The Rockland Community College (RCC) Foundation honored three outstanding leaders and organizations at its annual Champions of Change: A Celebration of Philanthropy and Outstanding Leaders on Thursday, Oct. 16, at the Cultural Arts Center on its campus.
More than 140 guests attended the event, which raised over $127,000 to support scholarships, emergency aid and innovative programs that help RCC students achieve their educational and career goals.
This year’s honorees were recognized for their visionary leadership, commitment to community development and unwavering support of student success at RCC and across Rockland County.
The 2025 Champions of Change honorees included:
Steven H. Porath, executive director of the Rockland County Industrial Development Agency and president of the Rockland Economic Assistance Corporation, received the Champion of Change for Impact Award for his transformative work in economic development.
JPMorganChase received the Champion of Change for Innovation Award for its significant investment in workforce development and its strategic partnership with RCC to support local economic growth. The award was accepted by Deborah Charlemagne, executive director and market director for banking.
Susan Oelkers-Ramos, RCC trustee, foundation board member, and owner of Environmental Construction Inc., who received the Champion of Change for Philanthropy Award for over two decades of generous support and tireless advocacy for RCC students.
“Each of these honorees represents the values we hold dear at RCC, innovation, impact and a deep commitment to empowering students,” said Dr. Karen Lewis, executive director of development. “Their leadership helps build a stronger, more equitable future for Rockland County and beyond.”
Guests enjoyed performances by RCC’s Visual and Performing Arts students and a gourmet menu prepared by the college’s Hospitality and Culinary Arts program. The evening also featured moving testimonials from RCC students whose lives have been transformed through scholarships and support made possible by the Foundation.
Since its founding in 1981, the RCC Foundation has awarded over $4 million in scholarships to help students achieve their educational and career goals.
“This is more than a celebration, it’s a commitment to the future of our students,” said Walter Goldman, chair of the RCC Foundation. “We’re deeply grateful to our honorees, sponsors and donors who continue to invest in the power of education.”
Founded in 1959, Rockland Community College provides students with a high-quality education that is both affordable and accessible. The college offers 35 degrees and three 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.
