Alfred State, a residential college of technology, provides career-focused education enriched by the liberal arts. With 80+ dynamic majors—offering engaging course work in both traditional classrooms and the real world—Alfred State provides students with unparalleled preparation.
An Alfred State degree gets results!
An Alfred State degree gets results!
An Alfred State degree gets results!
#AlfredState
Fast Facts
“I’ve made a lot of good friends here because of the fact that the environment is so friendly and light-hearted.”
Juwan GrossJuwan Gross
IT: applications software development
In addition to receiving a quality education, Juwan also enjoys being a Pioneer because of the atmosphere at Alfred State.
Juwan Gross has always had an interest in computers, whether it was tinkering around with them or even just playing games. Naturally, this interest led Juwan to enroll in Alfred State’s applications software development program, where he has learned about web development, networking, microcomputer systems, programming language sequences, and more. In his program, Juwan feels motivated to push himself to his fullest potential.Read More
“I liked that we were able to get a lot of hands-on training and that you weren’t sitting in a lecture all day.”
Deborah HuppmanDeborah Huppman
Welding technology
Small class sizes that allow for more individualized attention also played a role in Deborah’s decision to become a Pioneer.
A number of reasons sparked Deborah Huppman’s decision to enroll at Alfred State. One of these was being able to get plenty of applied learning experiences in her program. “I liked that we were able to get a lot of hands-on training and that you weren’t sitting in a lecture all day.” Another reason was the professors, whom she found to be very helpful and also very knowledgeable about their field.Read More
“Alfred State has done an exceptional job of making sure that I am ready to head out into the workforce.”
Claire WraggClaire Wragg
Electrical construction and maintenance electrician
One of the best aspects of the program for Claire is the amount of hands-on learning she has received.
While researching Alfred State’s electrical major, Claire Wragg spoke with her cousin, who had previously graduated from the program. After getting a first-hand account of all the program has to offer, Claire came away convinced that the major was right for her. “Based off what my cousin had told me, as far as the knowledge she had gained from the program and how it prepared her for the field, I was all in.”Read More
"Everything I saw said that they are very action-oriented, meaning they focus on the skills you need to have to actually perform. It’s not just all lecture."
Brian HierlBrian Hierl
Nursing
Brian highly recommends Alfred State to any adults looking to further their education.
After 24 years of service in the Air Force, Brian Hierl knew he wanted to go to school for nursing because it would give him opportunities to progress and help people. When conducting his college search, he looked into Alfred State, and came away impressed.Read More
“Alfred State has prepared me for my career.”
Daiki KawakamiDaiki Kawakami
Biological science
Daiki has found out for himself that Alfred State is an excellent school with a friendly environment and helpful professors.
While studying in his home country of Japan, Daiki Kawakami befriended an Alfred State graduate who spoke very highly of the college. “He said that it’s a really good school and that everyone there is really warm and kind.”Read More
“I love operating and the fact that I’m not stuck in a classroom talking about operating. I’m actually getting a chance to sit on the machines."
Austin OakesAustin Oakes
Heavy equipment operations
“I was told if I came into this program, it’d be like playing with the big Tonka trucks.”
As a child, Austin Oakes loved to play with Tonka trucks. It’s no wonder, then, that he ended up enrolling in Alfred State’s heavy equipment operations program, and learning how to use backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, and more. “I was told if I came into this program, it’d be like playing with the big Tonka trucks.” The huge amount of time Austin gets to spend operating equipment each day is his favorite part of the program.Read More
“I think it’s important to know what’s currently going on in the industry and what the trends are, and Alfred State does a really great job of getting that across.”
Carolyn WrightCarolyn Wright
Agricultural business
“Everybody makes you feel welcome, even people outside your major, which I really enjoy.”
