NORWICH – Morrisville State College (MSC) Norwich Campus student Rebecca Potter will receive the SUNY technology college’s Rays of Light award on May 6, in recognition of her “significant contributions in her community through volunteering,” according to MSC Public Relations Associate Franci Valenzano.
Potter, a New Berlin native and third year student at the Norwich facility, has already earned an associate’s degree in early childhood and is preparing for a transfer to Empire State College, as she works toward her bachelor’s degree in education, reported Norwich campus Academic Support Services Coordinator Jeri O’bryan-Losee.
“She’s a great kid and student,” said O’bryan-Losee. “She’s always gone above and beyond and really appreciates what Morrisville has done for her.”
In addition to tutoring math, English and sign language, O’bryan-Losee stated that Potter was “instrumental” to the book drive held earlier this year by the Early Childhood Organization (ECO), and her leadership was pivotal to the success of the project, which collected and donated over 500 books worth nearly $20,000.
“She’s been an asset as an early childhood peer mentor and tutor, and a strong member of the Human Services Organization and ECO,” said Assistant Professor for Early Childhood Margaret Hoose, who added Potter, a participant in the Tri-County Association for the Education of Young Children earlier this spring, is always on hand “offering support to students as they create lesson plans, projects and papers.”
Potter is also an active member of the Student Government Organization and has “participated in numerous volunteer efforts,” stated Valenzano.
What’s truly remarkable, according to Hoose, is that Potter “does all of this without academic credit.”
“I do what I do because I enjoy it, not for recognition, but I’ll admit it’s nice,” said Potter, who added she was “completely surprised and excited” by the award.
The Rays of Light award ceremony will be held at 1 p.m., May 6, in Charlton Hall, Morrisville State College.