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Elidenya Peña ‘24 received the Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Student Excellence. Peña was recognized at the fifth annual recognition ceremony on April 18 in Troy, N.Y.

The Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award is the highest SUNY honor for EOP students. The award recognizes EOP students who have shown positive academic trajectories despite challenges faced during their academic careers. Beginning college by participating in EOP’s first virtual Binghamton Enrichment Program in the summer of 2020, Peña’s academic achievements are commendable. She maintained an outstanding GPA, a testament to her intelligence, diligence and time management skills while earning her BS in biological sciences, a BA in Africana studies and a BS in global public health. Additionally, she has distinguished herself as an experienced undergraduate researcher, Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) participant, and Ronald E. McNair Scholar.

Beyond the classroom, Peña has actively engaged in extracurricular activities, demonstrating her passion for both personal growth and community involvement. Whether through volunteering, mentorship or advocacy, she has consistently worked to uplift those around her and create positive change in her community.

As Peña prepares to embark on the next chapter of her journey, she does so with a sense of purpose and determination. She has accepted an offer to attend the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Binghamton this fall and is excited to be able to continue her research in pharmaceuticals alongside her faculty advisor.

Peña is a stellar student and also a compassionate leader — a true inspiration to all who have had the privilege of knowing her. Her receipt of the Norman R. McConney Award serves as a testament to her hard work, perseverance and unwavering commitment to excellence. The late Norman R. McConney, Jr., a graduate of the University at Albany and former assistant dean for special programs at SUNY, worked alongside former Deputy Assembly Speaker Arthur O. Eve and helped draft the legislation that created EOP as a statewide program. A respected public policy strategist, Mr. McConney served as Assemblyman Eve’s long-time chief of staff. He dedicated his career in public service to advancing legislative initiatives to address the needs of economically disadvantaged and underrepresented New Yorkers.

McConney was also a driving force behind the creation of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, which later became the New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus. He is recognized as one of the principal authors of The People’s Budget, which each year analyzes the Executive Budget and its impact on the poor and minorities in the state.