Empire State University Hires Chief Diversity Officer Xiomara Giordano

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — October 2, 2023) Empire State University has hired Xiomara Giordano to the position of assistant vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion and chief diversity officer. She will be based in the university’s Saratoga Springs location beginning November 1, 2023. 

As AVP and CDO, Giordano, who uses she/they/ella/elle pronouns, will work with SUNY Empire students and employees to continue to build an inclusive, welcoming community. She will also lead initiatives, programs, and training programs that support and advance the university’s tradition of academic and inclusive excellence.

Giordano currently serves as director of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and deputy college diversity officer at Bennington College, where she helps leadership identify and establish opportunities to support diverse student populations and implement programs fostering cultural education and awareness. She also held roles as academic services and study away counselor at Bennington College, assistant director of undergraduate enrollment at Russell Sage College, academic advisor at Rockland Community College, and Spanish teacher at Saddle River Day School in New Jersey. 

"I am deeply honored to serve as the assistant vice president of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and chief diversity officer for SUNY Empire. I am committed to advancing our institution's dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion and fostering an environment where all members of our community thrive,” Giordano said. “Together, we will work tirelessly to promote inclusivity and social justice, ensuring that SUNY Empire remains a beacon of opportunity and equity for all."

SUNY Empire President Lisa Vollendorf, Ph.D., said, “I am excited about the opportunity to welcome Xiomara into our community. Her broad and deep expertise in DEI and student success will help us build on the groundwork laid by past and current staff in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, our DEI Council, and the faculty, staff, and students who have helped us drive these efforts over the years.”

Giordano earned their bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Smith College and their M.S. degree in higher education at University at Albany. She holds professional certificates in diversity and inclusion, standards of professional practice, and Title IX.