SUNY Awards Two SUNY Canton Employees With Chancellor’s Awards

Two SUNY Canton employees have been selected to receive the 2024-2025 State University of New York Chancellor’s Award for Excellence.

These annual honors acknowledge consistently superior professional achievement in several categories, and they are awarded to employees throughout SUNY’s 64 institutions. Campuses submit nominations that are approved by the SUNY Committee on Awards.

This year, Director of Public Relations and Web Designer Travis G. Smith received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service, and Administrative Assistant 2 Shelly L. Thompson received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service. They were formally recognized at a college-wide event in May.

Travis Smith

Smith began his career at SUNY Canton in 2007 as an instructional technologist and subsequently became the college’s web designer in 2008. In that role, he reimagined the college’s web presence, building an engaging, accessible, intuitive environment. He was promoted to public relations director in 2013 and oversees all the college’s external marketing and communications functions.

His design skills have helped elevate the college’s branding and reputation, as well as earned him multiple awards for excellence. Smith most recently received a 2025 SUNYCUAD award for a campus banner project that celebrates the college’s diverse student body.

In addition to his outstanding performance, he serves on several college-wide committees focused on enrollment, crisis response, student awards, and internal assessment.

Colleagues praised his leadership skills and guidance during emergencies and challenges, particularly throughout the pandemic. His contributions have significantly elevated SUNY Canton’s standing in the community and in SUNY.

Shelly Thompson

Thompson has worked for the college since 2012 in various roles and is currently an administrative assistant 2 in academic affairs.

Nominators said her contributions as administrative assistant, academic recovery liaison, women’s hockey team mentor, and affirmative action committee member have brought tremendous value to the college.

Thompson is deeply invested in student success and goes above and beyond to ensure they have the best possible resources to excel. With a unique ability to make them feel seen and heard, she makes a profound impact on their overall experience.

Colleagues noted that her positive personality is infectious, creating a positive work environment. Her work ethic, empathy and compassion embody the spirit of this award.