Albany, NY – Sarah Balcom, a member of the SUNY Canton women's volleyball and softball teams, has been recognized with the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence (CASE). Balcom is set to graduate with her Bachelor's degree in Health and Fitness Promotion on Saturday at SUNY Canton.

"SUNY represents academic excellence, and our students have worked tirelessly to not only excel in their academic studies, but also stepped up as community leaders," said SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. "Congratulations to this year's CASE awardees who've distinguished themselves amongst their peers through their work ethic, determination, and commitment to their fields of study."

Balcom is a standout student-athlete at SUNY Canton, who has graduated Summa Cum Laude with degrees in Individual Studies in 2022 and the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program in 2023. She has consistently earned a place on the President's Honors List. She's a recipient of the SUNY Canton Spirit of Success Award and holds a New York State Coaching Certification and a Minor in Applied Psychology.

"Sarah helped elevate the standards of her class," said Associate Professor Janet Parcell, the lead faculty member for the Health and Fitness Promotion program. "She is responsible, dependable, caring, and has the vital ability to not only be smart on paper; she can also apply her knowledge to real life outside of a textbook."

Balcom has excelled in both volleyball and softball, earning multiple all-academic team honors. She was named a National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Scholar-Athlete. She serves her campus community as a peer mentor, lab assistant, and event staff member for SUNY Canton Athletics. Known for her quiet leadership, she volunteers at Special Olympics Fun Fitness events and represents the PTA program at admissions events. Balancing her academic workload, athletic commitments, and professional role as a licensed PTA, Balcom is a model of dedication, leadership and service in both college and community life.

In addition to Balcom Sonia Wilson, an online Healthcare Management major from Patchogue, was also recognized with the CASE.

"Sarah and Sonia are wonderful examples of what SUNY Canton students can achieve," said SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran. "Both have demonstrated academic and professional abilities and have demonstrated their abilities in the areas of professionalism and volunteerism. Most importantly, they have used their education for the benefit of others."
   

Discover SUNY Canton, where innovation meets opportunity. The college's career-focused educational programs emphasize hands-on and applied learning opportunities in digital design, engineering technology, health, information technology, management, public service, and veterinary technology. Faculty members bring real-world experience and exceptional academic expertise to the classroom. As a leader in online education, SUNY Canton offers unmatched flexibility with hundreds of courses and 25 comprehensive degree programs offered completely online. The SUNY Canton Kangaroos compete at the NCAA Division III level and are members of the SUNYAC. In addition to its 15 traditional teams, SUNY Canton offers coed varsity esports and cheerleading.