Herkimer College Student Honored with SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence

Herkimer County Community College student Elizabeth F. McDonald, of New Hartford, has been awarded the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. She is one of 210 students from across the state to be recognized with this prestigious award.

A Liberal Arts and Sciences: Science major, McDonald will graduate with an associate in science degree on May 17, 2019. McDonald excels academically and is active on campus through membership in a variety of student clubs and organizations including the Peer Tutor, Psychology, Christian Fellowship, Science, and Theater and Iprov Clubs.

McDonald volunteers at Hope Alliance Church as a leader for summer children’s programs and shares a leadership position in the Pre-K classroom. She has also participated in Paws and Claws, Rescue Mission and food pantry volunteer events.

McDonald has studied as a classical ballerina at Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance and also studied archery for six years. She started her own dog walking business in 2012 and currently has 37 clients.

“It is a wonderful accomplishment for Elizabeth to be honored with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award,” said Herkimer College President Cathleen C. McColgin. “I applaud her for her distinguished academic achievements and for her service to our campus and community.”

State University of New York Chancellor Kristina M. Johnson presented McDonald with the award on Wednesday, April 24 at a ceremony in Albany. “Today’s award recipients emerged from their campuses this year as the top scholars, athletes, performers, and achievers, as well as a tremendous source of inspiration,” said Chancellor Johnson. “The students being recognized today made the choice to be leaders on their campuses, prioritize their studies, and serve their communities. Congratulations to this year’s awardees, and I applaud you for pursuing excellence in all that you do.”

The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence was created in 1997 to recognize students who have best demonstrated, and have been recognized for, the integration of academic excellence with accomplishments in the areas of leadership, athletics, community service, creative and performing arts, campus involvement, or career achievement.

Pictured from left: Herkimer College President, Cathleen McColgin, SUNY Chancellor’s Award Recipient, Elizabeth McDonald and State University of New York Chancellor, Kristina M. Johnson