Office of the President

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Salvatore (Sal) C. Durante as the new Vice President of Administration at SUNY Niagara, effective June 2, 2025.

Sal brings over 30 years of executive-level experience in operations, finance, and strategic planning across the healthcare, nonprofit, and higher education sectors. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a commitment to organizational excellence, innovation, and servant leadership. His extensive background includes serving as Chief Financial Officer for the Western New York Integrated Care Collaborative and as Chief Program Officer at the Buffalo City Mission, where he successfully led multimillion-dollar budgets, implemented strategic plans, and oversaw critical infrastructure and program development.

Sal’s expertise spans financial management, new business development, contract negotiation, and project implementation. He has held leadership roles such as COO/CFO of UBMD Internal Medicine and CEO of Complete Senior Care, Inc., where he led operational turnarounds and launched impactful healthcare initiatives. His academic experience also includes teaching graduate-level courses at the University at Buffalo and Bryant & Stratton College.

Sal holds an M.B.A. in Health Care Systems Management and Finance, an M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling, and a B.A. in Psychology and Human Services from the State University of New York at Buffalo.

Please join us in welcoming Sal to the SUNY Niagara community. We are confident that his experience and leadership will support our continued progress toward institutional excellence and operational effectiveness.

With appreciation,

Lloyd

I am pleased to announce the promotion of Dr. Brian Michel to the position of Assistant to the President for Governmental Relations and Strategic Initiatives at SUNY Niagara.

In this role, Dr. Michel will serve as a senior advisor to the President, overseeing strategic initiatives and governmental relations that support the College’s mission and strategic goals. He will provide project leadership on institutional priorities, represent the College in governmental and community affairs, and ensure alignment between SUNY Niagara’s objectives and public policy efforts at the local, state, and federal levels. Additionally, he will continue to provide oversight for the College’s Grants Office and support the advancement of external funding opportunities.

Dr. Michel brings with him a wealth of experience in academic affairs, economic development, grant administration, and workforce programming. He most recently served as Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs (Economic Development), where he led the College’s Grants Office, Workforce Development, Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and the Liberty Partnership Program (LPP).

Brian holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from St. Bonaventure University and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from Liberty University.

As part of this transition, Dr. Maher Ghalayini, Vice President of Academic Affairs, will work with his leadership team to provide  oversight to Workforce Development and the Small Business Development Center in order to continue the important work of expanding our community and economic engagement efforts.  Additionally, he and the team will continue to bring strong leadership and experience to the Liberty Partnership Program, a vital student success initiative.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Michel on his well-deserved promotion. 

With appreciation,

Lloyd

Members of the SUNY Niagara Family,

It’s hard to believe that a week has passed since I, along with so many of you, had the opportunity to experience one of the greatest events EVER – the inauguration of the 8^th president of this college:  ME! Though the focus may have been placed on me as the president, the entire week was truly a celebration of YOU.  I cannot even begin to thank the inauguration committee and others enough for the work they put into making this celebration so memorable. 

I’ve said many times that I’m not one to show a lot of emotion, but I thought my eyes were a tributary to the Niagara River: I’ve never cried so much.  Every corner of this campus showed nothing but love to me.  If I were to begin thanking individuals or offices, I’d never finish the list, so I’ll say here that I hope each of you know that I appreciate every single one of you. 

For me, last week was the coming together of two families:  my biological family and my SUNY Niagara family.  Each “side” of my family had the opportunity to see the product of that which happens when we CHOOSE to work together rather than work to create division.  Each member of the family was able to see that we all bring something different to the table, and when we do, we create a buffet where each of us can be fed.

Many of us are experiencing some difficult times in our nation, having to cope with quite a bit of uncertainty, but this past week was a prime example of what happens when we make the choice to RECOGNIZE each other, make the choice to APPRECIATE each other, and make the choice to SUPPORT each other. I remember saying to Dave Nemi and Laurie Ryan during my first meeting with them that “we can either choose to work together, or we can choose to work apart…” and that “we will get a lot more accomplished if we choose to work together.” As a campus, we have proven that we have this ability to come together.  As a campus, we have proven that differences do not have to be synonymous with division.

My hope is that TOGETHER, we will give each other the same feeling that I had last week…that each of us will continue to wrap our arms around members of this SUNY Niagara family so that each person understands that when one of us is challenged, we all are affected, and that together, not apart, we grow hope for the future.

