SUNY Canton

« Back to Recent News

SUNY Canton College Council Selects Three Employees for Outstanding Service

by Lorette Murray

Canton, NY (06/13/2025) — The SUNY Canton College Council has recognized a trio of employees for superior performance. They were honored at a college-wide awards ceremony in May.

Distinguished Faculty Award

The council selected Associate Professor Marela Fiacco, Ph.D., as the recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Faculty Award, which recognizes effectiveness in teaching, scholarly ability, mastery of subject matter, university service and continued growth.

Fiacco began her tenure at the college in 2008 as the international programs director before moving to a faculty leadership role in the Healthcare Management degree program. Under her direction, the program has thrived. She increased enrollment by 64%, as well as developed graduate program pathways, articulation agreements and several microcredentials for professionals.

Her scholarly work is extensive, conducting grant-funded research that has benefitted the North Country. She regularly attends workshops, presents at conferences and is a member of many professional associations.

"In addition to being an outstanding educator, Marela is a trusted mentor to students and goes above and beyond to ensure we are living up to our campus motto, 'everyone is welcome here,' said College Council Chair Ronald M. O'Neill.

Excellence in College Service Award

The council selected Assistant Director of Admissions Chad M. Delosh as the recipient of the 2025 Excellence in College Service Award. It is given to a member of the non-teaching professional staff in recognition of excellence in performance, ability, university service, continued growth, as well as a mastery of specialization.

Delosh is a SUNY Canton alumnus and has worked in the admissions office for nearly 15 years. He worked as an intern and admissions counselor before being promoted to his current role. Nominators praised his ability to connect with students and empower them to pursue their college aspirations with confidence.

"Chad is often one of the first SUNY Canton representatives students and families encounter at our information events, and he immediately sets the tone for a positive experience," said O'Neill. "We are lucky to have him as a senior member of our admissions team."

Employee Recognition Award

The council selected Administrative Assistant 1 Morgan M. Showers as the recipient of the 2025 Employee Recognition Award, which is given to a member of the college's classified staff in recognition of exceptional service through performance, participation and continued growth.

Showers joined the college in 2021 and was a member of the Physical Plant staff before her current position in the President's Office. In addition to assisting with managing the office's communications, she helps support large-scale events, such as commencement and the annual employee awards ceremony.

Colleagues said she has learned an enormous amount of information about campus processes and procedures, while simultaneously seeking her own professional growth opportunities. They also noted her willingness to collaborate with other offices and ability to foster relationships.

"Morgan's dedication and quality of work make her a tremendous asset to the President's Office and the entire campus," said O'Neill.

Discover SUNY Canton, where innovation meets opportunity. The college's career-focused educational programs emphasize hands-on and applied learning opportunities in digital design, engineering technology, health, information technology, management, public service, and veterinary technology. Faculty members bring real-world experience and exceptional academic expertise to the classroom. As a leader in online education, SUNY Canton offers unmatched flexibility with hundreds of courses and 25 comprehensive degree programs offered completely online. The SUNY Canton Kangaroos compete at the NCAA Division III level and are members of the SUNYAC. In addition to its 15 traditional teams, SUNY Canton offers coed varsity esports and cheerleading.

Media Attachments

The SUNY Canton College Council selected Associate Professor Marela Fiacco, Ph.D., to receive the 2025 Distinguished Faculty Award.

The SUNY Canton College Council selected Assistant Director of Admissions Chad M. Delosh as the recipient of the 2025 Excellence in College Service Award. Also pictured are College Council Chair Ronald M. O’Neill, right, and President Zvi Szafran.

The SUNY Canton College Council selected Administrative Assistant 1 Morgan M. Showers as the recipient of the 2025 Employee Recognition Award. Also pictured are College Council Chair Ronald M. O’Neill, right, and President Zvi Szafran.

Copyright © 2025 Merit Pages, Inc. • All Rights Reserved. • Terms of Service • Privacy Policy • Opt Out