The View From Here

HARTWICK COLLEGE HAS ALWAYS stood for something greater than itself. Since our founding, we have been dedicated to preparing students not only for professional success but also for lives of purpose, meaning and service. Today, as we reflect on our enduring commitment to civic engagement, we celebrate the many ways Hartwick fosters active citizenship and strengthens communities—locally, nationally and globally.

Key to this work is the Hartwick Institute of Public Service, a beacon for students aspiring to serve the public good. Through academic programming, hands-on experiences and partnerships with government, nonprofit and business organizations, the institute prepares students to take on leadership roles in civic life. This fall, we witnessed its impact firsthand as our students played roles in elections, engaged in public policy discussions and connected with distinguished alumni like Matt Chase ’93 and Assemblymember Jen Lunsford ’04. Their contributions underscore Hartwick’s role in shaping ethical, informed leaders who champion democracy and the common good.

Beyond the classroom, our students exemplify the spirit of civic responsibility. Zack Corbett ’27 recently ran for mayor of the Village of Otego; Sarah Matumbura ’26 serves on the Oneonta City Commission; Cooper Cohen ’28 co-chairs Oneonta’s new Town-Gown Relations Taskforce, and Jack Reichel ’26 serves as a City of Oneonta Airport Commissioner. Each is living proof of how Hartwick empowers students to lead now—not just in the future. Their stories, along with those of numerous alumni in governance, public service and advocacy reaffirm our collective commitment to making a difference.

Faculty-led initiatives are at the center of our efforts to foster civic engagement. In Professor Susan Navarette’s grant writing practicum, students gain a deep understanding of the challenges facing not-for-profit organizations while developing the skills to craft compelling proposals that secure funding for critical community projects. These students are not only enhancing their academic learning but also contributing directly to the betterment of the region. Through her dedication to teaching and mentorship, Professor Navarette exemplifies the excellence of Hartwick’s faculty.

These experiential approaches ensure that Hartwick students are equipped to make a tangible impact in public service and philanthropy. Initiatives like the work being done through our Center for Craft Food and Beverage and, in particular, our new Baking Innovation Lab, further illustrate how creativity and collaboration shape community impact. These efforts—and so many more—reflect the essence of a Hartwick education: one that prepares students to lead, serve and build stronger communities.

Across these pages, you will find stories of engaged citizens—students, faculty, staff and alumni—who embody Hartwick’s mission to inspire lives of meaning and purpose. From the alumni profiled in this issue to faculty and staff leading groundbreaking research and community partnerships, their collective efforts reinforce that Hartwick is far more than a college; it is a force for good.

As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders. Through education, experience and engagement, Hartwick will continue to prepare responsible and informed graduates who are ready to shape a better world—and with your continued support, we can ensure this important work will continue long into the future.

With gratitude,

Jim Mullen, President