The SUNY Poly Spotlight Series is a robust collection of workshops for kids and teens and events for people of all ages. Showcasing the expertise of faculty and community members, the series provides opportunities for fun and learning in the areas of STEM, the arts, athletics, wellness, and more. Join the Spotlight Series, register today!
Spring 2025 Events and Workshops
The gold listings are pre-collegiate workshops for middle and/or high school students with specific age ranges.
The blue listings are events and workshops for community members of all ages.
| 📱 Tech Time: Empowering Seniors and Retirees in the Digital Age: 1/29/25 |
Personalized iPhone and iPad Help for Seniors and Retirees - Patrick Baker, Technical Operations Administrator at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Wednesday, January 29
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Patrick Baker, Technical Operations Administrator at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for “Tech Time,” a relaxed session where seniors and retirees can receive personalized help with their iPhones and iPads. Whether you’re looking to set up apps, troubleshoot issues, or simply learn new features, our patient and knowledgeable volunteers are here to guide you step by step. No question is too small—come gain confidence in using your device at your own pace! Please bring your iPhone and/or iPads with you to this event.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, January 29 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 💡 All About The SUNY Poly Spotlight Series: Igniting Innovation: 2/3/25 |
Community Collaboration: Suggestions for Future Events - Bill Dustin, Coordinator of University Conferencing and Events and Chair of the SUNY Poly Spotlight Series at SUNY Poly Institute
Date: Monday, February 3
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Bill Dustin, Coordinator of University Conferencing and Events and Chair of the SUNY Poly Spotlight Series at SUNY Poly Institute
Description: The SUNY Poly Spotlight Series is a robust collection of workshops for kids and teens and events for people of all ages. Showcasing the expertise of faculty and community members, the series provides opportunities for fun and learning in the areas of STEM, the arts, athletics, wellness, and more. This series aims to foster a spirit of collaboration and exploration, showcasing work that pushes the boundaries of technology, science, and social impact. Attendees are encouraged to share ideas and suggestions for future events, helping to shape a dynamic lineup that reflects the interests and passions of our collective community.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Monday, February 3 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🛜 Welcome to the IoTopia - The Internet of Things: 2/4/25 |
The Future of Connected Ecosystems in the Internet of Things (IoT) – Anthony Macera, Senior Computer Engineer / Senior Program Manager at Air Force Research Laboratory
Date: Tuesday, February 4
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Kunsela Hall, Room A129, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Anthony Macera, Senior Computer Engineer / Senior Program Manager at Air Force Research Laboratory
Description: Welcome to the IoTopia is an engaging event that delves into both the incredible possibilities and the hidden risks of IoT technology. Join industry expert Anthony Macera '95 as he explores how IoT is transforming industries, enhancing daily life, and the challenges we face in ensuring its safety and sustainability. The event is proudly co-hosted by the Alumni Association and the WINGS (Wireless Intelligent Next Generation Systems) Center.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, February 4 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🗣️ Mastering the Art of Debate: Skills for Success: 2/5/2025 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 11 - 18) |
A Casual Debate Workshop – Students Gaetano Viti, Kaitlyn Stearns, Daniel Beyer, John Bernatavitz of SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s Casual Debate Club
Date: Wednesday, February 5
Time: 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, 2nd Floor, SGU Conference Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Students Gaetano Viti, Kaitlyn Stearns, Daniel Beyer, and John Bernatavitz of SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s Casual Debate Club
Description: Discover the power of confident, professional communication at this engaging workshop hosted by the SUNY Poly Casual Debate Club. Learn the fundamentals of structured debate, including how to articulate your ideas clearly, build strong arguments, and respond respectfully to opposing viewpoints. This workshop includes a fun introduction to debate-based card games that teach critical thinking and collaboration, a step-by-step guidance on the basics of casual debate, and a hands-on, full-scale debate experience where you’ll practice professionalism, active listening, and constructive dialogue. Whether you're looking to enhance your communication skills, boost your confidence, or simply explore a new interest, this workshop offers a welcoming environment for students of all experience levels. Join us and discover how debate can help you grow academically and personally!
