Kevin Trigonis has been appointed director of the Kenney Center for Community Engagement as part of a reorganization of the College’s community outreach efforts.
Trigonis has served as director of the Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) since 2021.
Kevin Trigonis has been appointed director of the Kenney Center for Community Engagement.
Under the new structure, Trigonis will oversee a staff of three who will work with STEP and community engagement.
Dedicated in 2000, the Ralph B. ’29 and Marjorie Kenney Community Center is a critical part of the College’s community service efforts. STEP helps prepare historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students to enter college and increase participation in math, science, technology, health-related fields and licensed professions.
Trigonis has a bachelor’s degree in sociology from St. Lawrence University and a master’s in athletic leadership from Castleton University.
At Convocation last fall, he was presented with the UNITAS Community Building award in recognition of his efforts to foster community and diversity at Union.
“I am inspired by Kevin's vision for the Kenney Center for Community Engagement,” said Annette Diorio, vice president for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. “His work with faculty, staff, students and members of the community with the STEP program has deepened his understanding of how we collectively play a role in building on the strengths within Schenectady. I am confident in his ability to lead the center and expand its impact in the coming years.”
Also, as part of the reorganization, Heather Heider will become the assistant director of STEP. She is currently the project coordinator for STEP. Heider has a bachelor’s degree in zoology and physiology from the University of Wyoming and a master’s in training and development from Idaho State University.
The College will hire an assistant director for community engagement and a project coordinator serving both STEP and community engagement.