Rochesterian honored with SUNY Chancellor’s Award

Christol Wright, a Rochester native and multi-degree student at SUNY Empire, has been named the recipient of the 2026 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. The award, the highest honor granted to SUNY students, recognizes Wright’s exemplary achievements in academics, leadership, civics, service, and performing arts. She is one of four SUNY Empire students to receive the award this year. Wright’s academic journey includes a bachelor’s in community and human services from SUNY Empire in 2009, a master’s-level healthcare management certificate from the same institution, an addiction counseling degree from Monroe Community College, and a development disability certificate from SUNY Brockport. She recently completed a master’s in social and public policy at SUNY Empire and is currently pursuing a master’s in social work at Nazareth University. During her time at SUNY Empire, Wright actively contributed to the community through roles such as a member of the Empire State Service Corps, addressing student food insecurity, and as a substance abuse counselor and AmeriCorps VISTA member with the Police Assisted Addiction & Recovery Initiative. Her work reflects a deep commitment to equity, inspired by her personal experiences growing up in poverty and advocating for her children with disabilities. Wright’s advocacy stems from her belief that diverse voices improve service providers, particularly in addressing gaps for marginalized communities. She emphasizes the importance of ground-level work, citing her efforts with the unhoused community to ensure sustained progress. Wright’s dedication to improving systems through direct engagement highlights her impactful approach to social change. Lisa Vollendorf, president of SUNY Empire, praised the awardees, stating their commitment to service is already making a meaningful impact. Wright expressed that the recognition motivates her to uphold professionalism and ethical integrity while continuing to support others. Her story underscores the transformative power of education and community service in driving social equity.