Two SUNY Canton Staff Members Receive Prestigious Chancellor’s Award

SUNY Chancellor Kristina M. Johnson selected two members of SUNY Canton’s staff to receive the 2018 Chancellor’s Award for Excellence.

Lashawanda T. Ingram, co-chief diversity officer and director of diversity affairs and new student orientation, was chosen to receive the Excellence in Professional Service Award, and Joette Terrance, a janitor who works in MacArthur Hall, was selected as a recipient of the Excellence in Classified Service Award.

President Szafran presents the 2018 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service to Lashawanda Ingram.

Ingram began working at the college in 2005 as a residence hall director and was subsequently promoted to director of diversity affairs and new student orientation. Since her appointment as SUNY Canton’s co-chief diversity officer and affirmative action officer in 2016, she has worked to build a more inclusive campus culture and ensures search committee procedures are equitable.

“Lashawanda champions diversity initiatives through her close work with the administration and the president,” said SUNY Canton Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Courtney B. Bish. “She is a voice for underrepresented students, faculty and staff and has led creative and engaging events that foster a sense of community and awareness.”

Ingram was instrumental in establishing the college’s Center for Diversities and Inclusion, which opened in 2017. The center hosts sensitivity training, student leadership development events, mediation, tutoring services and more.

Ingram’s colleagues note her unique ability to create a space where everyone is encouraged to pursue thoughtful dialogue and a respectful exchange of ideas and feelings, while mentoring students to find productive ways to confront the issues of social and cultural injustice.

She was presented with her award at the college’s annual Faculty and Community Awards dinner.

President Szafran presents the 2018 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service to Joette Terrance.

Joette Terrance began working for the college as a temporary cleaner in 1997. She was hired as full time cleaner in 1998 and was promoted to janitor in 2010. Her colleagues praise the efficient and meticulous way in which she carries out her duties and her ability to boost morale by maintaining good relationships with her peers.

“Joette is known for her quick competency, kind words and smile for everyone,” said Assistant Professor Barat Wolfe, Ph.D., who teaches in the Applied Psychology program. “She also keeps the environment where we do our most important student engagement work spotless and positive. You will not find another person who cares more about our institution.”

Colleagues also praise Terrance’s working knowledge of the campus and ability to problem-solve with her coworkers to address issues in a timely manner. She is also relied upon to train new members of the custodial staff on providing effective customer service.

She was presented with her award at the college’s annual Recognition Day event.