Fee: $10 per person
Deadline: Register by Friday, January 31 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 12 years old – 18 years old (High School Students Only)
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🤖 Robots, Drones, Technology, and Safety with the New York Power Authority (NYPA): 2/18/25 (Pre-collegiate Workshop, Ages 12-15) |
A NYPA STEM Workshop – Ryan Tang Dan, New York Power Authority
Date: Tuesday, February 18
Time: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G225, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Ryan Tang Dan, New York Power Authority
Description: Join the New York Power Authority's Robotics Team for an electrifying STEM workshop that brings the wonders of robotics and engineering to life. Engage in hands-on activities, witness live demonstrations of advanced robotics and drones in action, and discover how technology is shaping the future of energy. Learn how at NYPA, they use cutting-edge technology to 'Risk the machine, Not the man,' ensuring that machines handle the danger, not people, while also improving operational efficiency. You’ll also have the chance to meet Gizmo, NYPA's robot dog, and see firsthand how innovative robotics are enhancing safety and operations. This event is perfect for students looking to be inspired by real-world applications of robotics, drones, and cutting-edge solutions. Don't miss this chance to power up your imagination and explore a future fueled by innovation!
Fee: $25 per person
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, February 11 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 12 years old – 15 years old
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| ⚙️ Explore the Future with Indium Corporation: 2/18/2025 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 12 - 15) |
A Hands-On Career Exploration Experience with Experts from Indium Corporation
Date: Tuesday, February 18
Time: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G225, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Experts from Indium Corporation
Description: Step into the world of innovation and explore the diverse careers waiting for you at Indium Corporation. Learn all about Indium Corporation, who they are, what they do, and the future opportunities they can offer students. In this workshop, students will rotate through interactive stations, each offering an in-depth look at key areas of the organization, including Mechanical Engineering, Technical Sales, Product Management, Business Operations, Software, and IT. This immersive experience will inspire and connect the participant with professionals shaping the future. Don't miss your chance to discover how your talents can make an impact!
Fee: $25 per person
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, February 11 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 12 years old – 15 years old
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🌐 Connected Tech: Build and Explore the Internet of Things (IoT): 2/19/2025 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 12 - 15) |
Solve Real-World Problems with IoT – Cully Patch, Mike Corley, and additional IoT experts from Quanterion Solutions Incorporated, An ORION Partner
Date: Wednesday, February 19
Time: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G225, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Cully Patch and Mike Corley of Quanterion Solutions Incorporated, An ORION Partner
Description: Discover how everyday IoT devices connect and communicate in this hands-on workshop. Learn to work with sensors, microcontrollers, and programming languages as you bring ideas to life. Tackle real-world challenges, design creative solutions, and see how IoT technology is shaping our lives. Perfect for curious minds ready to explore and invent! ORION is a technology accelerator and innovation ecosystem aimed at securing and demonstrating Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities. For more information, visit orionassured.com.
Fee: $25 per person
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, February 12 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 12 years old – 15 years old
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🌌 The Fibonacci Sequence: A Tie Between Math, Nature, and Music: 2/19/2025 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 12 - 15) |
A Project Fibonacci Workshop – Julia Pilny, Computer Scientist and Artist/Musician, Project Fibonacci
Date: Wednesday, February 19
Time: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G225, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Julia Pilny, Computer Scientist and Artist/Musician, The Project Fibonacci Foundation, Inc.
Description: Unlock the secrets of the Fibonacci sequence and its connection to the world around us! This hands-on workshop explores how the Fibonacci sequence and the Golden Ratio shape everything from the patterns in nature to the music we listen to. Learn how this mathematical concept appears in the arrangement of leaves, galaxies, and even our genes. Then, discover how it influences musical compositions, especially in the string family of instruments. Dive into the harmony of math, nature, and music, and see how these seemingly separate worlds are beautifully intertwined!
Fee: $25 per person
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, February 12 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 12 years old – 15 years old
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🦖 Dig, Discover, and Learn: Unearth the Secrets of Prehistoric Life: 2/20/2025 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 12 - 15) |
A Fossil Discovery Workshop – Paul Thornton, The Living Fossil
Date: Thursday, February 20
Time: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G225, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Paul Thornton, Owner of The Living Fossil
Description: Step into the world of paleontology and uncover the mysteries of the past! In this hands-on STEM workshop, participants will use real tools to carefully extract fossils from rock. Each participant is guaranteed to find a dinosaur tooth, with the exciting possibility of uncovering other prehistoric bones. Best of all, participants will get to take home their discovered fossils! Led by an expert instructor, participants will also learn about "living fossils" and how remnants of prehistoric creatures are still present today - even here in the Mohawk Valley! Join us for an unforgettable journey into Earth's ancient history.
