The Laker - Alumni Magazine
FLCC Foundation
Alumni Association
Our alumni and friends are a one-of-a-kind community that make FLCC's vision a reality every day. They ensure our students' success, help us forge a bold new chapter in our story, and keep FLCC thriving and preparing a new generation of leaders — one Laker at a time.
Join our community of alumni today. For more than fifty years, we have been keeping alumni connected to the College and to each other. When you graduate, you become a member for life (with no annual dues)!
Benefits Include:
- Career Services - Take advantage of free resume help, networking and interviewing tips, assistance with job search, and more.
- Fitness Facilities - Use of the FLCC recreation facilities, including the newly renovated fitness center.
- FLCC Library - Access to Charles J. Meder Library.
- Canandaigua Federal Credit Union - Membership in the Canandaigua Federal Credit Union.
- SUNY Perks - Access to the free discount program for all SUNY alumni. The program provides discounted rates on products and services from select vendors.
- FLCC Course Audit - FLCC graduates who donate $100 to the Alumni Association Projects Fund are permitted to take one course (up to 4 credits) free of tuition, examination, grading or credit. Upon receipt of your donation, a certificate to access the course will be sent with your donation acknowledgment letter. This is restricted to courses that are offered for college credit. Any materials or supplies that are not covered by normal tuition will be the responsibility of the person auditing the class.
Every year we honor a group of FLCC alumni who have made a difference in their professions and communities. These outstanding alumni are recognized at a ceremony at FLCC.
Alumni Awards
Make a Nomination
Online Nomination Form Print Nomination Form
FLCC degree or certificate program graduates are eligible to be nominated for a Distinguished Alumni Award immediately upon graduation.
Nominations may be made by the individual or by someone else. Current Alumni Association Council members, Foundation Board members, and members of the Board of Trustees, past recipients, and College employees are ineligible.
All nominations must be submitted by August 31, 2023. Nominees will receive a request to submit documents supporting their nomination. If you would like to nominate a distinguished alumnus for an award, please complete a nomination form or contact us at alumni@flcc.edu.
Distinguished Alumni Award
The Distinguished Alumni Award celebrates achievement in one or more of the following areas.
- Professional Achievement: The nominee has earned distinction in their field as evidenced by promotions, honors/awards, professional achievements, advanced degrees, offices held in professional organizations; publications, or presentations of their work.
- Community Service: The nominee has served with distinction in civic, service, and/or philanthropic organizations as evidenced by making significant contributions to the advancement and leadership of the organization(s); honors/awards for volunteer service on the local, regional, state, national, or international level.
- Service to FLCC: The nominee has demonstrated outstanding loyalty and service over a period of several years to the College and/or Alumni Association as evidenced by volunteer participation and philanthropic support.
- Outstanding spirit: The nominee has demonstrated an indomitable spirit, overcoming significant obstacles and challenges to pursuing their CCFL/FLCC education that transformed his/her life. This may be evidenced by professional achievement or community service, but in general would be characterized as personal growth because of their education.
FLCC Alumni Association Exceptional Service Award
Do you know someone affiliated with CCFL/FLCC that should be honored for outstanding service to the College? The FLCC Alumni Association Exceptional Service Award recognizes outstanding contributions to the campus or student experience, innovative programming with a significant impact on FLCC students, or outstanding contributions to the CCFL/ FLCC Alumni Association.
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
The Outstanding Young Alumni Award recognizes early outstanding achievements in a chosen profession or field of service and/or service to the community. The nominee must be age 35 or younger by the nomination deadline.
Additional Alumni Awards
The following Alumni Awards honor accomplishments in specific activities and academic programs, and utilize a separate application process:
Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees
Consider nominating someone you know who graduated at least three years ago, was a member of an intercollegiate team at FLCC, and distinguished themselves as an athlete. This award recognizes athletes who, in their lives and work since leaving the College, have served as role models for current student-athletes. Please contact Samantha Boccacino, athletic director, at (585) 785-1459 or Samantha.Boccacino@flcc.edu for a nomination form.
