SUNY Plattsburgh Special Programs Leadership Receive Promotions

Dr. Michele Carpentier, director of special programs at SUNY Plattsburgh, has been promoted to assistant vice president for student affairs.

Carpentier, a 1977 grad who also holds her master’s degree and certificate of advanced study from the college, will continue in her role overseeing special programs such as Student Support Services, the Educational Opportunity Program, Upward Bound, the STAR program and Disability Services, monitoring Americans with Disabilities Act compliance.

In addition, Kyla Relaford, a 2002 grad who also holds her master’s degree from the college, previously held the position of associate director of EOP. She was promoted to director of the program that provides academic, personal and financial support to students who may not meet general admissions criteria but who demonstrate a high level of potential to earn a college degree.

William Laundry, vice president for student affairs, said he couldn’t be more pleased with the promotions.

“Both Michele and Kyla are highly deserving of their promotions and have both served the college and students with dedication and commitment,” Laundry said. “The programs that Michele oversees — SSS, EOP, Upward Bound, STAR and Disability Services — and the students they serve have excelled under her guidance. She has a vested interest in her students’ welfare and successes.

“Educational Opportunity Program students have an advocate in Kyla. As associate director, she worked well with Michele in providing EOP students with the assistance they need to succeed. These students demonstrate a high level of personal motivation to do well at SUNY Plattsburgh, and Kyla gives them the guidance and support to make that happen.”