Canton, NY – SUNY Canton women's hockey student-athletes Sydney Valiquette and Ally Bickford were recognized with the Outstanding Bachelor's and Associate's Graduate Awards, respectively, and were both recently honored at SUNY Canton's Commencement on May 9, 2026.

Sydney Valiquette – Outstanding Bachelor's Degree Graduate Award
Valiquette is a Forensic Criminology graduate with a minor in Applied Psychology who has demonstrated strong leadership and deep campus involvement while balancing the demands of being a student-athlete. She has been involved in Academic Recovery as a Peer Mentor, in EOP as a tutor, and in the Student Athletic Advisory Committee.  She also volunteered for Special Olympics events and "Help Sami Kick Cancer" fundraisers.

Valiquette previously earned an Associate's degree in Criminal Justice in 2024 and earned the highest GPA in her major that same year. She has consistently earned President's List and is one of three honors students in the class of 2026.

"Sydney is an exemplar for her peers in terms of how to get the most out of a college career," Associate Professor Barat Wolfe said. "She leads from the front, asking the most of herself and inspiring others to do their best, too."

She has completed advanced projects on topics including Mental Illness in the Criminal Justice System and advanced-level analysis of a Criminal Investigative Analysis report.

"Sydney's character and integrity stand out," Professor of Practice Alan Mulkin said. "She demonstrates accountability in her responsibilities and takes pride in the quality of her work. Sydney's ability to communicate effectively and work well with others makes her someone whom students, faculty, and staff respect and trust."

She played defense for the Roos women's hockey team. In four years, Sydney played in 98 games, tallying 29 points and 25 assists. She also served as the women's hockey captain for three seasons.

Following graduation, Sydney plans to attend law school.
 

Ally Bickford – Outstanding Associate's Degree Graduate Award
Bickford is a Physical Therapist Assistant graduate who has demonstrated exceptional academic achievement while successfully balancing athletic commitments. During her education, she has earned President's List and Dean's List honors, received an award for highest GPA in her major, and was named to the SUNYAC Commissioner's Academic Honor Roll during the 2024-2025 season.

"Ally has demonstrated perseverance in her first two years at SUNY Canton," Professor and PTA Director Deborah Molnar said. "She has a very strong work ethic and can be counted on to follow through on her commitments."

She has done clinicals at Jill Robertson Physiotherapy and Consulting and Claxton Hepburn Medical Center. 

"Ally is a diligent and dedicated PTA student," Professor Jennifer McDonald said. "She is consistently proactive in ensuring that she is meeting all academic requirements when she is out of class for hockey travel and games. She consistently received positive feedback from both her clinical instructor and her patients."

Bickford finished her second year as a forward with Roos women's hockey team. She has also helped with the Special Olympics, taught exercises to older adults, and spent time skating with area children.

She plans to continue her studies at SUNY Canton to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Health & Fitness Promotion.
   

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.