CCSBA honors SUNY Fredonia leaders, Education Department
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FREDONIA – The Chautauqua County School Boards Association (CCSBA) gathered at the State University at Fredonia recently for its second dinner program of the school year.
The program began with a special presentation honoring Dr. Stephen H. Kolison Jr., SUNY Fredonia president, and his administrative team. The association presented Kolison with a proclamation and certificate of recognition in honor of SUNY Fredonia's bicentennial 200-year anniversary. Following the opening ceremony, the association presented its annual Friend of Education award to the SUNY Fredonia Department of Education. The award recognizes organizations or individuals that demonstrate exceptional dedication to public education based on four key criteria: regional impact, sustained commitment to Chautauqua County and the surrounding region, innovation in opportunities for local schools and teachers and advocacy and public support of the county's public schools.
Todd Crandall, association executive director, presented the annual award trophy to Dr. Janeil Rey, SUNY Fredonia College of Education dean.
"In reviewing undergraduate data dating back to 1944, we found that between 1944 and October 2026, SUNY Fredonia has graduated 17,440 education majors," said Crandall. "This staggering figure represents generations of dedicated educators who have shaped the classrooms of Chautauqua County, New York state, and beyond. Their sustained commitment and profound impact on our local schools make the College of Education truly deserving of this honor."
Following the awards presentation and dinner, attendees heard from leaders from the state Education Department in Albany. Assistant Commissioner David Frank and Senior Strategist Shannon Logan delivered a feature presentation on the state's flagship educational frameworks: NY Inspires and the Portrait of a Graduate initiatives. The presentation provided school board members with vital updates on how these forward-looking policies are being implemented across New York state to prepare students for college, career, and civic life.