I’ll not share my salutations from the inauguration, but I’ll share the bulk of my inauguration address.  I hope you find some value in reading the words in case you missed it last week.

Many of you know my story.  You’ve heard about the death of my father when I was nine months old.  My mother did not allow me to fall into a stereotype.  I remember her speaking about others saying that a single mother could not raise young boys into strong men.  With each passing day, I strive to help her prove that to be wrong. So, I have to express my love to the person that gave me life.  Today, my mom turned 81, so not only is this a celebration of the college, but it is also a birthday party for mom.

TOGETHER WE GROW HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

March 2024 – what a month that was! I left my job in California and moved to Mississippi after purchasing a home there.  At the time, I was in three presidential searches:  one in Kansas, one in Massachusetts, and SUNY Niagara.  The first interview was here, and I was sold on this place.  Why, might you ask:

1.  It started with my delayed flight out of Washington, D.C.  I remember having to message the search consultant to say that whatever it takes, I’ll make it to the interview.
2. I got to campus, with barely a voice, and even with the winter appearance, it was evident to me that I was at the campus where the grounds and custodial staff took pride in their work.
3. I met with union leadership and they were brutally honest about what they saw as the challenges I’d face as the president.  I said to them, “Talk without action does not build muscle”…that if I were selected as the next president, I would make a commitment to the campus, not merely in words but also in my actions.
4. I met with students and had the opportunity to relay that at the center of all that we do, at the center, is our students.
5. I met with faculty and staff and had the opportunity to understand, even through unspoken word, what I needed to do to move this institution forward.
6. And finally, I met with the board of trustees at NFCI during the interview and had the best meal ever, and had the opportunity to see a board that was looking to grow a garden that was full of hope, a garden full of annuals and perennials, a garden that doesn’t just include plantings that bloom only in summer or fall or plantings that stand only short or tall.  The board was looking for a gardener that understood that TOGETHER, WE GROW HOPE FOR THE FUTURE.

I was offered this job and once I arrived in July, I had the opportunity to really experience the beauty of this garden known as SUNY Niagara:  the buildings, the grounds, the students, the faculty and staff.  I was here for nearly two months before most of the faculty returned from summer break, and during that time, I made several observations:

1. I need to focus on enrollment management.
2. I needed to have a strong eye for our fiscal position.
3. I need to address the expansion and/or renovation of our facilities.
4. We need to focus on our academic offerings and ask ourselves, “Are we looking to be a leader, a follower, or do we want to be left out?  Are we innovative?”
5. And the thing that I felt was my number one area of focus: employee morale. And why did I see this as number one?  Because we are here to serve our strongest asset:  our students.  And when we as employees must give focus to our own sense of belonging and sense of purpose, we tend to lose sight of this number one asset.

TOGETHER WE GROW HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

What is “hope”? For me, hope is more than just a four-letter word. Hope is an emotion that gives individuals a sense of being even when there may be no evidence to suggest the desired outcome will come to fruition.

When I came to SUNY Niagara, I heard over and over from faculty and staff that they would “remain hopeful.” This was the catalyst for moving me beyond surface-level thinking to embarking upon a deep search for meaning and purpose…not just for individuals on the campus but also for me. Just as others were hoping I’d be the leader the campus needed, I was certain that I could and would impact, in a positive manner, the lives of each of our community members. I remained hopeful that it could be felt and seen.

For me HOPE is that beacon of light at the end of a dark tunnel. It gives us light to achieve that which is seems impossible.

To the faculty and staff that have wrapped their loving arms around me, I make a commitment to you today and always to create an environment where you are seen, heard, and valued.

To our students, I promise to continue my engagement with you.  I promise to work WITH the faculty and staff to provide you with the best learning community.

To our community, I promise that we’ll not just be in this community, we will be of the community.

TOGETHER WE GROW HOPE FOR THE FUTURE.

Lloyd

SUNY Niagara Welcomes Dr. John Delate as Vice President of Student Services

SUNY Niagara is pleased to announce that Dr. John J. Delate (pronounced DELL-it) has been selected as the next Vice President of Student Services, effective April 14, 2025. Dr. Delate brings over 30 years of experience in higher education, with an impressive background in enrollment management, student engagement, professional development, and labor relations. His extensive leadership in student affairs, strategic planning, and institutional development makes him an outstanding addition to the SUNY Niagara leadership team.