Thanks to her experiences at Alfred State College, Carolyn Wright has grown as a student, a leader, and a person. As a result, she now feels more prepared to take on the real world. In her program, Carolyn has received numerous hands-on learning opportunities, from working with a variety of different animals at the College Farm, to serving on the Dairy Judging Team, to touring farms in- and out-of-state. She has also enjoyed learning about the business side of agriculture.Read More
“I feel like Alfred State is preparing me really well. They’re very realistic about how it will be in the real world.”
Kayana GrayKayana Gray
Culinary arts
Kayana loves that she gets so much hands-on training in her program.
Prior to enrolling in Alfred State’s culinary arts program, Kayana Gray didn’t know much about the food industry. Once classes started, however, it didn’t take long for her to start gaining knowledge and experience. “The first week we got here, they taught us how to fabricate a chicken, how to cut it apart, and it was a really good experience. It took me some time to learn, but now I’m a lot faster at it.”Read More
“If you’re interested in animation and you’re looking for some place in New York State, I’d say Alfred State is fantastic. You can’t really go wrong with coming here.”
Aidan WilsonAidan Wilson
Digital media and animation
One of the most notable opportunities Aidan received resulted from an internship that a professor helped him secure.
For Aidan Wilson, one of the best parts about the digital media and animation (DMA) program is the sense of community that develops among the students and their professors. “I really like the digital media and animation program because it has a strong focus on collaborating with your peers, and that’s just invaluable. Also, the professors are very involved and a lot of them take the time to find opportunities for you if you’re willing to work with them.”Read More
“It was a good mix of the academic world and the real world – book knowledge and real-world application.”
Brian PerryBrian Perry
Business Administration
Brian Perry continues to take his company to great heights thanks in part to his Alfred State education.
As the executive vice president, chairman, and co-owner of Perry’s Ice Cream, Brian Perry continues to take his company to great heights thanks in part to his Alfred State education.Read More
“I really can’t thank Alfred State enough for giving me that education and opportunity to grow and find success.”
Eric DotyEric Doty
Computer engineering technology
Eric is living out his passion every day as a game design industry professional within the Greater Los Angeles area.
As an avid gamer, Eric Doty always knew he wanted to pursue a career in video games.Read More
“I think Alfred State is preparing us for success.”
Dannielle O’BuckleyDannielle O’Buckley
Surveying and geomatics engineering technology
Dannielle will have four years of credit toward the total statutory time requirement for licensure as a land surveyor in New York State after she graduates.
Dannielle O’Buckley was drawn to Alfred State’s surveying and geomatics engineering technology major for a couple of reasons. Number one, she was searching for a surveying program with a four-year degree path. Number two, she noticed the major is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET).Read More
“Being involved on this campus is one of the key things you should do as a student because it expands your horizons so much."
Carissa KelschCarissa Kelsch
Court and realtime reporting
"Class sizes are small, and you are able to go to anyone in your class and ask for help."
Carissa Kelsch has many reasons why she’s glad she enrolled at Alfred State. As a court and realtime reporting major, Carissa values the fact that she can have one-on-one interaction with her professors and get real-world, hands-on experience.Read More
“I am representing something that I really do believe in. This college is an excellent place."
Anthony RiforgiatoAnthony Riforgiato
Technology management
Anthony began racing competitively in 2008 at age 10.
When Anthony Riforgiato was about 6 or 7 years old, his dad took him to watch the races at Lake Erie Speedway. Looking on as the bandolero cars sped past, he heard the announcer at the track say that children as young as 8 years old could drive these vehicles. This immediately piqued young Anthony’s interest.Read More
“Alfred State is at the root of what I do and love every day at my job."
Jessica (Mosher) StrassnerJessica (Mosher) Strassner
Nursing
Immediately after graduating, Jessica accepted a position as a registered nurse (RN).
Looking back at her Alfred State education, Jessica credits the college with providing her a strong base for what she has been able to accomplish both academically and professionally. “Alfred State is at the root of what I do and love every day at my job, and it really allowed me to be able to grow and prosper as a nurse practitioner.”Read More
“Honestly, everything I’ve been doing here at Alfred State will set me up for my career. I feel prepared.”
