only contribute to business development and operational improvement but also support community safety and public well-being.” 

Nathalie Joseph, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences 

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY 

“The most rewarding parts of my experience at SUNY Empire were the flexibility and the applied behavior analysis professors, especially Drs. Allen and Syed. I wouldn’t have graduated without their support. They truly embody the program’s emphasis on compassion.” 

Kristyn Logan, College of Arts and Sciences 

Hometown: Albany, NY 

“The most rewarding part of my SUNY Empire experience has been proving to myself that I can do anything I set my mind to. I never really considered myself a good student before, but through my time at SUNY Empire, I have grown and started to see myself differently. Now I do consider myself a good student. I think one of the most rewarding parts of pursuing an education is realizing that you can grow, change, and surprise yourself along the way. I have been able to work full-time, be a full-time student, and continue pursuing a dream I have had for as long as I can remember: becoming an art teacher.” 

Richard Pangborn, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences 

Hometown: Washington, DC 
 
“The most rewarding part of my experience at SUNY Empire was overcoming the edict that I had ‘unfinished business’ with my education. I was not suited for K-12 instruction and was not ready for college at 18. After serving in the Army I did go to college for a couple of semesters before 9/11 happened. I soon left college and became a federal law enforcement officer. Now after 25 years I am finally able to check this off from my list.” 

John Reynolds, College of Business 

Hometown: Mount Sinai, NY 

“The most rewarding part of my SUNY Empire experience was the ability to continue working full-time while attending a university that helped me progress, not only in my knowledge, but in my career. SUNY Empire provided an education that I could directly apply to my professional life, and I found that my career continued to thrive while I had the opportunity to learn from some truly great professors and classmates along the way. Obtaining my MBA was a goal I set for myself, and SUNY Empire not only helped me achieve that goal but provided me with the opportunity to go one step further and also graduate with a certificate in project management. I am leaving SUNY Empire with new perspectives, a stronger business sense, a broadened community of experts, and a deeper understanding of management and leadership that will help me continue making my personal and professional career goals a reality.”  

Tara Rice, College of Health and Human Services 

Hometown: Farmington, New York 

“The most rewarding part of my time at SUNY Empire has been the opportunity to study subjects that have always deeply interested me, but felt out of reach as someone who hadn’t attended college directly out of high school and who is now middle-aged. Specifically, I absolutely loved my classes in biology, gender studies, and psychology. What a wonderful opportunity SUNY Empire provided for me.” 

Patricia Schneider, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Hometown: Rochester, NY 

“One of the most rewarding parts of my SUNY Empire experience was having a supportive environment and philosophy that supports older learners. I am in my late fifties, and Empire gave me a place to go that suited my need for work-life balance and interactions with others in the same place in life. I had instructors and fellow students I related to and who related to me. I felt supported and that being in college could fit in my life, meaning it wasn’t too late for me to go for the degree I have wanted since dropping out of college in my third semester, just out of high school.” 

Note: Amanda Wilck, not pictured above, also received a Dean’s Medal.