Posts Tagged ‘David Gerlach’

SUNY Canton Anticipating Record Enrollment, Record Applications

Friday, July 15th, 2011

The fall semester is quickly approaching and SUNY Canton is expecting a record number of students for the fourth consecutive year.

Total applicants and deposits have both increased since 2010 when the College shattered previous records in nearly every admissions category.

“There are a variety of reasons why our numbers continue to increase each year,” said Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach. “We have added six in-demand bachelor’s degree programs in the last 12 months and we also have a new athletic facility and a new residence hall. Those reasons coupled with our affordability make us more attractive to incoming students than we have ever been.”

SUNY Canton ApplicationsTo date, SUNY Canton has received 5,369 applications for the upcoming academic year, an increase of more than 200 from the same time last year. The College is expecting to surpass SUNY Canton’s all-time record of nearly 5,500 applications set last year. The previous record was set in 1977 when 5,331 students applied. Applications have nearly doubled in the past five years when SUNY Canton had just under 2,800 people apply in 2006.

One of the most impressive aspects of the College’s growth is in the number of transfer student applicants, which has jumped by 25 percent since last year and more than 100 percent in the last five years.

“We offer the opportunity for more than just first-time college students to get a great education,” said Assistant Vice President for Advancement Randy B. Sieminski. “Our wide variety of course offerings both on-campus and online opens up doors for a lot of transfer, part-time and non-traditional students who may not have considered pursuing or continuing with their degree. Both our flexibility and our growth in academic programs are attractive for students of all ages.”

Bachelor’s degrees added in the last year include sports management, civil and environmental technology, electrical technology, mechanical technology, health and fitness promotion, and veterinary technology.

Students visiting campus throughout the last year were impressed by SUNY Canton’s brand-new Roos House athletic facility, which will be open upon their arrival to campus. More than 300 students will have the chance to enjoy living on campus in the College’s newest apartment-style residence hall, which will open just in time for the Fall 2011 semester.

SUNY Canton Welcomes New Director of Admissions

The College recently welcomed Nicole Campbell to SUNY Canton as the new Director of Admissions. Campbell has more than 13 years of admissions and marketing experience and earlier in her career served as the Director of Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid in the School of International Service at American University in Washington, D.C. She then served as the Director of Admissions and Marketing before becoming the Director of Communications and Marketing at The Barnesville School in Barnesville, Md.

“Nicole brings with her a wealth of knowledge and an abundant amount of excitement as she takes on this new position,” Sieminski said. “She has jumped right in with our phenomenal admissions staff and begun setting goals for what we believe will be another exceptional year for us.”

Campbell is a graduate of American University with a bachelor’s degree in international studies and a master’s degree in public administration. She replaces Interim Director of Admissions David Norenberg, who is returning to his role as Director of Career Services.

Media inquiries should be directed to Gregory Kie, Media Relations Coordinator, or call 315/386-7528.


Related Posts:

Former SUNY Canton Coach Honored by Alumnus’ Gift

Tuesday, June 7th, 2011

CohenFuture SUNY Canton students will benefit from the generosity of an alumnus who wanted to recognize the accomplishments of his former basketball coach, mentor and friend.

Robert C. Rogers, class of 1960, recently made a $100,000 gift to honor Stanley Cohen, who served as an instructor, a coach, and an athletic director throughout his 39-year tenure with the College.

“Student-athletes spend just as much time practicing as they do in the classroom, so it’s no surprise when they reflect on their collegiate careers and realize their coaches are the ones who encouraged them to go on to do great things,” said SUNY Canton President Joseph L. Kennedy. “Stan Cohen is a great example of this as he served as a mentor to his athletes, colleagues and community members. We thank Bob for his gift to the College, which illustrates Stan’s influence on SUNY Canton.”

The Stanley Cohen Endowed Scholarship will be awarded to scholar-athletes who demonstrate exemplary academic achievement and financial need and are United States citizens.

Cohen, a graduate of Hobart College and a dual-sport athlete for the Statesmen, came to SUNY Canton in 1957 and started out as the basketball coach and an accounting instructor. He eventually became the College’s athletic director and served in that capacity until 1972. He expanded the sport offerings by adding hockey, wrestling, cross country, and baseball.

