WHAT IS THE HONORS CONVOCATION

The Honors Convoca t ion i s an annua l event recogn iz ing academic exce l lence in the Educa t iona l Oppor tun i ty P rogram. The

program honors the ach ievements o f a l l EOP s tudents who have earned a 3 .00 o r h igher semeste r and/or cumu la t ive grade

po in t average dur ing the prev ious fa l l and/or spr ing semeste rs . S tudents a re recogn ized th rough spec ia l awards and

scho la rsh ips based on academic exce l lence , campus leadersh ip and commun i ty se rv ice . We a lso ce lebra te our graduates and the

cu lm ina t ion o f the i r ha rd work . Las t ly , we h igh l igh t facu l ty and s ta f f who have demonst ra ted s t rong suppor t fo r our

s tudents .

Buffalo State Educational Opportunity Program

s! Congratulations Graduates!

Today is a great day. It’s a day to celebrate with your families and friends. Your high levels of achievement at Buffalo State are truly remarkable and reflect an immense amount of hard work and focus on your part. So today we recognize and celebrate your accomplishments and successes. I am proud of each and every one of you and want to thank you for enriching our campus community.

Congratulations!!

Jim Mayrose, Ph.D. Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs SUNY Buffalo State

Dear EOP Honors Students

We are experiencing unprecedented times. It’s

during moments like these that we need to stick

together and support each other the most.

It is understandable to feel a sense of

disappointment from not being able to celebrate

your accomplishments as originally planned. I

share that disappointment. Every spring, I look

forward to the many end-of-year events to honor

the wonderful accomplishments across our

campus community.

But please know that not being able to share this

moment and celebration together in person

does not in any way mitigate the importance of

your accomplishments, nor does it erase the

hard work you put into reaching your goals.

Although this is not the circumstance I

envisioned offering you in this congratulatory

message, I would like to take this moment to

applaud your achievement for making it to this

point in your educational journey at Buffalo

State College.

Be well, Bengals. And roar on! Katherine Conway-Turner, President SUNY Buffalo State

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indoles duis enim consequat genitus at lerpo ipsum.

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premo tamen erat huic.

A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF EOP

This year, as the world changes and evolves,

so must we. Although our celebration is different, we very much continue to recognize

your exceptional achievements. We acknowledge you for your hard work, sacrifice and dedication. While we are not hosting our traditional convocation, we virtually send our

love, positive energy and salute your perseverance for hanging on through tough times. Since the day you joined our Buffalo

State family, you have shown us what you are really able to accomplish when given the

opportunity and support. Our wish is for you to continue to prosper and enjoy much

success, as we are in this together. You are not alone.

this issue

special awards & honors P.2-6 honorees P.7-9

graduating seniors P.10 staff remarks P.11

tribute to Arthur O. Eve P.12 poem P.13

in memoriam P.14

Celebrating EOP Honors Students

May 2020

Alumni Association Awards The Alumni Association Awards are presented to the two May graduates who have earned the highest cumulative grade point averages. Adrianna Aviles is a dual-degree senior who will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing and a Bachelor of Arts in Writing. She has an overall GPA of 3.97 and has made the dean’s list every semester. Adrianna transferred from Erie Community College to Buffalo State College in 2017. She is a member of the Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society and was selected to participate in Buffalo State’s Undergraduate Summer Research Fellowship. Aside from academics, Adrianna has served the EOP and Buffalo State communities, working as an Academic Mentor at the Academic Center for Excellence, while being a member of BSC Cinephiles. She is a finalist of the Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence--SUNY, as well as a finalist for the President's Medal of Outstanding Student here at Buffalo State College. Adrianna has been accepted into Michigan State University’s Critical Studies in Literacy and Pedagogy Program, and will begin her coursework in Fall 2020.

Selenah Roman transferred to Buffalo State in Fall 2018 after graduating from Niagara County Community College. Selenah is a senior majoring in Political Science: Public Legal Studies with a minor in Intelligence Analysis. Through dedication and diligence, she has been able to obtain a 3.98 overall GPA and was on the Dean’s List for every semester at Buffalo State. Selenah has been working on original research for her capstone project since Spring 2019; she has been studying factors that influence economic gender equality/inequality across various countries. After graduation, Selenah plans to take a year hiatus and then return to school to earn a Master’s in History. EOP Staff Merit Award The Staff Merit Award is presented to a college staff member who has shown commitment and service to the Educational Opportunity Program. Leasa Rochester-Mills is the Coordinator of New Student Academic Programs at Buffalo State College, where she not only coordinatesthe campus Learning Communities but also First-Year Convocation, Transfer Engagement, UNC/BSC courses and advises the First-Year Honors Society Alpha Lambda Delta. With over 20 years in Higher Education, Leasa has been a visionary and strategic leader with experience in designing, developing, implementing and managing retention-based program; serving students from diverse backgrounds, including non-traditional students and students with documented disabilities that translate student retention strategies into academic success programs. Leasa has been at Buffalo State for 14 years, and previously at University at Buffalo for 7 years. During her career in higher education, Leasa has remained committed to serve the college community whether it’s volunteering as a site coordinator for Buffalo State Dare of Care or co-chairing UUP Bring Your Child to Work Day, to teaching for the EOP Summer Academy for several years helping to prepare the minds of our first-year students to change the world. She has also earned several awards including Faculty/Staff Appreciation Award for Outstanding Teaching Qualities and Mentoring. In closing, “You must be the change you want to see in the world.” Mahatma Gandhi Annie Joe Memorial Award This scholarship is awarded to a junior or senior student who, despite significant special circumstances, has earned a 3.0 semester average during the Fall or Spring 2018 semester. The awardee must have worked diligently to overcome personal and academic obstacles. The scholarship is given in memory of Annie Joe, a student who died tragically on the eve of the 1982 EOP Honors Convocation.