Throughout his career, Dr. Delate has demonstrated a strong commitment to student success, fostering inclusive and supportive environments that promote academic achievement, retention, and holistic development. He joins SUNY Niagara from SUNY Adirondack, where he has served as Vice President of Enrollment and Student Affairs since 2022. In this role, he led strategic initiatives that resulted in increased enrollment, expanded student services, and strengthened student retention efforts. Under his leadership, the college developed a Strategic Enrollment Management Plan, secured a Lumina grant to increase adult student enrollment, and implemented innovative student support programs.

Before his tenure at SUNY Adirondack, Dr. Delate held various leadership positions at Monroe Community College, Montclair State University, and Purchase College. His accomplishments include overseeing multimillion-dollar scholarship and student success programs, leading contract negotiations, expanding workforce development initiatives, and creating new partnerships to enhance student support services. His expertise in strategic planning, student engagement, and institutional leadership has been widely recognized in the higher education community, and he has been an active presenter at national conferences on topics related to student success, equity, and enrollment management.

Beyond his administrative leadership, Dr. Delate has a passion for teaching and mentorship. He has served as an adjunct professor of communications and history, providing students with engaging academic experiences that foster critical thinking and leadership development. He has also been a strong advocate for student mental health, diversity and inclusion, and financial aid accessibility, ensuring that students have the necessary resources to thrive.

Dr. Delate holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in History from Clark University, as well as an M.S. in Education and a B.S. in Social Science from Mansfield University. He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to higher education, student services, and professional development.

As he steps into his new role at SUNY Niagara, Dr. Delate will lead initiatives to enhance student engagement, support student success, and develop innovative strategies to meet the evolving needs of our student body. His collaborative leadership style and data-driven approach will play a key role in advancing the college’s mission and strengthening our commitment to academic excellence and student achievement. We are excited to welcome Dr. Delate to the SUNY Niagara community and look forward to the positive impact he will make in shaping the future of student services at the college.

COURTNEY HELINSKI APPOINTED INTERIM DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

SUNY Niagara is pleased to announce the appointment of Courtney Helinski as Interim Director of Development, effective March 5, 2025.

Courtney has been a dedicated member of the NCCC Foundation at SUNY Niagara since June 2023, serving as Assistant Director. During her tenure, she has played a key role in advancing fundraising initiatives, including reimagining the annual gala as the Scholarship Soirée, securing record-breaking sponsorships, and spearheading the implementation of Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT to enhance donor engagement and fundraising efficiency.

With an extensive background in fundraising and development, Courtney has held leadership roles at Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, Buffalo Toronto Public Media, and WGRZ, Channel 2 News, collectively raising monies for philanthropic causes. She is an active community leader, serving on the Board of Directors for Ronald McDonald House Charities of WNY and Lockport Ice Arena & Sports Center.

Courtney holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Canisius University and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Public Relations at Buffalo State University, with an expected graduation in May 2026.

Please join us in congratulating Courtney on being named Interim Director of Development. 

With appreciation,

Lloyd

Members of the SUNY Niagara Family,

It has been some time since I’ve written a message to the campus.  I’m attempting to not flood you with multiple messages from me each week.  I send this message, however, to express my appreciation for each of you.  Individually and collectively, you bring value to the institution.   I’ve met with a few new members of our community over the past few days and am continually reminded of the critical roles of each individual, whether you work in Facilities, teach English or Biology, or serve as an administrator.

Tomorrow (Friday, March 7) is recognized nationally as Employee Appreciation Day.  Since I know I’ll not see each of you, I do want to express my appreciation for all that you do.  I hope you will take the time to come by the President’s Suite between 9:00 and 1:00 to grab a light refreshment – maybe a few donut holes and something to drink…or some candy from my candy bowl.

As a reminder, our Middle States visit takes place next week.  Please remember to show the visiting team who we are as a campus: a family that recognizes that working together makes us stronger.

With appreciation,

Lloyd

to ensure the smooth operations of our offices:  our administrative professionals.  On this Administrative Professionals Day, please take the time to say thanks to the many individuals on this campus who support our daily work.

On a different note, I’m pleased to share that SUNY Niagara is officially launching the creation of our 2026–2030 Strategic Plan. This critical effort will guide our college’s priorities and direction over the next five years—and we want your voice to be at the heart of it. Our process will be collaborative, inclusive, and transparent. You will have multiple ways to engage through in-person sessions, online tools, or asynchronous feedback opportunities. We want to ensure that all perspectives are heard as we reflect on our progress and envision our shared future.

What’s Next?