Under his leadership, the Canton Aggies became the Northmen as a way of differentiating themselves from the other agricultural and technical schools. He retired in 1996 from the physical education department.

“Stan not only had a profound impact on his players, but on the College as well,” said Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach. “He was able to garner support and build the foundation for SUNY Canton athletics. The growth of our athletic program over the last several decades is because of the work Stan put in to creating it.”

For Rogers, honoring Cohen through an endowed scholarship was the perfect tribute to his coach, who emphasized the importance of students achieving both their athletic and educational goals.

“Stan instilled a work ethic in each of us that we knew we needed to be successful,” he said. “He had a steadying effect on the squad and was a dynamic and energetic coach who helped us grow and develop as players and people.”

Rogers majored in electrical technology and was an integral part of the basketball squad’s success thanks to his impressive rebounding and defensive skills. He helped guide the team to a 34-6 overall record in his two years on the squad.

Following his career with the Northmen, the Watertown native played basketball for New Mexico State. Rogers worked in the elevator industry for 41 years, which included an 11-year stint with Otis Elevator Company before he joined the Miami Elevator Company, where he worked for 30 years. He now resides in Cape Coral, Fla., with his wife, Margaret.

 

Related Posts:

Local Entrepreneur Named SUNY Canton Distinguished Alumnus

Wednesday, May 18th, 2011

A successful entrepreneur who has had a profound impact on the Akwesasne-St. Regis Mohawk Reservation and SUNY Canton is the recipient of the College’s 2011 Distinguished Alumnus award.

Guilford ‘Gil’ White, class of 1968, will receive the prestigious honor at SUNY Canton’s President’s Gala on Thursday, May 19.

“Gil’s leadership has benefited both the Akwesasne-St. Regis Mohawk Reservation and the SUNY Canton community,” College President Joseph L. Kennedy said. “He had the foresight to see the potential for education and economic growth on the Reservation and took the necessary steps to ensure a higher quality of life in his community. We are proud to honor him with this award as a small token of our appreciation for his continued work on the Reservation and with the College.”

White graduated from Massena Central High School in 1956 and was an ironworker on the St. Lawrence Seaway as well as Washington, D.C. and Boston. In 1966, he came to SUNY Canton where he pursued a degree in Construction Technology. While attending the College, he worked during vacations and helped build what is today’s campus.

After graduating from SUNY Canton, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Utica College of Syracuse University in Construction Management and went on to work with the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Ironworkers Union in Washington, D.C. White was chosen to create and administer a new program assisting local unions and contractors across the United States in the implementation of Equal Employment Opportunity programs.

He returned to the Akwesasne-St. Regis Mohawk Reservation in 1983 after realizing the significant economic potential high stakes bingo could have on the community. He and his partners operated the Mohawk Bingo Palace until 1995 when he diversified his business to real property and development holdings and construction projects. His efforts helped bring Class 3 Casino Gaming to the Reservation.

In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Mr. White and his family published a nationally-recognized Native People’s newspaper called the People’s Voice.

“Gil White is a true leader in his community and SUNY Canton’s community,” said Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach. “He joined the Foundation Board of Directors in 2010 and he is most deserving of our Distinguished Alumnus Award.”

After joining the Board, White established a scholarship in memory of Professor Ross C. Hudson, who inspired him to continue his education and prepare him for a successful career.

White is known for his devotion to causes which he is passionate about and serves the greater community as a member of the Massena Rotary Club. “Gil is a believer in the Rotary’s motto, ‘Service Above Self,’ said John A. Murray, a fellow member. “He is generous in sharing his time, talent and treasures with others and has always been supportive of community and international projects. He is an exemplary community member and SUNY Canton alumnus.”

Media inquiries should be directed to Gregory Kie, Media Relations Coordinator, or call 315/386-7528.


 

Related Posts:

Roos House Donor Finalizes Rink Suite Naming

Friday, April 8th, 2011

SUNY Canton Distinguished Alumnus John L. Halford of Gouverneur will be forever associated with some of the best seats in the new Roos House.

