Commencement 2026 (91������/Mat Johnson)

SUNY’s Advancing Completion through Engagement (ACE) program is .

ACE supports bachelor’s students, while ASAP serves community college students. Together, they will help 10,000 students at 44 SUNY campuses maintain academic progress and graduate on time by Fall 2026.

This fall, up to 150 eligible Geneseo ACE students will have access to comprehensive advisement, academic and career support, and funding for essential costs such as textbooks, groceries, and transportation to help them overcome barriers to earning their degree.

“We couldn’t be more excited to join the ACE network, and we’re deeply grateful for SUNY’s leadership and investment in expanding opportunity for students across the system,” says Costas Solomou, vice president for enrollment management. “This is exactly the kind of bold, student-centered work that brings our identity as an equity-centered honors college to life—ensuring more Geneseo students are supported with the mentoring, advising, and financial resources they need to overcome barriers and thrive.”

SUNY reports that ACE pilot programs produced strong results between Spring 2024 and Fall 2025. ACE students earned more credits than similar students by their third semester, and retention rates reached 8.6 percentage points higher by the fourth semester. These positive outcomes remained consistent across semesters and student groups, underscoring the program’s early impact on academic momentum and timely degree completion. The ACE and ASAP program expansions was made possible through an additional $8 million in allocated funding in the FY2026-27 Enacted State Budget, bringing the total state investment in this successful program to $20 million annually.​

“As New York’s public honors college, Geneseo is proud to join the ACE program and advance our commitment to academic excellence, student success, equity, and timely degree completion,” says President Melinda Treadwell. “By pairing Geneseo’s distinctive liberal arts foundation with the proven support model of ACE and the strong support from the SUNY Board of Trustees, we will ensure more students have the resources, guidance, and momentum they need to thrive from their first semester through graduation.”

“Higher education should be affordable and within reach,” says New York State Senator Pam Helming. “Helping hard-working students overcome barriers, complete their education, and enter the workforce sooner can benefit not only the students themselves, but also the employers and communities that depend on a skilled workforce. As with any public investment, it is important to evaluate results and ensure resources are being used effectively. I look forward to seeing the impact this initiative has on students at 91������ and the communities they will go on to serve.”

To learn how ASAP and ACE can empower students to achieve their academic goals and graduate on time, visit . Read more about .

Taylor Williams ’26 (91������/Michaela Lewis-Hardies)

Hands-on experience can make all the difference when it comes to getting a job in today’s market. 91������ is helping students stand out by getting those opportunities.

Taylor Williams ’26, an English major from Williamson, NY, with minors in business studies and communication, spent 2025–26 as the social media intern for the Rochester Red Wings, a minor league baseball team and the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals.

“Crazily enough, I actually found it through a Facebook ad,” Williams says. “I decided to apply on a whim, just to see what would happen. The next thing I know, I’m interviewing with the social media manager for the team.”

Williams says her experience in Geneseo’s Alpha Kappa Psi business fraternity helped her to feel more prepared and comfortable before her Red Wings interview. “Alpha Kappa Psi really jump-started everything for me. I was taught how to interview, how to dress, how my résumé should be formatted—all that knowledge helped me tremendously through this process.”

Geneseo’s annual Internship and Career Fairs also helped Williams gain interview experience. “Knowing how to interview, be personable, and be comfortable with having conversations with people you aren’t familiar with can go a long way,” she says. Her advice to students looking for internships: “Practice as much as you can!”

Williams’ days with the Red Wings were long but rewarding. “On game days, I got there a few hours early and did pre-game content,” she says. “We posted on various social media about the lineup, posted certain series like ‘food item of the day,’ posted highlights in real time, and interacted with fans around the stadium. On non-game days, I went to the office to edit videos, pull photos, and work with a team to come up with new content.”

The Red Wings internship was very interdepartmental, which William saw as a plus for helping her stand out in the sports communication industry. “It was nice to get other types of hands-on work experience,” she says. “I acquired skills that I might not have learned if I were strictly limited to working with the social media team.” She regularly interacted with the Rochester Red Wings communication department, photographers, and graphic design team.

