Serving as a testament to Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s commitment to providing world class academic opportunities throughout New York State, SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) today announced graduate nursing student Lauren Lowe has been named an “Emerging Leader” by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA).  Lowe, who is pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing in SUNY Poly’s Family Nurse Practitioner program, was recognized in the February issue of the GNSA publication Bulletin.

“To be honored on a national level as Lauren has is a wonderful and well-deserved accomplishment, both for Lauren and our entire institution.  SUNY Poly is extremely proud of its nursing programs, as well as its faculty, staff and students whose dedication is second to none,” said Dr. Alain Kaloyeros, President and CEO of SUNY Polytechnic Institute. “Among SUNY Poly’s core missions are to encourage new and innovative thinking and enable all students to be emerging leaders.  Lauren sets a perfect example of the potential of our students and we wish her continued success.”

“We’re delighted that the American Association of Colleges of Nursing has recognized Lauren’s hard work and dedication.  Her commitment to her profession and her studies is an inspiration to us all,” said Dr. Robert Geer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of SUNY Poly.  “We extend our congratulations to Lauren, who continues to realize the full potential of SUNY Poly’s nursing programs.”

“Lauren’s achievement demonstrates the caliber of students in our nursing program here at SUNY Polytechnic Institute,” said Dr. William Durgin, Provost at SUNY Poly. “With a dedication to her education and an enthusiasm about learning, she exemplifies the title of Emerging Leader.”

“We’re so proud of Lauren for earning this truly prestigious mark of distinction,” said Jennifer Klimek-Yingling, Assistant Professor of Nursing and Nurse Practitioner Program Coordinator. “More and more students like Lauren are looking to SUNY Poly for the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the growing demand for qualified nursing graduates across the state and nation.  It is exciting and extremely rewarding to see them achieve this level of recognition for their hard work.”

Teaching at the undergraduate level as a clinical instructor has reinforced Lowe’s decision to continue on with her doctoral degree in order to open up more collegiate educator opportunities. Following graduation in May 2015, Lowe plans to work in a primary care office, gaining experience in providing comprehensive care to patients, before continuing on with her education. She also plans to participate in outreach and health promotion activities throughout her career in order to make health education resources easily available to the community.

“It is incredible and overwhelming to think of the limitless opportunities available to make a positive difference in the field of nursing.  I have been fortunate to attend the Family Nurse Practitioner program at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, which truly embodies a philosophy of nursing that promotes a holistic approach to practice and lifelong learning,” Lowe said.  “Nurses are leaders, educators, researchers, and innovators compassionately devoting their life to the well-being of others. I am so proud to be a nurse and future nurse practitioner.”

SUNY Poly’s academic offerings in nursing include: R.N. to Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 1+2+1 AAS/BS program in collaboration with St. Elizabeth College of Nursing, and Master of Science degrees in Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration and Nursing Education. SUNY Poly also offers advanced certificates in Family Nurse Practitioner, and Nursing Education. SUNY Poly’s undergraduate and graduate nursing programs are registered by the New York State Education Department and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE, 1 Dupont Circle NW, Washington, DC, 202-887-6791). The CCNE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an accrediting agency for nursing programs at both the baccalaureate and graduate levels. For more information, see:  www.aacn.nche.edu/accreditation/.