Two SUNY Delhi Students Receive SUNY Chancellors Award for Excellence

Reginal Odametey and Grace Thomas recognized

DELHI, NY (04/25/2023) Two SUNY Delhi students received the prestigious 2023 SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence this week. Reginald Odametey and Grace Thomas were among a group of exceptional students to be recognized for their outstanding achievements throughout their SUNY experience in areas including academics, leadership, campus involvement, community service, and the arts. Created in 1997, the Chancellor's Award is the highest honor bestowed upon a student by SUNY.

"Each of the students recognized today is an example of our extraordinary student body and their rich and diverse 'SUNY stories'," said SUNY Chancellor John B. King. Jr. in an award ceremony in Albany, NY. "Every student can find their community at SUNY, and I congratulate each of the winners for making the most out of their college experience."

"With their dedication to academic excellence, service, and leadership, Grace and Reginald embody the very best of our student population," said Dr. Mary Bonderoff, Officer-in-Charge at SUNY Delhi. "They have both fully engaged in the student experience at Delhi and made a positive impact on our campus. I am proud of all of their accomplishments and excited to see where their drive and talent take them in the future."

Grace Thomas of Apalachin, NY, is a standout student in the rigorous Veterinary Science Technology program at SUNY Delhi. Her dedication to her studies is demonstrated not only by her 4.0 GPA but also achieving multiple professional certifications while a student, including infection prevention and puppy raising for Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Grace is also a peer mentor, generous with her time helping other students succeed. Grace has actively participated in various volunteer projects on campus from animal clinics to suicide prevention walks. She is an accomplished student-athlete on the women's volleyball team, where she made the NAC all-academic team.

A first-generation college student graduating with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Delhi in May '22, Reginald Odametey of Bronx, NY, has made a lasting impact on the campus community through his academic achievements and activism. Extraordinarily engaged on campus, he has served in key roles in student clubs, Greek life, residence life, and student programming. He has empowered fellow students through his work in the multicultural center, advocating for DEI and social justice. Reginald's compassion, generosity, and drive embody authentic leadership which will serve him well as he goes on to pursue his career goals in the criminal justice field.

About SUNY Delhi

Enrolling over 3,000 students, SUNY Delhi's hands-on approach to teaching and learning includes over 60 academic programs in specialized areas, including applied technologies, nursing, hospitality, veterinary sciences, applied sciences, business, and liberal arts and sciences. SUNY Delhi offers certificates, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, as well as master's degrees both on campus and online. Visit delhi.edu to learn more.