Delaney Ortiz Recieves 2026 SUNY Chancellor's Award
Delaney Ortiz, a senior in the Stony Brook University School of Nursing’s Basic Baccalaureate program, received a State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence (CASE) on Monday, April 27.
The award is SUNY’s highest student honor and recognizes individuals for “outstanding achievements in areas including academics; leadership; diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice; campus involvement; civics and service; research; and the arts.”
Ortiz is one of 205 students from all 64 SUNY campuses to receive the honor in 2026.
A first-generation college student, Ortiz serves as president of the Stony Brook Pre-Nursing Society and is an active member of the Stony Brook Student Nurses' Association (SBSNA). She is an active volunteer with numerous organizations, including Ronald McDonald House Charities and her local church’s children’s ministry.
“To be acknowledged for excellence in academics, service, and leadership is both humbling and motivating, as these are values I have strived to embody throughout my time in school,” said Ortiz.
“I am especially grateful to the exceptional professors at the School of Nursing, whose unwavering support, mentorship, and dedication to student success have shaped me into the person and future nurse I am today,” she added. “Their guidance has been a constant source of inspiration, and this award reflects not only my efforts but the profound impact they have had on my journey.”
Ortiz, who plans to become a NICU nurse and a future neonatal nurse practitioner, was selected to serve as a nursing intern in Stony Brook University Hospital’s Surgical/Trauma ICU.
“Delany represents the very highest ideals of our School of Nursing,” said Dean Patricia Bruckenthal, PhD, APRN, FAAN. “Her exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and deep commitment to service have strengthened our community in meaningful ways.
“She demonstrates a rare blend of intellect, integrity, and heart,” added Dean Bruckenthal. “We are immensely proud to see her honored with this award.”
Each SUNY campus may submit up to 15 nominations for SUNY Chancellor’s Awards. While grade point averages are considered, candidates must demonstrate exceptional academic leadership and performance.
“The students who have earned this recognition have inspired their classmates, their educators, their campuses, and me with their inspiring work, tenacious drive, and dedication to their academic success,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “I commend each of the awardees and thank them for being examples for others to follow."
