MIDDLETOWN, N.Y. – SUNY Orange AVP for Learning and Student Success Dr. Angela Rios, Director of the Center for Student Success Flor Araujo Payano, and Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning Dana Salkowsky shared their findings on using a centralized hub for student support and academic intervention at the League for Innovation in the Community College’s 29th annual conference, held March 15–18 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The Innovations Conference is the League’s flagship event and is a premier international gathering for community college educators, leaders, and innovators. It brings together professionals dedicated to advancing the mission of community colleges through collaboration, idea exchange, and the sharing of impactful institutional practices. Attendees engage in keynote sessions, breakout presentations, forums, and roundtable discussions focused on leadership, teaching and learning, student support, and workforce preparation.

The SUNY Orange session highlighted the College’s use of Orange Connect, locally branded from Starfish, as a centralized hub for student support and academic intervention. Participants learned how the platform integrates advising, tutoring, faculty referrals, and proactive outreach to create a coordinated, data-informed approach to student success. The presentation demonstrated how intentional use of Orange Connect has strengthened cross-campus collaboration, improved early alert and follow-up practices, and supported students from initial connection through completion.

“Our presentation shows how a centralized system can streamline support and help students stay on track,” Rios said. “By connecting faculty, advisors, and staff through one platform, we can more effectively intervene and guide students toward success.”

Behind that work is a coordinated effort spanning multiple areas of the College.

“This work reflects the strength of collaboration across SUNY Orange,” said Dr. Erika Hackman, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Angela, Dana, and Flor have been key to the success of Orange Connect. The result is a more connected, responsive support system for our students and a clear example of what’s possible when a partnership is intentional and student focused.”

The League for Innovation in the Community College Innovations Conference also features recognition of exemplary work and solutions showcases, making it an ideal venue to share SUNY Orange’s model for supporting student success.

To learn more about how to apply to SUNY Orange, visit www.sunyorange.edu/getstarted, email apply@sunyorange.edu  or call 845-341-4030.