Tatyana KingTatyana King
Sport Management
Tatyana aspires to become a sports agent.
Tatyana always knew she wanted a career in sports, so she sought a college and a major that would help make her dream a reality. Her search led her to discover Alfred State’s sport management bachelor’s degree program, which turned out to be the perfect fit for her.Read More
“I feel like Alfred State has made me more confident."
Shelby DetroShelby Detro
Computer Information Systems
In her major, Shelby is getting plenty of hands-on, real-world experience.
Ever since she was a child, Shelby Detro has been interested in technology. Whenever the Xbox or the computer at home needed fixing, she was the one to do it. It is only fitting, then, that she enrolled in Alfred State’s computer information systems program, where she is learning to become the “resident expert” not only at home, but on the job, as well.Read More
“There is so much opportunity for women in the automotive industry."
Kate JonasseKate Jonasse
Automotive Service Technician
Owner of two successful automotive repair shops
Kate Jonasse is living proof that if you have the drive, talent, and proper guidance to pursue your dreams, you can achieve them. Before becoming a successful technician and business owner, Kate started out as a first-year automotive service technician student at Alfred State. Though she had never even picked up a wrench before entering the program, it didn’t take long for her to get the hang of things.Read More
“No matter where I go on campus, I can bump into someone I know."
Sarah TraversSarah Travers
Architecture
Sarah's major allowed her to study abroad in Sorrento, Italy.
Sarah loves the real-world experience she gets in her program through working on a variety of commercial and residential projects. Her major has also allowed her to study abroad in Sorrento, Italy, and to secure an internship with SWBR Architects in Rochester. “At my internship, I dealt with clients. I was less nervous working with them because, through my class projects, I already knew what it was like to have clients and to have to meet their expectations.”Read More
“I’ve seen a great deal of success in the students that we have produced.”
Dr. Mel ChamblissDr. Mel Chambliss
Agriculture and Veterinary Technology Department
Founder of the veterinary technology major
Since developing Alfred State’s veterinary technology program 17 years ago, Dr. Mel Chambliss has touched the lives of countless people and animals, both on campus and in the community. The impact of his skills, knowledge, and expertise in his field has been felt by students, pet owners, and animal care organizations alike.Read More
“You can have a hands-on experience here and there at other schools, but Alfred State is one of those places where they show you everything.”
Charles RichardsCharles Richards
Culinary arts
Being at Alfred State, Charles said, is like a second home because of the friendliness of the college community.
Charles Richards began honing his culinary arts skills a few years ago when he studied at the only culinary-based high school in New York City. After enrolling at Alfred State, Charles was able to expand his knowledge to include all facets of the food industry, from mass food production to fine dining, the latter of which is his favorite. He plans on pursuing either catering or becoming a private chef.Read More
“I love the real-world learning aspect of my major so much.”
Olufunmilola OlojedeOlufunmilola Olojede
Nursing
Though she admits nursing requires a lot of hard work, she acknowledges that it pays off in the end.
Although she initially chose to study nursing at the urging of her parents, Olufunmilola Olojede discovered her passion for the field at Alfred State. Specifically, she enjoys being able to help people, to feel like she could save somebody’s life, and also having the opportunity to not just learn, but to also apply the processes in clinical experiences.Read More
“I’m definitely glad I made the choice to come to Alfred State. I know I’m pretty much guaranteed to have a job once I come out of this program.”
Aaron Aumick
Building trades: building construction
Through real-world experiences and receiving live, hands-on training every day, Aaron's very confident about his future.
Aaron Aumick loves learning all of the different aspects of the construction world at Alfred State, from drywall, to interior surfaces, to rough framing.Read More
“Getting involved in clubs and organizations can give you valuable experience outside of the classroom to help prepare you for the real world.”
