Genesee Community College

Press Release:

Genesee Community College's (GCC's) Fashion Business Program is proud to unveil the theme for its highly anticipated 44th Annual Fashion Show: "Masterpiece Unfolding." The show will take place on Saturday, May 3, at 5 p.m. in the Richard C. Call Arena, promising an unforgettable evening where fashion and fine art converge.

Throughout history, art has been a driving force of inspiration, shaping culture, design, and personal expression. "Masterpiece Unfolding" will bring these artistic influences to life on the runway, showcasing designs that pay homage to artistic movements throughout history.

"Fashion, like art, tells a story," said Laura Taylor, Associate Professor of Fashion Business and Merchandising. "This year, our students will translate the essence of legendary artistic styles into wearable masterpieces, celebrating the creative evolution that continues to inspire designers today."

Attendees can expect an immersive experience where fashion becomes a canvas, and each design serves as a tribute to the artists of the past and present. Through fabric, texture, and design, "Masterpiece Unfolding" will transform the runway into a gallery of living art.

Join us on Saturday, May 3 at 5 p.m. at the Richard C. Call Arena for a night where fashion meets fine art in a breathtaking celebration of creativity.

For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, please email fashionshow@genesee.edu or visit gccfashionshow.com.

For more information, contact Vice President of Development, Admissions and External Affairs, Justin Johnston, at 585-345-6809 or via email at jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

With all of the availability of artificial intelligence — AI for short — and the myriad apps available to help with research, to answer questions, and figure out how to do most anything, comes a new dilemma for educators wanting to ensure their students aren’t misusing the technology, State University of New York Chancellor John King says.

“We actually just added artificial intelligence to our general education requirements around information literacy, because we think our students will need to understand how AI works, how to use it ethically,” King said during a recent visit to Batavia. “And so we’re now building that into the general education requirements for all undergraduates across SUNY, and we’re doing a lot of professional development with faculty thinking about both, how do you teach students about using AI, but also, how do we think about the role that AI plays in the classroom?”

That might change how teachers dole out homework, he said, moving them from at-home assignments to asking students to complete them during class time.

“Because you want to make sure that students are engaging with the material themselves and not just relying on AI. You know, some of the work is actually helping students understand how best to use AI, you know, the prompt development, for example, the kind of question you ask matters a lot with what you'll get back from AI, and so helping students think about, how do you design the right question?” he said. “Also helping students be skeptical readers of what they find, whether it's on the internet or from AI, they have to ask, is this right? How do I know? Let me go check these sources.”

There are so many interesting things that college faculty members are working on with AI, he said, including simulated conversations in foreign languages.

“It’s such an incredible tool if used well,” he said. 

The State University of New York — of which Genesee Community and Empire State colleges are included — will require undergraduate students to take courses in AI and civic discourse as part of their general education curriculum beginning in fall 2026. 

The courses will be part of the university’s effort to prepare students to engage with emerging technologies and evaluate information, as King said, ethically. 

According to SUNY's website, students will be learning how to use AI tools to locate information, evaluate that information from different sources, understand the ethical implications of using AI, how to weigh information for bias, truthfulness and other factors and how to navigate and assess the impact of AI in society. 

While surrounded by a group of onlookers, Madeline Wilson dramatically pumped a male’s chest with crossed hands repeatedly Thursday while watching a nearby heart monitor to see whether her actions were effective enough to resuscitate him.

Not only was she under pressure with the cardio maneuver, but she had an audience for her first attempts.

“So, especially in this, we can apply this knowledge to the community when we go into clinical and work,” the nursing student said during the demonstration at Genesee Community College’s Med-Tech building. “So if this did happen to our patient, we would be totally prepared and know what to do.”

Unlike old-school upper torso mannequins that don’t really resemble human persons besides crude physical mechanics, this male was a full-body specimen with working features. GCC purchased the $28,000 mannequin, an accompanying defibrillator and other equipment with 2024 state funding of $8 million to expand community college healthcare workforce training and mental health programs. 

This investment will allow students opportunities for hands-on learning with the most up-to-date technology, officials said during a tour of the nursing, child care center and HVAC wings with SUNY Chancellor John King and Senator George Borrello.

Nursing faculty member Rebecca Herlan gave a close-up view of a mannequin, encouraging King and Borrello, who noted that the patient was even blinking, to touch the skin and feel the pulse from hands to toes.

“One of the things that we love about nursing simulation is mannequins is we can use them throughout the program. So one of the nicer things for these particular mannequins is you can see the chest, right? So some of our older model mannequins, you can't necessarily see that, and that is actually how we teach students to check, like a respiratory rate. So this is a more realistic mannequin for the students to work on,” Herlan said. “Other things you'll notice, if you actually touch the mannequin, it's more realistic skin. You can actually feel the pulses. So our old mannequins did not have great pulses. You have radial pulses, also pedal pulses, which our old mannequins definitely did not have.”