SPECIAL AWARDS

AND HONORS

Alumni Association Awards

Adrianna Aviles

Selenah Roman

EOP Staff Merit Award

Leasa Rochester-Mills

Annie Joe Memorial Award

Mede Yem

Kolawole Glover Memorial

Award

Jean Brito

Martha Pierce Student

Recognition Award

Maryann Maldonado

Theresa A. Shepard Advocacy

Award

Jazmine Murray

Arthur O. Eve Distinguished

Student Achievement Award

Oshina Webb

EOP Director’s Award

Diana Delmonte Bido

EOP Faculty Merit Award

Steve Peraza, Ph.D.

Dougherty-Witten Scholarship

Paulina Wojciechowska

USB EOP Award

Rodney Robinson

Ruben Santana

Highest Cumulative

Averages by Class

Freshman – Kayla Bonilla

Sophomore – Argjend Imeri

Junior – Kalis Lanier

Senior – Karisma Karim

Top Five

Graduating Seniors

Rakia Akter

Adrianna Aviles

Frempong Boateng

Vadim Lebedyuk

Selenah Roman

Mede Yem emigrated to the United States at 10 years old from a refugee camp in Thailand. Education was always at the forefront for the Yem family. Both of Mede’s parents were teachers in the refugee camp in Thailand. Transitioning to the United States was not easy because of the different language, customs, and lifestyles here in American. As a first-generation college student, Mede credits her academic success to the support she received from her “second family”, the EOP program. Mede was a regular face in the Academic Center for Excellence and credits Lori Woods for helping her transition to college as an English language learner. She met with her EOP counselor weekly to assist with her transition to

college and to make sure she was doing all she could to be successful. Mede will graduate with her Bachelor’s in Childhood Education with a 3.54 major GPA. Kolawole Glover Memorial Scholarship Kolawole “Tommy” Glover was a junior majoring in Computer Information Systems when he passed away as the result of a car accident in February of 2001. A scholarship was created in his name to recognize a student who reflects his passion for learning. While attending Buffalo State, Kolawole was a sought-after resource in the North Wing computer lab and the EOP computer lab, which is now named in his honor. He was a leader on campus, active in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), the African American Student Organization (AASO), the Caribbean Student Organization (CSO), and Adelante Estudiantes Latinos (AEL). The name Kolawole means “to bring together.” Thus, the scholarship named in his honor is awarded to an individual who reflects the best of both campus involvement and academic success. This scholarship is co-sponsored by EOP and the Association of Faculty and Staff of Color.

Jean Brito is a resident of Bronx, New York Jean and has a GPA of 3.87. He made the Dean's List at Buffalo State and was accepted into the Honors program. Jean is majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Economics and Finance. He quickly acclimated to our campus culture and is an active member of Buffalo State and EOP. Jean is a Residential Assistant for Bishop Hall, an honors residential building for exceptional scholars. He is a senator for USG, an organization that serves the needs and wishes of the student body, while having the responsibility of planning out events around campus. He recently took part in EOP advocacy efforts to travel to Albany to meet with legislators to advocate for funding for EOP and the TAP gap. He has assisted in many campus and community service projects such as the

Bengals Day of Caring project. Jean's extracurricular activities include being a Global Potential member in which he participated in an organization that focuses on children who lived in third world countries. Jean tutored peers to look at the world with inquisitive eyes. He joined the Debate Team his senior year of high school which emphasized improving his impromptu speaking, developing excellent communication skills, learning how to think, analyze and address a topic with little preparation time. Jean was raised by a single mother with four children in a small and cramped apartment, which in Jean's words "made me want to start the race last and finish it first." With the help of EOP, Jean has refused to settle for the superficial understanding, decline the obvious explanation and refuse to accept the negativity of people around him. He questions everything and strives off the information given to him. He continues to strive for opportunities that would make his previous achievement look mediocre. He recently represented and participated in the Model Senate Session Program in Albany, New York.

Martha Pierce Student Recognition Award This award acknowledges the academic achievements of a non-traditional junior or senior with a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA who has prevailed as an above-average student amidst difficult circumstances, such as health concerns, raising children, or juggling employment with academics. The award is named in honor of Martha Pierce, who is recognized as the first SEEK/EOP graduate in New York State. Ms. Pierce entered Buffalo State as an adult student in 1967 and graduated in just seven semesters with a degree in elementary education. She then taught in the Buffalo Public School system for more than 20 years. She is known for speaking on behalf of funding for EOP before the joint legislature in Albany, where she received a standing ovation.

Maryann Maldonado is a junior majoring in Psychology and minoring in Art Therapy. She began her journey at Buffalo State with attending the EOP Transfer Student Academy, she then committed to participating in the EOP “We the pEOPle” Transfer Student Learning Community. During Maryann’s first semester she was able to achieve a 3.75 grade point average with challenging courses. In her time at Buffalo State, Maryann has exhibited self-less character with going above and beyond to check in on and assist a number of her peers. Maryann is employed. She is a wife and a mother. One of her children has special needs which comes with compounded responsibilities for her as a mother. She is constantly

pulled in many directions but remains steadfast to her goals with a pleasant disposition. By prioritizing her goals and focusing on academics as well as her personal life, Maryann Maldonado has established herself successfully at Buffalo State. Theresa A. Shepard Advocacy Award The Advocacy Award is given to an individual or organization that has shown commitment to EOP through outstanding support and service. The award has been renamed in honor of EOP student Theresa Shepard, who passed away unexpectedly in December of 2001. Theresa earned a bachelor's degree in computer information systems and a master's degree in educational computing. She was employed by the Computing and Technology Services Department and was well known throughout the campus community. Theresa spoke out on behalf of funding for EOP, both in the Buffalo community and on campus. She was admired and respected for her work ethic and her dedication to academic success.

