Two Cayuga Community College students have been awarded SUNY’s highest accolade.
Jorge Jimenez of the Bronx and Julia Wilson of Auburn were among 193 SUNY students who were honored Thursday with the 2024-25 Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. CCC said the award is awarded to students who “combine academic achievement with campus involvement, athletic participation, career accomplishment, leadership, and community service.”
CCC President Dr Brian Durant complimented both students for their achievements..
“Jorge and Julia are tremendous students who have contributed in countless ways to our Cayuga community over the past two years. They’re dedicated in the classroom, determined to prepare themselves for dynamic futures, and are committed to enhancing the college experience for their classmates. I congratulate them on earning the Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence, and wish them the best as they continue their education.”
Both students began at the college in 2023 and are graduating in the Class of 2025.
Jimanez is graduating with an Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences: Humanities and Social Sciences. While at CCC, he worked in the College Student Services Center and playes on the men’s basketball team. He also received the SUNY Norman R McConney Jr Award for Student Ecellence, awarded to outstanding students in the Educational Opportunity Program.
“I’m honored to be recognized with all of the deserving students across SUNY who received this award. I came to Cayuga knowing that I would do well if I worked hard and believed in myself. I was fortunate to have a great support system with my classmates and the Educational Opportunity Program at Cayuga. I know that between my hard work and their support, I’m prepared for any path I follow after earning my degree.”
Following graduation, Jimanez is considering transferring to another school to pursue a career in sports management.
Wilson is graduating with an Associate in Science in Business Administration. While at CCC, she was a tutor at the College Learning Commons and served as secretary for the Student Government Organization. A mother, she earned her degree while working part-time.
“I set a goal for myself to earn this award, but I was definitely surprised when I was notified. One of my goals at Cayuga was to connect with other students and to work together to make our college experiences memorable. By being involved on-campus, and building ties through the Advancing Success in Associate Pathways program, I was able to do that and also prepare myself for my future.”
Wilson is transferring to LeMoyne College to study accounting.
Both students are members of the academic honor society Phi Theta Kappa.
