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From the Office of SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher

State University of New York Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher announced on Apr. 18 that she will recommend to the SUNY board of trustees that Dr. Merodie Anne Hancock, at right, be appointed as president of Empire State College.

Hancock is a current vice president at Central Michigan University’s Global Campus, which is comprised of 50 campuses across the country, and includes community colleges, online programs, and remote locations such as military centers.

“Dr. Hancock’s experience and knowledge of higher learning and especially the delivery of online programs across campuses and international borders is certain to serve students and faculty at Empire State College and throughout our system very well,” said Zimpher. “As we implement Open SUNY and work to leverage our systemness in greater service to New York State and all who live and work here, Dr. Hancock’s leadership will be invaluable.”

The board will consider Zimpher’s recommendation at its next meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, May 7. Zimpher and the executive committee of the board of trustees met with Hancock this week.

“Chancellor Zimpher and the SUNY board of trustees have outlined an aggressive vision for the State University system, one that has positioned SUNY as a national leader in many respects,” said Hancock. “It would be an honor to join SUNY’s leadership team at such a volatile time in its history and to work with Empire State faculty, staff, and students as the college continues to build upon an expansive offering of degree programs and services.”

About Merodie Anne Hancock

Hancock has served since 2007 as vice president for Central Michigan University’s Global Campus and is responsible for the delivery of academic programs for the university’s remote campuses, military and community college locations and online programs. Between 2000-07, she held both teaching and administrative positions at the University of Maryland University College, serving as associate vice president between 2005-07. Hancock holds a BA (economics) from Scripps College, an MBA from Claremont Graduate University and a Ph.D. from Old Dominion University.

The Presidential Search website is still available to view and includes Hancock's presentation during her public appearance in Saratoga Springs.