Two Upstate Medical University students have been honored with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence.

Hannah Connolly, who will receive MD and MPH degrees from Upstate, as well as a PhD from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs this month, and Jessalyn Rose who received a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree last year were announced as winners of the Chancellor’s award at an Albany ceremony.

The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence acknowledges students who have received recognition for distinguished achievements. It is the highest honor bestowed upon a student by the University.

SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr., applauded the award-winning students. “Your dedication and achievements are a testament to your unwavering commitment and determination,” he said. “The SUNY community is extremely proud of your accomplishments, your ambition, and the incredible individuals you have become.”

Connolly of Watertown has excelled academically, being a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Society as well as carrying a 4.0 GPA in her doctoral courses. The focus of her study, service, leadership, and scholarship over the past 8 years has been health disparities, spanning the clinical setting, the educational setting and her research. A role model for servant leadership, Connolly has contributed greatly to the pursuit of health equity and the enhancement of the curriculum at Upstate.

Rose has been involved in nursing leadership for most of her nursing career. She has a strong passion for leadership development, wellness, patient safety and quality improvement. She holds a national certification for every role she has held, which highlights her dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and mastery of the nursing profession. Most recently, she passed the certified professional inpatient safety exam and is working as a quality and safety investigator. Her goal is to expand nursing knowledge, skills, and contributions to the science of nursing.

This year, 193 students from 62 campuses were honored by the chancellor. Nominations are sought for students who have best demonstrated the integration of SUNY excellence within many aspects of their lives, including academics, leadership, diversity, equity, inclusion & justice, campus involvement, community service, research & development, and the arts (creative or performing).

Caption: 2024 SUNY Chancellor Award winners are, from left, Jessalyn Rose, DNP, and Hannah Connolly.