On Wednesday, SUNY Chancellor Kristina M. Johnson presented the 2019 Chancellor’s Awards for Student Excellence to 210 students from across the SUNY system. Three MVCC students were among the honorees: Ahmat Adam Djouma, Julie Anderson, and Taryn Rackmyer.

Djouma, a refugee from Sudan now living in Utica, is a Liberal Arts and Sciences: Public Policy major who will graduate with his associate degree in May. He has been able to maintain an impressive GPA while completing multiple internships and helping take care of his family. Djouma, who is blind, is known to lead by example and is an advocate for individuals with disabilities. He plans to continue his education, earn a law degree, and work in government.

Anderson, of Camden, is a Liberal Arts and Sciences: General Studies major. She is a non-traditional student, earning two associate degrees and a baccalaureate degree while balancing her family life and career. As a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, she graduated from SUNY Canton, where she studied dental hygiene. She is also an adjunct clinical instructor, continuing to mentor future dental hygienists. She has published articles in her field, and has been awarded scholarships for leadership, performance, and having a positive impact in her profession.

Rackmyer, of Frankfort, is an Accounting major. She began her campus involvement during her first semester as Student Government treasurer. Since then, she has excelled academically and contributed to the College as a peer tutor, and a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Student Leadership Academy, and various other student organizations. Rackmyer serves as coordinator of Campus Engagement for SUNY Student Assembly and as student liaison to the Faculty Council of Community Colleges.

The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence was created in 1997 to recognize students who have best demonstrated, and have been recognized for, the integration of academic excellence with accomplishments in the areas of leadership, athletics, community service, creative and performing arts, campus involvement, or career achievement. Each year, SUNY campus presidents establish a selection committee, which reviews the accomplishments of exemplary students. Nominees are then forwarded to the Chancellor’s Office for a second round of review. Finalists are then recommended to the Chancellor to become recipients of the award. Each recipient receives a framed certificate and medallion, which is traditionally worn at commencement.