Horticulture and Conservation Outstanding Alumni Achievement Awards
Awarded annually since 1985, this award recognizes professional achievement in the fields of horticulture and environmental conservation. Consider nominating someone who has distinguished themselves in their field by contacting Department Chair John Foust '97 at (585) 785-1599 or John.Foust@flcc.edu or Print a nomination form.
Outstanding Nursing Alumni Achievement Award
Awarded for the first in 2008, this recognition honors CCFL/FLCC nursing alumnus who graduated five or more years ago and have distinguished themselves in the nursing field. If you would like to nominate someone, contact Nursing Department Chair Heather Reece-Tillack at (585) 785-1343 or Heather.ReeceTillack@flcc.edu.
Outstanding Art Alumni Achievement Award
Awarded for the first time in 2010, this award recognizes an alumnus who has distinguished themselves as an artist. If you would like to nominate someone, contact Art Department Coordinator Liz Brownell at (585) 785-1359 or Liz.Brownell@flcc.edu.
Outstanding Computing Science Alumni Achievement Award
Awarded for the first time in 2009, this award recognizes an alumnus who has distinguished themselves professionally. For additional information or to submit a nomination, contact Department Chair Will McLaughlin at (585) 785-1634 or William.McLaughlin@flcc.edu.
Outstanding Humanities Alumni Achievement Award
Outstanding Humanities Alumni Achievement Awards are presented annually to an alumnus who has made outstanding contributions to their community or work. For additional information or to submit a nomination, contact Department Chair Maureen Maas-Feary at (585) 785-1364 or Maureen.Maas-Feary@flcc.edu.
2020
Lester E. Mayers '17
Writer/Traveling Poet and Poetry Instructor
A.A. Liberal Arts & Sciences: Theatre Arts, FLCC; B.A. SUNY New Paltz, Magna Cum Laude; M.F.A. Naropa University Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics
In recognition of Lester E. Mayers's perseverance, community contributions, and accomplishments as a poet, performer, and writing instructor.
2019
Dr. Preston E. Pierce '79
Museum Educator, Ontario County Historical Society; County Historian, Ontario County Dept. of Records and Archives; Adjunct Lecturer in History, Finger Lakes Community College
B.A. Westminster College; B.S. Excelsior College; M.A.T. University of Vermont; M.S.Ed., C.A.S. SUNY College at Brockport; CRT Finger Lakes Community College; Ed.D. University of Rochester; M.L.S. SUNY College at Geneseo; M.S. Boise State University; Graduate CRT East Tennessee State University
In recognition of Dr. Preston E. Pierce's contributions to our community for nearly 50 years as an educator and historian, and to our nation as a United States Army Officer.
2018
Nancy Langer '77, Trustee Emeritus
First Graduate to serve on the College's Board of Trustees, Retired Teacher
A.A. Humanities, FLCC; B.A. Interdisciplinary Studies, SUNY Empire State College; M.S. Education, The College at Brockport, SUNY
In recognition of Nancy Langer's numerous contributions to the development of Finger Lakes Community College, her ability to lead and inspire others, and her passion for education.
2017
Katy Berke-Henthorne '91
Founder and President, The Crew Company
A.A. Liberal Arts & Sciences: Broadcast Communication, FLCC; B.S. Mass Communication, Emerson College
In recognition of Katy Berke-Henthorne's volunteer service and achievements as a producer and owner of a highly trusted consulting/booking agency in the entertainment industry.
Dr. Rodney C. Haring '95
Research faculty member at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Office of Cancer Health Disparities Research, Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, and adjunct faculty member at the University of Arizona, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Native American Research and Training Center
A.S., Science, FLCC; B.A., Stony Brook University; M.S.W., Ph.D. University at Buffalo
In recognition of Dr. Rodney C. Haring's contributions to Native American health research, social work, and his positive impact as a mentor.
2016
Dr. Gail O. Mellow '74
President of LaGuardia Community College
A.A. Jamestown Community College; B.A. SUNY Albany; M.A., Ph.D. The George Washington University
In recognition of Dr. Gail O. Mellow's contributions to the development and future of the American community college.