Herlan said that “we have IV access for this patient,” pointing out an adjacent IV monitor atop a pole.

“Actually, just now, Rochester hospitals are thinking of expanding what they allow students to do in terms of IV medication. So having this in the lab lets them practice sufficiently so that when they're in the clinical space, they can sort of confidently do this, but obviously, you want to have that instructor with them at all times,” she said. “But we really utilize our mannequins throughout the program, and these mannequins, as opposed to our previous mannequins, sort of have better functionality and more true to what students are actually going to see.”

The models in that room ranged from $5,000 for lower fidelity to $60,000 for a full functionality mannequin, she said. Another much more compact cut useful piece of equipment, she said, is an arm sleeve used to practice inserting an IV — “you can kind of see some of the veins” — that gets hooked up to fluid that flows through the needle to simulate when drawing blood.

King thanked Borrello for his help in getting a bill passed that increased the amount of time training nurses could spend in these simulation type exercises.

“I want to appreciate you because two years ago, we had the bill to allow the simulation to count for a third of the clinical hours. So if not for the support of the legislature, we wouldn't be able to leverage the simulation experience as effectively,” King said. “And then last year, with the $8 million in operating aid, we were able to dedicate $5 million across the system, at community colleges to healthcare workforce, and that made these purchases.”

The tour continued into the next room, which included a CPR simulation by students. The monitor has a feedback feature that shows if the compression is deep enough, are the hands in the right position, and gives “feedback in real-time,” Harlan said. Instruction also includes logistics, such as whether a student is tall enough to perform the maneuver or if a stool is needed, or if there’s no stool, “we’re climbing on the bed,” she said. 

“This particular mannequin can give us that feedback on whether we're doing it appropriately. There's a lot of moving parts. So it's not a great idea to do CPR on any mannequin, but this one is specially designed, and it's really great,” she said. Like I said, we are showing the students some of the heart rhythm, help them kind of see what we were talking about in class.”

Some stats about the nursing program: there are 214 students and about 100% of them will walk away and right into a job. An amount of $310,000 was earmarked for GCC’s new Health Care Programs recruitment specialist, four new adjunct professors for the Physical Therapist Assistant and Respiratory Care programs, and to purchase equipment for respiratory care simulation education. Part of the program upgrade also includes enhanced student mentorship.

King asked what the limiting factor was for there not to be 300 students. Faculty and space, Herlan said. 

Most of the students are adult learners, some come from the military, and another limitation for students living in New York City is transportation, she said. They often don’t have their own vehicle, and there’s no regular public transportation to and from GCC. After some quick head math calculating how many miles would be traveled in the program with clinicals, King nodded.

“This seems solvable,” he said, adding later that it’s a topic he will carry back with him for further discussion. 

From nursing to puppies
King and his entourage, which also included GCC President Craig Lamb, stopped by the Child Care Center across the road at the main campus. Kids were excitedly chatting and playing, hitting upon a favorite subject of puppies. Lamb pulled out his phone and showed a photo of the one he has at home while King talked to a youngster at the child’s play station. 

Center Director Kayleen McEwan talked about the services, facility and the fifth classroom that opened in August 2024 with funding the college received last year. No sooner had the additional room opened, and it was full, she said. When asked by King what she could she do with more resources — a question he asked of every department — McEwan didn’t take long with her answer.

“We could open eight rooms,” she said, with the caveat that staffing is a challenge. 

King is aware and said so is Gov. Kathy Hochul, that childcare needs are great in New York, and SUNY’s growing population of adult learners is ripe for that service. 

Keeping cool under pressure
Heating and cooling was also part of the tour, and instructor Bill Hayes exuded the enthusiasm that perhaps only a veteran HVAC business owner could display. He shared the importance of imparting his 30-year experience to students, especially when it comes to proper maintenance of appliances.

“I have a lot of people that really talk about this class. It's really a groundbreaking opportunity here for people that just walk out of here, be able to look at a furnace, look at an air conditioner, put the gauges on there, change the maintenance, oh my gosh. Maintenance is probably 50% of the problem with any type of service call; stuff's not being maintained,” Hayes said. “The college is invested here, has invested into their staff, their maintenance staff, to take this course so they can do a lot more of the HVAC work here and not have to bring in outside contractors. 

"That's a huge investment for people, not only here, but also when that word gets out, there's going to be other facilities out there," he said. "They're going to want to send their people here so they can save some money. That's the game plan.”

