SUNY Cobleskill Student Receives National Programmer Award

COBLESKILL – Kaleigh Weaver, a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science at SUNY Cobleskill, has been honored with the prestigious National Student Programmer of the Year Award given by the Association for Promotion of Campus Activities (APCA). The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and innovation in campus programming and engagement, qualities for which Weaver has become known in her four semesters as a Campus Engagement Leader. The award was given in February at APCA’s National Conference in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

In her role as Campus Engagement Leader, Weaver organizes various activities that foster community spirit and involvement. Her notable contributions include organizing events such as Charity Volleyball, multiple student-focused Grad Week events, and a Hydration Station Initiative to keep students hydrated and energized during final exams. She's currently involved in planning a highly anticipated year-end gala for students.

Reflecting on the National Student Programmer of the Year Award, Weaver expressed her gratitude: "It really confirms that I was doing the right thing and that I was doing a good job in my position since I am very passionate about what I do. I did not think it was going to be me at first, so when they announced that I had won, it was such an exciting experience, and I will be riding this high for a very long time."

Weaver credits attending the APCA National Conference as integral to her growth as a leader. The conference provides a platform for networking, skill development, and idea generation, allowing students like Weaver to enhance their leadership capabilities.

Weaver's commitment to campus engagement aligns with her future aspirations in marketing. As the current Director of Public Relations for the Student Government Association (SGA) and with plans to pursue a Master's degree in marketing at Clemson University, Weaver aims to leverage her leadership experience to excel in sales marketing for agricultural products and agribusinesses.

"It was a very humbling experience to be chosen for this award when so many SUNY Cobleskill students have been chosen for numerous awards before me," Weaver remarked. "Our school overall has won so many awards in the past during this ceremony, so to be awarded one and to be able to represent SUNY Cobleskill is really cool."