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Roberto Ortiz Guarneros Honored with Norman R. McConney Jr. Award for Student Excellence
SYRACUSE, N.Y. – April 2, 2026 — Roberto Ortiz Guarneros, a senior majoring in landscape architecture at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, has been honored with the Norman R. McConney Jr. Award for Student Excellence. The award recognizes Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) students across SUNY for their academic excellence and perseverance.
EOP is a college-access program that supports talented New York state students who, due to challenging financial and educational circumstances, have not had the same opportunity as others to achieve their academic potential. Ortiz Guarneros was among 49 students statewide honored by SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr.
Ortiz Guarneros’ path to ESF is rooted in his lived experience. Growing up in Mt. Vernon, New York, he worked for his uncle’s lawn maintenance business. When it came time to look at colleges, with the help of Destination College, Ortiz Guarneros realized he was drawn to landscaping and ESF would help him take his passion to the next level.
“I knew I didn’t just want to stay with the lawn maintenance aspect of things. I wanted to grow and do something that’s more impactful,” he said. This led him to two things: majoring in landscape architecture at ESF and starting his own business, Arbol Design Scapes. Ortiz Guarneros aspires to expand his design‑build landscaping business to improve how people live, connect, and experience their environment.
Since his freshman year, he has spent his summers building his knowledge base and business acumen. The summer after his freshman year, he stayed in Syracuse and worked for the city mowing with his business the city parks. The following summer, he returned home to build his business there.
Last summer Ortiz Guarneros had an internship with Green Scapes, a local landscaping company. “That was great because I got a lot of on‑hands experience and as well as time in the office using their programs, talking to clients, and solving problems they were having on their property,” he said.
Combining his classwork with internships, he has strengthened the foundation of his professional goals.
“I’m trying to move more towards design and build of outdoor spaces which I feel is more impactful,” he said.
While much of Ortiz Guarneros’ leadership takes place through his business, he also plays a mentorship role within ESF’s EOP and landscape architecture communities, tutoring and supporting other EOP landscape architecture students.
“Roberto has a very collaborative approach to leadership,” said Divya Kirti-Marston, Director of Opportunity Programs and EOP. “Through his tutoring he helps his peers develop their own strengths and confidence.”
“When I first got here, I was scared to talk to people and ask for help,” he said. “Now that I have more experience, when I see my peers needing help, I’m like, ‘Don’t be afraid. Ask for help.”
And when he can, Ortiz Guarneros provides that help, “A lot of students, come up to me and they’re like, ‘Hey, can you help me do this?’ with questions about Photoshop, Adobe or any software they need help with. I try to help everyone, not just EOP students, but anyone in landscape architecture.”
By helping others, Ortiz Guarneros hopes he will inspire others will pay it forward.
“I help them in hopes that they help others.”
Ortiz Guarneros is also active in the Syracuse community participating in the Start It & Mentor/Mentee Business Program at Syracuse University’s INSPIRE Hub, where he continues developing his business plan with guidance from mentors and peers. He also serves as vice president of ESF’s MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences) chapter, connecting members with internships, job opportunities, and industry professionals. He has earned Dean’s List recognition.
“Roberto’s accomplishments reflect the very best of what ESF’s Educational Opportunity Program makes possible,” said ESF President Joanie Mahoney. “His drive, his creativity, and his commitment to building stronger, more vibrant communities show how transformational this program is for students. We are incredibly proud of all he has achieved and look forward to the impact he will continue to make in the world.”
Now in its seventh year, the award is named in memory of Norman R. McConney Jr., a University at Albany graduate and former SUNY assistant dean who helped establish the Educational Opportunity Program.
“I am constantly reminded of the profound impact SUNY’s Educational Opportunity Program has had on countless lives. The stories, triumphs, and unwavering determination of SUNY’s EOP students serve as beacons of hope and inspiration for future generations of students,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “At SUNY, we are immensely grateful for the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the Legislature who continue to support this transformative program that ensures students not only start but have the support to complete their degrees.”
About SUNY ESF
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.