Thomas RichardsThomas Richards
Information technology: network administration
Thomas said the hands-on classes he took at Alfred State gave him more experience than other job candidates.
From making lifelong friendships, to gaining leadership skills, to becoming well-prepared for the workforce, the ways in which Thomas Richards benefited from his Alfred State experience are many. These days, Thomas is employed as a senior security consultant at Cigital, one of the world’s largest application security firms, which is headquartered in Washington, DC, and has offices throughout the United States, Europe, and India.Read More
“I feel like I’m going to be more successful in life as a result of the hands-on aspect of my major.”
Elizabeth GlickElizabeth Glick
Mechanical engineering technology
After she graduates, Elizabeth plans on designing equipment for the Navy.
Before deciding to attend Alfred State, Elizabeth Glick had heard about the school’s strong mechanical engineering technology program through friends of hers, who had “only positive things to say” about the college. Also making her decision to enroll easier were the peaceful, welcoming atmosphere on campus; the 20-1 student-faculty ratio; and of course, the college’s emphasis on hands-on learning.Read More
“The stuff that we do in class relates 100 percent to the job. We learn what to do and then we get to go out there and do it, and that’s the fun part.”
Robert MahanyRobert Mahany
Construction management
“Clubs and organizations are so beneficial to your growth as a student, as a human being.”
Like many Alfred State students, Robert Mahany’s education extends outside the classroom walls. As an intern at a Tonawanda-based mechanical contractor, he was able to get hands-on project management experience, which he also received this summer at an internship in Washington, DC with a leading international infrastructure group. Whether he’s learning the theory or putting it into practice, Robert knows he is being prepared well for the next step after graduation.Read More
"During my birthday, the college sent me a birthday card and no other school did, so that made me realize that Alfred State is caring.”
Nahillah HighNahillah High
Human services
The faculty “know you personally, rather than just as a number.”
After watching TV shows such as Law and Order and Criminal Minds, and researching the field of forensic psychology, Nahillah High was certain of what career path she wanted to take. However, after Alfred State helped her land an internship at the Alfred Montessori School, she changed her mind. Rather than become a forensic psychologist, Nahillah decided she wanted to be a child psychologist instead.Read More
"The one thing that hasn't changed viscerally at Alfred State is the culture; faculty are here because they want to teach students and foster their full potentials."
Dr. James FerryDr. James Ferry
Agronomy (AAS)
James and Marilyn Ferry donated $10,000 to support the James G. and Marilyn A. Ferry Endowed Scholarship.
Dr. Ferry received his AAS degree in agronomy from Alfred State in 1963 followed by BS and MS degrees from the University of Georgia. He continued his education with a PhD degree in biochemistry from the University of Illinois in 1974. He was appointed assistant professor of microbiology at Virginia Tech in 1976, where he rose to the rank of professor.Read More
“I had a job offer in hand and signed and was ready to go, which was a huge relief because I didn’t have to do any job searching when I was all done with college.”
Taylor BattagliaTaylor Battaglia
Mechanical Engineering Technology (BS)
For Taylor Battaglia, the hands-on learning he received at Alfred State was invaluable once he entered the workforce.
“I think Alfred State really gave me the experience of what it would be like to be working, partially because it wasn’t just sit down, have someone talk at you for an hour,” Taylor said. “It’s one thing to look at it in a textbook, but it’s another thing to actually hold it in your hand. It’s a totally different experience.”Read More
“I feel as if I make a difference in the quality of their writing, their ability to graduate from Alfred State, and their ability to work at a job at some point in the future.”
Dr. Aniko ConstantineDr. Aniko Constantine
Getting to know Annie
Dr. Aniko Constantine’s true legacy is her impact on students.
In her 40-plus years of teaching English at Alfred State, Dr. Aniko Constantine has won awards, become a SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor, and donated money for scholarships and a legacy gift in the form of a $100,000 annuity. Yet Constantine’s true legacy isn’t measured in achievements or dollars and cents, but rather by the impact she has had on her students.Read More
"All of the things that have really become my strengths were from opportunities I had at Alfred State."
