TRiO Staff

Eric Hardwick, MPS
Director

Email: eric.hardwick@sunyorange.edu
(845) 341-4175 

My name is Eric Hardwick, and consider myself fortunate working for the TRIO SSS Program here at SUNY Orange. Before completing my associates in Business - Paralegal at Dutchess Community College, I discovered my passion for academia. It started when I accepted a teaching assistant position in the paralegal program and later progressed through one-on-one and group tutoring sessions.

While completing my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at SUNY New Paltz, I volunteered with Oasis/Haven, a peer hotline and walk-in center located on campus. Achieving the role of supervisor allowed me to meet with walk-ins or answer phone calls ranging from eating disorders to rape/sexual assault issues. It was Oasis/Haven I learned to support the feelings and needs of others by putting aside personal beliefs and thoughts. Oasis/Haven provided me with the opportunity to adapt and apply everything I learned.

Before finishing the master’s program at SUNY New Paltz, Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute brought me on board. I held a series of administrative positions, including teaching, but eventually was promoted to Dean of Education in 2010. The Dean position created the opportunity to work one-on-one with students to identify academic needs and prepare a plan for success. June 2013 I became the Campus Director, where campus operations, compliance, retention, and placement were all major areas of focus. I maintained this position until November 2015, when I accepted the TRIO Director position here at SUNY Orange. I look forward to new experiences and challenges the program and SUNY Orange will present.

 

Charnikia Pinesett
Success Advisor

Email: charnikiapinesett@sunyorange.edu
(845) 341-4450

My name is Charnikia Pinesett and I work with the TRIO Program as the Success Coach. I am a firm believer that “Success is directly proportional to the number of lives you have touched for the better (Vishwas Chavan). I currently hold a Master’s of Science in Teaching from SUNY
New Paltz, and I have worked with college support programs such as the SUNY New Paltz Educational Talent Search Program, The Marist Liberty Partnerships Program, Marist Upward  Bound, and the SUNY Ulster Student Success Program. Through these programs I have been
able to inspire and assist over 2,000 students with pursuing higher education. Mentoring,
encouraging, and inspiring students to reach their highest potential is one of my greatest
passions.

When I’m not working with students, I am writing and singing my own songs, binge watching
Forensic Files and Family Feud, or catching up on much needed rest. I also enjoy special, soul
food family dinners with my seven siblings and amazing mother.

 

Sabrina Jennings
Administrative Assistant 

Email: sabrinajennings@sunyorange.edu
(845) 341-4812

My name is Sabrina Jennings and I am the administrative assistant at TRIO SSS. I am a graduate of Stony Brook University with a bachelors degree in Sociology and have experience working with populations ranging from infant to elderly. I believe that life should, for the most part, be enjoyed and have been employed in a wide variety of industries. I have worked as an award winning baker, receptionist, teaching assistant, activities assistant, and even a goat herder, just to name a few. I also love volunteering in the community, my favorite activities being an annual apple butter fundraiser and rotating stock at a thrift shop.

Throughout all my positions, what I found most gratifying was being able to help people, which brought me to this opportunity.  I am excited to embark on my new adventure with TRIO SSS and help the students of SUNY Orange on their own journeys, wherever they may go. With an open mind, you are able to end up in many fascinating places, and develop many unique and helpful skills along the way. Let’s explore them together!

Stop by and say hi and we can see what TRIO SSS can do for you!