Closing in at nearly two hours, the group ended with a talk about mental health issues and counseling challenges that most believed have been exacerbated since COVID. 

Worrying about mental health
Certainly, the use of social media can be a cause of stress, and counselors also see “suicidal ideation, anxiety and panic disorders, personality disorders, autism and ADHD and major depressive disorders,” said Macy Reyngoudt, assistant director for counseling services.

“There’s lots more, but those are the biggest patterns that we see almost daily,” she said. 

Remedies have included quiet meditation spaces, counseling, lots of talk and communication to let students and faculty know the counseling center is available, yoga, Mindful Mondays, and focused health talks, Assistant Dean for Student Services Monica Romeo said.

One population that hasn’t needed as much assistance is the older adult learner, Reyngoudt said, because “they’re ready” when they come to college and don’t seem to have the same problems or distractions as younger students do. That’s good news, given that Hochul’s proposed 2025 budget includes $28 million for free tuition, books, supplies and fees for adult learners to obtain an associate’s degree or certificate at community colleges in the state.

“We're very excited about the governor's proposal for free community college for folks 25 to 55 in high-demand career areas like nursing, like advanced manufacturing, like cyber security, renewable energy and green jobs. And so we're pleased that she's put real resources behind that," King said. "I think that will make a big difference as we think about what our community colleges need as we grow those high-demand workforce programs. We also need to continue to invest in equipment. We need to continue to invest in faculty, one of the big challenges for nursing. We’re looking at ways we can partner with healthcare providers to have job shares so that we have the faculty that we need. 

"We need more child care in New York. You know, they have a long wait list, particularly as we try to attract more adult students to community college campuses, child care is going to be a significant factor. So that's something I'll be thinking about," he said. "It's great that they were able to use the additional resources from the governor and legislature last year to support more counseling, more services around meeting mental health needs, but more is needed, and you heard that so clearly that there is a lot of pain that folks are carrying and experiencing, some of it carrying over from COVID, and we've got to make sure that we help our campuses support student mental health needs."

Press Release:

Organizers with GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare unveiled plans for the third annual career exploration event for students interested in career pathways and opportunities in the healthcare sector. Approximately 600 students from grades 8-12 from 28 schools will gather at Genesee Community College on March 17, 2025, to connect with various healthcare businesses and organizations to learn about careers in the healthcare sector across the GLOW region.

“GLOW With Your Hands and the GLOW region workforce development ecosystem are providing opportunities for students to learn about career opportunities right in their own backyard,” said GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare Co-Chair, Karyn Winters. “Whether it is manufacturing or healthcare our goal is to educate our local students about the many alternative pathways available for them after high school.”

Representatives from hospitals and health systems and professionals in nursing, mental health, social services, and emergency responders will be on hand to interact with students to discuss their careers and pathways into their respective fields. While some careers might begin immediately after high school, attendees will also be able to explore educational pathways in the healthcare sector through BOCES and degrees available at local colleges and universities.

“Our facility has been serving the community for 100 years and we are proud to participate in this event because we want to ensure we have the best possible talent from the next generation of our workforce to provide a high level of care,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO, Medina Memorial Health. “The healthcare sector is in dire need of workers, especially in rural communities, and we want to convey to the students that they can have a successful and rewarding career in healthcare without having to leave the area because they think these opportunities don’t exist here.”

“The support and participation of so many healthcare organizations in this annual event have generated significant interest among hundreds of students about careers in healthcare of which they simply are not aware,” said Kelly Kiebala, Director, Orleans County Job Development Agency. “The interaction between students and healthcare professionals allows for meaningful conversations where students learn what skills, credentials and training are required for a career in the healthcare sector.”

Among the businesses and organizations supporting the 3rd annual event are the M&T Charitable Foundation, Western New York Rural Area Health Education Center, Goodwill Vision Enterprises, and the New York State Department of Labor.

“Like our partners in the manufacturing sector, the healthcare entities associated with this flourishing event are excited to have this opportunity to meet so many students and perhaps get them started on a pathway in the healthcare field,” said Angela Grouse, Co-Chair of GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare. “The support of these businesses and organizations as well as the hundreds of volunteers make this such a worthwhile event for students across the region and in turn is building the foundation for the next generation of the healthcare workforce.” 

There are still sponsorship opportunities for the March 17 event at the Platinum ($5,000), Gold ($2,500), Silver ($1,000) and Bronze ($500) levels. 

For more information about GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare visit www.GLOWWithYourHands.com/healthcare or contact Chris Suozzi at csuozzi@gcedc.com.

