SUNY Cobleskill: Celebrating the Achievements of Notable Alumni
The State University of New York College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill (SUNY Cobleskill) has a rich history dating back to its establishment as the Schoharie State School of Agriculture in 1911. Over the years, it has evolved into a distinguished institution within the SUNY system, known for its commitment to agriculture, technology, and various other fields of study. A key aspect of SUNY Cobleskill's legacy is the accomplishments of its alumni, who have made significant contributions to their professions, communities, and alma mater. This article highlights some of the notable alumni who have brought recognition and pride to SUNY Cobleskill.
Honoring Outstanding Alumni
SUNY Cobleskill, in conjunction with its Alumni Board and Athletic Department, recognizes outstanding alumni during its annual Homecoming celebration. These awards celebrate alumni who have excelled in their respective fields and have made a positive impact on society.
Athletic Achievements
The Athletic Department has honored several alumni for their achievements in sports:
Michael Schrader ('99): Recognized for his contributions to basketball.
Kane Seamon ('14): Celebrated for his accomplishments in cross country and track & field.
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Peter Shaw ('78): Honored for his participation and success in soccer, wrestling, and baseball.
Robert Taylor ('84): Acknowledged for his achievements in golf.
Chef Robert Fasce ('87): Outstanding Alumnus Award
Chef Robert Fasce ('87) received the Outstanding Alumnus Award for his storied culinary career. He has worked in some of the most revered restaurants and private clubs in North America. Currently, he is the Executive Chef for the Genesee Valley Club in Rochester, New York, known for its tradition of excellence in dining and catering. He previously served as Executive Chef for the Cherokee Town and Country Club in Atlanta, Georgia, which was rated the number one private club in America for over a decade.
Bryan Haynes II ('07): Young Alumnus Achievement Award
Bryan Haynes II (’07) was honored with the Young Alumnus Achievement Award. He received an Associate of Applied Science from the Community College of the Air Force, a Bachelor of Business Administration from Cobleskill in 2007, and a Master of Public Administration from the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy at the University of Albany in 2009. Bryan joined the State of Maryland Treasurer’s Office as their Chief Information Officer and Director of Information Technology. He is also an adjunct professor at Rockefeller College, teaching courses in cybersecurity.
Linda Elligott ('75): Distinguished Alumni Award (School of Liberal Arts, Science and Business)
Linda Elligott ('75) received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the School of Liberal Arts, Science and Business. She earned an Associate of Applied Science from SUNY Cobleskill in 1975 and went directly into the workforce as a water quality specialist. Linda later earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science from Syracuse University while working as Cornell University’s Arnot Forest Field Station as a wildlife biologist and natural resource specialist.
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Scott Kelley ('85): Distinguished Alumni Award (School of Agriculture and Natural Resources)
Scott Kelley ('85) was honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award for the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources. He received his Associate of Applied Science in Animal Science. Scott and his family own and operate Kelley’s Farm and Garden Center located adjacent to the College. He is a friend of his alma mater and has facilitated many agricultural events on campus, including the Annual Coby Classic Cattle Sale, the Spring Livestock Judging Clinic, and Ag Week. Scott and his family have been actively engaged in 4-H, FFA, and the New York Junior Beef Producers Association.
Michael Kaphan ('15): Outstanding Student Alumni Award
Michael Kaphan ('15) received the Outstanding Student Alumni Award. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business Management, maintaining a 3.75 GPA while managing a restaurant in the lower Hudson Valley. Michael came to SUNY Cobleskill in 2010 as a non-traditional student and worked full-time as a chef and seafood buyer in NYC. In 2012, he became a managing partner in Purdy’s Farmer and the Fish. Today, the restaurant is a beacon for the farm-to-table movement in NY State.
Wall of Fame Inductees
SUNY Cobleskill has established a Wall of Fame to honor individuals who have made indelible contributions to the college community. The Wall of Fame serves as an inspirational beacon for current and future generations, underscoring the values of excellence, commitment, and leadership.