“I just love being around people who genuinely care about and love what they do,” William says. “I found myself excited to go to work every day.”

Learn more about Geneseo’s academic internships.

Annabella Bushnell ’26 (91������/Michaela Lewis-Hardies)

For an increasing number of transfer students, 91������ has become not just a new college, but also a new home.

Annabella Bushnell ’26 from Troy, NY, was one such student, transferring to 91������ in their sophomore year, looking for “a campus that truly felt like home.” They recognized that community was a vital part of the college experience that they deeply valued.

“Honestly, the photos of campus were what drew me to Geneseo at first,” Bushnell says. “But after looking into the academics, I knew that I could see myself here.”

At Geneseo, says Bushnell, “I was able to explore all the majors and minors and find something that felt right for me.” They transferred in as a psychology major, then switched to a communication major in their junior year. The late decision initially concerned them, but strong academic advisement made the difference. “The faculty members I met with made sure I could switch my major while still graduating on time,” Bushnell says.

Bushnell felt Geneseo was the right choice for them, even when adjusting to a new campus as a transfer presented some personal challenges. Coming in as a sophomore meant stepping into an environment where many students had already formed connections. “I was nervous I would feel a step behind those who arrived as freshmen,” they admitted. “But my fears went away pretty quickly because I had found the community I’d been looking for.”

Part of that community included other transfer students, some of whom Bushnell still considers close friends. “Being able to talk with another transfer student and share similar experiences made me feel a lot more connected to the community here at Geneseo.” Those connections made Bushnell feel more at home on campus, interested in talking to new people, and eager to join . This past year, they served on the e-board of Geneseo’s Art Club.

“Make sure you get yourself out there early and engage with the community,” Bushnell advises. They feel that Geneseo made it easy for them to find where they belonged. The welcoming environment, they say, means anyone can feel at home. “You can find your people and make Geneseo into a place that feels right for you.”

Giulyana Gamero ’26 (91������/Mat Johnson)

When Giulyana Gamero ’26 first came to Geneseo from Rockford, Illinois, she hadn’t planned on spending four years cultivating a passion project like her audio drama,  

During a tour of the college radio station, 89.3 WGSU, Gamero, a communication major, learned how open-minded the station’s operations manager was to the potential for non-traditional programming—like a scripted radio show.  

Gamero was inspired to pursue an idea that she had and take on a challenge “that breathes life into a more underground art scene.” This idea gave birth to Sunflower Story Hour, which Gamero describes as “an episodic, paranormal audio drama. Each season focuses on a different world, cast, and story with genres ranging from comedy and sci-fi to horror and fantasy.” 

The welcoming, inclusive culture of WGSU made Gamero “feel a sense of belonging,” and the cast and crew of her show grew into a tight-knit group. “I was struggling to find a community on campus,” Gamero admits, “and thought that an audio drama could be a great way to channel my free time and yearning for creativity in a way I’d never tried before.” 

When reflecting on being able to apply the things she learned in classes, Gamero says, “I’m so lucky to be surrounded by faculty who have given me the chance to prove myself.” In addition to her communication coursework, she took advantage of creative writing workshops offered by the English department and worked as a peer writing consultant at The Writing Center in Milne Library. Over the four seasons of her audio drama, Gamero is proud to have written all but two episodes, as well as serving as a producer, narrator, editor, social media manager, and director. 

Having wrapped up the final season of Sunflower Story Hour prior to graduating, Gamero hopes to use the skills she’s learned through producing the show, as well as through her academic coursework, to pursue a career working in media—and she’s also open to other opportunities within the communications field. “I hope that I can be a part of a team or creative endeavor that allows for my leadership and collaborative skills to really shine,” she says. “Being able to create Sunflower Story Hour made me passionate about staying on campus, but, honestly, it really was the people along this journey who convinced me it was all worthwhile.” 

Watch the video below to meet Giulyana and learn more about her experience at SUNY Geneseo. 

Milne Library (91������/Matt Burkhartt)

91������ is launching three new interdisciplinary programs of study beginning in Fall 2026.