Press Release:

The Genesee Community College(GCC) History Club will once again be hosting the Historical Horizons Lecture Series with a full line up for Spring 2025. For those who may be unfamiliar with the lecture series, these are talks on a variety of topics of historical interest, open to both the campus community and the public every first Wednesday during the semester. Lectures will be held at 7 p.m. in T102 on GCC's Batavia Campus and will also be available to join via Zoom. All talks will be followed by a Q&A session with the speakers.

Spring 2025 Historical Horizons line up:

February 5: Historic Chronicles of Genesee County

By Michael Eula, Genesee County Historian

Genesee County has seen trials, tribulations and triumphs throughout its storied history as national events have been brought to its doorstep. Join author Michael Eula as he reveals the historic chronicles of Genesee County.

SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL EVENT

March 5: A Single Blow: The Battles of Lexington & Concord

By Phil Greenwalt

The history of the Battles of Lexington and Concord were the culmination of years of unrest between those loyal to the British monarchy and those advocating for more autonomy and dreaming of independence from Great Britain in the future. Join historian Phil Greenwalt as he unfolds the facts of April 19, 1775, uncovering the amazing history that this pivotal spring day ushered in for the fate of Massachusetts and thirteen of Great Britain's North American colonies with a Single Blow.

April 2: General Grant and the Verdict of History: Memoir, Memory, 

and the Civil War

By Dr. Frank Varney

General Ulysses S. Grant is best remembered today as a war-winning general, and he certainly deserves credit for his efforts on behalf of the Union. But has he received too much credit at the expense of other men? Have others who fought the war with him suffered unfairly at his hands? Come hear Dr. Varney talk about his newest book General Grant and the Verdict of History: Memoir, Memory, and the Civil War.

May 7: Julia Ward Howe

By Joyce Thompson-Hovey

American poet and author Julia Ward Howe, most famous for writing the lyrics to "Battle Hymn of the Republic", was a remarkable woman who was a tireless social activist. Come hear her fascinating story.

Genesee Community College invites the public to join them for these enlightening lectures, providing a unique opportunity to engage with historical topics and esteemed scholars. Mark your calendars for an enriching experience at the Historical Horizons Lecture Series this Spring.

For more information, please contact the Office of Student Engagement and Inclusion at sei@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

Genesee Community College is pleased to announce the establishment of the Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship. The endowed scholarship is made possible through a generous $100,000 endowment created by Edward and Otis Leach to benefit students graduating from Pavilion High School and attending Genesee Community College.

The Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship is named in recognition of the donors' deceased parents. Despite not being able to attend school beyond the elementary level, Lucy and Otis Leach were true believers in all levels of education. Edward and Otis Leach, in establishing this endowment, expressed their hope that it will serve as a source of genuine support and inspiration for generations of Pavilion High School students attending Genesee Community College.

The scholarship funds may be used for various educational expenses, including tuition, course materials, fees, residence life, and other costs associated with student success. This comprehensive support aims to alleviate financial barriers and allow students to focus on their studies and personal growth. Preference will be given to students demonstrating financial need.

"We are immensely grateful for the generosity of Edward and Otis Leach," said Dr. Craig Lamb, President of Genesee Community College. "This endowment will make a significant impact on the lives of students from Pavilion High School, enabling them to pursue their educational dreams at Genesee Community College."

The first scholarships from this endowment are expected to be awarded for the 2025-26 academic year. Eligible students will be able to apply through the college's standard scholarship application process. For more information about the Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship or other scholarship opportunities at Genesee Community College, please visit https://www.genesee.edu/pay-for-college/financial-aid/scholarships/.

For more information, contact Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email at jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation will welcome all guests to an evening of fine dining and holiday music at its annual Encore holiday gala on Saturday, December 14 at 5 p.m. This year's event theme, "Twelve Days of Christmas," celebrates the traditions of the holiday season and features a special holiday concert program choreographed by the Genesee Symphony Orchestra.

For over 30 years, Encore has provided crucial funding for student scholarships at Genesee Community College. The Foundation is pleased to announce the continued support of our Presenting Sponsor, Tompkins Financial Corporation, for Encore 2024. 

"Tompkins banking, insurance and wealth teams are proud to continue our partnership with GCC, in support of our friends, neighbors and all those we serve here in western New York," said David Boyce, President & CEO, Tompkins Insurance Agencies.

There are several opportunities remaining to sponsor the Encore event. These sponsorships are critically important to the scholarships GCC provides its students and are available at several levels this year:

• Conductor's Circle: $1,000
• Golden Baton Society: $600
• Inner Circle: $300
• Individual Platinum Patron Ticket: $100

Help make a difference and make your reservations today at www.gccfoundationinc.org/encore or contact the Foundation Office at 585-345-6809. Tickets are limited so reserve yours today!

