The Continuing Education Association of New York named SUNY Jamestown Community College student Jerica Barnard the Region West recipient of the Charles A. Burns Outstanding Adult Student Award. Barnard was recognized during CEANY’s annual statewide conference held in November in Syracuse.
Each year, CEANY selects one winner from each of its three geographical regions to honor exceptional adult learners who demonstrate perseverance, academic excellence, and personal achievement. The award includes a $1,000 scholarship.
Outstanding Adult Student Award.
Barnard, a full-time student, athlete on the women’s basketball team, Jamestown Campus employee, and single mother of five daughters, was nominated by both her basketball coach and JCC’s Single Parent’s Reaching Education to Employment program.
Barnard, a Physical Education Studies major who aspires to coach and mentor young athletes, expressed her appreciation for the honor and the support she has received at JCC.
“I’m deeply grateful for my instructors, my coaches, and the SPREE staff at Jamestown Community College for their constant encouragement and support,” she said. A special thank you to my family, especially my children, for inspiring me every day to keep going. As a single parent, returning to school and balancing classes, work, and family is not easy, but I wanted to show my children that you never give up and it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. I’m proud to represent adult learners everywhere who prove that dedication and heart can open new doors.”
The award honors the legacy of Charles “Chuck” Burns, a longtime community college liaison to the SUNY Chancellor’s office and an early CEANY member. Burns was a champion for adult education and played a key role in expanding continuing education programs across New York state.
Jackie Patterson, CEANY vice president and Workforce Development program manager at JCC, noted the significance of Barnard’s achievement.
“Each year, CEANY receives applications from across SUNY and CUNY for this award,” Patterson said. “Selecting regional winners is both rewarding and challenging because all nominees have overcome adversity to continue their education. I am very happy for Jerica and proud that her hard work has been highlighted and rewarded.
For more information about adult education and support services at JCC, visit sunyjcc.edu/support.