Alfred State Grows Enrollment by 20%
Alfred State College (ASC) boasts a remarkably strong enrollment this fall with the largest incoming class in the last eight years. This success is made more impressive since COVID led to enrollment declines at many schools nationwide and even forced some institutions to cease operations.
After 15 days of instruction, the official higher education census date recorded 1,469 new and transfer ASC students compared to 1,228 for 2022, for a game-changing 20-percent increase in one year. Out-of-state and international enrollment leaped forward with a 48 percent increase over last year. In another measure of success, for three consecutive cohorts, Alfred State’s retention rate is also climbing. Total enrollment at Alfred State is now 3,524.
“We couldn’t be more pleased with all of our newest Pioneers as we continue to attract students from a wider geographic area and a more diverse student population,” said Alfred State President Dr. Steve Mauro. “The efforts of our faculty, admissions, financial aid, marketing, and student engagement teams, among others, led to this magnificent achievement. My belief in our mission, quality of programs, and people has fueled the setting of high goals and our team clearly is surpassing even my high expectations for what I knew they could achieve. The quantity and quality of our new Pioneers and the faculty who dedicate themselves to their education are impressive.”
Alfred State’s emphasis on career-ready graduates who can “Hit the ground running” is a crucial factor in the college’s success. With hands-on learning in 200 plus labs and applied learning in every major, prospective students and parents know that choosing ASC is an investment in the future as graduates launch good-paying careers. Families seeking the right college at the right price appreciate the affordability of Alfred State and how 98 percent of ASC graduates are employed or continuing their education which shows how Pioneers are successful.
The State University of New York (SUNY) had a free application ad campaign last fall that successfully increased application numbers nearly 30 percent systemwide for the fall cohort. The Alfred State team offered free applications for a longer period and incorporated affordability messaging into the college’s advertising to fuel interest among price conscious prospective students. These extra efforts by Alfred State broke records. ASC received more than 9,300 applications for this fall’s cohort up from approximately 6,000 in the previous year for an extraordinary 55-percent increase.
Alfred State’s admissions and marketing targeted the right students as evidenced by the fact that both applications and acceptances were up more than 50 percent with no lowering of admissions standards.
“It takes strategic planning and a massive effort to attract, process, engage, support, and enroll so many more students in only a one-year period,” said ASC Vice President of Enrollment Kishan Zuber. “I’m so impressed by the Alfred State staff and faculty for helping our new Pioneers ‘find their right fit.’ We have prepared to build on this momentum and are already attracting more new students for Fall 2024.”
Alfred State recently was awarded recognition once again as the number one SUNY Regional College by US News and World Report. According to Zuber, the college offers many benefits for prospective students as Alfred State offers a more relevant and practical education.™
US News ranks Alfred State No. 1
Alfred State College (ASC) once again ranked as the No. 1 SUNY Regional College by US News and climbed to No. 8 among all public and private regional colleges across 11 states and the District of Columbia. The latest US News & World Report rankings again confirmed excellence at Alfred State in an analysis of hundreds of regional colleges across the nation.
“We continue to accomplish great things here at Alfred State,” commented ASC President Dr. Steve Mauro. “These rankings illustrate our ability to provide hands-on, in-demand education that prepares our students to build a great future. It’s quite a compliment for a respected outside organization like US News to validate our success at student outcomes, career success, college reputation, and the excellence of our accomplished faculty.”
The US News definition of a regional college is one that focuses on undergraduate education with less than 50 percent of the degrees in liberal arts. This makes for more career-focused graduates. Since 2006, the publication has ranked ASC as one of the best.
The US News definition of a regional college is one that focuses on undergraduate education with less than 50 percent of the degrees in liberal arts. This makes for more career-focused graduates. Since 2006, the publication has ranked ASC as one of the best.
When students search for colleges with certain majors, Alfred State ranks Top 5 among Northern Regional Colleges for 40 areas of study. ASC ranks high when compared with both public and private institutions across the entire northern region.
Overall, the factors that directly relate to outcomes such as social mobility, graduation, and retention rates, graduate indebtedness, graduate earnings compared with earnings of high school graduates, and graduation rate performance have a total weight of more than 50% in the ranking methodology.