Jazmine Murray is an exceptional scholar and student who will be graduating with over a 3.5 GPA. She is currently majoring in Social Work and dedicates her time to helping and mentoring young people. Despite her demanding schedule, she is an active student within EOP and believes in the mission and vision set forth by Arthur O. Eve. She is an advocate for the program and participates in our annual EOP/EOC Advocacy Day where she meets with legislators and senators to share the impact the program has had on her life. In addition, she has served as a first-year and academic mentor, and participated in our EOP Women's Empowerment group. She is currently interning at the Charter School for Applied

Technologies where she works with students in grades K-3 and facilitates a program called Primary Project; an intervention program that helps children with mild to moderate school adjustment concerns. Jazmine enjoys her work as a Child Associate and leads weekly child-led play therapy sessions. Upon graduation, she plans on furthering her education and completing her master’s degree in Social Work at the University at Buffalo. Her future plans include working with children and starting a non-profit organization for young women focused on self-care, hygiene, sex education, and self-love. Jazmine is a role model to many of our students and connects with her EOP counselor and her EOP family on a regular basis. She is always willing to assist and extend a hand and is a true advocate for the Educational Opportunity Program at Buffalo State. Arthur O. Eve Distinguished Student Achievement Award This award was established to honor former Deputy Speaker Arthur 0. Eve, who established the first SEEK/EOP program in the SUNY system at Buffalo State in 1967. The award is given to a graduating native resident of Buffalo or Niagara Falls who exemplifies the characteristics Mr. Eve sought for our students: academic excellence reflected by a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA and a commitment to community service proven through strength of character and leadership.

Oshina Webb is originally from the beautiful island of Jamaica and came to the United States at the age of 16 to further her education. Since her arrival to Buffalo State she has given back to campus community and EOP in many ways. Ms. Webb has worked with the University Police Student Assistant (UPSA) program for the last 2 years and in this time was promoted from a Student Assistant to a Team Lead because of her hard work and dedication. Her passion for keeping community safe has inspired her to continue her graduate work in Criminal Justice. Her commitment to empowering others to succeed has led her to becoming a Student Assistant and Student Resident Director for the EOP Freshman

Summer Academy; a summer bridge program that helps incoming students successfully transition to college. She often serves as a mentor, guide, and support for other students and campus leaders. Oshina has been very involved on campus and has served in multiple capacities for the Caribbean Student Organization. As President, she led a series of community events that allowed students to celebrate their culture and brought awareness to pressing social issues in the college and surrounding community. Oshina is an exemplary leader and continues to push for greatness while bringing others along with her. In the Fall 2020 she will be starting her master’s program in Criminal Justice at Buffalo State and pursue her dream of becoming an FBI agent. EOP Director’s Award The Director's Award recognizes a junior or senior with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA who has demonstrated leadership, dedication, and service through involvement with both EOP and campus organizations.

Diana Delmonte Bido is a first-generation student at Buffalo State College pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Social Work

with a double minor in Hospitality Administration and Art Therapy. She has an overall GPA of 3.75, which has allowed her to achieve Dean's List honors repeatedly. Diana served as a Senator of the 42nd Legislature for the United Students Government at Buffalo State. She serves as Assistant Vice President for Campus Affairs and Government Relations for USG. Along with her work with USG, she is currently the Vice President of the Kappa Omega Chapter of Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society. Diana has also worked with EOP as a First-Year mentor for two years with incoming

freshmen to give back to EOP. She has built new connections while assisting students with their transition to college and building relationships. She has assisted EOP in participating with panel presentations to talk about her campus involvement and leadership skills for classroom presentations and is readily available, when needed, to help out with EOP activities. Diana has devoted time to serving the Buffalo State community along with the Buffalo community, from volunteering at the Buffalo State Daycare Center, College Based Transition Program, to partaking in Bengal Dare to Care Day. Diana also volunteered at the YWCA of WNY as an after-school program mentor. She was student assistant for our summer academy, participated in EOP Beyond the Bachelor's Student Professional Development Conference, assisted with workshops and served as a panelist. She has assisted with the Day of Service community projects on a regular basis. She was awarded the Norman McConney Award in 2019.

EOP Faculty Merit Award The Faculty Merit Award is given for outstanding commitment and service to the Educational Opportunity Program.

Steve Peraza Dr. Steve Peraza is an Assistant Professor in the Department of History and Social Studies Education at SUNY-Buffalo State College. He earned his Ph.D. in U.S. history from SUNY-Buffalo, specializing in slavery and manumission in the Atlantic World. Other research interests include race and racism in America, the Harlem Renaissance, and the long civil rights movement. He teaches courses on U.S. history, Black American history, African Americans and Civil Rights, and Hip Hop Culture. Dr. Peraza was the keynote speaker for the Beyond the Bachelors' Student Development Conference

2019. He also has done extensive research and a documentary of the life and legacy of Assemblymen Arthur O. Eve. He is always caring and passionate when working with EOP students and gives them guidance and inspires them with his motivational stories.

Dougherty-Witten Scholarship Through his work on SUNY campuses as a Financial Planner with VOYA Financial Advisors, George D. Dougherty has had the opportunity to work with the Educational Opportunity Program and see the support and opportunities the program provides to students with the potential to succeed, but who are economically disadvantaged. Impressed with the dedication of the EOP staff and the EOP students’ thirst for learning, he established the Dougherty Scholarship to provide educationally and economically disadvantaged students with access to higher education. Recently, Gary Witten, also a Financial Planner with VOYA, contributed a very generous sum to the scholarship, reflecting his similar belief in the students of EOP. To be eligible for the Dougherty-Witten Scholarship, students must intend on declaring a major, or have declared a major, in one of the departments in the School of the Professions and must have either a high school average of 85% or higher or an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. The scholarship can be received each semester of attendance as long as the recipient maintains a 3.0 minimum GPA.

