This is Erin Colvin’s seventh academic year as a counselor with the Education Opportunity Program at Morrisville State College–and her last. She has taken a new job with St. Lawrence University and left her post here last week.

When Colvin took the job with the EOP back in 2001, she thought it would be a temporary position, and technically it was – if six years is any kind of temporary measure. She said she was initially hired on a ten-month contract. “My first contract expired and they asked me to stay on for another year,” said Colvin, “and that just kept happening year after year.

Colvin said she’s enjoyed her time here immensely and has tried to make the most out of it. “I’m at every event I can possibly go to,” she said. “I’ll plan my schedule in the evening sometimes around them.”

Colvin said it has been a pleasure working for EOP, an admissions-based program set up to help students stay on par with academics. EOP counselors regularly help member students set up tutors and other academic help. “I’ve learned so much here about working with students,” said Colvin. “We’re getting them through their programs and helping them transfer on.”

Her new post will be similar to her current position and she will receive a new title, better pay and the chance to further her education. “The other opportunity for me is that I’m going to be able to finish my master’s degree,” she said. At St. Lawrence, she will be assistant director for the Higher Education Opportunity Program – the private school equivalent of EOP.

Chris Wilson, a student in the EOP program, said he can see Colvin’s commitment to her work in the way she helps students. “She goes the extra step,” said Wilson, “and I’m going to really miss her.” Wilson said he feels he can tell Colvin anything and not feel he’s being judged, he also said she is the kind of person that will do just about anything to help someone else out. “I think she’d let me borrow her car if I told her I really needed it,” said Wilson.

Colvin’s absence will be felt not only by her students, but by other staff and faculty as well. Residence Life Director Armanda King said Colvin has had a profound impact on her life – specifically on her desire to live a healthier lifestyle. Colvin and King have become “diet buddies” and often go to work out together and lend moral support to one another. “I’m going to miss her,” said King, “on multiple levels.”

When Colvin moves on it will not be without sadness, but many have also expressed a certain joy in knowing that she will be able to take her bright smile and winning attitude and continue to make a difference elsewhere in the lives of students.