Fee: $25 per person
Deadline: Register by Thursday, February 13 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 12 years old – 15 years old
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🦸🏻♀️ Be a Health Hero: Create Your Own Health Message: 2/20/2025 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 12 - 15) |
Helping People Make Healthy Choices – Dayna M. Maniccia, DrPH, MS, Principal Consultant at NYSTEC
Date: Thursday, February 20
Time: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Makers Lab, Room G225, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Dayna M. Maniccia, DrPH, MS, Principal Consultant at NYSTEC
Description: Have you ever wondered why people make certain choices about their health? Have you ever wondered why people act the way they do? In this workshop, you will get some answers to these questions! At the same time, you will dive into a health topic you care about, learn how to find facts, and create an awesome media campaign to help others. Whether you choose to make a poster, design a skit, a video, or a catchy song, you can turn your ideas and research into action! We will also talk a bit about different academic fields and careers related to health.
Fee: $25 per person
Deadline: Register by Thursday, February 13 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 12 years old – 15 years old (High School Students Only)
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🎓 Accepted Student Day: 2/21/25 (Accepted SUNY Poly Students Only) |
SUNY Poly Accepted Student Day
Date: Friday, February 21
Time: Times will be included within your email, so make sure to check it!
Location: SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Description: Accepted Student Day at SUNY Poly is designed for students who have been admitted to our Fall 2025 class to explore the campus, meet faculty and staff, get a sense of student life, and more! If you are an admitted student, check your email for information on how to register! If you have any questions, please reach out to Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@sunypoly.edu!
| 🗣️ International Mother Language Day Event: 2/21/2025 |
The Power of Mother Languages in Shaping Identity and Culture – Panelists Hawa Peters (Founder and President of Utica Royalties), C. Sonia Martinez (Co-Founder and CEO of the Mohawk Valley Latino Association), Shana Pughe Dean (Translation Manager at Tone Translate), Kay Klo (Executive Director of Midtown Utica Community Center), and Jermiko Thomas (Founder Cornhill Publishing)
Date: Friday, February 21
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Panelists: Hawa Peters (Founder and President of Utica Royalties), C. Sonia Martinez (Co-Founder and CEO of the Mohawk Valley Latino Association), Shana Pughe Dean (Translation Manager at Tone Translate), Kay Klo '23 (Executive Director of Midtown Utica Community Center), and Jermiko Thomas (Founder Cornhill Publishing)
Description: This event highlights the significance of preserving mother languages and invites panelists to discuss how languages influence cultural identity, social cohesion, and personal empowerment in today’s globalized world.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 20 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 60 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🏆 Exploring STEM and Beyond at SUNY Poly: 2/24/25 |
Pre-Collegiate Outreach: Pathways to Success and a Path to Poly - John Reade, Director of Pre-Collegiate Outreach at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Monday, February 24
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: John Reade, Director of Pre-Collegiate Outreach at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for an engaging session aimed at educators and school administrators, showcasing the unique opportunities SUNY Poly to prepare students for college and career success. Learn how our programs in STEM, business, and the arts can provide a solid foundation and inspire students to pursue fulfilling futures. Discover ways to partner with SUNY Poly to bring innovative resources, hands-on research, and real-world experiences to your students.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Monday, February 24 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🐝 Buzzing into Action: Exploring the World of Pollinators: 3/6/2025 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 11 - 18) |
Helping Discovering the Tiny Heroes Behind Healthy Ecosystems – Dr. Margarita Orlova, Assistant Professor of Biology and Chemistry at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Thursday, March 6
Time: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Location: Room 2151, Biology Lab, Second Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Dr. Margarita Orlova, Assistant Professor of Biology and Chemistry at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: This interactive workshop will introduce participants to the diversity of insects and their ecological importance. Participants will learn to identify various insect groups, observe their behaviors, and explore the processes that make pollinators essential for plants and food systems. Through hands-on activities, students will develop a deeper appreciation for the intricate connections between insects and the environment. Discover how these tiny creatures have a massive impact on our planet.
Fee: $10 per person
Allergy Note: This workshop is not suitable for individuals with bee allergies due to potential exposure. Your safety is our priority, and we recommend avoiding attendance if you are allergic to bees.
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, March 4 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 11 years old – 18 years old (High School Students Only)
Participants: 20 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🍃 Harnessing the Power of the Wind: 3/17/25 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 12-18) |
Wind Power in Action: Build Your Own Turbine Workshop – Dr. Aarthi Sekaran and Dr. Jiayue Shen, Assistant Professors, SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Monday, March 17
Time: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Location: Room G172, Ground Floor, Donovan Hall, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Dr. Aarthi Sekaran and Dr. Jiayue Shen, Assistant Professors at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: In this hands-on workshop, students will explore the science and engineering behind wind energy by building their own functional wind turbines. Participants will learn about renewable energy, the mechanics of harnessing wind power, and how turbines contribute to a sustainable future. By the end of the session, students will have gained valuable STEM skills and a deeper understanding of clean energy solutions.