The U.S. News rankings formula gives a weight of 20% to academic reputation scores because a diploma from a distinguished college can help graduates get jobs or gain admission to top-notch graduate programs.™
Alfred State establishes Office of Extended Learning, Innovation, and Teaching Excellence
Alfred State has established the Office of Extended Learning, Innovation, and Teaching Excellence (ELITE). The new office, led by Director Danyelle O’Brien, incorporates the Center for Online Learning, the Center for Extended Learning, and the newly established Center for Innovation and Teaching Excellence.
The Center for Online Learning will continue to be the resource for students and faculty learning and teaching in programs that are delivered primarily online. Alfred State’s online programs primarily serve an adult working population of learners and support is tailored to their needs to help achieve academic success. The Center is staffed with an Instructional Designer Ron Good, Online Academic Advisor Jeremy Howard, Online Success Coach Christy Schmitt, and Online Assistant for Strategic Partnerships Judy Rose.
The Center for Extended Learning, formerly the Center for Community Education and Training (CCET), focuses on non-traditional, non-matriculated student advisement, business and industry training, noncredit community training, high school programs, summer and winter school sessions, the Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) and Certified Prevention Professional (CPP) programs, and the Police Academy.
Assistant Director Tammy Edwards is excited to be collaborating on micro-credential projects, one of the newest programs developing in the Center for Extended Learning. ASC is working with industry leaders in establishing workforce development programs that will be available for upskilling career opportunities. The new micro-credentials are aligned with Chancellor King’s initiatives around micro-credentials and pathways from SUNY EOCs.
The newly established Center for Innovation and Teaching Excellence (CITE), led by Associate Director Deepa Deshpande, PhD, serves Alfred State faculty by providing resources to cultivate the use of innovative methods in the classroom to meet the needs of today’s college students. The CITE is a welcoming space for faculty to engage in interdisciplinary discussions, share teaching strategies, and participate in formal communities of practice around teaching and learning.
Establishment of the CITE was an initiative ASC President Steve Mauro supported early on in his presidency after listening to feedback from faculty across campus. “We pride ourselves for providing a hands-on high quality learning environment for our students. To be able to extend that to our faculty and staff through CITE seemed like a natural extension.”
“ELITE will provide the necessary infrastructure and resources to strengthen and expand our adult and online learning opportunities for both current and future students and our community at large,” commented Vice President for Academic Affairs Carrie Cokely, PhD.
“As we continue to promote applied learning, engaging pedagogy, and student success, the Center for Innovation and Teaching Excellence will provide ongoing programming to further the professional development of our excellent faculty on all three campuses.”™
Dr. Mauro excited about future of Alfred State amidst historic anticipated enrollment
Alfred State College President Dr. Steve Mauro opened the 2023 fall semester by sharing his appreciation for the work done in the past year and his excitement for the future.
He opened his address by sharing the success of the ASC Challenge which has evolved into college’s new strategic plan focusing on attracting new students, strengthening academic and student success, and cultivating a caring community.
He applauded the efforts of the faculty and staff of the college in multiple different initiatives. He announced that the 2023 incoming class is expected to be an estimated 1,500 students, an increase of nearly 300 students compared to last year. He also announced that through the efforts of many the retention rate of students is anticipated to increase by over two percent.
“This is an exciting time to be part of Alfred State,” stated Mauro. “We have achieved so much in my brief time here. I look forward to working towards the goals of our new strategic plan and continuing the excellent work being done in and out of our classrooms.”
Before introducing parts of the new strategic plan, Mauro took time to reflect on three individuals that have been part of the foundation of the college’s success. He honored past president Dr. John Hunter, College Council chair Patricia Fogarty, and First Lady of Alfred Mary Huntington.
During his address, Mauro welcomed new employees to the college, gave updates on facility projects and the budget, and encouraged faculty and staff to continue to build together by using their time, talent, and treasures to help those at Alfred State and within the local community.™
Greeks Return to Campus to Reconnect
Over eighty Greek alumni returned to Alfred State College recently to reminisce and reconnect during the college’s first All Greek Reunion.
