ALISA OPPENHEIMER
Assistant News Editor
Fredonia’s new president, Dr. Stephen H. Kolison, Jr. was officially announced this afternoon over a virtual SUNY Board of Trustees meeting.
The formal meeting took place at 1:15 p.m. and was made viewable to the public on the official SUNY website.
Dr. Kolison was introduced by Chancellor Dr. Kristina Johnson, where she stated that he has served as Executive Vice President and Provost at The University of Indianapolis since April 2017.
His contributions there include the addition of 10 new degree programs, the establishment of three new faculty tracks, developing, as well as, executing an improved academic plan and more, leading to the restoration of the university’s status as a Carnegie Community Engagement University.
Prior to this, Dr. Kolison also served as Associate Vice President for Academic Programs, Education Innovation and Governance at The University of Wisconsin Administration from 2008 to 2017, where he worked his way up through various leadership positions.
He gained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Liberia and his master’s and Ph.D. degrees in forest economics from Iowa State University and holds four post-doctoral certificates from Harvard University in topics such as educational management and negotiations in leadership.
Dr. Kolison was welcomed to the meeting by other members of the board.
“Thank you for this tremendous opportunity and confidence,” said Kolison.
“You see, for a man who was told in the second grade that he would not amount to anything because he suffered from dyslexia, this appointment is remarkable, and I hope it will inspire all students everywhere to never, ever give up.”
Kolison also addressed Fredonia students along with faculty and members of the community in his speech expressing his excitement in being the university’s new president.
“I am overjoyed to have the opportunity to serve you regardless of your background… The State University of New York at Fredonia is your university, you belong,” said Kolison.
“I will work hard each day to ensure that you are successful in your endeavors. To faculty and staff, you are my partners in the advancement of our university, and to the citizens of the city of Fredonia and in neighboring communities, I am going to be one of you and a strong partner in a way to advance our region,” he said.