SUNY Delhi Faculty and Staff Receive Chancellor's Awards for Excellence

Six SUNY Delhi faculty and staff members were awarded the 2023-2024 SUNY Chancellor's Awards for Excellence for superior professional achievement and outstanding contributions to education. The prestigious awards are presented by the SUNY Chancellor each year to acknowledge and encourage the ongoing pursuit of excellence among instructional faculty, librarians, and professional staff across State University of New York campuses.

"Each of our Chancellor's Award winners exemplifies SUNY Delhi's commitment to transforming students' lives," said Acting President Mary Bonderoff. "They consistently go the extra mile in their respective areas to help create a learning environment in which our students can thrive. I'm proud that their remarkable efforts have been recognized by Chancellor John B. King, Jr."

Professor Maxwell Dehne was recognized with the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching for his outstanding efforts to enhance the architecture program at SUNY Delhi. Dehne played a pivotal role in designing the curriculum for SUNY Delhi's newly established Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) degree. As an instructor, Dehne fosters a love for learning in his students through his inclusivity, mentorship, and innovative pedagogy. Dehne's influence extends beyond the classroom through community outreach and engagement.

Steve Dixon received the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Librarianship. Throughout his 23-year career at SUNY Delhi, Nixon has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to serving the evolving needs of the library and the college. Making sure students get the best instruction and service available from the library, he stays current with the latest pedagogy and technology and works closely with students to offer guidance and research help. Nixon has served on numerous committees to better the campus community, always lending a hand whenever needed.

Laura Pehrsson is the recipient of the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Professional Service. Going far above and beyond her role as an academic advisor to over 120 students in the criminal justice program at SUNY Delhi, Pehrsson actively collaborated with faculty to help develop SUNY Delhi's on-campus bachelor's program in criminal justice as well as the online master's program. A team player, she makes a positive impact on campus through her involvement in various committees and volunteering at campus events.

Associate Professor Brianne Smith was honored with the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Faculty Service. Chef Smith has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to her department and the campus through numerous volunteering and collaborative projects. Notably, she partnered with local organizations to process 10,000 pounds of tomatoes to produce original tomato sauce served in local school cafeterias, guiding and empowering her students in this real-world learning experience every step of the way. As a program director, she works tirelessly to support and advocate for hospitality students and staff.

Traci Raymond was recognized with the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Classified Service. As an administrative assistant for the Student Financial Services office, Raymond is an integral member of the team with extensive knowledge of financial aid and student accounts. She provides exceptional and compassionate customer care to students and families and serves as an invaluable resource to her department.

Elizabeth VanBuren received the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching. As a hospitality and biology instructor, VanBuren uses a hands-on approach combined with reflection and collaboration to keep students engaged in the classroom. She is known for her innovative and memorable lessons, vast knowledge of science, and approachable demeanor that always puts students first. Her expertise and dedication have tremendously benefited the hospitality department over the years.

Founded in 1913, SUNY Delhi has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade, reaching a record enrollment of over 3,100 students. Delhi is carving a unique niche in higher education by offering hands-on, technology-based education that includes over 60 programs from certificates to master's degrees. Several academic programs have earned state and national reputations for excellence.