Commencement Corner: LaRoy Nelson, Spring 2026 Graduate

Meet our soon-to-be-alumni, in their own words. This series spotlights graduates on their way to cross the stage. Discover what they’re proudest of, and what comes next.   

What is your major here at SUNY Empire?

My major at SUNY Empire is addiction studies—a field that’s not just academic for me, but deeply personal and connected to the work I do every day. I support individuals who are fighting to rebuild their lives, and this degree has helped me better understand how to walk alongside them in that process.

What was your favorite class, and why?

Evidence-Based Substance Abuse Counseling stood out the most. Every lesson connected directly to what I see in the real-world: people struggling, relapsing, trying again, and not giving up. This class didn’t just teach theory; it sharpened how I show up for my clients. It gave me tools, perspective, and a deeper sense of responsibility to do this work the right way.

What kept you motivated as you worked toward your degree?

It wasn’t motivation; it was discipline. As an Army veteran, discipline is something I rely on. I’m also a single father raising a teenager, working full time as a program manager for a transitional housing program, and running my own business. Life doesn’t slow down just because you have assignments due. There were nights I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and still had to log in and get the work done. Discipline meant showing up anyway. That’s what carried me through.

What is your go-to snack for study sessions?

Coffee, no question. Coffee got me through a lot of long nights. And when I really needed that extra push, I’d grab some Skittles and keep going.

What does becoming an alum of SUNY Empire mean to you?

It means everything. This degree represents years of starting over, not giving up, and finally finishing what I began. It represents the late nights, the pressure, the sacrifices, and pushing through all of it. But more than that, it’s about legacy. As a father, I wanted my son to see that no matter how hard life gets, you don’t quit. Now I can look at him and say, “I did this and you can too.”

What are your future plans?

This fall, I’m starting my MSW program with the goal of becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I want to continue growing, continue leading, and continue showing up for people who feel like they’ve run out of chances. I’ve seen firsthand both in my work and in my own journey that change is possible when someone refuses to give up.