President’s Newsletter

Friday, March 29, 2024

Dear Colleagues:

I hope those of you who had Spring Break off enjoyed some time away from campus. I enjoyed the opportunity to finish working on a draft of an article as well as complete the APT reviews for faculty. These reviews always remind me how accomplished Brockport faculty are, and I am grateful for the opportunity to see how committed you are to our students, your scholarly and creative endeavors, and the ways that you support the university in terms of service.

I also had the privilege of interviewing the three students for the President’s Citation Award, and I am pondering my difficult choice over the weekend. Our students are truly impressive. In addition, I have begun the preliminary interviews for our VP for Administration and Finance. I am happy to report that we have a strong pool of candidates, and the search is progressing well.

This week I spent time with my fellow officers for the Rochester Area Colleges Presidents’ Network as we planned our spring convening. This is my first year in the role of RAC secretary, a position I will hold next year as well.

Wednesday’s Diversity Conference was a highlight of the week, and I enjoyed the sessions I attended, including the keynote given by Mrs. Kasha Davis. If you were there, you’ll know that we asked Mrs. Kasha Davis to vote for Ellsworth in SUNY’s annual Mascot Madness competition. I would love it if you would, too! Ellsworth is up against Oakie, the mascot from SUNY ESF. Ellsworth is in the final four, which is the furthest he’s progressed since 2014 when he lost in the finals. It would be great to see him win! Voting for this round ends at 3 pm today.

I am pleased that my travels are slowing down now through the busy period on campus as we prepare for honors and awards season, culminating in commencement and in our employee recognition dinner. 

Tonight the student art exhibit has its official opening reception and awards ceremony, starting at 5pm. I hope to see some of you there!