The 1949 graduate made a generous donation to the athletic center earlier this semester, securing the right to name the John L. Halford Sr. Alumni Suite. The exclusive elevated seating area overlooks the new ice rink and will be used to host alumni receptions and important game-day functions.

Nelta M. and John L. Halford of Gouverneur recently visited the “John L. Halford Alumni Suite” in the nearly completed SUNY Canton Roos House Athletic Center.

Halford and his wife Nelta M. recently visited the nearly completed facility to talk through the final details with College Foundation, facilities and advancement officials, and even tried out the new seating.

“John and Nelta continue to demonstrate their remarkable generosity and set a wonderful example for their fellow alumni,” said David M. Gerlach vice president for advancement. “They have helped many students obtain their SUNY Canton education and they are an inspiration to others. Now the Halford name will be permanently displayed in one of the nicest and most visible areas on campus.”

His generosity previously led the College to name the Lobby at the intersection of the Faculty Office Building, Wicks Hall, and Cook Science Center in his honor.

Halford is a proud World War II veteran who completed high school and attended SUNY Canton (then called the Agricultural and Technical Institute) after his time overseas.

“I’ve asked the SUNY Canton Foundation to include the U.S. Marine Corps seal on the plaque in the Halford Alumni Suite in honor of my time in the service,” Halford said. “Whether it’s through scholarship or athletics, I hope students enjoy their time at the College and use their experience to shape their lives.”

After graduating from the air conditioning technology program, he moved to Long Island and worked for Brookhaven National Laboratory as a technology specialist. He later became Suffolk County maintenance supervisor of buildings and grounds.

He is a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Gouverneur and a Mason of more than 50 years. He is a supporter of the E.J. Noble Hospital, Hermon-DeKalb Senior Citizens Center, and the Gouverneur Senior Citizens Center. He also volunteers for the Richville Library and serves on the SUNY Canton Foundation Board of Directors.

Media inquiries should be directed to Gregory Kie, Media Relations Coordinator, or call 315/386-7528.


Related Posts:

SUNY Canton Foundation Announces Campus Enhancement Awards

Friday, December 17th, 2010

The SUNY Canton College Foundation recently announced the recipients of the 5th annual Campus Enhancement Awards.

“In addition to student scholarships and faculty development awards, Campus Enhancements help the College grow and aid in the creation of new high-profile projects and learning experiences,” said Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach. “During a time when state budgets are under attack, we rely upon donations to fund the creative and innovative projects of our College community. We are deeply grateful for all of the donors who make these programs possible.”

Campus Enhancements are funded through unrestricted donations made to the Foundation. Last year, more than 190 employees donated more than $55,000 to the College Foundation through payroll deductions.

The College Foundation will be providing funding for:

  • A project-based student learning series in the physics and engineering technology departments.
  • Healthy eating and life-saving training programs.
  • Upgrades to the College’s rope course.
  • The American Society of Civil Engineers/American Institute of Steel Construction Student Steel Bridge Team.
  • Software for students with disabilities.
  • A math peer study group.
  • A student health initiative through the counseling office.
  • A professional practice field trip for students in the graphic and multimedia design program.
  • Equipment for the IRS sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
  • New camera equipment for the athletic department.
  • A trip to the Bronx Zoo for veterinary science technology students.
  • The American Criminal Justice Association to attend national championship student competitions.

To support the College’s Campus Enhancement Awards, or to inquire about starting a scholarship opportunity, contact the SUNY Canton Foundation, foundation@canton.edu or call 386.7127, 1.800.811.6727.

Related Posts:

SUNY Canton Air Conditioning Professor, Founder Passes Away

Tuesday, July 27th, 2010

SUNY Canton is mourning the loss of the founder of the College’s air conditioning engineering technology program.

Professor Emeritus Harry E. King, Class of 1940, taught at SUNY Canton for 37 years and remained active with the College as part of the Alumni Board of Directors until passing away early on Monday, July 26, 2010. He was 90 years old.

“Harry King was one of the College’s biggest supporters and advocates for nearly 70 years,” said SUNY Canton President Joseph L. Kennedy. “We’re lucky to have his legacy live on in so many of us. He touched the lives of everyone around him and we are grateful for the impression he left on our community as a student, professor, mentor and friend.”

