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MCC Daily Tribune

MCC Student Among 46 SUNY EOP Scholars to Receive Award for Excellence

State University of New York Chancellor John B. King, Jr. recognized the achievements of 46 students in SUNY’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) — including Elle Parrotta from Monroe Community College — who were honored with the Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for Student Excellence at an April 17 (Monday) ceremony in Albany. The award, now celebrating its fourth class of awardees, recognizes outstanding EOP students for their academic merit and strength in overcoming personal obstacles.

A current member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, Elle is a liberal arts and sciences-general studies major who will graduate in May 2023. She plans to continue her education in pursuit of a bachelor's degree in English.

“When SUNY was founded 75 years ago, the mission was to create an educational environment where all are welcome. For over 50 years, SUNY’s Educational Opportunity Program has worked to make that a reality by helping students, many of whom are the first in their family to go to college, access higher education and see their degrees to completion," said Chancellor King. “When I visit our campuses, I am continuously awed and inspired by the dedicated, hardworking EOP students I meet. EOP is a ticket to upward mobility for New York students, which is why I am honored to recognize these students who stand as role models demonstrating what is possible. With the financial support of New York State and the resources provided at SUNY campuses, New Yorkers have an opportunity to further their education. My congratulations to each awardee for taking that step to go to college and succeed."

Since its inception in 1967, the EOP has provided access, academic support, and supplemental financial assistance to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. In its 56-year history, the EOP has served more than 80,000 students and evolved into one of the country's most successful college access programs.

Read SUNY's full news release, including a complete list of 2023 EOP award recipients.

Hency Yuen-Eng
Community Relations
04/19/2023