For more information contact Justin Johnston, Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs at 585-345-6809, or via email: foundation@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation will welcome all guests to an evening of fine dining and holiday music at its annual Encore holiday gala on Saturday, December 14 at 5 p.m. This year's event theme, "Twelve Days of Christmas," celebrates the traditions of the holiday season and features a special holiday concert program choreographed by the Genesee Symphony Orchestra.

For over 30 years, Encore has provided crucial funding for student scholarships at Genesee Community College. The Foundation is pleased to announce the continued support of our Presenting Sponsor, Tompkins Financial Corporation, for Encore 2024. "Tompkins banking, insurance and wealth teams are proud to continue our partnership with GCC, in support of our friends, neighbors and all those we serve here in western New York," said David Boyce, President & CEO, Tompkins Insurance Agencies.

There are several opportunities remaining to sponsor the Encore event. These sponsorships are critically important to the scholarships GCC provides its students and are available at several levels this year:

• Conductor's Circle: $1,000
• Golden Baton Society: $600
• Inner Circle: $300
• Individual Platinum Patron Ticket: $100

Help make a difference and make your reservations today at www.gccfoundationinc.org/encore or contact the Foundation Office at 585-345-6809. Tickets are limited so reserve yours today!

For more information contact Justin Johnston, Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs at 585-345-6809, or via email: foundation@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

The New York State Sheriffs’ Institute provides a $500 scholarship to one student majoring in Criminal Justice, Police Science, or a similar program from each community college in New York State, and SUNY Canton, each year.

This year, Colton Tarbell, who is currently enrolled in Criminal Justice at Genesee Community College was nominated by the college’s Criminal Justice faculty. 

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr., Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur, and Chief Deputy Joseph M. Graff presented Colton with a $500.00 check to be used to further his Criminal Justice education, along with a scholarship certificate from the New York State Sheriffs’ Institute.

Press Release:

Genesee Community College's (GCC) Stuart Steiner Theatre will stage the chilling thriller Misery, adapted by William Goldman from the iconic Stephen King novel, this November. Performances will take place on November 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee on November 10 at 2 p.m.

Goldman's gripping adaptation, which first premiered on Broadway in 2015, brings King's horror masterpiece to the stage, telling the story of novelist Paul Sheldon and his unsettling encounter with fan-turned-captor, Annie Wilkes.

As Paul recovers from a car accident at Annie's isolated home, he soon realizes that her obsession with his work goes far beyond admiration. Held captive and forced to write under terrifying conditions, Paul's survival hinges on his ability to appease his captor-creating a tense and suspenseful psychological battle.

Misery has been described as a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller. "There are no lulls in famed screenwriter William Goldman's 90-minute stage adaptation of the Stephen King story, which Goldman himself translated into the 1990 film," said WNBC NY.

Directed by Maryanne Arena, the production will feature Paul Sheldon played by Tony Haitz, and Maryanne Arena taking on the role of Annie Wilkes. Joshua Lang, a fellow graduate of the GCC Theatre Arts program, will portray Buster. Scenic, lighting and sound design will be overseen by Sandor Nagar.

Content Warning: This production contains graphic violence, explicit language, gunshots, frightening moments, adult themes, strobe lights and the use of fake blood. Viewer discretion is advised.

Ticket Information:

• General Admission: $10
• Non-GCC Students, Seniors (55+), and Children (under 16): $5
• GCC Students, Faculty and Staff (with valid ID): Free admission (available only at the box office)

Tickets are available for purchase online at www.genesee.edu/campus-life/center-for-the-arts, at the campus art gallery during operating hours, or at the box office, which opens one hour before each performance.

For more information or to reserve tickets, contact Maryanne Arena at mcarena@genesee.edu or the box office at boxoffice@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

Rochester City Ballet (RCB), along with students from Genesee Community College (GCC), are proud to present "So On, and So Forth” and ‘Anthology of Fantastic Zoology: A New Work of Dance & Puppet Theater” at GCC on Saturday, October 12.

Choreographed by co-artistic director of RCB, Megan Kamler, “So On, and So Forth," embarks on a compelling exploration of universal themes including connection, isolation, unison, and support. 

Drawing from personal experiences and observations, Kamler weaves a poignant narrative that delves into the unique challenges encountered by women in the arts, while celebrating the inherent strength and resilience of all women.

Said Kamler, “When audience members experience this piece, I want them to feel that it’s okay to follow the footsteps paved by the strong women who laid them, but also not be afraid to create your own path and celebrate the things that make you unique.”

Professional choreographer and GCC alumni Joshua Lang is pleased to bring his newest performance to the stage: ‘Anthology of Fantastic Zoology: A New Work of Dance & Puppet Theater. 

