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Plattsburgh Ascendant

A comprehensive exploration of the State University of New York at Plattsburgh, from its historic roots to its vibrant campus life and academic achievements.

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A Legacy of Learning: History

Founding Principles

Established in 1889 and opening its doors in 1890, SUNY Plattsburgh began as the Plattsburgh State Normal and Training School. Championed by local figures like Smith M. Weed, its establishment marked a significant commitment to teacher education in the region. The university is now part of the expansive State University of New York (SUNY) system and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.[4]

The Fire of 1929

A devastating fire in January 1929 destroyed the original Normal Hall building. Despite the loss, classes quickly resumed in temporary locations, demonstrating the resilience of the institution. A new, larger building was constructed on the same site, later named Hawkins Hall in honor of Principal George K. Hawkins, and is now a historic landmark on campus.[14]

Evolution to University

In 1948, the institution joined the SUNY system, transitioning from a two-year teacher's college to a four-year institution, becoming the State University of New York College at Plattsburgh. The latter half of the 20th century saw significant campus expansion with new academic and residential buildings. In 2023, it officially became SUNY Plattsburgh, reflecting its growth in enrollment and graduate programs.

Campus & Location

Scenic Setting

Nestled in the Champlain Valley of upstate New York, the primary campus is situated in Plattsburgh, offering proximity to Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Its location also fosters strong connections with Canada, being approximately 60 miles from Montreal.[27]

Campus Hubs

The main campus spans 256 acres and features 36 buildings. Amitié Plaza serves as a central outdoor courtyard, featuring a notable sculpture symbolizing amity between the US and Canada.[29] Key academic buildings include Hawkins Hall, the Angell College Center, Feinberg Library, and the Myers Fine Arts Building.

Artistic Enrichment

The Plattsburgh State Art Museum, known as a "Museum Without Walls," houses over 4,600 works. It features the extensive Rockwell Kent Gallery and Collection, the largest in the U.S., and the Nina Winkel Sculpture Court, the nation's largest display dedicated to a single female artist.[30][32]

Academic Excellence

Degree Offerings

SUNY Plattsburgh is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and offers more than 60 baccalaureate degrees and numerous minors. The university is structured into three primary academic divisions: the School of Arts & Sciences, the School of Business & Economics, and the School of Education, Health & Human Services. Graduate programs are available in specialized fields such as data analytics, education, and speech-language pathology.[35]

Faculty & Admissions

Instruction is primarily delivered by faculty members, many of whom hold doctoral degrees. The university is test-optional, with a 70.2% acceptance rate for undergraduate applicants. Admitted students typically have a high school GPA of 3.11, with those submitting test scores averaging 1160 on the SAT or 25 on the ACT.[37]

Recognition & Rankings

U.S. News & World Report

For 2024-2025, U.S. News & World Report recognized SUNY Plattsburgh among the top institutions in its category. It was ranked tied for #49 in Regional Universities North, #17 for Top Public Schools in the region, and #28 for Best Value Schools. The university also received recognition for Top Performers on Social Mobility.[38][39]

Student Body Profile

Diversity and Origin

As of Fall 2023, the undergraduate student body comprises approximately 4,417 students, with 59% identifying as female and 41% as male. The student population is diverse, with 64% identifying as White, 14% Hispanic, 11% Black, and smaller percentages from other racial and ethnic backgrounds. Over 90% of students originate from within New York State, with international students making up about 5% of the population.[69]

Athletic Prowess

Championship Hockey

SUNY Plattsburgh is renowned for its highly successful NCAA Division III ice hockey programs. The men's team has secured three NCAA championships, while the women's team boasts seven NCAA titles, making them perennial national contenders. The campus also has a notable tradition associated with its hockey games, including the former tennis ball toss.[51][52]

Basketball Legacy

The men's basketball team has a storied history, including seven NCAA tournament appearances and a Final Four finish in 1976. The university supports 18 varsity teams across various sports, competing in the SUNYAC and NEWHL conferences.[46]

Distinguished Alumni

Arts and Entertainment

The university's alumni include notable figures in the arts and entertainment industries. Academy Award-winning actor Tim Robbins, Emmy-nominated actor Michael Rispoli, and television actor Dave Annable are among the alumni who have achieved significant recognition in film and television.[79][85][87]

Literature and Politics

In literature, acclaimed science fiction writer Nancy Kress is an alumna. The political sphere is represented by figures such as former U.S. Congressman Anthony Weiner and White House Director of Social Media Dan Scavino.[77][90][91]

Notable Faculty

Hockey Hall of Fame

The university has been associated with distinguished faculty, including Jacques Lemaire, a celebrated player inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, contributing to the university's strong athletic reputation.[96]

Campus Milestones

Iconic Concerts

SUNY Plattsburgh hosted significant events, including the 1975 live recording of Peter Frampton's classic rock hit "Baby, I Love Your Way" at Memorial Hall, captured on the album Frampton Comes Alive!.[98]

Presidential Visits

In 1976, the campus served as the staging area for the U.S. Olympic Team before the Montreal Games. President Gerald Ford visited the campus to address the athletes, marking a significant moment in the university's history.[101]

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References

References

  1.  The percentage of students who received an income-based federal Pell grant intended for low-income students.
  2.  The percentage of students who are a part of the American middle class at the bare minimum.
  3.  Crowe, Cameron (1976). Do You Feel Like We Do. In Frampton Comes Alive [CD liner notes]. Santa Monica: A&M Records.
A full list of references for this article are available at the State University of New York at Plattsburgh Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional academic consultation or advice related to university admissions, programs, or operations. Always refer to the official SUNY Plattsburgh resources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.