Valeria Alfaro Rivera, a Uniondale resident and Nassau Community College student, has been awarded the 2026 Norman R. McConney Jr. Award for Educational Opportunity Program Student Excellence.
The statewide honor recognizes students who have overcome significant personal obstacles while achieving academic success. Rivera was recognized during a ceremony hosted by SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. on March 9, alongside recipients from SUNY’s 64 campuses.
Rivera said mental health has played a significant role in shaping her journey. She admitted it was difficult at times but said she had a strong support system behind her.
She is completing her sophomore year, about to finish up at Nassau and apply herself elsewhere with a bachelor degree majoring in criminal justice. She said learning she had been selected for the award was both surprising and deeply rewarding.
“It was definitely exciting,” Rivera said. “I felt very grateful that my hard work was recognized. I was shocked and grateful because so much work was put in over the years.”
Rivera said her academic journey has been shaped by determination and a strong support system. She credits her family for motivating her to continue pursuing her goals, noting the sacrifices they made along the way.
“My family has made so many sacrifices,” Rivera said. “I’ve seen how hard my family worked, and it was one of the motivating factors that helps me keep striving.”
She also credited Nassau Community College’s Educational Opportunity Program for helping guide her through her college experience.
“The EOP has guided me throughout the time at Nassau,” Rivera said. “I have so many questions and they were always able to guide me.”
College officials praised Rivera for her perseverance and commitment to her education in a Feb. 17 press release.
The EOP Award for Student Excellence highlights not only exceptional academic achievement, but also the courage and determination it takes to seize opportunity and turn it into success,” said Maria Conzatti, NCC’s chief administrative officer.
“We are incredibly proud of Valeria and excited to see the continued impact she will make in our community and beyond,” she added.”
The Educational Opportunity Program was created to provide access, academic support and financial assistance to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Across the SUNY system, the program has helped thousands of students pursue higher education and build successful careers.
After she completes her bachelor degree, her long-term goal is to attend law school and pursue a career as an attorney.
Rivera said receiving the McConney award has reinforced her determination to keep moving forward and continue working toward her career goals.
She also hopes her story can encourage other students facing similar obstacles.
“Mental health has played a significant role in shaping my journey,” she said. “I’ve had to be resilient – it can be hard.