We begin the process this week with this message to the college community and the roadmap above. Your thoughts on what’s working well, what could improve, and what bold ideas we should pursue will directly influence the creation of this plan.

Vice President Maher Ghalayini and Vice President John Delate are guiding the plan. Look for further information early next week, including sessions that you can engage in to build the future of SUNY Niagara.

As we begin this process, I want to leave you with these guiding principles that offer “HOPE” in what the future holds:

• We’re re-imagining our programs and services through the lens of our students and community.
• We will be challenging traditional ways of working, consciously collaborating to solve complex problems, and re-aligning people, processes, and systems to deliver a college experience of the future.
• We will have to implement change through multiple projects that span across organizational boundaries.
• Speed and agility are critical to our success – we should be a “fast forward” culture.
• As we consider the new plan, we should feel confident about the future and have the psychological safety to experiment and learn new approaches so we feel ready, willing, and able to embrace change.

We look forward to working together to create a vision reflecting who we are, where we’re going, and how we will get there.

Thank you for your continued dedication to SUNY Niagara.

Lloyd

We are pleased to announce the following SUNY Niagara faculty members on their recent promotions and tenure:

Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

Raymond Boucher; Granted Early Tenure; Instructor to Assistant Professor

Pamela Lange; Assistant to Associate Professor

Marissa Pytlak-Surdyke; Assistant to Associate Professor

Christina Taylor; Assistant to Associate Professor

Business and STEM

Melissa Moore; Granted Early Tenure

Lindsay Rose; Associate to Professor

Hospitality, Baking and Culinary Arts

Seana Sullivan; Granted Early Tenure

Nursing, Physical and Allied Health

Lindsey Bax; Granted Tenure; Instructor to Assistant Professor

Michele Burke; Granted Tenure; Instructor to Assistant Professor

Henrietta G. Lewis Library

Andrew Aquino; Granted Tenure; Instructor to Assistant Professor

Please join us in congratulating these exceptionally talented faculty for the standard of academic excellence they continue to set each day.

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Maher Ghalayini has been selected as the new Vice President of Academic Affairs at SUNY Niagara. Dr. Ghalayini will officially join our team on March 3, 2025.

Dr. Ghalayini currently serves as the Senior Vice President, Academics at St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario, where he leads the academic division and oversees the development and execution of the institution’s academic strategy. His proven leadership and innovative vision have significantly contributed to student success, faculty development, and the creation of high-quality, relevant academic programs. Dr. Ghalayini brings a wealth of experience to this role, with over 18 years of administrative leadership and more than 20 years of teaching in higher education. His impressive academic background includes a Doctorate in International Higher Education Administration, a Master of Laws in Business Law, an MBA, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management.

Dr. Ghalayini’s leadership philosophy centers on fostering equity, inclusion, innovation, and excellence within academic institutions. He is committed to creating supportive and inclusive environments that prioritize student success and faculty development. Throughout his career, he has championed initiatives to enhance accessibility, program relevance, and community engagement, ensuring educational institutions remain dynamic and impactful. As SUNY Niagara continues to strive for excellence, Dr. Ghalayini’s vision, experience, and commitment to quality education will undoubtedly propel us forward.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Dr. Ghalayini as he steps into this vital leadership role.

With appreciation,

Lloyd

SUNY Niagara Family,

I’m sitting here in my office on this chilly eve of Christmas Eve thinking of how blessed I am to be in a position where I can send words to wish each of you a happy holiday season. What more could I ask for!
 
When I was living in Massachusetts, I would take a Bikram yoga class at least four days per week.  Each time I was there, I’d ask this guy (Ray) how he was doing.  His response always was, “Living the dream…living the dream.”  I’d respond with, “well I hope that dream is not a nightmare.”  I thought of Ray as I sit here counting my blessings and thinking about how I have a dream job:  one where I get to see the children from the childcare center seemingly catching falling snow on their tongues as their parents are begging them to “come on”…one where I look across the parking lot and see the recruits for the police academy running in a single file line across the parking lot…one where I hear stories of a spouse baking 1500 cookies to share with all of his coworkers or another spouse of a faculty member creating works of art in the form of lemon, almond, and gingerbread cookies…one where we can connect not merely as supervisor and “subordinate” but as true colleagues in support of our students.  I get to experience relationship-building at its best! I get to experience continued growth because of my interactions with each of you!
Barb Walck shared a “Holiday To Do List” that was created over 10 years ago by a social media creator named Troy Stavros.  The list is in the form of a video on Youtube.  The original list read as follows:

HOLIDAY TO DO LIST
                             BUY PRESENTS
                             WRAP GIFTS
                             SEND CARDS
                             SHOP FOR FOOD
                             MAKE COOKIES
                             HANG THE LIGHTS
             
Troy then modified the list to read as follows:
 
HOLIDAY LOVE LIST
                             BE PRESENT
                             WRAP SOMEONE IN YOUR ARMS
                             SEND PRAYERS
                             DONATE FOOD
                             MAKE TIME
                             BE THE LIGHT

My hope is that in this season of giving you continue to recognize all that is important.  Each of you have given the greatest gift to SUNY Niagara that you could possibly give:  YOURSELF…your time and talents.  Thank you.
 
I’ll end by sharing the image of the College’s holiday card.  I wanted this year’s card to be designed by a student.  Thanks to the leadership of professors Barbara Buckman and James Goodrich, we had over 20 submissions from students.  The theme I selected was “Hope.”  Joseph Fantrazzo, a fine arts major developed a card that truly spoke to who we are as a college.  My hope is that you enjoy the design as much as you do.

With appreciation,

Lloyd

On this eve of Thanksgiving, I’ve had quite a bit of time to reflect on the many things for which I’m thankful.  My husband David and I just took the 14 ½ hour drive to Mississippi, along with our two dogs and cat, to celebrate the holiday with family.  As I drove along the highways, I thought of how this has been a year of transition and transformation for both me and the college.  And for all that has happened over the year, I give THANKS.  I am thankful for each of you.

I often will find a quote or poem that I’ll take a screenshot of.  One such poem, by an unknown author, is worthy of sharing today.

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire.

If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something,

for it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.

During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations,

because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge,

because it will build your strength and character.

May this holiday season be fill will peace, joy, and a renewed sense of appreciation. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

Lloyd

07/17/2024

I begin this week by saying thanks to each of you for the feedback you’ve been giving to my communications, both in person and in writing. Your comments have been uplifting.

A week or so ago, I ran into an individual that had a tattoo on her arm, which I commented on. I stated that I’m always fascinated by tattoos and the stories behind them. My thinking is that most individuals who embellish their skin with these permanent pieces of art find meaning in them. It reminded me of a story I’ve written about quite a few times. So, I guess today is the day to share the story of “the tattoo that inspired me.”

I was Dean of Students at Coastal Carolina University from 2004 through 2008, and during that time, I met quite a few students one-on-one, either for good reasons or for disciplinary reasons. I oversaw and had responsibility for student government and the student activities board, among other responsibilities. One day during 2005, I was meeting with this student from the activities board — I’ll call him Paul. I noticed that Paul had writing around his wrist just below his watchband. I immediately loved the cursive writing and asked the story behind the tattoo. Paul relayed a story that had such an impact on me that I think of him and the story on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, Paul struggled with mental health issues. He had been in and out of treatment a number of times and had attempted to harm himself five times at that point. He told me that the cursive writing around his wrist read “LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL.” He told me that he needed something to remind himself of how important and beautiful he is, so he got the tattoo. Each time he found himself in a dark place, he now looks at his wrist to remind him that life is beautiful, that the world around him is beautiful, and that on a daily basis, we should seek to find the beauty in the things that surround us.

Now here I was, as a professional, listening to this student with tears streaming down my face.

Paul’s tattoo inspired me to always seek the beauty in life, to wake up with a desire to inspire others, and the thirst to end my day having recognized what my purpose had been for that particular day.

My hope for you is that you find your inspiration. SUNY Niagara is beautiful beyond any story we can tell, and I hope each of you are afforded the opportunity to see it in ways that I, as the new person, am seeing it daily.

Feel free to share your beautiful stories with me.

With appreciation,

Lloyd

07/10/2024

I am sitting in Saratoga Springs at the president’s retreat. I thought now is a great time to reflect upon my first week on the job, and tell you how exciting this week has been.

This will be the kickoff of my written communication to you. Know that in each communication, it may be about things that are happening at the college or at SUNY System; things that I just personally want to share about myself (it’s important to me that you know who your president is so that we build a strong, trusting relationship), or a thought-provoking question that allows you to respond with your thoughts and ideas. Who knows …. it’s about staying in touch with you.

