Exceptional Faculty and Staff Earn Teaching and College Service Awards
May 12, 2025
Six faculty and staff members earned the college President’s Award which was established in 1985 by President Joseph J. Bulmer. The President’s Award recognizes exceptional dedication to education and professional contributions to the college community. Since its inception, nearly 200 faculty and staff have received this prestigious honor.
Officer in Charge Louis Coplin stated, “It’s an honor to recognize outstanding colleagues whose dedication to our mission has had a meaningful impact on our students and the broader community. This year’s award recipients are more than educators and administrators—they are leaders who inspire, uplift, and consistently go above and beyond in their service to others.”
2025 President’s Award Recipients:
Excellence in Teaching
Ryan Bakes
Associate Professor, Education Specialist, Learning Centers
Bakes is committed to helping students excel in math through his role at the Learning Assistance Center. As the supervisor of the Math Club, he is known for his innovative teaching methods, deep subject knowledge and supportive presence. Students and colleagues alike commend his ability to make complex concepts understandable. One student noted, “Mr. Bakes creates an intellectually challenging yet supportive environment, making even the toughest topics easy to understand.”
Johnathan Peabody
Assistant Professor, English, Foreign Languages, and English as a Second Language
Peabody is recognized for his creative, technology-integrated approach to teaching, which enhances student engagement and writing development. His use of emerging tools like ChatGPT alongside traditional methods helps students become thoughtful, critical thinkers. As one student shared, “Professor Peabody’s classes are intellectually stimulating, and his infectious enthusiasm encourages us to think critically and evolve as writers.”
Jamey Thompson
Professor, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
A founding member of the Environmental Science program, Thompson is celebrated for his hands-on teaching style and deep enthusiasm for subjects like rock strata, GIS, and astronomy. Known for fostering a rigorous yet supportive learning environment, he inspires both students and colleagues through mentorship and academic excellence.
Jennifer Walker
Instructor, Dental Hygiene
With over 18 years of service, Walker has helped shape Hudson Valley’s dental hygiene program through her high standards, innovative teaching, and student-centered approach. Respected for her professionalism and adaptability, she is known for blending compassion with excellence, preparing students for success in their professional careers.
Excellence in College Service
Stacey Dempsey
College Nurse, Health Services
Dempsey, a registered nurse at Hudson Valley for 15 years, is known for her empathy, expertise, and calm under pressure. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was instrumental in navigating rapidly changing protocols while continuing to provide high-quality care. Colleagues describe her as a trusted and essential member of the campus community, valued for her collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Suzanne Kalkbrenner
Executive Assistant to the President; Assistant Secretary to the Board of Trustees
Since 2007, Kalkbrenner has played a vital leadership role at the college, supporting three presidents and the Board of Trustees. Her professionalism, resourcefulness, and strategic insight have shaped policy development and campus-wide strategies. Suzanne has also led numerous presidential initiatives while supporting the Board and her colleagues, demonstrating her ability to balance multiple priorities with professionalism and earning the trust and respect of colleagues at all levels.