SUNY Chancellor’s Awards 
June 06, 2011
Two Herkimer County Community College faculty members are recipients of the prestigious SUNY Chancellor’s Award. Assistant Professor of Biology Steven Mezik was awarded the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. Director of Financial Aid Susan Tripp received the award for Excellence in Professional Service. The two were presented with the awards at the College’s recent commencement.
Steven Mezik was appointed to the HCCC faculty in 2001 and has taught a variety of courses in the natural sciences, biology, genetics, ecology and nutrition. The selection committee’s nomination read, “simply put, Steve loves to teach, and his passion for teaching has evolved into superb classroom performance. Steve sets high standards for academic excellence in class and works incessantly with students to help them realize their academic potential.” Mezik is actively involved on campus and in the community. He holds a B.A. degree from Hartwick College and a M.S. from Texas Tech University.
Susan Tripp began her employment with HCCC 29 years ago and serves as director of financial aid. With more than 75% of Herkimer’s students receiving financial aid, Tripp performs a critical role for students. She is extremely knowledgeable of the many complicated regulations and is committed to helping students and parents through the process of securing financial aid. A leader on-campus and among her peers, Tripp serves on numerous committees and us a member of state and national professional organizations. She holds a B.S. degree from SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry at Syracuse.
The recipients each received a Chancellor’s Award medallion from the State University of New York. Their names will be included on a plaque in the lobby of the McLaughlin College Center.