Albeit in a new location, the tradition continued under the leadership and guidance of Mike Pitaro and his fellow committee members. Hearty appreciation all around as 333 of our students were fed by an assortment of professionals that included the president, provost, deans, vice presidents, directors, and a random assortment of other vital and vibrant staff members, including a variety of residence hall directors. Many thanks to all involved!

This event raised a little over $335 to be donated to the Cortland Chapter of the American Red Cross, an organization which many take for granted until tragedy strikes and their volunteers step forward to help. A good time was had by all and new connections were made on a variety of levels that bode well for the future. Comments overheard included:

“This was fun, I wish I had gotten involved sooner.I will definitely be interested in helping out again.”

“Thank you so much for doing this. It’s really cool seeing people outside of their offices.”

“I like the earlier time . . . allows me to get to bed sooner. It’s been a long week.”

The two words heard the most were “Thank you.”

Here’s to strong future events that continue to build on the positive camaraderie that is such an important element to all that we do. The students value and appreciate the event and that alone makes it a success.

Post written by: Sandra Wohlleber

Dr. Richard Peagler’s time as Interim Vice President for Student Affairs is quickly coming to an end as our new VPSA, Greg Sharer, will arrive in early June. What better opportunity to take a few moments and reflect on the almost two years that Dr. Peagler has graciously held the additional VP responsibilities. Assessment is such a large part of our lives, what could be more fitting than surveying select individuals for their feedback . . .

What strengths did Dr. Peagler bring to this position?
*Excellent listening skills, compassion, and patience
*Focus on and belief in our students, and a sense of humor
*His knowledge about the College, the community, and the Division employees
* A wealth of experience from his years as the Director of the Counseling Center and Student Development Center

What positive contributions has Dr. Peagler made to the College and/or the student body?
*Leadership in establishing a viable Threat Assessment Team in the wake of the tragic event at Virginia Tech
*Continuing the important town/gown relations of the former VPSA and nurturing the excellent working relationship that the College enjoys with the City of Cortland
*Being readily accessible to the students and advocating on their behalf
*Advocating for the creation of the Student Affairs Faculty Connection Award

What impact did Dr. Peagler have on you since he has been interim VPSA?
*He has helped me grow as a leader, as an intellectual thinker and as a person.
*He has been an excellent role model for me and has offered important professional guidance.
*He has been an excellent supervisor — always accessible and always willing to listen.
*He has provided me with a welcome role model through his positive advice, positive outlook and the demonstration that he is a man of integrity as well as being accessible to all students.

What is your favorite memory of Interim VP Peagler?
*His infectious laugh . . . All I have to do is hear that laugh and I can’t help but smile.

If you could offer Dr. Peagler one final piece of advice as he transitions back into his position as Director of Counseling and Student Development, what would it be?
*Enjoy getting back to the work you love!
*Never change! You are awesome and have everyone’s best interest at heart!
*Enjoy the view from Corey Union while you can . . .

The Student Affairs Connections Committee, indeed the entire Student Affairs Division, says “Thank you” . . . thank you for your continued support of our collective mission and for providing us with your insights, your vision, and your positivity during this time of transition.

Post written by: Sandra Wohlleber 

March 1st — Court House Park — 10 am to 4 pm

Chill-A-Bration is a great example of how people can come together to achieve a common goal. The 40 Below group had an idea and pitched it to Lloyd Purdy of the Downtown Partnership. Lloyd in turn pitched it to both the Chamber of Commerce and a Leadership Cortland group looking for a project. And thus began an amazing collaborative project with far-reaching implications.

The event will have a terrain park for snowboarders and skiers, an ice rink, snow dogs and sled races, a chili cook-off, an assortment of family games, raffle prizes, concessions to benefit a senior class trip, the launching of a new Cortland beer, etc. And yes, many events will take place even if there is little natural snow.

To actualize this community friendly event, the following groups and offices have each played a significant role: SUNY Cortland, Albany International, Greek Peak, Limehollow Nature Center, OCM BOCES, Builder’s Best, Leadership Cortland, Downtown Partnership Promotions Committee, City of Cortland Mayor’s Office, City of Cortland Fire Department, City of Cortland Common Council, City of Cortland DPW, Cortland County Buildings and Grounds Committee, Cortland Regional Sports Council, Penn Sled Dog Club, Hopko Design, and Sheridan Jewelry just to name a few. And a special thank you to Lloyd Purdy for coordinating all elements of this event.

Please join us this coming weekend and see what can can happen when many minds come together with a common goal. This may be the first ever Chill-A-Bration but we sure hope that this will become an annual event that will continue on for many years. We also hope that it will inspire others to realize that all it takes is one person with one idea and the possibilities are endless!

Post written by: Sandra Wohlleber 

Connections . . . we all make them.

Connections . . . are made both inside and outside of the classroom.

Connections . . . are not limited to the SUNY Cortland campus.

Right now you, our students, live in the city of Cortland whether it be as a tenant on Groton Avenue or as a resident of Bishop Hall. Have you ever thought about what that might mean to those around you? The impact that you have on the person who lives down the hall? Or on the family that lives in the house that you walk by on your way home late in the evening? You may be living on campus but you do travel through residential areas every time you go grab a slice down at Mark’s Pizzeria. I know that many of you do think about this and treat others the way that you would want your own family members to be treated.

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