Theresa Belfance

As director of student activities, Theresa Belfance works closely with other administrators and with student leaders to ensure a busy calendar of educational and social activities on both Russell Sage College campuses. 

Belfance was previously coordinator of student engagement at the College of St. Rose, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education and a master’s degree in Special Education. She joined Russell Sage in spring 2024. 

Keep reading to learn more about her and her work. 

What appeals to you about working with college students, and/or working on a college campus?

I like working on a college campus and with college students because the time that students spend at college is so impactful to their life. This is a time where they are out in the world as an adult for the first time and are trying to figure out what their life looks like. I enjoy helping students find their passions, both inside and outside of the classroom. In my role in Student Activities, I get to help students build themselves up as leaders and individuals to then go out into the world and make it a better place.

Tell us more about your role: What are you responsible for?

In my role as director of student activities, I get to work on planning and hosting large-scale campus events, like Welcome Week, Family Weekend, SageFest, and more. 

Throughout the year, we host weekly events to make sure that students are engaged in the Sage community. Events range from Stuff-A-Plush, Bingo nights, craft nights, and so much more. I am always looking for new things to do as well as well, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any new ideas for events!

Is there anything you are especially looking forward to in the fall 2024 semester?

I am looking forward to meeting all of our students in the fall! I’m very excited to be working with amazing groups of students and I look forward to all of the fun things we will plan together.

What interests do you have outside of work?

I really enjoy reading. My favorite genres are fantasy and romance! I also love crafting, Broadway shows, and watching sports, particularly baseball and football. I’m also new to the Troy area, even though I lived in Albany for a few years, so I love to explore new spots, especially coffee shops.