Inaugural Empire State University student awarded Norman R. McConney Jr. Award

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – APRIL 26, 2024) A student at Empire State University has been awarded the prestigious Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award. Congratulations to Jo Young, the first student at SUNY Empire to receive this award.

The award recognizes students in SUNY’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) who demonstrate academic merit and perseverance, fulfilling the premise of Norman R. McConney, Jr.’s legacy.

"This award is named in honor of an individual whose profound impact has resonated throughout the Opportunity Program community and beyond, benefiting those who are underrecognized, underserved, and underrepresented,” Dana Brown, senior director of enrichment and opportunity programs, said. “McConney's legacy is a testament to the power of dedicated service and inclusive support."

About the winner:

In 2023, Jo Young earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology at SUNY Empire. She was recently accepted to a master’s in social work program at the University of Buffalo. Young aspires to become a trauma-informed and educated social worker, focusing on children experiencing neglect and socioeconomic disparities.

Young’s work at Empire State University centered on creating supportive systems for students and addressing equity related to neurodiversity and mental health. She used adversity in her own life to overcome challenges and pave the way to improve life for others.

“I was once told, ‘Brave birds still fly through fog,’” Young said. “This award is a testament to the personal and academic perseverance I have experienced over the course of the past two years. To me, it means that whatever I go through, I know that I will make it out on the other side because inside me is unwavering belief in myself and strength to keep pushing forward toward my goals.”

Young has been an active member of the University community. She served as a representative in the Student Government Association; led the college chapter of Active Minds, an organization dedicated to mental health awareness; and was an online leader in the Opportunity Programs Community Hub. Additionally, she pioneered a peer mediation program, which brought together a group of trained student mediators that provided a self-empowered, balanced, judgement-free environment to help people work through conflict.

Young currently works in 1Stop Student Services at Empire State University, continuing to assist students with their needs and connecting them to essential resources.

“My experience as a student has made my work transition easier. I understand what students are going through and I’m in a direct position to help,” Young said. “It feels great to give back my community, in the same place I was able to grow my own academic and personal success.“