Mr. King, who grew up in Redwood, N.Y., graduated in 1940 from the College with a degree in technical electricity. During the next six years, he worked for the George H. Hyde Plumbing and Contracting Co. in Ogdensburg and married Wilda “Willie” Barton King in 1943. Mrs. King, who also worked for a time at SUNY Canton, predeceased her husband in August 2008 just after the couple celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

He returned to his alma mater in 1946 and started what was then the heating, ventilation and air conditioning program (HVAC).  One of the most profound ways Mr. King influenced SUNY Canton was teaching, developing a wonderfully crafted air conditioning program that prepared students for successful careers in the field.

“After his family, I think his greatest love was teaching young people,” said Ronald L. Woodcock, who served as co-chair of SUNY Canton’s Centennial Campaign and was a 1959 graduate of Mr. King’s program. “He took trips to Syracuse with students to show us job opportunities, set up job interviews and see interesting HVAC projects.  He exposed his students to the real world of the heating and air conditioning industry, and we are thankful for his dedication in helping all of us achieve much during our lives.”

That sentiment was evident in 2008 when alumni, family and friends of Mr. King came together early in the year and raised enough funds to name the new air conditioning laboratory after him.

“The efforts of nearly 200 people coming forward and raising over $150,000 to name the laboratory after Mr. King is perhaps the greatest tribute I know that expresses how Harry influenced so many lives,” said SUNY Canton Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach. “It illustrates the impact he had on all of us and the Harry E. King Air Conditioning Engineering Technology Laboratory now serves as a constant reminder of his continued generosity and passion for SUNY Canton.”

Mr. King was honored by SUNY Canton several times throughout his life, including being named Distinguished Alumnus in 1979 and Distinguished Faculty two years later.

The year of his retirement, 1983, was commemorated by the campus and the students with the yearbook being named in his honor. Alumni also honored his retirement by establishing ‘The Harry E. King Scholarship’ that same year in recognition of his long devotion to the College and to his caring interest in the many students he taught throughout his tenure.

In 2003, SUNY Canton recognized Mr. King’s continued dedication and commitment to the College by naming the annual Honors Convocation after him.

A long time resident of Canton, Mr. King was also an active member in the local community. He served as a volunteer board member for United Helpers Nursing Home for 25 years. Earlier in July, he was awarded Emeritus status by the organization in Ogdensburg and celebrated for his outstanding commitment to its mission and vision.

His family remains in the Canton area, including his three daughters and two sons-in-law, Barbara King, JoAnne and James Danehy ’65, and Martha ’74 & ’78 and Peter MacArthur, as well as four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 29, at the First Presbyterian Church of Canton with Rev. Michael P. Catanzaro officiating. Calling hours will be Wednesday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Lawrence Funeral Home, Canton, where a Masonic Service will be held on Wednesday evening at 7:45 p.m. Burial will be held privately in the Redwood Cemetery.

Those desiring may send memorial contributions to: Harry E. King Scholarship, SUNY Canton College Foundation, Canton, NY or to the First Presbyterian Church of Canton, 17 Park Street, Canton, NY or United Helpers Maplewood Campus, State Street, Canton, NY 13617.

Mr. King’s full obituary can be found at: http://northcountrynow.com/obituaries/harry-e-king-90-canton.

Related Posts:

Construction Begins on New SUNY Canton Residence Hall

Friday, July 23rd, 2010

Construction of a new 305 bed residence hall is now underway at SUNY Canton with a completion date set for next August.

The residence hall is the second major facility slated for completion in 2011, along with the College’s new Convocation, Athletic, and Recreation Center, known as Roos House.

“About 15 years ago, we were a college with an enrollment just over 2,000 students,” said SUNY Canton President Joseph L. Kennedy. “Now we have more than 3,300 students and we’re still growing at an extraordinary rate. Not only are our residence halls on campus full, but we’re maxing out the available student housing in the area as well.”

