College of Community and Public Affairs Top Stories for 2025
In 2025, the College of Community and Public Affairs celebrated a year of significant achievements and milestones. Faculty and students were recognized for their impactful work in areas such as education, public health, social justice and nonprofit leadership. The college launched innovative new programs and forged partnerships locally and internationally. Revisit some of the year’s top stories.
Meet Binghamton’s first Noyce Scholarship Program recipient
Math major Erica Fitch is the University’s first Noyce scholar, a program offering financial support and mentorship for new middle and high school mathematics teachers.
Binghamton launches new online Master of Public Policy
The College of Community and Public Affairs introduces a new public policy program to meet the needs of employers and students—the first of its kind in New York.
Binghamton faculty receive Research Excellence Awards
Faculty from the College of Community and Public Affairs, with colleagues from Harpur College, receive seed money grants for research that tackles real-world issues, including the politics of dating, using AI to improve reading outcomes, understanding policy navigation for individuals with disabilities and delivering mental health services in underserved communities.
BSW grad returns to school for a new career and desire to impact her community
It’s not easy returning to school after a 31-year absence, however, Shawn Stowe had a purpose: creating community-wide positive change by impacting policies, advocating for social justice, developing community programs and working to improve societal structures.
Binghamton hosts educational delegation from South Korea
In June, officials from the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education in South Korea visited the campus to learn about the University-Assisted Community Schools (UACS) model. They participated in discussions and presentations on UACS practices and its implementation in small cities and rural communities. The delegation also shared insights into their own initiative, Sharing Schools, which is based on school-community integration and aims to enhance student success.
Behind the scenes, ahead of the curve
Matthew Schofield ’03, MPA ’11, senior director of procurement and analysis in the Purchasing Office, is on a mission: to keep the campus running smoothly.
Change of plans: Graduate’s newfound love for research turned a two-year master’s into a PhD
When Francesca Bové began her graduate studies at Binghamton University in 2019, she expected to stay for just two years. But Bové discovered a deeper interest in research – specifically equity-driven research focused on marginalized populations. Encouraged by mentors and opportunities to collaborate on academic projects, she chose to stay and pursue her PhD in Community Research and Action.
BUCS supervisor receives New York State Senate award
In February, Asia Ambler, rural school mental health site supervisor at Binghamton University Community Schools (BUCS) within the Windsor Central School District in Broome County, received a Commendation Award from state senator Lea Webb.
Community Engagement
The Binghamton University Community Schools-Whitney Point Central School District collaboration promotes an environment that fosters student success through expanded school-based services and community outreach.
Binghamton University consortium leverages academic interests to examine local food systems
The Food Justice Working Group emerged in response to the pandemic, revealing a multidisciplinary interest in addressing food justice and sustainability through effective community collaborations and engaging existing structures and organizations.