Lang is currently working with GCC theatre students on a unique blend of ballet and puppetry. "Anthology of Fantastic Zoology” will explore the medium of storytelling through physical movement and creative puppetry.

After providing master classes at GCC, RCB was pleased to invite the students to participate in these performances, which are poised to captivate audiences of all ages.

The performances will take place on October 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Stuart Steiner Theatre at Genesee Community College, One College Road, Batavia. Admission is free with first-come, first-served seating.

Press Release:

The Genesee Society of Model Engineers will host the 105th “Great Batavia Train Sale” on Sunday, October 13, 9:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m., at the Richard C. Call Arena, Genesee Community College, 1 College Road, Batavia. Admission is $6 for Adults, $3 for under 18 years, and Free for under 13 years.

The popular train show typically attracts 1,200 to 1,500 model railroad enthusiasts and railfans from across Western and Central NY, Northwestern Pennsylvania, and Southern Ontario. There are over 100 vendors occupying 250 tables offering merchandise ranging from antique railroad artifacts to the most modern digitally controlled model trains. This bi-annual show has steadily grown to become one of the premiere events of its kind in Western New York.

The train club hosts two shows each year, a Spring show, and a Fall show. A free Open House is held, typically, on the first Saturday of December at the Club’s facilities in Oakfield where club members maintain operating layouts in O Gauge (Lionel), HO & N scale.

The Genesee Society of Model Engineers is located at 50 Main Street (Rte. 63), Oakfield (above the M&T Bank), and is open Tuesdays from 7 - 9 p.m. Business meetings are held the last Tuesday of each month. Visit www.gsme.org. Like us on Facebook. Visitors welcomed. (Stair access only.)

Press Release:

Genesee Community College (GCC) is proud to welcome eight new full-time faculty members for the 2024-2025 academic year. These distinguished educators bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to our campus, enhancing our commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Ariane Bianchi, Instructor of Nursing

Ariane comes from Golisano Children's Hospital Pediatric Cardiac Care Center and has been a pediatric clinical instructor for GCC. Ariane earned her associate degree in Nursing from GCC and her bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Rochester. She intends to pursue her master's in nursing education in the coming year.

Jillian Eberlin, Instructor of Mathematics

Jillian was a Mathematics teacher at OneSchool Global North America, Rochester Campus, and has taught several semesters as a math adjunct instructor at Bryant & Stratton College. Jillian earned her bachelor's degree in Mathematics and master's degree in Mathematics from SUNY Brockport.

Kathryn Edwards, Nursing Clinical Coordinator

Kathryn was a pediatric nurse practitioner at Stony Brook Pediatrics and prior to that worked at Golisano Children's Hospital. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Buffalo and her master's degree from the University of Rochester. Kathryn most recently completed her post-master's dual certification in the Family Nurse Practitioner Program at St. John Fisher University.

Metin Eroglu, Instructor of Mathematics

Metin has been in higher education since 2008 as a student, full-time instructor, and tutor most recently working for SUNY Buffalo and Wyzant. Metin earned his bachelor's degree in Mathematics from The University of Texas and his master's degree in Statistics from Michigan State University.

Katie Jennings, Instructor of Nursing

Katie was a Clinical Resource Nurse at Rochester Regional Health in Batavia and has been a Clinical Nursing Instructor for GCC. Katie earned her associate degree in Nursing from GCC, her bachelor's degree in Nursing from SUNY Brockport and is pursuing her master's degree in Nursing at Western Governor's University.

Krysia Mager, Instructor of Business

Krysia worked as an adjunct at GCC and is coming from Tompkins Community Bank in Batavia where she was the Assistant Vice President of Creative Content. Krysia earned her associate degree in Communication from GCC, her bachelor's degree in Journalism Communication from SUNY Brockport and her master's degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Marist College.

Dr. Timothy McCorry, Assistant Professor of Social Sciences/Coordinator of Special Programs

Timothy has 25 years of experience teaching various courses in sociology, psychology, and criminal justice at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo State University, and Medaille University. This past spring, he began to adjunct at GCC. He earned his associate degree from Nassau Community College, his bachelor's and master's degrees from St. John's University and his Ph.D. from the University at Buffalo.

Dr. Scott Wilson, Assistant Professor of Veterinary Technology

Scott was an Associate Emergency Veterinarian/Urgent Care Veterinarian at the Greater Buffalo Veterinary Emergency Clinic. He received both his associate and bachelor's degrees in Veterinary Technology from Medaille College and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University School of Medicine.

"As we welcome these talented educators to Genesee Community College, we look forward to the fresh perspectives and innovative teaching methods they will bring to our classrooms. Their arrival marks an exciting chapter in our ongoing mission to deliver high-quality education and support the success of our students," said Genesee Community College President, Dr. Craig Lamb.