The apartment-style complex, featuring 83 suites with 305 beds, is being built adjacent to the Cooper Service Complex and the University Policy facility.  The residence hall will be for rising juniors and seniors and current plans include a mini-store, multi-purpose classroom and meeting space, and a large open courtyard for recreation and outdoor activities.

Crews began working in mid-June with a timeline of about 14 months – just in time for the incoming class in August 2011.

Total project costs are currently estimated at approximately $22 million for the LEED Silver Certified building.  Total construction costs are $ 20,500,000.  Total costs including financing are approximately $28 million.

“We’ve seen explosive growth in enrollment numbers, especially in our four-year programs, and we expect this trend will continue,” said Vice President of Advancement David M Gerlach ’83. “The addition of this new residence hall is critical as we add degree programs and welcome more four-year students to our community.”

Northland Associates of Liverpool will be heading up the project, its third simultaneous construction undertaking at SUNY Canton. They are currently working on the College’s Convocation, Athletic and Recreation Center and finishing an overhaul of Nevaldine Technology Center.

For photos and live video click here.

Media inquiries should be directed to Gregory Kie, Media Relations Coordinator, or call 315/386-7528.


Related Posts:

SUNY Canton College Foundation Funds Campus Enhancements

Wednesday, January 6th, 2010

The SUNY Canton College Foundation recently announced the recipients of the 4th Annual Campus Enhancement Awards, which aid in the College’s continuing growth and development.

“Campus Enhancement Awards, or grants, are one of the ways that we can use unrestricted donations to help the College grow,” said Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach. “During a time when state budgets are under attack, we rely upon donations to fund the creative and innovative projects of our College community. We are deeply grateful for all of the donors who make these programs possible.”

SUNY Canton College Foundation Campus Enhancements will be providing funding for the Annual Scholarly Activities Celebration, to be held April 29-30. Students faculty and staff are invited to submit presentation posters about their unique research or topics of study.

Some unrestricted donations come from SUNY Canton faculty and staff members, who care deeply about the College’s continuing success. More than 150 employees, about 30 percent of all of the employees at the College, donated more than $40,000 to the College Foundation last year.

Among the Campus Enhancement Awards this year were:

  • Funding for the Annual Scholarly Activities Celebration.
  • New Video production equipment for the Graphic and Multimedia Design program.
  • Funding for the 2009 National Championship-winning ASCE/AISC Steel Bridge Team.
  • Enhancements for the Science and Tutoring Center.
  • An ice skate sharpening machine for the SUNY Canton Kangaroos hockey team.
  • Two new Juniper trees for the University Police Department’s “Blue Light Memorial Tree” project.
  • On-line writing center services offered during the College’s Winterterm session.
  • Funding for activity-based learning materials in the Physics and Engineering Science programs.
  • A Human Resources project entitled “Building an Effective Customer Services Model.”
  • A joint legal education presentation in the Legal Studies program.
  • A teaching circles project through the Dean of Academic Services and Retention’s office
  • A science and physics workshop at Salmon River Junior-Senior High School.
  • A new adaptive scanner for use in the Accommodative Support Services department.

In addition to the annual Campus Enhancement Awards, the College Foundation also funds student scholarships, professional development opportunities for faculty and staff, and unique learning and research fellowships.

Media inquiries should be directed to Gregory Kie, Media Relations Coordinator, or call 315/386-7528.


Related Posts:

KeyBank Donates to SUNY Canton Foundation

Friday, December 18th, 2009

Key Bank

KeyBank of Canton recently made a $1,500 donation to the SUNY Canton Foundation. The funding supports two St. Lawrence County students who enroll in business programs each year. Pictured are SUNY Canton Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach and KeyCenter Manager Randy L. Burke.

Related Posts:

SUNY Canton Centennial Campaign Draws to a Close

Tuesday, October 13th, 2009

College adds Courtyard Clock to Honor Campaign Co-Chairs

Ronald & Blanche Woodcock pose in front of the newly dedicated Woodcock Centennial Clock.

Ronald & Blanche Woodcock pose in front of the newest addition to the Roselle Academic Plaza: The Woodcock Centennial Clock.

The largest and most comprehensive fundraising campaign in SUNY Canton’s 100-year history was successfully concluded at the recent Scholarship Luncheon celebration.

