ONEONTA, NY - The following local residents were among 263 students recently honored by the State University of New York College at Oneonta for completion of their requirements for graduation in the Fall 2009 semester.

Meaghan Swan of Essex, NY earned a BA degree in Communication Studies

Corinda Grimaldi of Frankfort, NY earned a BS degree in English

Lisa Peters of Frankfort, NY earned a BS degree in Human Ecology

Kaycie Beekman of Ilion, NY earned a BS degree in Psychology

Kristi Mroz of Ilion, NY earned a BS degree in Psychology

Colleen Reitz of Ilion, NY earned a BS degree in Early Chld/Childhood Ed (B-6)

Vanessa Dawley of Little Falls, NY earned a BS degree in Early Chld/Childhood Ed (B-6)

Anne Rundell of Old Forge, NY earned a BA degree in Music Industry

Julia Wick of West Winfield, NY earned a CAS degree in School Counselor

The December 6 recognition ceremony, which was attended by over 1,000 guests, was hosted by College President Nancy Kleniewski and held in the Dewar Arena of the Alumni Field House.

At the ceremony, Dr. James Ebert of the Earth Sciences Department was recognized for his promotion to the rank of SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor.

President Kleniewski welcomed and congratulated the students. Patrick Brown, Chair of the College Council, greeted the assembly. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs F. Daniel Larkin recognized the honors students and degree candidates. Frederick Heil, President of the Student Association, offered congratulations, and Karen Brown, President-Elect of the Alumni Association, delivered the alumni greeting.

The Catskill Brass provided musical selections for the event. SUNY Oneonta seniors Kari Crimmins and Nicholas Stagliano performed the national anthem and the alma mater.

December 2009 graduates are also eligible to participate in the College's Commencement on May 22, 2010.

The SUNY College at Oneonta, which enrolls over 5,800 students, is a liberal arts college with a pre-professional focus. Established as a state normal school in 1889 and incorporated as a founding member of the state university system in 1948, the College is well known for its outstanding faculty, strong academic programs, community service and character-building activities, and scenic campus.