(Herkimer, NY) Herkimer County Community College President Ann Marie Murray has announced her retirement after serving as the College’s third president for five and a half years. Dr. Murray will continue to lead the institution and assist with the leadership transition through January 31, 2014, as approved by the College Board of Trustees last evening.
“It has been a privilege to lead this institution over the last five and a half years,” Murray said. “I will miss the students and my most capable staff and faculty. Together we have made great strides to strengthen academic standards, enhance the campus culture and support our students and community. I wish to thank the Board and all who support the mission of Herkimer County Community College.”
Murray has served as the third president of Herkimer County Community College since August 11, 2008. Under her leadership, the College developed and implemented a five-year rolling strategic plan, institutional assessment plan and learning outcomes assessment plan; completed a successful Middle States reaccreditation process; implemented several new academic initiatives and policies; established an Academic Senate, Center for Global Learning and Teaching and Learning Collaborative; increased community education offerings and community outreach; implemented an updated crisis response plan; completed the Edward Manning & Shirley Augar Gaynor Science Center, renovated cafeteria, consolidation of student services and creation of the Herkimer Community Museum; and led the institution through a brand development initiative.
Murray has served on the boards of the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area, Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, Mohawk Valley Edge, Genesis Group and Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield Utica-Watertown Regional Advisory Board and also on advisory boards for the Herkimer Community Museum and Herkimer Now.
“Dr. Murray’s leadership has been an incredible asset to SUNY and to a generation of students, faculty, and staff at the college,” said SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher. “Dr. Murray has positioned HCCC as a tremendous source of workforce development for the region and the entire state, and through her local partnerships and volunteerism, she has added vibrancy to the campus and the surrounding community. On behalf of the entire SUNY family, I thank Dr. Murray for her outstanding leadership and service, and wish her all the best in her retirement.”
Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees Isabella Crandall said, “Dr. Murray has been a tireless advocate for higher education, regional economic development and our community. On behalf of the Trustees, I thank her for her leadership, vision, and commitment to Herkimer County Community College.”