PURCHASE, NY – Delece Kerr '25, a Music Production major at Purchase College, has been named a recipient of the Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for EOP Student Excellence, an honor given to a select group of SUNY Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) students who have demonstrated academic success and resilience in the face of personal and academic challenges.
Kerr joined the women's lacrosse team in 2022 as a two-sport athlete, also competing on the soccer field. Known for her speed and strength in clearing the ball, she quickly became an anchor on defense and a dependable presence for her team.
She stepped away from athletics during her junior year to focus on her studies as a Studio Composition major, where she continued to shine. That year, she headlined "Afrodisiac," a major student-run campus performance. Off the field and outside the studio, she's made a strong impact on campus — serving as a Resident Assistant and holding a leadership role on the executive board for OAPIA (Organization of African Peoples in the Americas).
Asked to describe the award in her own words, Kerr said, "The Norman McConney Junior Award is awarded to students who demonstrated perseverance through challenges and proceeded to achieve excellence."
She continued, "To me, this means that no matter the setbacks I've faced through my four years of college, I was always able to rise above them, set a new standard, and achieve greatness despite what was thrown in my direction."
Her family's support made the moment even more meaningful. "My family had an amazing reaction as they drove from Maryland to Albany to see me accept the award at the official ceremony. They're still cheering me on and still celebrating every win."
After graduation, Kerr hopes to work at a record label, where she can continue to build connections and grow within the music industry.
This award, named for Norman R. McConney, Jr. (1946–2016) — a University at Albany graduate and former SUNY assistant dean for special programs — honors the legacy of a man who, alongside Assemblyman Arthur O. Eve, helped establish the EOP as a vital access program across New York State.
Congratulations, Delece!
