Empire State University Celebrates Veteran and Military Students at Third Annual Event

A group photo with two people holding certificates
From left to right: Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf, Assistant Director of Military Academic and Student Services Bethany Hicks, Honorees Albert Piraino and Griffen Smith, Director of the Veteran and Military Resource Center Anne Sweet
Posted On: November 10, 2026

Veteran and military students attending Empire State University were celebrated at the third annual Honoring Our Heroes event. Hosted in recognition of students’ contributions to both the nation and the university community, the gathering was held Tuesday, November 10 in Saratoga Springs.  

University leadership, faculty, and staff attended the event, as well as Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford, 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 faculty and staff across the university and selected by a committee.  

“Each of the students being recognized today has served to protect the freedoms we cherish and the opportunities we enjoy as Americans,” said SUNY Empire President Lisa Vollendorf. “It is Empire’s duty to support you on your academic journey in pursuit of your personal and professional goals.”  

“It’s an honor to work with and celebrate our military students. They’ve given and continue to give so much to our country and our communities,” said Veteran and Military Resource Center Director Anne Sweet. “I’m proud that Empire State University is built to honor their expertise and provide so many pathways toward their next chapter in life.”  

“I’m so happy to know that there are programs like this for the vets who are coming home now or getting out. I’m thrilled to be here to congratulate every one of you,” said Saratoga Springs Mayor John Safford.  

Granting 20% of all military-affiliated four-year degrees within SUNY, Empire State University serves over 1,000 military students—more than any other SUNY institution. Learners include active duty, guard, reserve, and veteran service members, as well as military spouses and dependents.   

2026 Honorees  

Danielle Conte ’26, Army 

Chanda Devkota, Army 

Christopher Fisher ’14, ’18, ’26, Army 

Ryan Gratton ’26, Army 

Miguel Lopez, Navy and Army 

Matthew Newsome ’23, ’26, Air Force 

Albert Piraino ’25, Army  

Amanda Ross, Navy 

Dainia Russell ’26, Army 

Jason Scialpa ’26, Marine Corps 

Ian Shepard ’25, ’26, Army 

Claire Sherry, Air National Guard  

Griffen Smith ’26, Air National Guard  

Liv Thygesen, Marine Corps