Buffalo State Interim President Delivers Rousing Speech to Faculty and Staff at Academic Affairs Kickoff

Buffalo State Interim President Bonita R. Durand, Ph.D., exhorted faculty and academic staff members to support one another and work together to “address enrollment challenges and transform Buffalo State into a beacon and destination for eager minds” during the university’s annual Academic Affairs Kickoff meeting on August 21 in the Campbell Student Union Social Hall. The event is held each year to welcome back faculty and staff in the Academic Affairs division and to share information in preparation for the new academic year. 

After expressing her gratitude to employees for their “dedication, resilience, and commitment to Buffalo State University and its students,” Durand reminded listeners of the three strategic outcomes she has outlined for her interim presidency: (1) addressing enrollment challenges, (2) increasing alternative sources of revenue, and (3) improving the campus cultural climate and morale. Deeming the third “arguably the most critical to our future success,” she reiterated the importance of the campus community’s active involvement and participation in these efforts, issuing the assembly a “collective call to action.”

“I stand here today to remind you that the power to transform Buffalo State University does not reside solely within the President’s Office, nor with its occupant,” she said. “Instead it lies in the collective strength, wisdom, and dedication of the College Council; the College Senate; the administrative, professional, and clerical staff; and the faculty.”

Please read the entire interim president’s Charge to Our Esteemed Faculty and Academic Staff for the Upcoming Academic Year on the president’s website.

Photo by Jesse Steffan-Colucci, Buffalo State photographer.