UTICA, NY – SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) is proud to announce its Fall 2025 Spotlight Series, launching with a “Bang” this Friday, September 5 at 6 p.m. in the Student Center Multi-Purpose Room.

The opening program, “The Big Bang: From First Light to Webb’s New Discoveries,” presented by Dr. Shing Chi Leung, Assistant Professor of Physics, takes audiences on a journey through the universe’s earliest moments – the first three minutes, the “dark age,” and the emergence of the first galaxies. With fresh insights from the James Webb Space Telescope, Dr. Leung will explore new tensions and discoveries that are reshaping our understanding of the cosmos.

The Spotlight Series continues throughout the Fall, with an engaging lineup that blends science, art, communication, and creativity. Events are designed to be accessible for community members of all ages, with many offered at no cost. Spaces are limited, and early registration is highly encouraged. To learn more or to register, please visit www.sunypoly.edu/spotlight.

“We are excited to announce the Fall 2025 SUNY Poly Spotlight Series and we are continuing to add more events,” said Bill Dustin, Coordinator of Conferencing and Events at SUNY Polytechnic Institute. “These events are a vital asset and an opportunity for our community to visit the SUNY Poly campus so that they can connect, learn, and have fun.”

Additional Fall 2025 Spotlight Series Events:

• The Deconstructed Self: Opening Art Reception and Talk: 9/3/25 (All Ages; Free)

• The Big Bang: From First Light to Webb’s New Discoveries: 9/5/25 (All Ages; Free)

• Fire and Framed: Create Your Own Fused Glass Art w/Penny Veschusio and Marie Joyce of Songbyrd Street Studios: 9/10/25 (All Ages)

• How to Jump into a Black Hole: Cosmic Curiosity for the Brave and the Bold: 9/15/25 (All Ages; Free)

• Make & Take Workshop: Wool Felting for Beginners - Create Your Own Wool Felted Mushroom: 9/22/25 (All Ages)

• Ecosystems Explorers: 9/24/25 (Pre-Collegiate Workshop, Ages 11+; Free)

• Buzz Into Pollination: The Secret Life of Bees: 9/27/25 (All Ages; Free)

• Leaping into the Wild: The Secret Life of Lemurs: 10/27/25 (All Ages; Free)

• Trunk or Treat at SUNY Poly: 10/30/25 (All Ages; Free)

• From Hackathon to Leadership: Facing the Fear, Finding Your Strength: 10/30/25 (All Ages; Free)

• Interpersonal Communication & Relationship Building Workshop: 11/12/25 (All Ages; Free)

• SETI Part 2: Aliens, AI & the Holiday Paradox - A Cosmic Winter: 12/9/25 (All Ages; Free)