The Peru Gazette

Paul Smith’s College

SUNY Plattsburgh

North Country Community College

Clinton Community College

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. , November 10, 2026 – Assemblyman Michael S. Cashman (D-Plattsburgh) visited all four colleges in the 115^th Assembly district today to celebrate First Generation College Graduate Day, recognized nationally on November 8. Each campus was given a copy of a New York State Resolution commemorating the occasion as campus leadership, staff, and first-gen students gathered.

            “As a first-generation college graduate, being able to celebrate fellow first-gen students and recognize the work these incredible faculty and staff perform every day is especially meaningful,” Assemblyman Cashman said. “College is what brought me to the North Country, and it is where I found my community and developed the skills needed to succeed post-graduation. My involvement in TRIO during my college years was just one way that the team at SUNY Plattsburgh helped guide me to graduation, and these programs continue to support the next generations of students today. It was an honor to present each of these campuses with a copy of the resolution I carried in Albany earlier this year marking the occasion.”

            Clinton Community College President Ken Knelly said, “Community colleges are a primary starting point for first-generation students, providing clear academic pathways, focused advising, and affordable tuition and costs. We are grateful for the acknowledgement through this resolution and the continued support of state and county partners who help secure the future for this generation and those to follow.”

            SUNY Plattsburgh Director of Access and Opportunity Programs Shatawndra Lister said, “I feel incredibly fortunate to work with such exceptional students. They are making a difference not only at SUNY Plattsburgh but, more importantly, in their families and communities. As a first-generation college graduate myself, I know how much it means to have people who believe in you and support you along the way. Being able to share what I learned through my own experiences with students today is something I truly value. I am incredibly proud of the work we do through Access & Opportunity Programs and across campus to support our first-generation students. I am also grateful to Assemblyman Cashman for taking the time to celebrate these students and recognize the importance of the opportunities and support that help them succeed.”

            North Country Community College President Joe Keegan said, “We’re grateful to Assemblyman Cashman for his continued support of higher education and for recognizing the achievements of first-generation college students. These students bring tremendous determination, resilience and unique perspectives to our campus communities, often while navigating challenges that others may not fully appreciate. At North Country, we’re proud to help first-generation students find their footing, pursue their goals and build brighter futures for themselves and their families. It’s especially meaningful to have an advocate like Assemblyman Cashman who understands their experiences firsthand.”

            North Country Community College Interim Associate Vice President of Student Affairs Jackie VanBrunt said, “As a first-generation college graduate myself, I know firsthand how important it is to have people and programs in your corner. Without the support I received through the Educational Opportunity Program, I likely would not have made it past my first year of college. That’s why programs like our new Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) initiative are so important. They provide the academic, financial and personal support that can make all the difference in helping students stay on track and earn their degrees. We’re incredibly grateful for the continued investment from New York State and SUNY that makes these resources possible and helps us create opportunities for the next generation of first-generation students.”

            Paul Smith’s College Director of TRIO SSS and HEOP Amanda Laah Vincent said, “Every day, I have the privilege of working with first-generation students who are breaking barriers and creating opportunities not only for themselves, but for their families and communities. First-Generation College Graduate Day reminds us of the importance of providing meaningful support, fostering a sense of belonging, and celebrating the remarkable achievements of these students.”

            Paul Smith’s College HEOP Student Success Coach Annie Rochon said, “Michael is a role model for first-generation students. He demonstrates that when there is a will, there is a way. We need more leaders and role models like him to inspire our students and show them that a world of opportunities is within their reach. Sometimes, all it takes is seeing someone who has walked a similar path to believe that those same possibilities are achievable. Our students need to know that their dreams are valid, their potential is limitless, and with determination, hard work, and the right support, anything is possible.”

            First-Generation College Graduate Day is celebrated annually on November 8, coinciding with the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.