The highlight of the weekend was a Greek Celebration held in the Central Dining Hall on Saturday evening. After alumni and guests enjoyed a buffet dinner, six of the Greek houses showcased how the five pillars of Greek life, scholarship, service, leadership, brotherhood and sisterhood, and growth, continue to guide each organization. Presentations were made by Alpha Beta Chi, Delta Chi Omega, Pi Nu Epsilon, Gamma Theta Gamma, Psi Delta Omega, and Kappa Sigma Epsilon.
“It was amazing to see the bond our alumni have to their Greek brothers and sisters,” stated Director of Alumni Relations Mary Perkins. “We had individuals fly in from California, Arizona, and Florida to join us for the event. These connections are so special, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with our Greek alumni and other affinity groups to get them back on campus to reconnect with each other and to the college.”
Vice President of Institutional Advancement Danielle White echoed Perkins’ thoughts. “It was a magnificent event. It is always amazing to have alumni return to campus and hear their stories of their time at Alfred State. Special thanks to all those on the planning committee that worked hard to make this weekend a success.”
The weekend started on Friday night with a meet and greet at the Lake Lodge featuring the music of the Bowen Brothers. Saturday events included breakfast in the Allegany Room, visits to sorority and fraternity houses, and a tailgate event at Pioneer Stadium.™
Rain does not dampen Alfred State Golf Tournament
Golfers came together on a wet day to have fun and support Alfred State College by playing in the 9th annual Pioneers Drive for the Development Fund Golf Tournament.
Presented by Mach Architecture, thirty teams gathered at the Wellsville Country Club on June 16. The event raised more than $27,000 in cash and gifts in kind. Proceeds from the event will help fund student scholarships, athletics, and other needs of the college.
Alfred State Director of Development Jason Sciotti was pleased with the event. “For the first time in nine years the event was dampened by rain, but our golfers found ways to persevere. Some enjoyed the afternoon in the clubhouse while others played on. The relationships built on this day are amazing and that is why every year this event is highly attended and sponsored. We were excited to offer over ninety door prizes at this year’s tournament and would like to say thanks to our amazing donors and sponsors.”
The team of Otis Minnesota took home first place, Chuck Neal, Mike Obuhanich, Tom Hirsh, and Brent Rohrbacher shot a 61 to win the tournament title. Dennis Ferris, Al Plante, Brian Vandermortel, and John Ryan finished second with a 62 and the team of Brian Marlatt, John Gemmell, John Feenaughty, and Gerry Flaitz was third with a 63. The top three teams took home $500, $300, and $200, respectively.
In addition, the tournament featured many silent auction items, several skills prizes, and the day ended with a barbecue dinner inside the Wellsville Country Club.
A highlight of the day was the auctioning of a Buffalo Bills helmet signed by tight end Dawson Knox, courtesy of 2017 Alfred State Alum & Assistant Director of P.U.N.T (Pediatric Cancer Collaborative Inc.), Madison Szpaicher.
New in 2023 was the Hoop Shoot 50/50 raffle. Men’s basketball coach Jack Dignan and women’s soccer coach Anne Holmok ran the raffle.
The longest drive on hole #7 was sponsored by 1994 graduate and CEO of BuildingPoint Northeast Steve Montgomery. Montgomery and his colleague used survey laser rangefinders to measure the longest drives of the day.™
Alfred State celebrates Homecoming
Alfred State students, families, friends, and alumni enjoyed a wide variety of events during Homecoming Family Weekend.
“We had a ton of events from football games to talent shows to wrestling open practice,” commented Dr. Steve Mauro.” “You name it and we had it this weekend. It is amazing to have people come to campus to see the great things going on here. Thanks to all our friends, our families, and alumni for showing up this weekend and participating in the fun.”
The blue & gold dinner at the Terrace kicked off the weekend. Students enjoyed a special dinner, trivia, and were entered into a raffle sponsored by ACES. Later in the evening, students enjoyed roller skating on the multipurpose courts.
