SENECA FALLS — New York Chiropractic College (NYCC) held commencement exercises for five degree programs on its Seneca Falls campus in late July. The college conferred degrees on 146 students — 31 from the doctor of chiropractic (DC) program; 18 from the master of science in acupuncture (MSA) and master of science in acupuncture and oriental […]
SENECA FALLS — New York Chiropractic College (NYCC) held commencement exercises for five degree programs on its Seneca Falls campus in late July.
The college conferred degrees on 146 students — 31 from the doctor of chiropractic (DC) program; 18 from the master of science in acupuncture (MSA) and master of science in acupuncture and oriental medicine (MSAOM) programs; 67 from the master of science in applied clinical nutrition (MSACN); one from the master of science in diagnostic imaging (MSDI) residency; and 29 from the master of science in human anatomy and physiology instruction (MSHAPI) program.
NYCC President Frank J. Nicchi presided over the final commencement before his retirement on Aug. 31 and delivered the commencement address, the college said in a news release.
Nicchi, who has led the college since September 2000, has been a member of the NYCC faculty since 1980. He maintains the faculty rank of professor in the Department of Chiropractic Clinical Sciences.
Focusing on what will be rather than what was, Nicchi told the graduates that they can and must invent their future. “It is up to you make the decisions that will define your course,” he said, according to the release. He encouraged the graduates to adopt “personal touchstones as quality measures” to assure their success and keep them on their chosen path.
Nicchi illustrated how each of “The Four Agreements,” from the book of the same name by Don Miguel Ruiz, provides vital guidance. He asked the graduates to consider how they might integrate these principles into their lives as professionals.
Reflecting on his own tenure at NYCC, Nicchi said he counts the college among his blessings and, although he holds degrees from other institutions, will always consider NYCC his alma mater. “If you cut me, I bleed NYCC Blue!” he exclaimed. “I became a chiropractor at this College when it was located downstate, and for 37 years, I have been employed here as a faculty member, administrator, and president. Because of NYCC, I developed many of my closest friendships. I have been provided with opportunities to serve that I could never have imagined.”
Prior to his appointment as NYCC president, Nicchi was dean of postgraduate and continuing education as well as a prominent seminar and conference lecturer. He also maintained a chiropractic practice in New York state for some 22 years.
