Soon after choosing Farmingdale State College (FSC) for its “top rankings and tight-knit community,” Kelile Rogers found the Accelerate, Complete, and Engage (ACE) Program, a new State University of New York initiative focused on meaningfully improving student support through holistic services like individualized counseling, career development, and peer mentorship.
“I immediately knew it was the right fit for me,” said Rogers, now an FSC first-year student pursuing an applied economics major. “It was obvious that this program provided the most personalized support to assist me throughout my degree and create lifelong connections along the way.”
Rogers admits he was also drawn in by the program’s “family vibes.”
“Coming into college, I knew I was interested in joining a student support program because it was familiar,” he said. “I grew up in a family that instilled a supportive mindset in me, teaching me that it is not only important to help others, but to accept help when I need it. And the program has already helped me so much. I feel like I’ve been given an opportunity to reach more opportunities. And now that I am living on campus away from my family, ACE has become my Farmingdale family.”
Over the past year, Rogers, who was recently awarded the first-ever 2025 ACE Go-Getter Award, has become a tremendous advocate for the program that “is there for me when I need it the most.” In fact, he has spoken publicly at a variety of campus community events, including a recent ACE celebration ceremony and the College’s annual legislative breakfast, where he addressed elected officials, government partners, and local leaders in business, community, organized labor, and industry from across Long Island.
“From the moment Kelile joined the ACE Program, he has been a true source of joy and inspiration to the ACE team and his peers,” said ACE Director Georgia Kalamidas. “His exceptional drive and determination have set him apart, and his passionate advocacy for ACE shines a spotlight on the vital work we do and our deep belief in our students’ potential.”
“I know that both Farmingdale and ACE have my back, and with that, I am destined for success...FSC gives everyone a chance not only to succeed, but to achieve any dream or ambition they can think of.” Kelile Rogers, '28
“Kelile stands out as a remarkable force on campus,” agreed ACE Success Coach Katie Travers. “And not just because of his academic achievements, but because of the way he champions the ACE Program and supports his peers. His leadership and genuine care for others make him a tremendous asset to everyone at ACE, as well as the whole FSC campus community.”
“FSC gives everyone a chance not only to succeed, but to achieve any dream or ambition they can think of,” said Rogers.
Growing up in Canarsie, Brooklyn, Rogers excelled in sports, including lacrosse, basketball, karate, and skateboarding, and enjoyed making connections with people in his neighborhood. He credits his mother with instilling his hallmark drive and determination, witnessing her industriousness and perseverance firsthand as she worked multiple jobs to support him.
“Before she had me, she was a chef,” he said. “And seeing my mom, seeing her struggle so much— she had to use little things to make great things. Watching her, I learned to make traditional ramen out of just a packet of ramen, or rice and peas with this little packet of rice and a little bit of peas and seasoning. So, always seeing that, she taught me that mindset—how to keep going.
“That’s why I work so hard,” he added. “Because I know how hard my mom is working for me, and I know how proud she is. I just have to keep making her proud. And this is just the beginning.”
A member of FSC’s Cru Club, Rogers looks forward to getting involved with more campus organizations and internships as he grows his college career. After graduation, Rogers plans to pursue an MBA and is interested in a career in finance. Wherever he goes, he knows he’ll “ace” it.
“With the support I’ve received from ACE and the entire FSC campus, I’m now aiming higher than I ever thought,” he said. “I know that both Farmingdale and ACE have my back, and with that, I am destined for success.”
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