RCC to Honor Three Community Leaders at 2025 Champions of Change

The Rockland Community College (RCC) Foundation will host its annual Champions of Change Celebration on Thursday, October 16, 2025, honoring three community leaders whose vision, generosity, and innovation are making a lasting impact on Rockland County.

The evening begins with a 5:30 p.m. VIP reception, followed by a 6:00 p.m. cocktail reception and a 7:30 p.m. awards program. Guests will enjoy live music, a wine pull, and the opportunity to recognize individuals and organizations whose contributions strengthen both the College and the community.

This year’s honorees include:

• Impact Award: Steven H. Porath, Executive Director of Rockland County’s Industrial Development Agency and President of the Rockland Economic Assistance Corporation, who is being recognized for his leadership in driving billions of dollars in investment and creating thousands of local jobs through strategic economic development and workforce training.

• Philanthropy Award: Susan Oelkers-Ramos, owner of Environmental Construction Inc., and member of the RCC Board of Trustees, will be honored for her steadfast dedication to education, mentorship, and community enrichment. She founded the RCC President’s Society in 2020 and has championed cultural, scholarship, and improvement initiatives throughout the region.

• Innovation Award: JPMorganChase will be recognized for its longstanding commitment to Rockland and its innovative Money Smart Financial Coaching Program, which empowers RCC students with essential financial literacy and planning skills. The Champions of Change celebration will also highlight RCC’s renowned Hospitality and Culinary Arts program, along with Visual and Performing Arts students, who will showcase their talents throughout the evening.

Benefactor tickets, which include access to the VIP reception with honorees, are available for $200. General admission tickets are $125. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are also available. For more details, please visit the Champions of Change event page. All proceeds raised during the event will directly support RCC students through the Foundation.

About the RCC Foundation

Established in 1981, the RCC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting Rockland Community College through scholarships, faculty enrichment, equipment funding, and innovative programming. Event proceeds directly further student success initiatives.

About Rockland Community College

Founded in 1959, Rockland Community College (RCC) provides students with a high-quality education that is both affordable and accessible. RCC offers 35 degree and 3 certificate programs, and a faculty that includes Fulbright scholars and SUNY Distinguished Professors. In addition to its main campus in Suffern, RCC operates a Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center in Nyack, and its Automotive Technology Center in Orangeburg. For more information about RCC, please visit sunyrockland.edu.