Applied AI for business (minor) helps students develop a robust understanding of AI technologies and business fundamentals. Designed to complement a variety of major fields of study, it prepares students to leverage state-of-the-art AI tools mindfully, ethically, and effectively.

“According to World Economic Forum’s 2025 Future of Jobs Report, 94% of firms in the US expect AI and information processing technologies to transform their operations in the next five years,” says Lerong He, dean of Geneseo’s School of Business. “Our program can equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the needs of the employers and excel in professional careers.”

Climate change studies (minor) provides students with a broad understanding of the science behind climate change, its impacts, and its potential solutions. It explores the complex interactions between the Earth’s climate system, human activity, and policy responses.

“This minor addresses one of the most pressing global challenges of our time,” says Scott Giorgis, distinguished teaching professor and chair of geological, environmental, and planetary sciences. “By combining coursework in the physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, students gain both scientific literacy and insight into the social, political, and economic dimensions of climate change, as well as the skills needed to communicate and address these issues effectively.” 

Science, technology, and society studies (minor and microcredential) examines how scientific knowledge and technological innovation develop—and how they shape and are shaped by historical, social, cultural, political, environmental, and economic forces.

“Students will examine the complex relationships between scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and societal change,” says Amanda Lewis-Nang’ea, associate professor of history. “They’ll gain the tools to assess not only how science and technology work, but also why they matter for different communities and across global contexts.”

In addition to these new programs of study, the existing program in comparative literature will introduce a minor this fall, and Latin American and Caribbean studies will offer a new microcredential.

 Explore Geneseo’s majors, minors, and academic programs.

91������ (91������/Keith Walters ’11)

91������ is changing its master’s in reading and literacy program from in-person to a fully online degree starting in Fall 2026. The MSEd in reading and literacy certifies recipients to teach students from preschool through 12^th�����������.

“This change gives working professionals needed access to an advanced degree,” said Ann Monroe-Baillargeon, dean of the School of Education. “Students no longer have to live or work near Geneseo. Most of our literacy students are teachers. They can now work and complete their degree on their own schedules.”

Response has been positive, said Monroe-Baillargeon. As of May, Fall 2026 enrollment has nearly doubled from 2024. 

In addition to the flexibility an online course offers working students, the course has incorporated clinic work, one-on-one faculty mentoring, student discussions, and internships working with school-aged children and teens. Assistant Professor Christine Green ’01/MsEd ’03 and Associate Professor Sharon Peck, are the program’s co-coordinators. 

“We will continue to foster meaningful interactions and community with our internships, with faculty, and among students,” said Monroe-Baillargeon, who previously served as director of online learning at Houghton University and director of online graduate programs at Buena Vista University. “I’m excited for our launch. I know high-quality online programs are possible because I have done it,” she said.

Monroe-Baillargeon hopes that, in addition to the college’s usual master’s students, the new online offering will attract students from out of state, including those who teach in international schools abroad.

One of many proud Geneseo grad families (91������ photo)

91������ held its 160th Commencement on Saturday, May 16, conferring nearly 900 degrees before an audience of family, friends, faculty, and staff.

Rebecca Wilson Bresee ’93, an animator for Walt Disney Studios, received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree and addressed the morning ceremony. In a speech threaded with good advice and Disney quotes, Bresee reminded graduates of Peter Pan’s belief that all it takes is faith and trust, and a little bit of pixie dust.

“I like to think that pixie dust is actually preparation meeting opportunity,” she said. “Opportunity is the pixie dust sprinkled in with all the hard work you’ve done here at Geneseo to prepare yourself for what comes next.” Be persistent in your endeavors, she concluded. “If you are prepared, you will have the power to make your own dreams come true when that pixie dust gets sprinkled on you and your special opportunity arrives. Then you’ll fly.”

Jeff Clarke ’83, executive leader and former Kodak CEO, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree and addressed the afternoon ceremony on time, technology, optimism, and the importance of embracing change. Clarke called himself a techno-optimist and referenced his Geneseo education in economics when describing how the market sorts through technology change.