John (Jack) W. Moran, Jr. '79
President/Owner Roseland Bowl Inc.
A.A.S. Business Administration
In recognition of Jack Moran's contributions to CCFL/FLCC, our community, and the sport of bowling.
2015
Tor N. Constantino '89
Director of Global Public Relations and External Affairs, IMS Health
A.A. Communications; B.S. Journalism, Syracuse University; M.B.A. Rochester Institute of Technology
In recognition of Tor Constantino's achievements in journalism, corporate communications, and public relations.
Mary M. Wilsey '70
Professor of Business and Coordinator of Administrative Professional Program, Finger Lakes Community College
A.A.S. Executive Secretarial Science; B.S. Nazareth College; M.S. Nazareth College
In recognition of Mary Wilsey's contributions to Finger Lakes Community College from 1974-2015.
2014
John E. Derby '82
Director of Advertising, Shoppers Club, and Shoppers Club for Business, Wegmans Food Markets, Inc.
A.A.S. Accounting
In recognition of John Derby's achievements in leadership, teambuilding, and organizational acumen over 35 years of dedicated service.
Kathleen M. Saxby '78
Chief Visionary Officer, Style Integrity
A.A.S. Retail Business Management; A.A.S. Men's Design & Marketing, Fashion Institute of Technology
In recognition of her pursuit of superior product design and workmanship and innovation in seizing niche career opportunities in the fashion apparel industry. Kathleen's leadership, integrity and commitment to collaboration among industry sectors impassions her role as mentor to students in meeting ever-changing skill needs.
Brett W. Utter '97
Director of the Culinary Innovation Center, Wegmans Food Markets, Inc.
A.A. Liberal Arts and Humanities; B.A. Business Administration, Empire State College
In recognition of Brett Utter advancing his career through diverse leadership opportunities, persevering in the face of challenges, and investing his energy and resources to make a difference in the community.
2013
Tracey J. Fuller '93
Heiser Brand President and Canandaigua Branch General Manager
A.A. Liberal Arts and Science; B.A. English, Nazareth College
In recognition of building her career through embracing change and accepting leadership opportunities and for her personal investment of time, energy and resources benefitting multiple organizations in the local community.
Michael J. Miller '89
Chief Marketing Officer, RENESYS Corporation
A.A.S. Accounting, B.S. St. John Fisher, Master's certificate George Washington University
In recognition of seizing unexpected career opportunities in the sphere of global security, a commitment to his leadership in the business sector and ongoing service to and support of the College from his time as a student through the present.
2012
Brian M. Kolb '71
New York State Assembly Minority Leader and Assemblyman
In recognition of an outstanding career of dedicated public service, private sector leadership, support for community organizations and commitment to education.
2011
Mark T. Watkins, Sr. '75
Senior Vice President of Technology and Forestry, MeadWestvaco, Richmond, Va.
A.S. Science; B.S. Paper Science and Engineering SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry, Syracuse University
In recognition of learning an industry from the ground up and promotions based on broad-based knowledge and experience in engineering, manufacturing operations, forestry, R & D, sustainability and human resources, resulting in Mark Watkins' promotion to the senior management team at MeadWestvaco.
John E. Hume, Jr. '77
Retired teacher and Illustrator of "My Florida Alphabet" in 2004 which was adopted statewide by the Florida public schools to teach the alphabet and illustrated children's book, "Annie and Andy – A Tale of Two Lighthouses"
A.A. Liberal Arts and Science; B.S. Education, Buffalo State Teacher's College; M.S. Education, NOVA University; M.S. Educational Leadership, NOVA University
In recognition of his willingness to pursue multiple degrees, talent and success as an artist/illustrator, and dedication to public service that led John Hume to become an effective teacher and a role model for students who dream of being recognized for their artwork.
2010
Dana C. Hansen Chavis '89
Assistant Federal Community Defender for Federal Defender Services of Eastern Tennessee, Inc.