Fee: $10 per person
Deadline: Register by Friday, March 14 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 12 years old - 18 years old (High School Students Only)
Participants: 15 (Max)
| ☀️ Make and Take Your Own Fused Glass Sun Catcher,” w/ Penny Veschusio and Marie Joyce of Songbyrd Street Studios: 3/19/25 |
Let’s Fuse Some Glass: Spring Sun Catcher – Penny Veschusio and Marie Joyce of Songbyrd Street Studios
Date: Wednesday, March 19
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Penny Veschusio and Marie Joyce of Songbyrd Street Studios
Description: In this hands-on workshop, Penny Veschusio and Marie Joyce of Songbyrd Street Studios will lead the process of creating a fused sun catcher! With their guidance, participants will design and decorate a pre-cut piece of glass using various types and colors of fusible glass, creating their own unique designs butterflies, bunnies, and flowers to hang in a window. Penny and Marie will bring the tea lights back to their studio to be fired in the kiln. The sun catchers will then be brought back to SUNY Poly the following week. They can be picked up in the Office of Institutional Advancement on Friday, March 28 or Monday March 31, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in Kunsela Hall. For more information, visit songbyrdstreetstudios.com.
Fee: $40 per person
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, March 19 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
| 💐 Embracing Well-Being This Spring: 3/20/25 |
Mind Matters: Exploring the Science of Well-Being for a Healthier Life – Dr. Rebecca Weldon, Assistant Professor of Cognitive Psychology at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Thursday, March 20
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Dr. Rebecca Weldon, Assistant Professor of Cognitive Psychology at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: This talk delves into the psychological science on wellbeing, exploring how our mental processes, emotions, and behaviors shape our overall health and happiness. Attendees will gain insights into practical tools to manage stress and foster personal growth. Join us to learn about some evidence-based strategies to leading a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Thursday, March 20 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🎓 Accepted Student Day: 3/21/25 (Accepted SUNY Poly Students Only) |
SUNY Poly Accepted Student Day
Date: Friday, March 21
Time: Times will be included within your email, so make sure to check it!
Location: SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Description: Accepted Student Day at SUNY Poly is designed for students who have been admitted to our Fall 2025 class to explore the campus, meet faculty and staff, get a sense of student life, and more! If you are an admitted student, check your email for information on how to register! If you have any questions, please reach out to Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@sunypoly.edu!
| 👩🏻💻 Tech Time: Empowering Seniors and Retirees in the Digital Age: 3/26/25 |
Personalized Computer (Windows and Mac) Help for Seniors and Retirees - Patrick Baker, Technical Operations Administrator at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Wednesday, March 26
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Patrick Baker, Technical Operations Administrator at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for “Tech Time,” a relaxed session where seniors and retirees can receive personalized help and gain confidence using computers with confidence. This session covers essential skills like managing files, using the internet, and understanding system settings on both Windows and Mac computers. Join us to feel empowered in today’s digital world and make technology work for you. No question is too small—come gain confidence in using your device at your own pace! If you have a laptop, please bring it with you.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, March 26 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 👩🏻💻 Tech Time: Empowering Seniors and Retirees in the Digital Age: 4/5/25 |
How to Create and Manage Your Facebook Account - Noel Montero, Assistant Director of College Housing/Assistant Director of Residential Programing at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Saturday, April 5
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Noel Montero, Assistant Director of College Housing/Assistant Director of Residential Programing at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for “Tech Time,” a practical and hands-on workshop designed to help seniors connect with family and friends online. This session will guide you through setting up a Facebook account, adjust privacy settings, and post updates on the popular social media platform, Facebook. Join us to learn how to safely and confidently share moments and stay connected in today’s digital age. Please bring your smart phones with you to this event.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Friday, April 4 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🦎 UZ&U: The Utica Zoo Classroom Experience: 4/9/25 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 14-18) |
A National Zoo Lover's Week Event; Wildlife and Wisdom: The Utica Zoo Classroom Experience - Zak Hughes, Education and Conservation Manager at the Utica Zoo
Date: Wednesday, April 9
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Zak Hughes, Education and Conservation Manager at the Utica Zoo
Description: Discover the wonders of wildlife with “UZ&U,” an engaging classroom-style program presented by the Utica Zoo. Expert educators will lead you through interactive presentations on fascinating animal-themed topics, featuring live animals that bring each lesson to life. A portion of the program’s proceeds supports vital conservation efforts, making every visit a step toward protecting our planet’s wildlife.