Paulina Wojciechowska, A native from Brooklyn New York participated in the Community of Student Investigators Learning Community in her first year and enjoyed her transition to Buffalo State. She was actively involved with campus and community service. She is a senior in Commuter Information Systems and will be graduating this May. She is an active EOP scholar who has showed great promise in the computing world, being a head officer in the Women in Computing Club at Buffalo State, attending and participating in summits and conferences, as well as both volunteering and teaching “Hour of Code” lessons in afterschool high school programs. She further inspires and helps pave the way

for young women in technology. She is excited for future opportunities and giving back to the community upon graduation. USB Awards for Outstanding EOP Students An anonymous donor has granted the program $500 for awards to outstanding EOP students, with preference to students majoring in Engineering Technology or Computer Information Systems. The gift has been designated to the Jaelah Yannis Jenkins EOP Program Fund.

Ruben Santana is a rising junior who is majoring in electrical engineering with a grade point average of 3.16. He is an active member of our campus community with EOP and CSTEP programs. He is a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Ruben has volunteered many hours with the campus Civic and Community Engagement Office, as well as participated in the Bengal Day of Caring Community Service Day. He continues to strive for academic excellence every semester and makes sure to maintain his academic obligations.

Rodney Robinson is a dedicated student who utilized EOP resources and followed through on the advisement he received throughout his time at Buffalo State. Rodney never fails to check in and he is a student who will rise to any challenge and put forth maximum effort. He is actively involved in our campus community.

TOP FIVE GRADUATING SENIORS

Rakia Akter is a senior majoring in Childhood Education holding a grade point average of 3.89. Rakia hopes to be a teacher in the Buffalo Public School system with a focus in fostering social, emotional, and ethical learning. Rakia has conducted two research projects during her time as an undergraduate student. One of which took her to Yangon, Myanmar under the leadership of the Creative Studies Department. Rakia is the Student Ambassador for the International Professional Department Schools (IPDS) and she’s a member of the Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society. Rakia is also a recipient for the SUNY New York State Chancellor’s Award. Rakia plans to continue her education as a Graduate

student at Buffalo State College pursuing her certification to be an English as a New Language (ENL) teacher. Adrianna Aviles (see above bio) Frempong Boateng is a Dean’s List and EOP Honors student who has excelled in his studies since he first arrived on campus in 2016. Maintaining a 3.74 GPA, Frempong will be pursuing a career in Criminal Justice after graduation.

Vadim Lebedyuk is a senior at Buffalo State College and will be completing his degree in May 2020, majoring in the Technology Education Program with a current GPA of 3.81. He has consistently made the Dean’s List throughout his journey at Buffalo State College. Vadim was honored last year with the highest GPA average by class. He is a member of four honor societies, (National Technical Honor Society, International Honorary for Professions in Technology, National Society of Leadership and Success, and The International Honor Society in Education). He was also the recipient of the Vocational Technical Education Scholarship. Vadim participated in a service-learning project while

studying abroad in Croatia in the Spring 2018 semester. While volunteering in Croatia, he worked with underprivileged schools and establishments for people with disabilities. He also researched teaching methodologies in Europe versus the United States, and he presented his findings at the Research and Creativity Fair. Vadim is involved in the Intervarsity Christian Fellowship Club, where he is training to become a Bible Study Leader on campus. He has also served as a Freshman Student Mentor for the EOP Program and, worked for the afterschool program, “Just for Kids”. He loves attending his church, where he is a member of the youth choir and practices youth preaching. Vadim loves to help wherever he can, and he currently volunteers for the Salvation Army Code Blue homeless shelter. Vadim is truly blessed to be an EOP student at Buffalo State College and EOP is blessed to have him. After completing his Bachelor of Science degree in Technology Education, he plans to continue helping the community, while working to complete his master’s degree in Technology Education at Buffalo State College. Selenah Roman (see above bio)

