November 4, 2021 message from President Kolison

November 4, 2021

Fredonia community:

Happy Thursday evening! I hope you’ve had a productive week. I have a few items to share with you this evening.

Covid-19 cases
As of this morning, we have ten active cases of COVID-19 among students. While this is one more case than last week, we are still managing to keep infections low on campus, and much lower than the rest of Chautauqua County. I want to thank everyone for doing everything they can to keep the campus safe from COVID-19. I remain hopeful for “zero active cases" before we reach Thanksgiving break.  

As a reminder, all vaccinated persons must still test once a month, and exempt individuals must test weekly.  I know this is not an exciting requirement. However, please cooperate as this is one of the ways we can keep the campus safe from COVID-19. Thank you for your support in this regard.

Tanner Kahlau Memorial Game
As many of you know, this past January, Fredonia tragically lost student Tanner Kahlau in a skiing accident in Lake Placid. Tanner was a junior from Mountain Top, PA, majoring in Business Administration-Management. He was also a well-respected member of the men's hockey team. This Saturday, the team and the University will honor Tanner with the “Tanner Kahlau Memorial Game,” at 4 p.m. in Steele Hall, against Trine University. As part of the memorial game, the University will award Tanner's degree posthumously to his parents. In addition, Tanner’s #9 jersey will hang on the Fredonia State bench for this game and every game, home and away, throughout the season.  I want to express my gratitude to everyone at the University for working to create this tribute in honor of Tanner.

In appreciation of Dr. Howard
I would like to express my appreciation to Vice President for Student Affairs Cedric Howard. As I shared with our community previously, Dr. Howard accepted the position of Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of Northern Colorado, and he will be leaving next week. He has made significant contributions to our University over the past five years. He has been a steadfast advocate for students' well-being and success.  Thank you, Dr. Howard.

Introducing Dr. Tracy Stenger
Students, I would like to announce that Dr. Tracy Stenger, will be the Interim Vice President for Student Affairs, effective November 11, 2021.  Dr. Stenger is currently the Executive Director of Student Wellness and Support Services.  She has held various administrative roles at SUNY Fredonia since 1998, including Assistant Director and Director of the Counseling Center.  Her international experience is extensive, including teaching in Malaysia and Japan. Dr. Stenger obtained her Ph.D. in Counselor Education from the University at Buffalo, Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Ball State University, and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from SUNY Fredonia.  Students, you are going to enjoy having Dr. Stenger as your chief advocate.

Finish line in sight
After tomorrow, only five weeks remain before the end of the semester. If you subtract the week-long break this month, then there are only four weeks of classes remaining. That has to be exciting. So, stay safe, focused, and keep your energies up until you reach the finish line. I am cheering you on.

Everyone, have a wonderful weekend.

Truly yours,
 

Dr. K
Stephen H. Kolison, Jr. Ph.D.
President and Professor