Keuka College faculty and staff returned to campus last week with more than just a new semester ahead — they got a standing ovation, salary increases, and some well-earned recognition.
At the College’s annual Community Day celebration on Aug. 13, President Amy Storey announced strong enrollment, a seventh straight budget surplus, and several new gifts and upgrades across campus.
“We have the right people in the right seats to do really good work,” President Storey told the crowd of about 170 employees gathered in Geiser Dining Commons. “I couldn’t be prouder of what you’ve all accomplished.”
Big wins in giving and growth
Despite shrinking high school graduating classes across the Northeast, the College’s enrollment remains stable. Its continued financial strength allowed for merit-based pay raises and supported major campus improvements — including tech upgrades in classrooms and the addition of a new press box at Kuhl Field.
Several philanthropic gifts helped push things forward:
- Two anonymous donations totaling $200,000 helped complete Phase III of the nursing lab renovation.
- A $107,500 gift from alumna Kay Faron Ciganovic ’71 will expand Field Period® experiences.
- The Jephson Educational Trusts gave $158,000 to fund a new scholarship and support the Lakeside Lodge in honor of longtime trustee Robert Taisey.
The College also took over bookstore operations — a strategic shift expected to generate an additional $300,000 a year.
Recognizing service and support
Student Senate President Jasmine Downs ’26 opened the event by thanking faculty and staff for their impact on student life. “Your hard work, dedication, and constant support truly shapes our experience,” she said.
Milestone anniversaries were also a highlight. David and Ron Lucia, brothers in the facilities department, received a standing ovation for 40 years of service each — 80 combined.
Other honorees included:
5 years
- Deb Rasmussen
10 years
- Luciano Cursino-Parent
- Jimmy Habecker
- Mark McNaney
- Karol Multer
- Malia Spofford Xavier
15 years
- Klaudia Lorinczova
- Ed Silverman
20 years
- Beth Russo
25 years
- Barb Demjanec
30 years
- Ann Tuttle
40 years
- David Lucia
- Ron Lucia
New employee introductions, faculty promotions, and the awarding of glass acorns — tokens of community spirit and dedication — rounded out the morning celebration.
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