SPRING 2019 SEMESTER AVERAGES OF 3.00 OR HIGHER

Abdo, Ahmed Glover, Evan Mohamed, Abdu Tasnum, Mian

Acosta, Nancy Govenettio, Felicia Mohammed, Saria Taylor, Kitana

Acosta, Tiffany Grabowski, Autumn Monteros, Giselle Terera, Alou

Adams, Lamar Gravino, Natalie Morrow, Kierra Tsering, Dawa

Adams, Muniru Green, Alexis Murray, Jazmine Vasquez, Jacob

Aguilar, Sheilly Grundy, Davita Muya, Maslah Vines, Andrea

Ahad, Kaniz Haider, Shaharin Natt, Jayrod Watts, Tyanna

Akter, Rakia Hassan, Maimuna Nelson, Johnathen Webb, Oshina

Ali, Ayan Hicks, Dasha Ogundeko, Elizabeth Wiggins, Jovan

Alshuaibi, Yahya Holmes, Nari Okine, Joel Williams, Chad

Anderson, Jovonna Hossain, Md Paulino, Adalis Williams, Dianndra

Arafat, Yasir Houston, Jazmone Paw, Ba Williams, Robert

Arefin, Marjana Howard, Latasha Paw, Kawthaw Williams, Shania

Aristega, Lizbeth Hussein, Abdighani Paw, Klihtoo Wilson, Sylvia

Asomaning, Moses Jackson, Sadiyah Pena, Joanna Wojciechowska, Paulina

Ba, Khadidiatou Jackson, Shakeena Peralta, Minerva Wright, Terrina

Babb, Maya Jackson, Taijanah Perez, Bianca Yakub, Mohamud

Bhandari, Mahesh Jangana, Ami Piert, Branden Yem, Mede

Boateng, Frempong Jara, Cristina Poethig, Jonathan

Bodden, Tyshawn Johnson, Courtney Polgreen, Victoria

Boh, Arka Johnson, Derek Rai, Swornim

Bollers, Gabriel Johnson, Ty-Ree Ramgoolam, Michelle

Boutwell, Jaheed Jones, Ariana Reh, Mi

Boutwell, Marquell Jordan-Johnson, Alesha Rico, Rifat

Bright, Dominique Karim, Karisma Rijo, Moises

Broadus, Taylour Kerr, Tatiana Rivera, Amanda

Brown, Alajade Khan, Shantel Robinson, Rodney

Bunbury, Uling Kharel, Chandra Rodriguez, Adianez

Burnett, Nathan Khatun, Syeda Rodriguez, Cindy

Cabrera, Janae Kimfuta, Mbala Rolon, Jessica

Cato, Stefan Klo, Mu Roman, Selenah

Charles, Maliki Lake, Melfor Rosario, Adarlyn

Chung, Alondra Lam, Kenny Rosas, Daniel

Colston, Jawon Lampley, Takia Ross, Quindell

Cortez, Nicholas Lantigua, Kyara San, Aye

Cueto, Nakyra Larkin, Alexus Sanchez, Cindy

Dahal, Durga Lebedyuk, Vadim Santana, Ruben

Daniels, Joyce Littlejohn, Sydney Santos, Julia

De Jesus, Lissette Lopez, Jalisa Scott, Alicia

Deen, Naziru Lora, Cameron Seaman, Tiffany

Delmonte Bido, Diana Lora, Helen Shafer, Rachel

DeSandies, Asiyah Luna Ruiz, Jeniffer Shaw, Lisa

Diallo, Hanssatou Mackey, Scott Shaw, Mckayla

Dipa, Wahida Maqsoodi, Roohullah Simmons, Tanisha

Dong, Kevin Mashimango, Sabina Simms, Essence

Draggin, Shania Matthews, Donald Singleton, Shinnelle

Duncan, Jaylah Mbacke, Sokhna Slaughter, Desiray

Farrington, Alyssa McDonald, Renaja Smith, Cheyenne

Fauntleroy, Nya Meh, Ko Solivan, Aryannah

Fleuricot, Jacob Meh, Lu Sosa, Charlene

Garrison, Jadyn Mehbub, Umaya Sow, Amadu

Gashindi, Jeremie Mescain, Sixto Starkes, Cameran

Gebretensae, Miriam Mills-Gerace, Annabelle Stevenson, Kalie

Gill, Karanveer Mitchum, Shytimber Stone, Dijon

FALL 2019 SEMESTER AVERAGES OF 3.00 OR HIGHER

Acosta, Nancy Cuello, Kendrick Herrera, Yasari Miah, Tania Ross, Quindell

Adams, Lamar Cueto, Nakyra Hinds, Elysyia Mike, Giniyah Rumph, Maria

Agu, Jessica Cummings, Kyshira Htoo, Tha Dah Miles, Sarafina San, Aye

Aguilar, Sheilly Czapla, Lisa Husseini, Zahra Mitchell, Dairyona Santana, Ruben

Ahmed, Noushin Dahal, Durga Ibrahim, Rodwan Mitchum, Shytimber Santiago, Angelina

Ahmed, Safayet Daniels, Joyce Imeri, Argjend Mohamed, Abdu Santiuste, Julie

Akter, Rakia Davis, Deanna Jackson, Sadiyah Mohammad, Ensuf Saunders, Loretta

Alameri, Fakhri Dawkins, Tori Jackson, Shakeena Mohammed, Saria Saylee, Zalue

Alhassan, Amer De Jernett, Andrea' Jacobs, Josephine Monteros, Giselle Sayles, Elijah

Ali, Ayan De Jesus, Lissette James, Catherine Morrow, Kierra Schruefer, Lexus

Ali, Naveen Deen, Naziru Jara, Cristina Morton, Jessica Scott, Alicia

Almonor, Bythovens Delgado, Jahziel Johnson Pratcher, Joshua Murray, Jazmine Shafer, Rachel

Amoah, Princess Delgado, Jayda Johnson, Courtney Muse, Hamido Shaibi, Zakaria

Anderson, Ashayla Delmonte Bido, Diana Johnson, Derek Nelson, Johnathen Sharma, Sameer

Anderson, Courtney DeSandies, Asiyah Johnson, Trevor Niaj, Rizaul Shaw, Lisa

Antwi, Aaron Diallo, Hanssatou Johnson, Ty-Ree Nunez-Simon, Zhamia Shaw, Mckayla

Arafat, Yasir Diallo, Penda Johnson, Yu-Neek Odum, D'Kyani Simms, Essence

Arefin, Marjana Dockett, Kenzie Jones, Ariana. Okine, Joel Simpson, Jhan

Aristega, Lizbeth Draggin, Shania Kadhum, Walaa Osei-Boateng, Natalie Slaughter, Desiray