I could not have asked for a warmer reception by the folks I have encountered during my first five days on the job. I have had the opportunity to meet individually with each member of the executive team. I have met with Senator Ortt and assembly members Marinello and Norris. I had the opportunity to meet with the county manager and members of the county legislature. I have also met with the director of development, as well as the executive director of the College Association. I have been BUSY. I have floated around to some offices, with more to come. Know that if I have not visited your office yet, I will. Please be patient as I make my rounds.

My hope is to continue to create an environment where each of us feels recognized and each of us understands the value we bring to this great college. I firmly believe that the college isn’t the buildings -it’s the people … it’s you.

With appreciation, Lloyd

07/01/2024

Wow!!! What else can I say to express how excited I am to be selected as the eighth president of SUNY Niagara? am honored. Each member of the SUNY Niagara family was unbelievably hospitable during the interview process and the time after the selection announcement. Each member expressed nothing but love for the institution. It is abundantly clear to me t hat there is a deep love for SUNY Niagara, and I’m excited to become a part of the fami ly. I cannot thank the board enough for their approval and support during the process.

My calendar is already being checkered with meetings. I will continue to ask for specific meetings to be scheduled so that I can gain a greater understanding of this great institution.

I have so much to learn, so I ask for your patience as I learn the current operations and ask for your support as we work to continually improve our institution.

I often think of the first assignment that I have given to each class I’ve taught: students were required to write a two-page paper entitled “This is Who I Am.” In writing this, I hope to convey my values, skills, and experiences which have shaped me as a person and prepared me for the presidency at your college. This is who I am.

My early years were in Mississippi. Approximately 9½ months after my birth, my father died as a result of an accident. His death left my mother with two boys under the age of three. The family immediately became the recipients of government assistance. Although my mother had a two-year college degree in home economics, she had not worked outside the home and felt that receiving assistance until we were old enough to be home alone would be the best decision for the family. Even with this financial position, my mother always told my brother and me that we could never allow our situation to determine where we ended up in life. We were taught to always strive to be one of the best at anything we attempted. My formal education began as a first grader in Houston, Mississippi. Though many had the opportunity to attend kindergarten, my first foray with school was first grade. I vividly remember crying my first day because other students knew how to write their alphabet and I didn’t. Because I was a fast learner, I soon caught up with the rest of my class and excelled. I always strove to be the best and ended up graduating from high school with a grade point average that placed me at number three in a class of approximately 150 students. I knew upon graduation that my mom could not afford to send me to college, but both my brother and I knew our options: college or work. Both of us chose college. At the time, I was offered full scholarships to three four-year colleges in Mississippi, but I declined those. I knew that I wanted to major in architecture, but neither of the three institutions offered the degree. Because I could not figure out which other institution to attend, I opted to attend Itawamba Community College (ICC), a two-year college with campuses in Fulton and Tupelo, Mississippi. My tenure at ICC was exceptional, not because of the classes but because of the out-of-class activities and the friendships I developed. Because of what I considered to be a poor GPA my first semester (3.0), I switched my major to accounting. This switch was not because I thought accounting was easy but because I thought it was easier to capitalize on my strengths in mathematics, not realizing that accounting requires much more than just being “good at math.” I excelled and brought my graduating GPA up to a 3.67 in the remaining three semesters. I then transferred to The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), the place where I would eventually complete my undergraduate, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Besides my family life, it was my time at Ole Miss that had the most impact on who I am as a leader.I am sitting in Saratoga Springs at the president’s retreat. I thought now is a great time to reflect upon my first week on the job, and tell you how exciting this week has been. This will be the kickoff of my written communication to you. Know that in each communication, it may be about things that are happening at the college or at SUNY System; things that I just personally want to share about myself (it’s important to me that you know who your president is so that we build a strong, trusting relationship), or a thought-provoking question that allows you to respond with your thoughts and ideas. Who knows …. it’s about staying in touch with you. I could not have asked for a warmer reception by the folks I have encountered during my first five days on the job. I have had the opportunity to meet individually with each member of the executive team. I have met with Senator Ortt and assembly members Marinello and Norris. I had the opportunity to meet with the county manager and members of the county legislature. I have also met with the director of development, as well as the executive director of the College Association. I have been BUSY. I have floated around to some offices, with more to come. Know that if I have not visited your office yet, I will. Please be patient as I make my rounds.

My hope is to continue to create an environment where each of us feels recognized and each of us understands the value we bring to this great college. I firmly believe that the college isn’t the buildings -it’s the people … it’s you.

With appreciation, Lloyd