For more information contact Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

IGNITE took off at the Genesee Community College (GCC) campus in Batavia! 

Mirroring the LIVES college experience program at SUNY Geneseo, IGNITE is Arc GLOW’s newest Community Prevocational program in the northern region of Arc GLOW. It’s also a great acronym, suggested to Arc GLOW by GCC, “Inspiring Growth and Nurturing Independence Through Education.” 

“It has certainly inspired me and the rest of our new IGNITE team, including IGNITE Day Habilitation Manager Emily Mault, and our two direct support staff, Dan Crofts and Kevin Fisher,” said Kelly Anstey, senior director of day and employment services. “In the last few weeks we have been researching, discussing our developing curriculum, planning activities and classes, looking for integration opportunities and finally arranging our home base on campus which is simply and affectionately dubbed ‘D360.’”

IGNITE is a two-year inclusive higher education opportunity, a true college-like experience, in exploring all of the class’ employment and other life dreams while supporting them in gaining skills in the areas of: relationship building, money management and budgeting, exploring careers, focusing on good health and wellness, and gaining an expansive community awareness. 

On opening day, August 28, the group of four students purchased various GCC items in the campus bookstore, checked out the lounge and student union areas, and trekked around the outside space on campus. Upon returning to D360, the four began to make plans for “Friday free swims” in the pool and shared their job aspirations, including: zookeeper, film maker, police officer, rock star, animatronic designer, music producer, and “work with people and be happy!”

“GCC is proud to partner with Arc GLOW on this important initiative. IGNITE students enrich our campus community, and their enthusiasm and passion are inspiring,” said GCC President, Dr. Craig Lamb. “We look forward to continued collaboration in support of students enhancing their educational and life skills here at GCC.” 

Anstey said the GCC faculty and staff have been so welcoming. “We truly feel like part of the college as we intermingle with everyone on campus,” she said. “We have frequent ‘guests’ as GCC faculty and staff pop into our room, or engage us in other arenas on campus to discuss collaborative ideas for our students. On opening day, while watching the last few weeks of focused work become a program reality, I feel like I am living my dream job.”

However, as Arc GLOW moves forward with this new initiative, it is done without Dawn Scott, the LIVES and newly assigned IGNITE coordinator who passed away this past July. 

“She was a true inspiration, and the vision she shared in the past year was beyond instrumental in shaping IGNITE,” Anstey said. “We dedicate this semester to Dawn.”

More information and a sample curriculum can be found online at ArcGLOW.org under programs and services and college experiences.

Press Release:

The Genesee Community College History Club will once again be hosting the Historical Horizons Lecture Series with a full line up for Fall 2024. For those who may be unfamiliar with the lecture series, these are talks on a variety of topics of historical interest, open to both the campus community and the public every first Wednesday during the semester. 

Lectures will be held at 7 p.m. in T102 on GCC's Batavia Campus and will also be available to join via Zoom. All talks will be followed by a Q&A session with the speakers.

Here is the Fall 2024 Historical Horizons line up:

September 4 - "Hush the Cannon's Roar: The Life and Times of Bennet Riley: Defender of Buffalo"
A Book Talk by local author Tom Schobert.

General Bennet Riley was a Mexican War hero who made his home in Buffalo, NY and is buried there in Forest Lawn Cemetery. Crafting a narrative based heavily on archival research, Schobert's novel traces Bennet Riley's legacy through his forty-year military career, his relationships with his wife and family, and his impact on Buffalo history. 

For Schobert, himself a long-time historical impressionist in the Buffalo area who has portrayed numerous presidents, Mexican and Civil War generals, and other significant figures, the process of putting together this novel is as fascinating a story as the novel itself!

October 2 - "The Promise of Democracy: The Struggle for Voting Rights in America" by GCC Political Science Professor Charles Scruggs.

This talk will provide an overview of the "battle for the ballot" --a profoundly animating force in the course of American history. Particular attention will be paid to the Civil Rights Act of 1965 and the voter suppression strategies which followed suit. Students are highly encouraged to attend! 

November 6 - "Historic Chronicles of Genesee County" A Book Talk by Genesee County Historian Michael Eula.

Genesee County has seen trials, tribulations and triumphs throughout its storied history as national events have been brought to its doorstep. Cold War anxiety was on full display in the preparedness drills of the 1950s and the effect those had on Batavia's students. 

Too often overlooked, the scourge of racism has reared its ugly head in the region, as the Ku Klux Klan once had a presence in the county. Locals were rocked by the assassinations of MLK and John F. Kennedy in the 1960s. Genesee County women, from activists to farmers, have left an indelible mark on the county's past. Join author and historian Michael Eula as he reveals the historic chronicles of Genesee County.