Ashik, Arafath Ducheine, Jodie Karamoko, Fatou Osman, Nafisa Solivan, Aryannah

Augustin, Bryand Duncan, Jaylah Karim, Karisma Outten, Daron Sow, Amadu

Aweis, Maryan Epps, Gabrielle Kerr, Tatiana Panchoo, Shanaia Starkes, Cameran

Aweis, Mustafa Evans, Taylor Kharel, Chandra Patterson, Malik Stevenson, Kalie

Babb, Maya Farrington, Alyssa Klo, Mu Paulino, Adalis Stone, Dijon

Babul, Imtaj Fauntleroy, Nya Lake, Melfor Paw, Ba Tanha, Fakiha

Bah, Fatoumata Fermin, Claritza Lam, Kenny Paw, Kawthaw Taylor, Kitana

Barber, Khallid Forrest, Teja Lanier, Kalis Paw, Klihtoo Tha, Ehler

Begum, Sonya Frederick, Mya Larkin, Alexus Pereyra, Linett Thomas, Iris

Benoit, Theresa Fuentes, Oscar Leach, Jenna Perez, Xitlali Torres, Dajah

Bhandari, Mahesh Garcia-Rodriguez, Colmari Lebedyuk, Vadim Perkins, Monte Trisa, Shahedatul

Bishop-Laster, Bobbie Gashindi, Jeremie Lee, Nicholas Pheto-Howard, Latasha Ukash, Asha

Boateng, Frempong Gebretensae, Miriam Lerner, Jacob Pica, Nina Vails, Monay

Bodden, Tyshawn Gill, Karanveer Littlejohn, Sydney Piert, Branden Valentin, Jonathan

Boh, Arka Gordon, Gabriella Lora, Helen Poethig, Jonathan Vargas, Eduardo

Bollers, Gabriel Gorsai, Susmita Louison, Tyra Polgreen, Victoria Vargas, Genesis

Bonilla, Kayla Grabowski, Autumn Lowe, Salifu Purdue, Tierra Vincent, Jayini

Boutwell, Jaheed Grant, Armani Luna Ruiz, Jeniffer Quamina, Brianna Vines, Andrea

Bright, Dominique Grant, Juanita Mackey, Scott Queen, Kiana Walcott, Ebone

Brito, Jean Gravino, Natalie Magar, Ran Rahman, Mahbubur Walters, Julia

Brito, Yairis Green, Mercedez Maldonado, Maryann Rai, Swornim Williams, Chad

Buchanan, Wilma Griffin, Tavione Marino, Imani Ramos, Oscar Williams, Dianndra

Bunbury, Uling Griffiths, Shanisha Massey, Mackenzie Reh, Junstin Williams, Paige

Burgoa, Miriam Guess, Elisha Matos, Janniariz Reimers, Michaela Wilson, Darryl

Burnett, Nathan Guzman, Giovanna Mbacke, Sokhna Rijo, Moises Wilson, Kelis

Burse, Yakenna Habiyambere, Alphonsina McClain, In'dya Robertson, Chantel Wilson, Sylvia

Bye, Haley Haider, Shaharin McDaniel, Madeline Robinson, Dupreme Wira, Mi

Caldwell, Creasha Hall, Allester H. Mcdonald, Natasha Rodriguez, Cindy Wojciechowska, Paulina

Castillo Bermudez, Yossy Hamilton, Ziggy McDonald, Renaja Rojas, Shelaih Wright, April M.

Cato, Stefan Harper, Armoni Mckinney, Amari Rolon, Jessica Wright, Terrina J.

Clare, Natasha Harrison, Jada Meh, Ko Roman, Selenah Yem, Mede

Clarke, Shainna Hassan, Maimuna Meh, Lu Rosado, Nayka Yet, Jule

Collantes, Demetrios Hatcher, Jammie Meh, Taw Rosario, Adarlyn Yu, Rui

Cortez, Nicholas Hernandez, Mikayla Mehbub, Umaya Rosario, Travis Yusuf, Fahad

Cruz, Nadjanil Herrera, Jasmine Mescain, Sixto Rose, Ashley

CUMULATIVE AVERAGES OF 3.00 OR HIGHER

Adams, Fidaus Cueto, Nakyra Johnson, Ty-Ree Paw, Kawthaw Vargas, Eduardo

Adams, Lamar Cummings, Kyshira Johnson Pratcher, Joshua Paw, Klihtoo Vincent, Jayini

Agu, Jessica Czapla, Lisa Jones, Ariana Perez, Xitlali Vines, Andrea

Aguilar, Sheilly Dahal, Durga Karamoko, Fatou Pica, Nina Walcott, Ebone

Ahmed, Noushin Daniels, Joyce Karim, Karisma Piert, Branden Watts, Tyanna

Ahmed, Safayet De Jernett, Andrea'H Kerr, Tatiana Poethig, Jonathan Webb, Oshina

Akter, Rakia De Jesus, Lissette Kharel, Chandra Polgreen, Victoria Williams, Chad

Alameri, Fakhri Delgado, Jayda Klo, Mu Purdue, Tierra Williams, Dianndra

Alexander, Terrell Delmonte Bido, Diana Lam, Kenny Quamina, Brianna Williams, Paige

Alhassan, Amer DeSandies, Asiyah Lanier, Kalis Queen, Kiana Wilson, Darryl

Ali, Ayan Diallo, Hanssatou Larkin, Alexus Rahman, Mahbubur Wilson, Kelis

Ali, Naveen Diallo, Penda Lebedyuk, Vadim Ramgoolam, Michelle Wira, Mi

Almonor, Bythovens Dolson, Davoneo Lewis, Tyler Ramos, Oscar Wright, April

Alsaadi, Ayat Ducheine, Jodie Littlejohn, Sydney Reh, James Wright, Terrina

Amoah, Princess Dunton, Jayron Louison, Tyra Reh, Junstin Wynn, Briana

Andeliz, Emmanuel Escamilla, Cristian Luna Ruiz, Jeniffer Reimers, Michaela Yakub, Hamdi

