JCC Student Receives 2025 Norman R. McConney , Jr. Award for EOP Student Excellence

Jefferson Community College (JCC) is pleased to announce that Braelynn Appleby, Watertown, received the State University of New York (SUNY) Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for Student Excellence bestowed to an Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) student who demonstrates academic excellence and strength in overcoming significant personal obstacles. Appleby is one of fifty award recipients honored at a special ceremony held in Albany on March 13, 2025.

The Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award was established in memory of Norman R. McConney, Jr. (1946-2016), who graduated from the University at Albany and served as Assistant Dean for Special Programs at SUNY, as well as the long-time Chief of Staff for Buffalo Assemblyman Arthur O. Eve. McConney, along with Professor Emeritus Dr. Allen Ballard, played a pivotal role in the founding of the statewide Educational Opportunity Program. To date, EOP has served more than 80,000 New Yorkers from underprivileged backgrounds. 

“I am constantly reminded of the profound impact SUNY’s Educational Opportunity Program has had on countless lives,” says SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. “The stories, triumphs, and unwavering determination of SUNY’s EOP students serve as beacons of hope and inspiration for future generations of students. At SUNY, we are immensely grateful for the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the Legislature who continue to support this transformative program that ensures students not only start but have the support to complete their degrees.”  

Appleby, the first in her family to attend college, graduated from Jefferson with an associate degree in human services in December 2024. During her time at Jefferson, she earned Dean’s List honors, received the 2024 Outstanding Educational Opportunity Program Ambassador Award, and served as a resident assistant (RA) in the college’s residence halls. She also took advantage of professional development opportunities, such as the college’s Evening of Etiquette and Networking event. 

“I feel really honored to be selected for the Norman McConney Award,” says Appleby. “EOP has been the foundation of my success here at Jefferson. Starting off first semester, first day of classes, I already felt comfortable on campus. Knowing my resources and having a support system - being able to talk to my EOP advisor whenever I needed – made all the difference.” 

JCC EOP students honored with the Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award include Daniel J. Rowbottom, Warren, Ohio (2019), Rodman A. Marte, Manhattan (2020), Natasha Richardson, Clayton (2022) and Paige M. Schultz, Watertown (2023), and Braelynn Appleby, Watertown (2025).