Adult Student Shannon Boyd Wins State Recognition

Tompkins Cortland Community College student Shannon Boyd has been honored with the Continuing Education Association of New York (CEANY) Charles A. Burns Outstanding Adult Continuing Education Student Award. Boyd was announced as the winner at the CEANY annual conference in Saratoga Springs in November.

Boyd is the second TC3 student honored with the statewide award, following Chris Callahan last year. An accounting major, Boyd had a difficult upbringing before coming to TC3 as an adult. Now serving as the student representative on the College’s Board of Trustees, she is able to draw on her personal journey to help others.

“Shannon lends her personal experiences to help her fellow trustees more clearly understand the challenges our students often face. For example, she was extremely candid about her experience in the foster care system as a youth,” wrote President Amy Kremenek in her nomination. “She eloquently describes the challenges and, most importantly, the promise of young people in very challenging circumstances.”

“Shannon made the courageous decision to return to school and pursue her education,” wrote Assistant Professor Janita Moricette about Boyd. “Balancing the demands of academics, work, and family, Shannon has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a steadfast commitment to her studies. Her determination to achieve her goals, despite the challenges of returning to school as an adult, is a true testament to her character and perseverance.”

Associate Professor Aaron Decker echoed those sentiments, writing: “Shannon overcame the odds and escaped an environment that led so many to a doomed future.” Referring to her upbringing living in foster care, group homes, and a residential treatment facility, Decker added, “She decided to return to school to provide a better life for her family. Shannon maintains an extraordinary GPA while being a wife, mother, student, tutor, trustee, and ambassador.”

The Charles A. Burns Outstanding Adult Continuing Education Student award includes a $2,000 scholarship. CEANY is a statewide organization with more than 500 members representing all public higher education across New York, including both SUNY and CUNY two- and four-year institutions.

Photo Caption (from left to right): Shannon Boyd and President Amy Kremenek