Message to the College Community

From: President
Sent: Sunday, June 19, 2022

Words of Thanks and Celebration

Dear College Community,

Another commencement season has come to an end. After all that we have experienced these past 2.5 years,I want to thank you for making this season extra special. From the Nursing Pinning Ceremony, to the Lavender Graduation, to Awards Night, to Commencement Day-- you were there to celebrate our students! A special 'thank you' to all thefaculty and staff, Events Management, Operational Services, Print Shop, Communications and Marketing, Buildings and Grounds, the Custodial crew, Public Safety, Student Life and the Commencement Committee for the efforts they put into beautifying the campus and making each event beautiful.

While June 19th has long been observed by many as a reminder of slavery’s past and a celebration of freedom, today, as a nation we pause for the second time in history to recognize Juneteenth. In doing so, we remain mindful of the work that still needs to be done to eradicate discrimination and eliminate the structural racism that continues to widen gaps as wealth, health, housing, employment and education people of color-- many of whom are our students. I look forward to us continuing to doing our part in this work in the coming academic year.

Today we also celebrate all those who father and all the dads at KCC and beyond with a rousing Happy Father's Day! My wish is that you are surrounded by loved ones and with love on this special day and everyday.

Finally colleagues, the celebrations are not over yet. This Thursday is last lap (this is a what we in the islands sometimes would refer to as the final celebration after a long series of celebrations). Don your favorite blue hues and your dancing shoes and join us for our 16th Annual Fundraising Gala where we wil honor KCC's own Ryan McKinney, our outstanding Alumna Jill Marcus, KCC Foundation Board Chair Suzanne Murphy and the NY Navy League.

If you can't join us, there are many ways to help support students: make a donation or particpate in the online auction at https://e.givesmart.com/events/qDQ/

I hope to see you there... on the dance floor!

President Schrader