SUNY NEW PALTZ 40 UNDER 40

The SUNY New Paltz 40 Under Forty awards program aims to honor the outstanding accomplishments of 40 distinguished alumni under the age of 40. These individuals, who have earned undergraduate, graduate, or certificate of advanced study degrees from SUNY New Paltz, are recognized for their innovative leadership and significant contributions within their respective fields.

Finalists were meticulously selected from a competitive and diverse pool of 135 nominees, showcasing a wide array of professional backgrounds, including education, the arts, scientific research, technology, medicine, business, media, and government.

Among the notable nominees for this prestigious accolade was Giancarlo Llaverias ’16, a graduate of Communication Studies. He has made history as the first Afro-Latino legislator representing Dutchess County District 1, marking a significant milestone in the county's political landscape. His achievements reflect a commitment to fostering inclusivity and bringing diverse perspectives to local governance.