B.S. Political Science SUNY Brockport; Juris Doctor Albany Law School of Union University
In recognition of personal caring, a sense of responsibility, and dedication to public service that led Dana Chavis to a successful legal career committed to providing quality legal representation and resulting in justice.
2009
David L. Jewett '89
Professional Athlete; Two-time Timbersport World Champion
A.A.S. Horticulture; B.S. Colorado State
In recognition of his success as a professional athlete in a sport that demands strength, ability, and heart and for his courage in times of overwhelming challenge.
2008
Richard J. Plympton '84, '85
CEO and Vice President, Optimax Systems, Inc.
A.S. Business Administration; A.S. Computer Science; A.S. Engineering Science; B.S. and M.B.A. University of Rochester
In recognition of the leadership and innovative initiatives that have changed the optics industry services and expectations; and for his unwavering promotion of lifelong learning and having fun.
William "Willie" F. Simmons '80
Senior Vice President, Finance - Excellus Health Plan
A.A.S. Accounting; B.S. St. John Fisher; M.B.A. University of Rochester - Simon School
In recognition of his business achievement in the corporate world and commitment to the community.
2007
James C. Diermeier '77
Associate Director of Outdoor Gardens, New York Botanical Garden
A.A.S. Natural Resource Conservation
In recognition of an outstanding career in horticulture and commitment to the green industry.
Sandra Smithoover Maine '76
Founder and Owner, SunFeather Natural Soap Company
A.A.S. Criminal Justice; B.S. SUNY Potsdam
In recognition of leadership in directing a world-renowned company producing quality handmade products and for commitment to supporting humanitarian and environmental efforts worldwide.
2006
Dr. Suzanne Bamonto Graney '91
Assistant Professor School Psychology Program, RIT
A.A. Liberal Arts and Sciences; B.A. SUNY at Geneseo; Ph.D. University of Oregon
In recognition of educational research, collaboration, and advocacy leading to changing attitudes and approaches to educating children, particularly those who experience difficulties in acquiring literacy.
Laura M. Gross '84
Executive Director/CEO Canandaigua YMCA
A.S. Liberal Arts and Sciences; B.S. Nazareth College
In recognition of non-profit leadership encouraging health, fitness and well-being to individuals and families in Canandaigua.
2005
Jeffery R. Kehrer '83
US Department of Homeland Security/US Secret Service
A.A.S. criminal justice; B.S. John Jay College of Criminal Justice
In recognition of his Washington, D.C. based law enforcement career serving U.S. Presidents and Vice-presidents in several capacities.
Donald P. Rivers, Esq. '73
A.A. Liberal Arts and Sciences; B.A. SUNY Buffalo; Juris Doctor University of Southern California, Gould School of Law
In recognition of personal dedication to public service, a commitment to creating cultural opportunity, and a successful legal career.
Kevin D. Flynn '79
Partner, Martino Flynn
A.S. Liberal Arts and Sciences; B.S. Cornell University; M.P.S. Cornell University
In recognition of the quest to meet the challenge to climb the world's highest mountain peaks, entrepreneurial business achievement, and commitment to volunteerism.
2004
Rudy W. Musclow '78
Chief of Law Enforcement - Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
A.A.S. Natural Resources Conservation, B.S. Utah State University
In recognition of a career in the wildlife resources field, which is by nature one of service, and in tribute of professional and personal ethics.
William P. Santelli '73
Self-employed Artist and Owner - Bill Santelli Studio
A.A. Liberal Arts and Sciences; B.S. SUNY at New Paltz
In recognition of the artistic talent, business acumen, and resolve to craft his passion into a livelihood as a professional artist working with acrylics on canvas.
2003
Richard D. Thomas '81
Environmental Conservation Officer, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
A.A.S. Natural Resources Conservation
In recognition of outstanding career in environmental law enforcement, commitment to promoting the importance of environmental protection, and dedication to public health and safety.
Richard A. Williams '80
Environmental Program Manager, Xerox Corporation
A.A.S. Natural Resources Conservation; B.S. SUNY Empire State College; M.S. R.I.T.
In recognition of accomplishments in the environmental management field and for a career commitment to water quality issues.
