Locals: People/Businesses in the News, August 20, 2026

OUTSTANDING UNDERGRADS: The University at Buffalo has announced its spring 2026 Dean’s List, recognizing undergraduate students who achieved outstanding academic performance during the semester. UB named 5,935 students to the list. Local honorees include: Mason Thalheimer of Cherry Valley; Rowan Swatling of Maryland; Taylor Beckley of Milford; and Gabe Rissberger of Oneonta.

MOUSSA NAMED TO LIST: Joseph James Moussa of Oneonta has been named to the spring 2026 Dean’s List at Hofstra University, earning the distinction by achieving a GPA of at least 3.5 for the semester. Moussa is majoring in speech-language hearing sciences. Hofstra notes that its mission centers on providing a high‑quality education in an environment that “encourages, nurtures, and supports learning.”

HIGGINS EARNS DEGREE: Patricia Higgins of Otego has graduated from Hamilton College, earning a bachelor of arts degree during the college’s commencement ceremony on May 24. Higgins, a French and Francophone studies major, completed her program with departmental honors. This year’s commencement address was delivered by chef, chocolatier, and Hamilton alumnus Stephen Durfee, a 1985 graduate. Durfee encouraged the Class of 2026 to “be present and patient enough to find what they love,” assuring students that they are more prepared for the world ahead than they may realize. Drawing from his culinary background, he spoke about the French concept of mise en place—having every tool and ingredient in place before beginning work—as a broader philosophy of intentional preparation.

BEVERLAND MAKES THE LIST: Grant Thomas Beverland of Worcester has been named to the Dean’s List at Clarkson University for the spring 2026 semester. Beverland is a sophomore majoring in mechanical engineering. He earned at least a 3.25 GPA while carrying a minimum of 14 credit hours.