9 SUNY Opt-In Puts Incoming Students on the Digital Fast Track Any student attending SUNY Optometry knows that the College provides innovative approaches to education and learning. Now, thanks to SUNY Opt-In, those who have been admitted can experience the institution’s commitment before even stepping onto campus. Launched in April 2017, SUNY Opt-In is what associate director of admissions Christian Alberto calls a “one-stop shop,” where incoming students can figure out housing, secure financial aid and lay the foundation for their life at the College. “We’ve captured elements of our institutional values—excellence and innovation—while promoting the warm, supportive and exciting community that is SUNY Optometry,” says Mr. Alberto. “We want our newly committed students to have a digital platform that they can refer to for their questions, required steps and overall general interests throughout the year leading up to August enrollment.” SUNY Opt-In is particularly beneficial considering the College’s rolling admissions policy; some incoming students can have as long as a 10-month wait from acceptance to the start of classes. That is nearly a year of unknowns and potential anxiety about their academic future. Incoming students now interact live with the College’s admissions team, current students and future classmates to guarantee a very human outcome: calm and confident students from day one—or sooner. Levy, Radich Receive Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence Derek Radich Karen Levy and Derek Radich received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence on April 5 at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany, N.Y. The award acknowledges students’ distinguished achievements and is the highest honor bestowed upon a student by the University. This year, 256 students from 64 campuses received the recognition. “Students selected for the Chancellor’s Award have demonstrated that not only are they excellent students, but they go above and beyond – developing their talents and skills to contribute the best of themselves to their campuses and communities,” said SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher. “And their achievements reflect not only their hard work and dedication, but the support of their families and friends and SUNY’s world-class faculty and staff.” Levy, a Beacon, N.Y. native, excelled academically and graduated as valedictorian in May. She was secretary of Beta Sigma Kappa, the optometric honor society, and served as a tutor of class and clinic material. She volunteered annually as a student representative for VisionWalk to fundraise for retinal research. Radich proved his natural leadership abilities as president of Beta Sigma Kappa. The Newburgh, N.Y. native volunteered with Genesco First Response and provided optometric services to Special Olympics athletes. He was on the Dean’s List and attended the Alcon Academy for Eye Care Excellence. Karen Levy
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