Chad DispenzaChad Dispenza
Information technology: web development
Dispenza became less shy through getting involved with many clubs and organizations on campus.
In his senior year of high school, Buffalo native Chad Dispenza was voted shyest person in his class. But once he came to Alfred State, he came out of his shell. “At the football games, every time we scored a touchdown, I would run down onto the field and do as many sit-ups as we would have points,” he said, “and the cheerleaders would yell at me.”Read More
"[Online classes] offer a lot of flexibility. It takes a lot of self-discipline, but it’s really great for someone who has a busy schedule."
Lisa ReynoldsLisa Reynolds
Nursing BSN, Chemical Dependency Rehab, New Horizons Inpatient at Binghamton General
Lisa had a lot of conflicting ideas about what to do with her life before entering college.
“To be honest, I sort of fell into nursing as a major. I looked at a lot of schools, thought about pre-med, law enforcement, everything. In high school I considered psychology as well,” Lisa says.Read More
“As a result of that education that I had received at Alfred State, I just stayed in my field and I found it very enjoyable and it became very successful for me.”
Al StyrculaAl Styrcula
General business management, '59
When Albert Styrcula entered the workforce in 1959, he was fresh out of college.
He started out at Foodcraft Inc., a small processing and distribution company that dealt in dairy products. His jobs varied from accounting work to driving trucks to delivering milk to washing bottles.Read More
“My years at Alfred State provided me the opportunity to grow as a person and as a student.”
Courtney CardinalCourtney Cardinal
Forensic science technology (BS), biological science (AAS)
Strong work ethic and leadership skills were the direct result of her programs and getting involved on campus.
A 2013 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence recipient, Courtney joined Student Senate as the activities chair and later became president of that organization. In addition, she co-founded Live to Fight, a group that brings awareness to all types of cancer and terminal diseases.Read More
“I heard about how good the major here was, and it was really one of the few schools that offered it with both hands-on training and the green building aspect.”
Travis HarveyTravis Harvey
Building Construction, Technology Management
Travis is passionate about all things green—from renewable energy and resources to green building techniques.
Travis was attracted to the building construction major at Alfred State because of the incredible hands-on learning opportunities it offers. “I heard about how good the major here was, and it was really one of the few schools that offered it with both hands-on training and the green building aspect.”Read More
“In my head I always had all these ideas and stories; this major helps me organize my thoughts and share them with the world.”
Patty PadillaPatty Padilla
Digital Media and Animation
Patty Padilla, a Manhattan resident, came to Alfred State undecided until she met a student in the Digital Media and Animation Department.
“In my head I always had all these ideas and stories; this major helped me organize my thoughts and share them with the world.”Read More
“I was put into an environment that I call a ‘practice job’ and I came out the other side with the utmost confidence in my abilities.”
Ryan DontohRyan Dontoh
Autobody repair
Ryan had the opportunity to gain live, hands-on experience as a technician, and work alongside instructors very well-versed in their field.
Ryan Dontoh can attest that Alfred State played a huge role in helping him become the person he is today. The Dryden native is now employed as a senior build technician at Local Motors, Inc. out of Phoenix, AZ, a company he established a relationship with while taking part in the Fireball Run competition as an Alfred State student. Also, joining the Psi Delta Omega Fraternity and the Emerging Pioneers Leadership Program (EPLP), he says, helped make him into a leader.Read More
“The professors are also licensed surveyors who take a lot of pride in what they do and the organizations they are a part of.”
Roger O’TooleRoger O’Toole
Surveying and Geomatics Engineering Technology
After 15 years dreaming of going back to school, Roger took the leap and applied to Alfred State.