Annie L. Moore-Cox '85
Nurse Educator
A.A.S. Nursing; B.A. University of Albany ; M.S. Russell Sage College
In recognition of research and pioneer efforts in Web-based learning in nursing education.
2002
Yvonne Lowrey Jolly '86
Adult Nurse Practitioner, Canandaigua Medical Group
A.A.S Nursing; B.S. Nazareth College; M.S. Syracuse University School of Nursing
In recognition of the spirit to overcome academic challenges in pursuit of several advanced nursing degrees and professional opportunities.
Dr. Sadredin (Dean) Moosavi '89
Assistant Professor, Minnesota State University Mankato
A.S. Liberal Arts and Sciences; B.S. SUNY Environmental Science & Forestry; M.S. and Ph.D. University of New Hampshire
In recognition of research in global change and dedication to assisting students academically and in extracurricular leadership activities.
Lori Franklin Nellist '82
Co-Founder and Co-Director, New Frontiers
A.A.S. Natural Resources Conservation
In recognition of the effort and dedication to establish New Frontiers, an internationally recognized nonprofit organization that offers interactive, challenging adventure activities designed to help people develop purpose-driven lives.
2001
Laurie VerSchneider Broccolo '78
Owner, Broccolo Tree & Lawn Care, Inc.
A.A.S. Ornamental Horticulture
In recognition of outstanding achievement and dedication to environmentally sound principles of horticulture.
Jean S. Cass '81
Co-Founder/Director, House of John
A.A.S. Nursing
In recognition of volunteer efforts and dedication to establish and set up the House of John, a home for the dying and their families.
Dr. Anthony Faiola '72
Executive Associate Dean and Associate Professor, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)
A.A. Liberal Arts and Sciences; B.F.A. SUNY at New Paltz; M.A. SUNY at Albany; M.A. Ohio State University; M.F.A. Ohio State University; Ph.D. Purdue University
In recognition of career achievement in visual communication design, graphic technology, and the cognitive sciences.
Linda S. Ochs '94
Founding Director, Finger Lakes Citizens for the Environment
A.A.S. Natural Resources Conservation; B.S. Empire State College
In recognition of commitment and dedication to promoting the importance of environmental protection.
Philip C. Povero '72, '74
Ontario County Sheriff
A.A. Liberal Arts and Sciences; A.A.S. Criminal Justice; B.S. Rochester Institute of Technology
In recognition of outstanding career in law enforcement and dedication to community organizations supporting youth and promoting public safety issues.
Dr. Richard J. Rivers '75
Chief of Anesthesiology, Lattimore Surgical Center
Associate Professor, University of Rochester
A.S. Liberal Arts and Sciences; B.S. Clarkson University ; M.D. Medical College of Ohio; Ph.D. University of Virginia Health Sciences Center In recognition of outstanding educational achievement and dedication to the field of medicine.
Susan C. Treadwell '74
Director of Quality Assurance/Health Services - Finger Lakes United Cerebral Palsy, Inc.
A.A.S. Nursing; B.S.N. Alfred University
In recognition of service to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
Keep the FLCC tradition going strong for thousands of students and generations to come. We encourage you to consider ways you can help.
Get Involved/Stay Connected
Complete the Volunteer Interest Form to get started. When opportunities arise that coincide with your interests, we will contact you.
Ways to Get Involved
Professional
- Provide advisement regarding 4-year college(s) you attended
- Arrange shadowing/internship opportunities with your employer
- Practice job interviews and review resumes
- Speed-networking events
- Share your professional journey
Academic
- Provide tutoring to students at one of FLCC's Academic Support Centers
- Address a group on a specific topic (either participate on a panel or speak to a class/group)
- Provide career or education advice via phone, email, virtual or in person
Alumni
- Help plan a networking or social event
- Participate on an alumni committee
Recruitment
- Contact accepted students and welcome them to the Laker family
- Accompany a member of the College Admissions staff to a College fair
- Participate at a recruitment event
- Host an FLCC information table
- Provide info about FLCC to local high school guidance office