“Creative destruction is powerful and appears to be accelerating due to globalization and the pace of technological advancement,” he said. “Depending on your point of view, this can be inspiring or daunting. You can hope that creative destruction will not touch you. Or you can embrace the accelerating pace of change and the opportunities it creates.”

Corrina Filek ’26, from Livonia, NY, was this year’s senior orator at the morning ceremony. Filek graduated with a double major in anthropology and sociomedical sciences. Giulyana Gamero ’26, from Rockford, IL, spoke at the afternoon ceremony. She graduated with a major in communication and ran a regular radio drama on WGSU.

Two seniors received the Richard Roark Award this year: Grace Hubbel ’26 from Rochester NY, a philosophy and sociomedical sciences double major with a minor in human development; and Sophie Fulton from Batavia, NY, a business administration major with minors in accounting and college honors. The award is presented to a graduating senior whose excellence in scholarship and community service emulates Roark, a former Geneseo professor of anthropology who was presumed drowned off the island of Guadeloupe in the French West Indies.

Receiving the Student Association President’s Cup this year was Sarah Feik, from Cooperstown, NY, a marketing major with a minor in communication. The award is given annually to a graduating senior who exemplifies superior service and dedication to the Geneseo Student Association. 

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Clare Cusack ’96 (Image provided)

The Geneseo Foundation Board of Directors has appointed Clare M. Cusack ’96, president and CEO of the New York Bankers Association, as its next chair. Her three-year term begins July 1. Cusack, who has served as vice chair since 2023, succeeds Robert Walley ’83, who is retiring after 12 years of service on the board, including the last three as chair.

The Geneseo Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation organized for the purpose of encouraging philanthropic contributions from individuals, corporations, foundations, and other organizations in support of activities and programs of 91������. 

“Clare’s experience on the board of directors, devotion to the College, and generosity make her a wonderful choice as board chair,” said 91������ President Melinda Treadwell. “Her leadership and dedication exemplify the very best of what it means to be a Geneseo graduate—using intellect, integrity, and purpose to make a lasting impact on society. I look forward to continuing our work to build on Geneseo’s legacy and shape an exciting future together.”

A political science and communication dual major at Geneseo, Cusack is president and CEO of the New York Bankers Association (NYBA). She has been frequently recognized for her leadership in the banking industry and in non-profit association management. In 2020, she became the first woman to serve as president and CEO of NYBA in its 131-year history. In 2024, Cusack was named Chief Executive of the Year by the New York Society of Association Executives. In November 2025, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) honored Cusack with its highest honor, the Distinguished Alumnus Award. 

“There’s a certain magic to Geneseo,” said Cusack. “You feel it as a student. You carry it as an alum. And if you’re lucky, you get to come back and help steward it. As incoming chair, I feel an enormous sense of pride and responsibility. Not just to serve, but to help keep that magic growing for the next generation. I’m also deeply grateful for Bob Walley’s leadership and service to the foundation. He helped strengthen an already special institution, and I’m honored to carry that momentum forward for the next generation.”

The board of directors is also proud to announce that the following alumni will begin six-year terms as Foundation board members on July 1:

Leslye Burleson ’13 lives in Stamford, CT. A mathematics major at 91������, she is currently a manager of financial products with Apple.

Steven Mattus ’92 is chief investment officer for Tandems.ai. A resident of Fairfield, CT, he holds a BA in economics from 91������, and an MBA in finance from Iona University.

Rizwan (Rizzy) Qureshi ’03, of Olney, MD, is an attorney at Reed Smith LLP, where he is a partner in the firm’s Global Regulatory Enforcement group based in Washington, D.C. and New York. Qureshi holds a BA in international relations from 91������ and a JD from Howard University School of Law.

Ken Rende ’86 lives in Babylon, NY. He is a managing director of wealth management at Neuberger. Rende also serves on the executive committee of the Business Advisory Council of the School of Business at 91������.

Andrea Reynolds ’96 lives in Houston, TX. A geological sciences major with an MS from Texas A&M University, she is a former Shell executive and the founder and CEO of Hidden Gems Coaching & Consulting.