Anderson, Ashayla Evans, Taylor Mackey, Scott Rico, Rifat Yakub, Mohamud

Anderson, Courtney Farrington, Alyssa Magar, Ran Rijo, Moises Yakub, Musa

Antwi, Aaron Fauntleroy, Nya Maldonado, Maryann Robertson, Chantel Yem, Mede

Arafat, Yasir Fermin, Claritza Maqsoodi, Roohullah Robinson, Rodney Yet, Jule

Arefin, Marjana Forrest, Teja Marino, Imani Rodriguez, Cindy Yu, Rui

Aristega, Lizbeth Fowler, William Matos, Janniariz Roman, Selenah Yusuf, Fahad

Ashik, Arafath Frederick, Mya Matthews, Donald Rosado, Nayka

Asomaning, Moses Fuentes, Oscar Mawi, Dawt Rosario, Adarlyn

Aughtry, Iesha Gill, Karanveer Mbacke, Sokhna Rosario, Travis

Avarello, Josephine Gordon, Gabriella McDaniel, Madeline Ross, Quindell

Aviles, Adrianna Gorsai, Susmita Mcdonald, Natasha San, Aye

Aweis, Maryan Govenettio, Felicia McDonald, Renaja Sanchez, Cindy

Babb, Maya Grabowski, Autumn Mckelvie, Skylar Sanchez, Trinity

Bah, Fatoumata Grant, Armani Meh, Ko Santana, Ruben

Barber, Khallid Grant, Juanita Meh, Lu Santiago, Angelina

Begum, Sonya Gravino, Natalie Mehbub, Umaya Santos, Julia

Benoit, Theresa Green, Alexis Melesse, Gedion Saylee, Zalue

Bhandari, Mahesh Green, Mercedez Miah, Tania Sayles, Elijah

Boateng, Frempong Griffin, Adrienne Miles, Sarafina Schruefer, Lexus

Bodden, Tyshawn Griffin, Tavione Miranda, Abby Schutte, Emily

Boh, Arka Griffiths, Shanisha Mitchum, Shytimber Scott, Alicia

Bonilla, Kayla Habiyambere, Alphonsina Mohamed, Abdu Seaman, Tiffany

Boutwell, Jaheed Haider, Shaharin Mohamed, Samira Shafer, Rachel

Bright, Dominique Hall, Allester Mohammad, Ensuf Sharma, Sameer

Brito, Jean Hamilton, Ziggy Monteros, Giselle Shaw, Lisa

Brito, Yairis Hernandez, Mikayla Morrow, Kierra Shaw, Mckayla

Bryant, Sarah Herrera, Jasmine Murray, Jazmine Simms, Essence

Buchanan, Wilma Hicks, Dasha Muse, Hamido Slaughter, Desiray

Bunbury, Uling Hinds, Elysyia Neequaye, Sophia Sosa, Jennifer

Burnett, Nathan Holmes, Nari Nelson, Johnathen Sow, Amadu

Bye, Haley Husseini, Zahra Niaj, Rizaul Spencer, Carmen

Caldwell, Creasha Imeri, Argjend Nunez-Simon, Zhamia St. Fleurant, Nicolette

Castillo Bermudez, Yossy Jackson, Shakeena Odum, D'Kyani Starkes, Cameran

Cato, Stefan Jackson, Taijanah Okine, Joel Stevenson, Kalie

Centeno, Matthew Jacobs, Josephine Osman, Nafisa Tanha, Fakiha

Charles, Maliki Jahan, Nusrat Outten, Daron Tha, Ehler

Chowdhury, Samin James, Catherine Panchoo, Shanaia Thomas, Iris

Clare, Natasha Jara, Cristina Patterson, Malik Thompson, Malika

Clarke, Shainna Johnson, Courtney Paulino, Adalis Trisa, Shahedatul

Collantes, Demetrios Johnson, Derek Pavel, Marleah Ukash, Asha

Cuello, Kendrick Johnson, Trevor Paw, Ba Valentin, Jonathan

GRADUATING SENIORS

Abiola, Oreoluwa Epps, Gabrielle Martin, Nathan Rohan, Justin Acosta, Nancy Fauntleroy, Nya Mason-Christiani, Karizma Rolon, Jessica Adams, Lamar Gashindi, Jeremie Matthews, Andre Roman, Selenah Ahaneku, Oluchi Gebretebsae, Miriam McClain, In’dya Ross, Averianna Ahsan, Mohammad Govenettio, Felicia Mejia, Jenna Ross, Veronica Akter, Rakia Guess, Elisha Miranda, Ariel Salmon, Shanei Alem, Denyit Howard, Frederick Mohammed, Saria Scott, Alicia Alim, Yusra Hunter, Joy Monteros, Giselle Seaman, Tiffany Arias, Eudy Hunter, Sheromne Morales, Janecssa Smith, Chenelle Asomaning, Moses Isme-Royer, Isaiah Morrison, Janelle Sosa, Charlene Boateng, Fr empong Jackson, Sadiyah Morton, Jessica Stone, Dijon Broadus, Taylor Jackson, Shakeena Murray, Jazmine Taw, Grace Bryan, Ivan James, Sterling Odum, D’Kyani Thompson, Malika Burse, Yakenna Jara, Christina Ogundeko, Elizabeth Vails, Monay Cato, Stefan Johnson, Courtney Outerbridge, Christopher Vines, Andrea Colston, Jawon Kasumu, Jamil Paw, Kawthaw Walker, Derek Cortez, Nicholas Kerr, Tatiana Pereyra, Linett Watts, Tyanna Culp, Zachary King, Kiyanna Perry, Ta’Shayla Webb, Oshina Delgado, Jahziel Klo, Mu Polgreen, Victoria White, Sapfire Delmonte Bido, Diana Lake, Melfor Purdue, Tierra Williams, Chad Diallo, Hassatou Larkin, Alexus Ramsey, Claude Wilson, Carra Digaetano, Daijia Larkins, Ayeisha Ramsey, Marlin Wira, Mi Dip, Rafael Lebedyuk, Vadim Rico, Laura Wojciechowska, Paula Doss, Caneisha Littlejohn, Sydney Roberts, Aqueira Yem, Mede Douglas, Tiffany Luna Ruiz, Jeniffer Robinson, Dupreme Youngblood, Alaya Draggin, Shania Mahmood, Abdullah Robinson, Rodney Yusuf, Fahad El-Amin, Mohammed Maqsoodi, Roohullah Rodriguez, Cindy

CONGRATULATIONS

Sponsored by Grant Allocation Committee

Congratulations to you all for your outstanding achievements! You make us proud. Keep up the great work and inspire others to follow you to the greatness.