December 4 - "Historical Portrayals as Community Engagement" A Panel Discussion with historical impressionists Tom Schobert, Melinda Grube and GCC Instructor Dan Snyder, as well as representatives from our local chapter of the LARP group Combat Historia.

History is rich with the stories of those who inspire us in the present. From conjuring the impression of a particular historical figure to using historical research to inform a character, many communities use history to engage the community and bring attention to how the public can get involved in learning about, preserving, and enjoying history at the local level. Moderated by historians Derek and Jess Maxfield, this panel discussion will explore how those who engage the community using history as inspiration develop their characters and use historical research as inspiration for their portrayals.

Genesee Community College invites the public to join them for these enlightening lectures, providing a unique opportunity to engage with historical topics and esteemed scholars. Mark your calendars for an enriching experience at the Historical Horizons Lecture Series this Fall.

For more information, please contact the Office of Student Engagement and Inclusion at sei@genesee.edu.

Submitted photos courtesy of Genesee Community College.

Press Release:

The Genesee Society of Model Engineers announces that their Fall 2024 edition of the GREAT BATAVIA TRAIN SHOW will be held at the Richard C. Call Arena in Batavia. The large venue on the campus of Genesee Community College offers unmatched convenience for attendees and vendors. The show is scheduled for Sunday, October 13.

Admission is $6 for adults, $3 for under 18, and free for children under 13. The show will run from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

The Great Batavia Train Show will feature model train vendors, free parking, and a snack bar.

Additional Train Show Information

For over 50 years the Great Batavia Train Show has been one of the premier hobby events in Western New York. The Richard C. Call arena at Genesee Community College is a perfect train show venue providing excellent lighting in a comfortable, state-of-the-art facility. All forms of model railroad and train-related merchandise will be available. Over 100 vendors will be offering all scales of model trains and historic railroad items.

Modeling demonstrations, and a limited number of portable layouts, will be part of the fun. Free parking, on-site concession stand, and plenty of seating add to the experience.

For more information contact the train show chairman Mike Pyszczek at 585-768-4579 (residence), email bataviatrainshow@gmail.com, visit the website www.gsme.org, or by mail at GSME, P.O. Box 75, Oakfield.

Press Release:

Renewable energy in the form of solar electric (photovoltaic) grid systems are expanding rapidly throughout New York State both residentially and commercially. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for photovoltaic energy workers is projected to increase 50% or requiring 6000 new workers over the next ten years. 

Genesee Community College's Solar Electric Technician Certificate Program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly growing solar industry. Led by Chris Kemp, director of mathematics and engineering science, this program comprises four comprehensive courses, offering a flexible and practical pathway to a rewarding career.

Why Choose the Solar Electric Technician Program? 

The solar industry is booming, with one in 20 jobs in the US related to solar energy. Solar installers are among the top five most needed workers, with entry-level jobs offering salaries of $40,000+ per year. Local businesses are actively seeking trained professionals, making this an opportune time to join the solar workforce.

Program Highlights:

Diverse Workforce: The solar industry is known for its diverse work environment, welcoming individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.

Career Versatility: The skills acquired in this program open doors to various career paths, including management, sales, design (including CAD), and science/tech manufacturing.

No Experience Required: Whether you're a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, this program is designed to provide an easy start with no prior experience necessary.

Flexible Schedule: The courses are held over seven weeks each, with classes meeting one or two nights per week, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

Course Overview:

PVO101 - Intro to Solar Electric:

• Explore solar irradiance measurement tools.
• Understand the functionality of solar panels.
• Learn why solar energy is viable even in cold climates.
• Gain insights into other renewable energy systems.

PVO102 - Solar Design and Installation:

• Hands-on experience with installing solar panels on various structures. 
• Training in basic tools, metal bending, and building roof/ground-mounted arrays.
• Red Cross CPR and First Aid certification.

PVO103 - Solar Codes and Standards:

• Detailed understanding of the Electrical Code.
• OSHA construction safety and NFPA electrical safety training.
• Safety harness training and rooftop access.
• National certification in solar installation.

PVO104 - Solar Business and Finance:

• Develop skills in creating business proposals and interacting with building/code enforcers.
• Drone pilot training for solar applications.

Over the past two years, every student seeking immediate employment in the solar industry after completing this program has been hired. Others have pursued further education in business, science, engineering, or renewable energy at partner four-year institutions.

Enrollment is now open for the 2024/25 cohort, with only 16 spots available. For more information, visit https://www.genesee.edu/academics/programs/solar-electric-technician/ or contact Chris Kemp, director of mathematics and engineering science at (585) 343-0055 x6392 or clkemp@genesee.edu.