Fee: $10 per person
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, April 8 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Age Range: 14 years old – 18 years old (High School Students Only)
Participants: 60 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🎓 Accepted Student Day: 4/12/25 (Accepted SUNY Poly Students Only) |
SUNY Poly Accepted Student Day
Date: Saturday, April 12
Time: Times will be included within your email, so make sure to check it!
Location: SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Description: Accepted Student Day at SUNY Poly is designed for students who have been admitted to our Fall 2025 class to explore the campus, meet faculty and staff, get a sense of student life, and more! If you are an admitted student, check your email for information on how to register! If you have any questions, please reach out to Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@sunypoly.edu!
| ☮️ Engineering a More Equitable World: 4/15/25 |
Advancing Innovation and Inclusion to Address Global Challenges – Maureen Merson, PE, Albany Division Manager for CME Associates and President-Elect of the American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE); Mohawk-Hudson Section
Date: Tuesday, April 15
Time: 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Donovan Hall, Ground Floor, Room G172, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Maureen Merson, PE, Albany Division Manager for CME Associates and President-Elect of the American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE); Mohawk-Hudson Section
Description: 'Advancing DEI, like engineering, is a highly iterative process. This talk will share the speaker’s professional journey as a woman in engineering and discuss developing the tools necessary to successfully advocate for both DEI and students in a professional environment. Through personal experiences and actionable insights, the speaker will highlight the importance of resilience and collaboration in creating lasting change. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to foster inclusivity and empower future generations in their own professional spheres.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Tuesday, April 15 at 10 a.m. (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 35 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🧠 Beyond the Search: Learning to Use Artificial Intelligence to Get Better Answers: 4/21/25 |
Beyond the Search: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Can Find Your Answers Better and More Quickly – Dr. William J. Thistleton, Associate Professor of Mathematics, and Dr. Steven M. Schneider, Professor of Information Design, Co-Directors of the Artificial Intelligence Explorations Center
Date: Monday, April 21
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Dr. William J. Thistleton, Associate Professor of Mathematics, and Dr. Steven M. Schneider, Professor of Information Design, Co-Directors of the Artificial Intelligence Explorations Center
Description: This talk and demonstration will explore how AI-driven prompt-response systems like ChatGPT and Gemini introduce new ways for people to interact with computers, including creating artifacts and finding information. We will demonstrate tools that use artificial intelligence to generate content that resembles language, music, visual art, and mathematical explanation. Additionally, we will examine how the process of searching for information is transformed when moving from the familiar use of queries and links to the less familiar experience of prompts and narrative-based responses, which often lack the traditional list of links.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Monday, April 21 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🌲SUNY Blooms Campus Beautification Day: 4/25/25 |
Transform SUNY Poly Together!
Date: Friday, April 25
Time: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Team Leader: Greg Rogers, Assistant Director of Facilities at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for SUNY Poly’s Beautification Event, a day dedicated to enhancing the beauty and spirit of our campus! Volunteers will take part in a variety of projects, including painting, landscaping, and assisting Facilities and Grounds with maintenance and cleanup efforts. Together, we can create a vibrant and welcoming environment that reflects our pride in SUNY Poly!
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, April 23 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 50 (Max)
Register Now!
| 👩🏻💻 Tech Time: Empowering Seniors and Retirees in the Digital Age: 4/26/25 |
How to Navigate Scam; Identifying and Avoiding Online Fraud - Noel Montero, Assistant Director of College Housing/Assistant Director of Residential Programing at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Presenter: Noel Montero, Assistant Director of College Housing/Assistant Director of Residential Programing at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for “Tech Time,” a vital session aimed at helping seniors recognize and protect themselves from common internet scams. This talk covers how to spot phishing emails, fake websites, and suspicious messages to keep your personal information secure.
Fee: Free/RSVP Required
Deadline: Register by Friday, April 25 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 30 (Max)
Register Now!
| 🍕 SUNY Poly Pizza Creation Station: 5/13/25 |
Make and Take Your Own Pizza – Dennis Bord, Executive Chef of Wildcat Hospitality at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Date: Tuesday, May 13
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Student Center, Kitchen, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 100 Seymour Road, Utica, NY 13502
Chef: Dennis Bord, Executive Chef of Wildcat Hospitality at SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Description: Join us for a deliciously fun “Make & Take Your Own Pizza” event where you become the chef! Craft your perfect pie with a variety of fresh ingredients to create classic cheese, pepperoni, supreme, or veggie. Whether you’re a pizza pro or a first-time maker, this hands-on experience is perfect for all ages and guarantees tasty results to enjoy at home the very same night!
Fee: $25 per person
Deadline: Register by Monday, May 12 at Noon (Registration Will Be Live Soon)
Participants: 10 (Max)
Register Now!