The College hosted a celebration of the MacKenzie Complex and the Hinkle Bell Tower on Friday afternoon. The event in the MacKenzie Commons allowed visitors to see the improvements and socialize while listening to the music of Ade Adu. The landmarks on campus were both built fifty years ago.
Friday night featured food trucks, a bonfire, and fireworks before the popular Alfred’s Got Talent show in the Cappadonia Auditorium. Singers, bands, and dancers took the stage to the delight of the audience.
Rain on Saturday forced the open wrestling practice indoors but the parking lots outside of Pioneer Stadium were busy with a car show, the annual Greek Chili Cook-Off, and a performance by the Alfred State Rock Band.
A successful athletic afternoon started with a conference opening victory for the football team over Anna Maria and was followed by victories by both the men’s and women’s soccer teams over La Roche. Alfred Voices sang the national anthem and the Dance Team performed at halftime of the football game.
The Homecoming barbecue was held in the large tent outside the stadium and local country artist Brianna Blankenship and her band performed in the Cappadonia Auditorium. Visitors were able to choose between a movie or checking out the Fierce Flag Football event to close out the day.
Sunday featured a family brunch in the Central Dining Hall.™
Construction progress and results at Alfred State
Advancements are not slowing down as Alfred State College (ASC) continues to move forward with multiple construction projects to enhance and beautify the campus. ASC has an ambitious slate of $100 million dollars of improvements underway.
“We understand that the normal look and feel and travel around campus has changed as we worked on different areas on campus,” stated Alfred State President Dr. Steve Mauro. “We appreciate everyone’s patience for these temporary alterations, because once completed, our campus will be even better.”
The most noticeable project currently underway is the road widening and infrastructure project. In completed areas, visitors will notice wider roads and sidewalks that will make car and foot travel safer.
Under the surface, the college is installing new water lines, upgrading sewer and storm water lines, and installing new electrical and fiber conduits. Connected to this project is the addition of a second water tower and the building of a water treatment plant.
Plans for planting flowers, trees, and bushes are being made to add beauty to campus once construction on the road and sidewalks is completed.
The MacKenzie North construction project is nearing completion as well while the college is in final planning stages for the renovation of the Agriculture Science Building that is also home to the student-responsive financial aid offices known for tailoring aid packages for current and prospective families.
Over the summer the college beautified the Hinkle Bell Tower area in time for both the bell tower and MacKenzie Residential Complex to celebrate 50 years during the Homecoming and Family Weekend.
Sunday featured a family brunch in the Central Dining Hall.™
Community Needs Hub opens in Peet Hall
Alfred State College recently opened the Community Needs Hub. The space located on the ground floor of Peet Hall houses our campus pantry, a clothing thrift store, lab and academic loaner equipment station, and houses park and trail clean-up equipment. The Community Needs Hub will be a great addition to campus student support and service opportunities.
“We are so excited to have this new space to provide much needed services to our students,” commented Director of Global Engagement and Civic Wellbeing Cyan Corwine. “We are appreciative of everyone that worked so hard to make this a reality. We now have a home that allows visitors to access the services we offer within our department.”
Current hours of the Community Needs Hub are:
- Monday: 12 – 3 p.m.
- Tuesday: 12 – 6 p.m.
- Wednesday: 12 – 6 p.m.
- Friday: 12 – 6 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Corwine continued, “I have been so impressed with the dedication of my student civic engagement advocates. They put in a lot of effort to get the area organized and open. Now they are staffing and interacting with the visitors to the Hub.”
Alfred State was one of 28 SUNY colleges receive funding from a historic investment by Governor Hochul and the Legislature in SUNY’s operating budget for 2023-24. SUNY is investing sustainable funding to support campuses in addressing food insecurity. Alfred State was one of six campuses to be awarded money to expand their food pantry’s physical space.
The Community Needs Hub is happy to receive any clean/good condition clothing and non-perishable food. Donations can be dropped off during open hours in Peet Hall or items can be left in the donation bin at the 3rd floor entrance of the Student Leadership Center.
Currently there is a need for winter attire (coats, hats, gloves, boots, sweaters), and men’s clothing in the Thrift Store.
The food pantry is currently only available for students and requests are for frequently for easily prepared foods and snacks.™