Fantastic news from Empire State University! Four talented students from our region, hailing from Saratoga Springs, have been honored with the prestigious SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence for 2026. Lenti Aier, Muhammad Amirul Islam Fahim, Jessica Nivens, and Christol Wright are being recognized for their outstanding achievements in academics, leadership, service, and more. This ceremony will take place on April 27th at the Albany Capital Center.
Lenti Aier, a Red Hook native currently pursuing her master’s in applied behavior analysis, is one of the recipients. Aier, who already holds a master’s in psychology from India, expressed surprise at the honor but noted it reinforces the value of dedication and service. She’s the founder and president of the Act of Kindness Society, a testament to her commitment.
While details on the other three recipients are still emerging, the selection of these four Empire State University students, including Lenti Aier and the ambitious Muhammad Amirul Islam Fahim (also pursuing his master’s in applied behavior analysis), is a wonderful reminder of the exceptional talent right here in our county. Their success is truly something to celebrate.




