Change.

The only constant in life.

Without change, there would be no autumn leaves, blankets of snow nor sprouts emerging from spring’s muddy earth.

Without change, there would be no butterflies, baby’s first steps nor surprises. Without change, there would be no learning, development nor progress. Some changes we work hard to achieve. Some changes are unexpected, unwelcomed or unintended.

Sometimes, as American novelist Barbara Kingsolver, writes: “The changes we dread most may contain our salvation.”

What follows are seven stories of SUNY Oswego alumni who leverage change—whether wanted or unwanted —to shape their careers, their lives and the lives of others.