By Elisabeth Costanzo Stewart
Controlled chaos was in the air on Friday, May 1, 2026, as SUNY Broome hosted its 11th Mock Disaster. This year’s disaster focused on the dangerous realities of distracted driving, particularly in work zones.
The day of campus-wide experiential learning began with a keynote address from Deputy Commissioner Chet Kupiec, and Foreman, Chris Hand, from the Broome County Highway Department. They shared their personal experiences with work zone-related emergencies, and emphasized the importance of safety, vigilance, and proper precautions. The address was followed by a panel discussion with industry professionals – many of whom are proud SUNY Broome alumni.
Panelists included:
- Allyson DeGroat – Dispatcher – Broome County Office of Emergency Services
- Lt. Jan Cower – Lieutenant – Broome County Sheriff’s Office
- Bryan Heller – Firefighter – Binghamton Fire Department
- Justin Schmidt – Paramedic – Broome County Office of Emergency Services
- Larry Jennings – Chaplain – ER: Robert Packer
- Michelle Briggs, RN – Registered Nurse – ER: UHS Wilson
- Deena Dement – Counselor – SUNY Broome
After pausing to honor the first responders and medical professionals who have lost their lives in service to others, the immersive simulated emergency officially began. More than 125 students responded to the disaster to secure the scene, triage victims, and provide immediate and continued care based on each patient’s acuity.
Students from the Criminal Justice, Homeland Security & Emergency Management, Paramedic, Health Studies, Nursing, Radiologic Technology, Dental Hygiene, Physical Therapist Assistant, and Health Information Technology programs responded in their respective capacities, gaining preparation and professionalism before embarking on their careers.
An estimated 40 students, faculty, and staff from across campus volunteered to serve as victims, ranging from the walking wounded, to fatalities.
Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management students provided food for the participants, and Communications and Media Arts recorded the Mock Disaster for later review and archival. MarCom’s student team captured the event for social media.
We extend our appreciation and thanks to the Mock Disaster Committee, and our dedicated community partners.
Members of the 2025/2026 Mock Disaster Committee include:
- Dr. Tina Hasemann, Co-Chair
- Leigh Martindale, Co-Chair
- Linda Bennett
- Dani Berchtold
- Nick Brey
- Marie Finelli
- Kamaran Fisher
- Val Carnegie
- Dr. Rob Congdon
- Deena Dement
- Judi Dzuba
- Matt Ebbers
- Kamaran Fisher
- Nicole Hoppes
- Kathleen Hundley
- Melissa Martin
- Dr. Kimberly McLain
- Skip McLain
- Maria Montemagno
- Kristin Oliver
- Evelyn Negron-Oyola
- Karoline Pignatelli
- Andrew Robertshaw
- Tina Seedborg
- David Tinklepaugh
- Josh VanSteenburg
- Kristen Yetter
- Ann Marie Zumawtzak
And our community partners:
- Broome County Highway Department
- Broome County Office of Emergency Services
- Broome Ambulance
- Chenango Fire
- Air Methods
- New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
View photos from the 2026 Mock Disaster!
Click here to view photos from the 2026 Mock Disaster!
Tags: Business and Professional Studies Division, Health Sciences Division, Liberal Arts Division
