Bethany McCarey Hammond '10 - Chapter by Chapter

Bethany McCarey Hammond’s journey with SUNY Corning Community College is a testament to the impact of a supportive and flexible education. Graduating first in 2000 with a degree in Liberal Arts and again in 2010 with a degree in Early Childhood Education, Bethany’s connection to CCC was driven by her desire to stay close to her hometown of Corning. The college’s adaptability and affordability allowed her to effectively balance family responsibilities with her academic aspirations, shaping her path to success.

Among her most cherished memories are the moments spent in the Early Childhood Education program, particularly when her professor allowed her to bring her newborn to her Children’s Literature class. This gesture of support, where classmates gathered to read to her child, underscored the strong sense of community that Bethany deeply values. Another highlight of her time at CCC was the engaging Psychology class she took with retired Professor Benny Hunziker. His dynamic teaching style left a lasting impression, significantly contributing to her positive educational experience.

After completing her degrees, Bethany’s career in early childhood education began, leading to her work as a preschool teacher. Her love for children’s literature and education eventually guided her to Card Carrying Books, where she was an employee for several years prior to purchasing the business. The bookstore, located at 15 E. Market Street in Corning, is a cherished local hub that offers book clubs for both adults and youth, a membership program for readers of all ages, and serves as an inclusive and safe space for all individuals. Bethany attributes much of her success to the education she received at CCC; the accounting skills from her Liberal Arts degree have proved invaluable in managing the bookstore’s finances, while the public speaking skills she honed have helped her connect confidently with customers and the community.

Bethany’s advice for prospective CCC students is straightforward and encouraging: embrace the opportunity. She believes CCC provides a quality education comparable to that of larger institutions, but with the added benefits of affordability and a supportive environment. As a mother of four, ranging in age from 11 to 19, Bethany understands the importance of balancing family life with education and credits CCC for helping to lay the groundwork for her achievements.

In her free time, Bethany’s passion for reading continues to enrich her life. Her experiences at CCC remain a cornerstone of her personal and professional journey, offering the knowledge, skills, and community connections that have supported her every step of the way.