Merrick Resident Earns Staff Leadership Award At SUNY Old Westbury  

Danielle Collins Groner, a resident of Merrick, New York, was named the recipient of the 2023 SUNY Old Westbury President’s Excellence in Leadership Award during the University’s Staff Appreciation Barbecue and Service Awards held on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.

Collins Groner, who serves as director of communications and signature events, was recognized for assuming a leadership role on campus and successfully effected positive change for the University’s students over the past year.

“The dedication of our staff is a driving force behind our greatest achievements,” said University President Timothy E. Sams. “I am grateful that the University community is able to come together to recognize the professionalism and spirit with which we serve our students — together.”

The President’s Excellence in Leadership Award was created to recognize those who have demonstrated leadership while contributing to building an effective and positive work environment while strengthening the student experience.

Collins Groner’s honor was one of four new awards presented to exemplary members of the campus’ team. Two were selected by the Office of the President with another two determined through a campus nomination process and review by the Staff Forum, a volunteer group that serves as a medium for administrators and staff to discuss pertinent University issues, and serves as a liaison for staff members with senior administration of the campus.