Dr. MacDonald John Holmes
Dr. MacDonald John Holmes served as the College’s Dean of Agriculture from 1988 to 1997 and as Vice President for Academic Affairs from 1997 to 2002. Prior to his career in academia, he built the Cobleskill Veterinary Clinic with his uncle, Dr. John Holmes, where he practiced veterinary medicine for 27 years. He served numerous community and professional organizations, including the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schoharie and Otsego Counties, the Cobleskill Board of Education, and the Community Hospital of Schoharie County.
Dr. Olive Scott
Dr. Olive Scott served as SUNY Cobleskill’s first female Provost, helping introduce the College’s first bachelor’s program in 1987. She developed new academic degree programs and opened a partnership with John Deere. From 2008 to 2019, she chaired the SUNY Cobleskill College Council and guided the College through major shifts in higher education.
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Alumni Association Award Recipients
The College’s Alumni Association bestows annual awards to recognize alumni for their achievements and contributions.
Nicole Gisondi ’20: Rising Alumna Award
Nicole Gisondi ’20 was honored with the 2023 Rising Alumna Award. Since graduating with a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology, Gisondi earned her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. She is now a Licensed Therapist with CNY Mental Health Counseling in Syracuse, helping clients overcome anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, grief, and loss. Gisondi partners with the campus Wellness Center and offers remote counseling to current SUNY Cobleskill students.
Guy Rob Scott: Outstanding Alumnus
Guy Rob Scott was recognized as the 2023 Outstanding Alumnus. He earned an Associate’s degree in Fisheries and Wildlife and continued his academic journey at Utah State University, Syracuse University, UCLA and Harvard Business School. Scott serves as the CEO of Blue Eagle Strategies, a management consulting firm in upstate New York, with experience in the utility industry, holding leadership roles with Blasland, Bouck & Lee, Arcadis, NRG, and National Grid.
Other Notable Alumni
SUNY Cobleskill has produced numerous other notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields.
Kellie Hatton ’19B.T.
Kellie Hatton ’19B.T. strengthens the bond between humans and service dogs through her organization.
Keith Barbara ’11 A.S. Ag & Tech.
Keith Barbara ’11 A.S. Ag & Tech. is dedicated to agricultural education. He continues to advocate for ag education as a legislator in Oneida County.
Shelby M. A.S. CommunicationsB.S.
Shelby M. A.S. CommunicationsB.S. embodies excellence and leadership both on and off the court.
Joseph R. B.T.
Joseph R. B.T. graduated from SUNY Cobleskill in 2004 and is involved in the Crop Adviser Program.
Tessa Charles ’19 B.S. Early ChildhoodA.S.
Tessa Charles ’19 B.S. Early ChildhoodA.S. has earned a 4.0 GPA. and is an active leader on the Admissions team.
Doug Eversley
Doug Eversley has built a successful logging business in Sharon Springs, New York, relying on his education from SUNY Cobleskill.
Pierce Hayward
Pierce Hayward is a Sales Management Trainee for Great Plains Manufacturing, focusing on dealer development planning and sales analysis.
Paul H. Dzen
Paul H. Dzen grew up as a fourth-generation farmer in South Windsor, Connecticut, and now wholesales to grocery stores and specialty shops.
Shari Paradis
Shari Paradis operates the Oswegatchie Educational Center and has developed leadership opportunities for agriculture teachers.
Kyle Tuttle
Kyle Tuttle holds an AAS in Business Administration from SUNY Cobleskill and has set up a scholarship for business students.
Richard Ball
Richard Ball is the Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner.
Michael Kaphan
Michael Kaphan went to the University of Albany in 2009. and runs a business from scratch.
Linda Elligott
Linda Elligott went directly into the workforce as a water quality specialist.
Scott Kelley
Scott Kelley received his Associates of Applied Science in Animal Science.
Mark Finney '84: A Cherished Alumnus
The SUNY Cobleskill community mourns the loss of Mark Finney '84, who passed away this year, leaving a cherished legacy. Finney enjoyed a career as a teacher in Delhi, New York, and later in Little River, South Carolina. Upon his retirement, he returned to his hometown of Cortland in 2008 and reconnected with SUNY Cobleskill. He became a member of the Cobleskill Campus Childcare Center Board of Directors and the Alumni Association Board, serving in various capacities, including President and Secretary. Finney was also known for his presence at the State and County Fairs, supporting recruitment efforts. His dedication and contributions to the college community were deeply valued.
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