York College In Search Of Strong Leader

The future of York College is still uncertain following the December 31 departure of former president Robert Hampton, but local leaders and elected officials are beginning to call for a strong leader to end the revolving door of presidents at the school.
"It is extremely unfortunate that CUNY thus far has neither provided York with the type and strength of leadership nor the funds necessary to move this exceptional collection of assets to the next level," said former Borough President Claire Shulman in a recent letter to CUNY Chancellor Dr. Matthew Goldstein obtained by The Queens Courier.
In response, Chancellor spokesperson Michael Arena said, "The Chancellor has said that the college is a key component of the community it serves. He is mindful of this and wants to ensure that it continues in this very valuable role it serves."
Calling this a "transitionary period," Arena also told The Queens Courier that interim head Dr. Otis Hill, Vice Chancellor of Student Development and Enrollment Management, will focus on continuity within the college.
"Dr. Hill has been asked to continue his role and to act in an administrative capacity," said Arena.
The length of time Hill will serve in this position is unclear, according to Arena, but Hill will be active in his role at least through the beginning of the spring semester. Arena further said that since the process of selecting a new president is at such a preliminary stage, no candidates have been named.
"By now, it should be clear to CUNYs chancellor and trustees that York, to realize its potential, requires especially decisive executive leadership not just academic credentials," said Archie Spigner, former City Councilmember. "The College will blossom under an energetic president with experience and skills in resource development, marketing and public-confidence-building. Its credibility will best be re-established by aggressive outreach, creating partnerships."
Spigner went on to say that the new president of York should be sought from outside academia, such as business or public service, citing the successes of NYU and the New School in having done so.
Wellington Chen, a CUNY board member, said, "There have been no meetings since Dr. Hampton stepped down nothing has been discussed." He went on to further say that a meeting is to be held on January 24 and that the York College saga is likely to be a large financial burden.
In the past few years, York has seen a large turnover in its presidents. When Hampton was selected just 18 months ago, a search committee was formed, consisting of CUNY board members who suggested three to four strong candidates.
Borough President Helen Marshall was unavailable for comment.
toni@queenscourier.com