Librarian & Library Staff Biographies: Danielle Walkup, Research Services Librarian

Starting in September 2025, I will officially hold the rank of Assistant Professor and be awarded tenure at SUNY Adirondack — a milestone that marks nearly a decade of service, growth, and commitment to student success within the SUNY system. In May 2025, I will also begin my Ed.D. in Educational Leadership at the University at Buffalo, with plans to complete the program by Spring 2027. This next step aligns with my long-term goal of advancing into academic leadership and contributing to institutional strategies that support equity, access, and student achievement.

Currently, I’m proud to serve in two roles within higher education: full-time as a Research Services Librarian at SUNY Adirondack, and part-time with the library at SUNY Empire State University. My work at both institutions keeps me deeply connected to librarianship, instructional support, and direct student engagement — areas I remain passionate about even as I prepare for future leadership opportunities. While I’m looking ahead to administrative roles, I’m not closing the door on librarianship; rather, I see it as the foundation of my commitment to inclusive, student-centered education.

In October 2024, I had the opportunity to represent SUNY Adirondack as part of the third annual Career Panel hosted by SUNY Plattsburgh at Queensbury. This event highlights local alumni working in the fields of criminal justice, human development and family relations, and psychology — three of the primary degree pathways offered at the branch campus. Alongside fellow panelists, I spoke with current SUNY Adirondack and SUNY Plattsburgh students, offering insights into academic planning, career development, and navigating the transition from college to professional life.

In addition to my panel involvement, I serve as the liaison librarian for SUNY Plattsburgh at Queensbury. In this role, I work closely with the branch campus to support student success by coordinating access to course materials, resources, and research support services. I take pride in building strong academic bridges between our institutions and helping students feel connected, prepared, and empowered throughout their educational journeys.

One of my favorite memories is traveling to Glacier National Park in Montana with my husband, Kyle, in August 2018. Although our views were limited due to smoke from California wildfires, the experience sparked a lifelong passion for exploring national parks. Since then, I’ve proudly embraced my status as a “National Park Geek” and made it a personal goal to visit as many U.S. national parks as possible throughout my life.

Master of Science in Information and Library Science, University at Albany (2021)

Master of Science in Adult Education with microcredentials in Online Teaching & Grant Writing, SUNY Buffalo State College (2023)

Ed.D in Educational Leadership, University at Buffalo (est. 2027)

I began my journey at SUNY Adirondack as a freshman in 2015. During my first year, I applied for a student worker position in the SUNY Adirondack Library. Once I was hired, I immediately knew I had found the place where I wanted to build my career. After graduating with my associate degree in 2017, I interviewed for and was offered a part-time Library Specialist position. While working in this role, I continued my education at the SUNY Plattsburgh Branch Campus at SUNY Adirondack, earning my bachelor’s degree in 2019. Shortly after, I was hired as a full-time Library Services Assistant.

It was during this period that I decided to pursue a master’s degree in Information and Library Science at the University at Albany, balancing full-time work with full-time study during the pandemic. I completed my degree in August 2021 and soon after transitioned into a Research Services Librarian role. After a short break, I returned to school once more, earning a second master’s degree in Adult Education in December 2023. In May 2025, I will begin my Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, with the goal of becoming an Academic Provost or Vice President for Academic Affairs at a community college. I am on track to complete my doctorate by Spring 2027.

My educational path has not always been easy. Throughout middle and high school, I struggled with dyslexia and ADHD. I was placed in AIS English courses due to my learning challenges, which made me view reading as a chore rather than a joy—something that still influences me today. I also faced difficulties in mathematics and science, and for a long time, I was unsure of my future. At one point, I considered joining the Coast Guard, but I was disqualified due to flat feet, a condition considered a disability. With that path closed, I enrolled at SUNY Adirondack, determined to give college a try.

Initially, my college grades reflected the same high school mentality of "just getting by." However, my time at SUNY Plattsburgh was transformational. There, with the right encouragement and support, I discovered that education could be a positive and empowering experience. As I progressed into coursework that truly interested me, my academic performance flourished. For the first time, I achieved a GPA I could be proud of. My educational journey is a testament to perseverance and finding the right environment to grow, even after a rocky start.

If you want loyalty, energy, and just a little chaos — get yourself an Aussie.

At home, I’m lucky to share life with two incredible Australian Shepherds — Finn and River. Finn is a Black Tri Aussie, one of the breed’s most classic and recognizable color patterns. River is a striking Blue Merle, a rarer coat variation that’s become especially popular for its unique, marbled markings.

Like many Aussies, both Finn and River have docked tails — a common feature tied to their history as herding dogs. Despite their name, Australian Shepherds actually originated in the United States, where they were bred to herd livestock and work alongside ranchers. Today, their herding instincts are still going strong — whether it’s birds, squirrels, or even small children, they’ll try to round up just about anything that moves!

Aussies aren’t typically the right fit for first-time dog owners. They’re high-energy, intensely smart, and need both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. Without that structure, they can easily become bored (and a little destructive!). But with the right environment, they’re some of the most loyal, loving, and trainable companions you could ask for. Finn and River are protective in the best way — alert, expressive, and full of personality. They may be a little sassy, but that’s part of their charm.

I believe community colleges are the engines of social mobility, innovation, and opportunity. My mission is to serve as a leader who champions student-centered education, fosters inclusive learning environments, and empowers all students — especially those who may have struggled, as I once did — to thrive.

Outside of work and school, my husband Kyle and I share a passion for reptiles. What began with his leopard gecko (who's now about 16!) quickly turned into a full-fledged collection and one of our favorite shared hobbies. We care for a variety of species including leopard geckos, ball pythons, and a Northern Blue Tongue Skink — each with their own bioactive enclosures and individualized care.

We're both actively involved in learning more about responsible reptile keeping, and we love visiting reptile expos, specialty stores like NERD, and staying connected to the herpetology community. Reptiles may not be everyone’s first idea of a pet, but they bring us joy, curiosity, and a shared sense of purpose. Plus, they’ll be with us for decades — some of our reptiles will outlive our dogs!

If you're ever curious about ball python morphs, crested geckos (or any gecko for that matter) or building a bioactive enclosure, feel free to reach out — I'm always happy to talk reptiles!

Above, is my Venezuelan Paraguana Peninsula Locality Boa named Grey. This type of boa is extremely rare within the reptile community! But don't worry, as he is captive bred (not wild caught). The parents of this boa were produced by Vin Russo- who is a very popular individual within the reptile community. I purchased Grey from Rich Hunt in September of 2023. This type of boa gets to be about the size of an adult ball python. His coloring is considered to be anerythristic- which is very impressive! Grey is currently housed in a 36x18x18 (50 gal) enclosure but will be moved into a 4x2x2 once he grows a bit more.