SUNY Empire Spotlight: April 2026

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

Desiree Drindak, director of the Veteran and Military Resource Center, received the Chancellor’s Certificate of Meritorious Service for her exemplary support of veterans, service members, and military families. 

Heather Horowitz, assistant professor, and Digital Accessibility & Multilingual Technology Coordinator Pam Doran co-authored an article titled “Paddling Without a Map: The Unstructured Rise of AI Literacy in Internet-Enabled Higher Education.” 

Ian Reifowitz, SUNY distinguished professor, appeared on the Brazilian TV news program Cultura to discuss the President’s messaging on the fighting between the U.S. and Iran. 

Gayle Stever, professor, was quoted in an article by The Telegraph. She was also interviewed about parasocial relationships on an episode of the Trauma & Mental Health Report podcast. 

Noor Syed, associate professor and director of CAARES, was featured in an article by Authority Magazine.  

Cathryn Thurston, associate professor, spoke with Political Pulse about the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. She also appeared on Look This Week.  

President Lisa Vollendorf appeared on an episode of the EdUp Experience podcast.