Convocation formally marks the start of the academic year. Attended by students, faculty, staff, and administrators, the ceremony is a reaffirmation of our commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and the academic, cultural, and social growth of our entire community.
Program
Welcome
Dr. Andrew Russell
Provost
Remarks
Dr. Winston Soboyejo
President
Keynote
Dr. Lauren Endres
Associate Professor of Biology;
2025 Recipient of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching
Closing Remarks
Dr. Mark Montgomery
Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging;
Interim VP for Student Affairs
- Dr. Abdullah Eroglu, Dean, College of Engineering
- Dr. Mark Kittleson, Dean, College of Health Sciences
- Dr. Babak Elahi, Dean, College of Arts & Sciences
- Dr. Rafael Romero, Interim Dean, College of Business
Keynote Speaker
Since joining SUNY Polytechnic Institute in 2015, Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Lauren Endres has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence in teaching and research. She offers a wide range of courses from introductory and general education classes for first-year students to upper-division electives and senior-level courses for biology majors. Her research aims to understand translational defense mechanisms that protect against environmental stress, with implications for cancer development.
As a recent recipient of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, Dr. Endres is known for building meaningful connections with her students, taking time to understand their interests and career goals. Her enthusiasm for biology, coupled with her success in research and scholarship, informs her dynamic and adaptable approach to teaching. A dedicated mentor and collaborator, she actively contributes to the success of her students, supports her colleagues, and advances the mission of SUNY Poly through service to the university and external partners.
Dr. Endres exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educator—passionate, student-focused, and deeply engaged in the academic community.
