SUNY Orange Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) students spent the summer exploring the history and future of the City of Newburgh, culminating in a presentation of their vision for what the city could look like in 2050.

The students presented their work during the LPP Summer Showcase, “Designing the City, Building the City of Newburgh 2050,” on Aug. 5 at the College’s Newburgh campus. The showcase featured a student-created model depicting their vision for Newburgh in 2050, along with informational posters highlighting their research, ideas and experiences throughout the program.

The project provided students with the chance to explore Newburgh through the lenses of history, architecture and civic engagement while developing academic, leadership and career skills. Student presentations focused on the history of Newburgh, their experiences throughout the summer and their vision for the city’s future.

“The Liberty Partnerships Program gives students opportunities to see themselves as leaders and active participants in their communities,” said Janea Hill, MSW, LPP program director, who opened and closed the ceremony.

Remarks also were delivered by SUNY Orange President Dr. Kristine Young; Dr. Erika Hackman, vice president for Academic Affairs and Student Services and provost; and Mike Pomarico, owner and principal architect of Pomarico Architecture Studio.

Students were recognized during the ceremony for their achievements and contributions to the program, including awards for leadership, teamwork and creativity. Additional recognition included Stellar Mentor Awards and Architecture Fellowship recognition.

The showcase brought together College, school district and community leaders to celebrate the students’ accomplishments. Distinguished guests included City of Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey; Newburgh Enlarged City School District Superintendent Dr. Jackie Manning Campbell; SUNY Assistant Vice President Dr. Angela Rios; Onyx Peterson; NECSD Assistant Superintendent Mia Woodruff, representing Congressman Pat Ryan; Board of Education President John Doerre; NECSD Assistant Superintendents Kimberly Rohring, Dr. Shannon O’Grady, Dr. Elisa Correa-Soto and Dr. Natacha Freeman-Mack; Michelle Mickitty-Browley; and Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson.

Through the Liberty Partnerships Program, students are encouraged to develop academic, leadership and career skills while building connections with their communities. To learn more about LPP visit sunyorange.edu/lpp.

Pictured from left to right: Jayden Sagastume, Destiny Olivier, Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson, Shawn Rich, Javion Hill and Mikiya Melvin.