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Two Delhi Students Earn 2026 SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence

Lauren Betsinger and Emily Festenstein were among a distinguished group of students honored

Delhi, NY (04/30/2026) — Two SUNY Delhi students have been recognized with the prestigious SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence. At an award ceremony in Albany on Monday, April 27, Lauren Betsinger and Emily Festenstein were among a distinguished group of students honored by Chancellor John B. King, Jr. for excellence in academics, leadership, campus involvement, and community service. The prestigious award is the highest honor SUNY bestows upon students.

Lauren Betsinger of Cobleskill, NY, is graduating with honors from SUNY Delhi with a bachelor's degree in Event Management with an exceptional 3.98 GPA. A dedicated and compassionate student leader, Lauren has served as an RA and SRA, mentoring peers, supporting residential communities, and creating inclusive, engaging programs for students. She has also made an impact as a peer tutor, helping fellow students develop academic and presentation skills. During her time at Delhi, Lauren has volunteered extensively through campus events, hospitality initiatives, and the Christian student club, BASIC. She is widely respected for her work ethic, leadership, and genuine commitment to helping others succeed.

Emily Festenstein of Rochester, NY, is graduating with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Delhi, where she has distinguished herself through academic excellence and inclusive campus leadership. Maintaining a 3.84 GPA, Emily balances rigorous coursework with meaningful service as a freshman orientation leader and campus tour guide. As President of the campus Pride Alliance, she is a passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion and played a central role in establishing the annual Lavender Graduation Celebration, creating a lasting tradition that honors student achievement, identity, and belonging. Emily's leadership has had a measurable and enduring impact on campus culture, student recognition, and equity.

"I am so proud of Lauren and Emily for being recognized for the lasting impact they have made on our campus during their time at SUNY Delhi," said SUNY Delhi President Mary Bonderoff. "They have meaningfully enriched our community in diverse ways, and their passion for supporting others truly stands out. We are excited to see all they will accomplish beyond Delhi."

"The students who have earned this recognition have inspired their classmates, their educators, their campuses and me with their inspiring work, tenacious drive, and dedication to their academic success," said SUNY Chancellor King. "I commend each of the awardees and thank them for being examples for others to follow."

About SUNY Delhi

Founded in 1913, SUNY Delhi is a premier technology college in New York State, integrating hands-on, career-focused teaching and learning into each of its 60+ academic programs. SUNY Delhi offers certificates, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees both on campus and online in diverse fields such as applied technologies, nursing, hospitality, veterinary science, and liberal arts. In recent years, SUNY Delhi's student-centered approach and reputation for excellence have led to record-breaking enrollment in many of its popular programs. With a commitment to high-quality education, sustainability, and community engagement, SUNY Delhi provides a supportive environment where students thrive both in and out of the classroom.

SUNY Delhi is a member of the State University of New York. For more information about SUNY Delhi, call 607-746-4550 or visit delhi.edu.

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