Although he holds a degree in forestry, the college’s four-year, ABET accredited program in surveying and geomatics engineering technology was a better fit for his career aspirations.Read More
“Having two degrees will make me a more competitive job applicant. The more versatile you are and the more you know, the more marketable you are.”
Zach DiangeloZach Diangelo
Automotive Technology, Heavy Equipment: Truck and Diesel Technician
Zach Diangelo, of Nunda, has a love of all things fast, powerful, and four-wheeled.
“I really love working on cars. I love seeing how I can make them go faster and be more powerful. My dream is to work on Lamborghinis and Mercedes.”Read More
"I wanted to spend more time under the hood rather than just rushing through the theory."
Emily SlaytonEmily Slayton
Welding Technology
“I’m a girl working in what people think of as a man’s field, but I’ve never let that define me.”
Emily discovered her talent for welding in high school and chose Alfred State because she wanted an education that would give her the experience she needed to be confident entering the field.Read More
“I think you learn a lot more by doing.”
Bill BucknerBill Buckner
Building Trades: Building Construction
Alfred State is very veteran-friendly.
When former Army Master Sgt. Bill Buckner decided to attend college to learn building trades, he wanted some hands-on work, rather than sitting in a classroom all day, so he chose to earn his degree at Alfred State. “I didn’t want to write a whole bunch of papers. In the building trades: building construction major, you sit in a classroom for an hour or two in the morning and then you apply what you’ve been taught. Plus, you’re more active.”Read More
“We’re getting that hands-on experience that employers are looking for.”
Jordon WilliamsJordon Williams
Electrical Construction and Maintenance Electrician
Faculty helped him out tremendously and the college has given him the knowledge and confidence he needs.
After completing his service in the Marine Corps, Jordon Williams began researching colleges to attend. His search ultimately brought him to Alfred State. “It had the best program for what I wanted to do.” Williams, who planned on becoming a wind turbine technician after graduating from Alfred State, said the faculty helped him out tremendously, and that the college gave him the knowledge and confidence he needed to have when entering the workforce.Read More
"An investment in the education of our young people is one of the best investments we can make for our families, communities, and our country.”
Barbara BeckerBarbara Becker
Executive secretarial
"Alfred State is one of my big loves."
Barbara Becker credits Alfred State with providing the foundation for advancement in her 40-year career in the business world, as well as the confidence to meet the challenges of everyday life. "Alfred State is one of my big loves," she said.Read More
“I just go to things, just to make a presence, because I enjoy what the college has.”
Mary HuntingtonMary Huntington
First lady of Alfred State from 1964 to 1986
An enduring and endearing presence
You may have seen her at an Alfred State sporting event, at Commencement, or exercising at the Orvis Strength and Conditioning Center. Mary Huntington has had a strong presence at Alfred State and the nearby community since 1964, when she became first lady of the college after her husband, David, took over as the school’s seventh president. David Huntington, for whom the Huntington Administration Building on the Alfred campus is named, served as head of the college until 1986.Read More
“[Alfred State] gave us a chance to flourish and to discover what lay ahead for us in the future.”
Tim and Deborah (Wallace) MooreTim and Deborah (Wallace) Moore
Class of 1982
For the Moores, Alfred State is many things.
Alfred State is the place where they met, the place where they fell in love, and the place that helped set them on a path to bright futures. The Moores' road to where they are today began in the early '80s, when they first met in the registration line at Alfred State as nontraditional, adult students. Though they now reside more than 400 miles away from Alfred, the Moores have still maintained close ties to Alfred State and have generously supported their alma mater over the years.Read More
"My professional success, I believe, is greatly indebted to the solid foundation I received at Alfred State.”
Lee BrastedLee Brasted
Engineering science
Brasted has given back much to Alfred State over the years.
In his 30-plus years of working for Shell Offshore, a subsidiary of Shell Oil, Lee Brasted carved out an impressive and prosperous career as a world-class engineer. The success he enjoyed in this field was largely founded on the solid education he received at Alfred State.Read More
Financing Your Future