“We’ve reached a high-water mark in the history of the College,” said SUNY Canton President Joseph L. Kennedy. “Every donation from $2 to $2 million has helped us reach this point and has made a difference in the lives of our students.”

The SUNY Canton Centennial Campaign was launched in 2003 with the goal of raising $10 million by 2010. Campaign Co-Chairs Ronald L. (class of ’59) and Blanche K. (honorary alumna, class of ‘06) Woodcock announced the campaign’s ended after raising a grand total of just over $11.3 million. The College’s previous campaign raised about $1 million.

“Much of our fundraising efforts will be used for scholarships,” Ronald said. “When people give to SUNY Canton, they give to help students get the best education possible in order to start a career. Education is a worthy investment because it supports students and their families while benefitting the North Country as a whole.”

Ronald Woodcock received a scholarship in 1957 while he was enrolled in the College’s Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning program, which has since become the Air Conditioning Engineering Technology program. Recognizing the importance of scholarships, and seeing the benefit to the students at the Scholarship Luncheon, he and his wife endowed their own scholarship to help students in the engineering technology fields.  Their leadership and generosity have led the College to name the Alumni House and a wing of conference suites in their honor.

“We had a series of key donations that helped us reach our goal ahead of schedule,” Blanche noted. “The $1 million donation made by Professor Emeritus Richard W. Miller, and the two donations totaling $3 million from Ronald’s classmate Joel Canino (class of ’59) really set the campaign in motion.”

The late Professor Emeritus Herman W. Kalberer also helped the campaign’s early momentum with an $803,000 estate gift. The College’s Foundation also received substantial gifts, each of about $1 million, from the estate of the late Alumna Elaine Claxton Pidgeon (class of ’39), and from an anonymous donor.

“The SUNY Canton Foundation helps ensure that each donor’s life and legacy is remembered and cherished for all times,” Blanche said. “In a very real way, our deceased benefactors will live forever through our memories and their scholarships.”

Bernard Creighton Regan (class of ‘65) donated the funding to create a flag station at the college’s entrance on State Route 68, in addition to financing four scholarships for students from Massena Central High School. John L. Halford (class of ’49) and his wife Nelta, provide similar scholarships for college students from Governeur.

The six-year fundraising project was punctuated by several influential College events that brought sponsors and donors in touch with the college. “With the help of Marti King MacArthur (class of ’74 and ’78), the Centennial Gala and Auction raised more than $40,000,” Blanche recalled.

Ron said, “Another highlight was Dr. Michael and Barbara Maresca’s challenge to raise more $100,000 for SUNY Canton Nursing students. He matched the total donations, creating more opportunities for students to enter into the high-demand field of nursing.”

In honor of the Woodcock’s dedication to SUNY Canton and their inspirational leadership during the Centennial Campaign, the College’s Alumni and Foundation Boards of Directors procured a decorative courtyard clock to adorn Roselle Academic Plaza. As a surprise, the Woodcocks were asked to unveil the clock and a ceremonial plaque denoting their continued commitment to SUNY Canton.

While the majority of the donations from the campaign will be used to broaden student access to a SUNY Canton Education, a small portion of the endowment will be used for campus beautification projects and faculty and staff development awards.

“We want to thank all of the donors to the SUNY Canton Centennial Campaign,” said Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach. “Whether their gifts were large or small, each individual has helped make a difference in the lives of our students.”

The College Foundation awarded almost $420,000 in scholarships, and will be awarding almost $45,000 in faculty, staff, and enhancement awards this year.

  • View videos displayed at the ceremony here.

SUNY Canton offers a wide variety of career-driven bachelor’s, associate, and certificate programs. Most of SUNY Canton’s new four-year programs are designed so students can take them on-campus, online, or both. SUNY Canton OnLine features more than 100 courses online each semester. The College’s athletic teams belong to the NAIA’s Sunrise Conference, enabling students to compete in their respective sports for four years. Construction is now underway for the College’s new Convocation, Athletic, and Recreation Center.

Media inquiries should be directed to Gregory Kie, Media Relations Coordinator, or call 315/386-7528.

Related Posts: