SUNY Potsdam Student Jesli Chopin '28 Named EOP Student Ambassador

SUNY Potsdam Student Jesli Chopin '28 to Serve in Sixth Class of EOP Student Ambassadors from Across SUNY System

Potsdam, NY (10/09/2026) — SUNY Potsdam student Jesli Chopin '28 was recently named an Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Student Ambassador by SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. She and 19 other students from 18 campuses will serve as mentors to other students, encourage high school seniors to enroll, help build on the established student support network for EOP students across the SUNY system, and advise SUNY on ways to keep strengthening the program.

"For 60 years, SUNY's Educational Opportunity Program has supported tens of thousands of students as they work to achieve academic excellence and upward mobility," said SUNY Chancellor King. "EOP students are models of student success and some of our most effective ambassadors for the affordable excellence SUNY provides. SUNY is proud to recognize the hard work of our EOP students and provide them opportunities to support their peers during their academic journey."

The SUNY Board of Trustees said, "Through the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the State Legislature, SUNY can provide our EOP students with vital opportunities to support both current and potential SUNY students to pursue their dreams. Thank you to Governor Hochul and state leaders for their steadfast support of SUNY, and our students."

SUNY EOP Ambassadors are EOP students in good academic standing who are enrolled full time for the Fall 2026 semester. The student ambassadors will receive stipends of $2,500 per semester towards their financial aid package to carry out this role. To serve as student ambassadors, SUNY students were nominated by EOP directors, and a committee comprised of SUNY system administrators selected each ambassador based on their demonstrated leadership, potential as a peer mentor, and commitment to the program.

Jesli Chopin '28 is a junior at SUNY Potsdam, majoring in business administration, along with a minor in psychology. Originally from Bayville, N.Y., she is proud to be continuing her education as a first-generation college student, where she understands the importance of creating her own path and taking advantage of opportunities that allow her to grow. Her experiences as an older sister and daughter of a single mother have motivated her to become independent, determined, and supportive of those around her. She hopes to use her journey to encourage other first-generation students to pursue their goals and recognize their own potential.

At SUNY Potsdam, Chopin is an active member of the SOCA LOCA Club and currently serves as treasurer. She also works in the Office of Admissions as a student ambassador, where she represents SUNY Potsdam and interacts with prospective students and families. Her role allows her to use her strong communication skills while sharing her experiences and helping others feel welcomed and confident in their college search.

"The EOP program isn't just about preparing for college. It's about discovering your potential," Chopin said. "Don't just chase opportunities; become the kind of person who creates them!"

Looking toward the future, Chopin hopes to pursue a career in marketing or management, where she can combine her knowledge of business administration and psychology. Her strong communication skills, outgoing personality and natural leadership abilities have inspired her to pursue a career where she can lead teams, build relationships, develop creative strategies and make a positive impact. Her goal is not only to build a successful career, but also to inspire others to believe in themselves and pursue opportunities beyond what they may have initially imagined. She is committed to becoming a successful professional while staying grounded in the values of family, hard work, kindness and community.

EOP enrollment is open to all students who meet the program's longstanding academic and financial need requirements. To learn more about EOP at SUNY Potsdam, visit www.potsdam.edu/eop.

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