Jill Abbate Sulkes ’93 of Chatham, NJ, is a managing director for Willis Towers Watson Public Limited Company (WTW). She holds a BS in management science from 91������, an MS in management and policy from SUNY Stony Brook, and a JD from Fordham Law School. Abbate is admitted to practice law in New York and New Jersey.

The Geneseo Foundation also extends its appreciation to outgoing board member Jessica Blair ’00, who completes a six-year term of service. In addition, the Foundation conferred the distinction of Emeriti Board Member upon Mollene Benison ’97, Barb Bilodeau ’86, Bob Murray ’83, John O’Malley ’85, and Jonna Shutowick ’88, and Bob Walley ’83, whose two six-year terms conclude this summer.

Carolyn Campbell, PhD (91������)

Carolyn Campbell, PhD, has been appointed as 91������’s vice president for college advancement and executive director of the Geneseo Foundation, effective June 4. Campbell has been serving in the interim vice president role since February 2025.

During her tenure as the interim vice president, Campbell quickly established strong relationships with the campus community and alumni and helped shepherd important partnerships between the College and the business community. Campbell oversaw the successful completion of the $45M Opportunities Rising campaign and continues to provide strategic leadership to the Geneseo Foundation during the transition of chairpersons from Bob Walley ’83 to Clare Cusack ’96. She’s also facilitated crucial partnerships, including the Deloitte Foundation study room in Milne and the Kodak Advanced Electrophysiology Lab.

Campbell’s appointment follows meaningful engagement and feedback sessions with the Senate Executive Committee, the advancement and alumni relations staff, the President’s Cabinet, and the leadership of the Foundation Board and the College Council.

“Thank you to the Geneseo community for embracing Carolyn and her leadership,” said 91������ President Melinda Treadwell. “I am thrilled that Carolyn will continue to guide us with grace and excellence. She is a brilliant and valued colleague, and it has been a joy to work alongside her as we deepen our connections and amplify the foundation’s impact and support for our students. Our future is very bright with Carolyn and her dedicated team.”

Campbell brings more than three decades of progressive senior leadership experience in higher education advancement, nonprofit development, and healthcare philanthropy. Her career includes key roles in building corporate and foundation relations, leading regional campaign efforts, and earlier leadership positions in healthcare and community college advancement. In each role, Campbell demonstrated a consistent record of strategic vision, campaign leadership, and the ability to build strong relationships that advance institutional priorities.

Most recently, Campbell was founder and CEO of Higher Ground Consulting, advising colleges and nonprofits on fundraising strategy, organizational effectiveness, and leadership development. She previously served as vice president for development and alumni engagement at Washington & Jefferson College, leading a $125 million campaign and advancement operations. At Auburn University at Montgomery, she was vice chancellor for development/advancement, contributing to a system-wide billion-dollar campaign and expanding alumni and donor engagement.

“On behalf of the Geneseo Foundation Board of Directors, we are thrilled to support Carolyn Campbell as our VP of College Advancement and Executive Director of the Geneseo Foundation,” said Walley and Cusack. “We enthusiastically support President Treadwell’s decision to fill the role, which marks a tremendous step forward for both the foundation and the College. Carolyn will continue to provide consistent leadership and energy needed to expand philanthropic support, strengthen donor and alumni engagement, and further advance the College’s mission and future success.”

“I believe this is a pivotal and inspiring moment in Geneseo’s history with the leadership of President Treadwell, incoming Geneseo Foundation Board of Directors Chair Clare Cusack, and incoming SGAA (91������ Alumni Association) president, Rita Rogan,” said Campbell. “I see a future filled with incredible opportunities. I am thrilled to join this wonderful community and be a strategic partner with campus colleagues, alumni, corporate partners, and friends in advancing far-reaching and impactful initiatives for Geneseo’s future.”

Campbell holds a master’s degree in management from Faulkner University and a master’s and doctorate in higher education administration from Auburn University. She completed Harvard’s Institute for Educational Management program, holds a graduate certificate in College and University Teaching, and received a Fulbright U.S. International Education Administrator Award.

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