“Every morning you

have two choices:

continue to sleep with

your dreams or wake up

& chase them.”

“Appreciate where you are in your journey, even if it’s not where you want to be. Every season serves a purpose.”

Finding a strong purpose and dream in your life the way that you have, serves to inspire those around you. In some ways, you have already been a success in your pursuit of greatness. Congratulations on your accomplishments so far, and good luck on your inspiring future!

Congratulations to all honorees! Your success, perseverance and dedication inspire faculty, staff and students alike! Wishing you well as you move forward knowing you are up to any challenge. Take care.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back despite the obstacles life throws at you, and today you are STRONGER than ever. Congratulations on this wonderful achievement and keep rising. We celebrate and honor your determination and perseverance to do better and be better!

“Or walk with Kings-nor lose the common touch”

Congratulations 2020 graduates on this wonderful accomplishment! I am excited for you all and know that you will be able to overcome anything that comes your way. Never stop following your dreams and remember that EOP will always be here for you.

Congratulations! You

achieved your

aspirations through

hard work and

commitment. All the

best for the future.

"Started from the bottom,

now we're here

Started from the bottom,

now my whole team here

Started from the bottom,

now we're here"

STAFF

REMARKS

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.”

HONORABLE

ARTHUR O. EVE

During Eve's first term as an assemblyman, he led the effort to obtain an initial

$500,000 ($3.8 million as of 2020) of funding to establish the State University of

New York system's SEEK/Educational Opportunity Program. Since the 1970s,

colleges in New York State have administered the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education

Opportunity Program to assist students who may otherwise be unable to attend

college because of educational and financial circumstances. Later, in 1988,

he would received the Kennedy Center Distinguished Leadership in Arts-in-Education

Award.

A leading champion of educational, economic, and social equality, the

Honorable Arthur O. Eve served the Buffalo community and all of New York

state with great distinction. Today, he continues to enrich and inspire our

communities through his ongoing leadership, dedication, and vision.

I THOUGHT I’D AWAKEN TO

A WORLD IN MOURNING

Heavy clouds crowding, a society storming.

But there's something different on this golden morning.

Something magical in the sunlight, wide and warming.

I see a dad with a stroller taking a jog.

Across the street, a bright-eyed girl chases her dog.

A grandma on a porch fingers her rosaries.

She grins as her young neighbor brings her groceries.

While we might feel small, separate, and all alone,

Our people have never been more closely tethered.

The question isn't if we will weather this unknown,

But how we will weather this unknown together.

So on this meaningful morn, we mourn and we mend.

Like light, we can't be broken, even when we bend.

As one, we will defeat both despair and disease.

We stand with healthcare heroes and all employees;

With families, libraries, schools, waiters, artists;

Businesses, restaurants, and hospitals hit hardest.

We ignite not in the light, but in lack thereof,

For it is in loss that we truly learn to love.

In this chaos, we will discover clarity.

In suffering, we must find solidarity.

For it's our grief that gives us our gratitude,

Shows us how to find hope, if we ever lose it.

So ensure that this ache wasn't endured in vain:

Do not ignore the pain. Give it purpose. Use it.

Read children's books, dance alone to DJ music.

Know that this distance will make our hearts grow fonder.

From a wave of woes our world will emerge stronger.

We'll observe how the burdens braved by humankind

Are also the moments that make us humans kind;

Let every dawn find us courageous, brought closer;

Heeding the light before the fight is over.

When this ends, we'll smile sweetly, finally seeing

In testing times, we became the best of beings.

Youth Poet Laureate, Amanda Gorman

Keith “Tai” Johnston arrived at Buffalo State in the Summer of 2016 as a non-traditional student. At the age

of 23, Keith decided he wanted more from life and that included a college degree. It wasn’t long before Keith

made his mark on campus. Keith had a fashion style all his own and didn’t care to follow the flock. As a

Fashion and Textile Technology major, he was a stand out. He quickly became involved in organizations on

campus, first with the NAACP for which he eventually served as Vice-President. Recently, Keith helped

restart AAMEN on campus where he was President. His involvement to support all campus organizations

ran deep. Keith frequented many general interests’ meetings where he again pushed limits by his thoughtful

and caring debates. He raised the consciousness of his fellow students by often playing devil’s advocate.

Although his conversational debates were challenging the views or ideas of others, he did it with such grace

that students could do nothing but have respect for him.

Keith touched every life that he encountered on our campus and especially my life. He was a regular in the

EOP offices and was loved by all. He was kind, thoughtful and showed an incredible level of respect for

everyone. We spent hours in my office having meaningful conversation, laughing, and planning his future.

His laughter and smile could light up any room. He was wise beyond his years and lived a life most of us

wouldn’t have survived. He had so many dreams and goals to still achieve. I gave him all the support I could

but also gave him tough love when he needed it. He always listened and understood that I loved him and had

his back. Rest in Peace King. You are loved and missed by all who knew you.

Carole Miller-Canestrari EOP Counselor

Keith “Tai” Johnston

Sponsored by Grant Allocation Committee