Hello Farmingdale!
Dear FSC Colleagues,
What an extraordinary time to be part of higher education. The challenges are more
prominent than ever - the predicted enrollment decline, erroneous ideas about the
value of a college education, public rhetoric targeting higher education’s direction,
threats to DEI, political schisms emerging on campuses, and never-ending concerns
about funding.
All of this, however, is exactly why higher education is more important than ever,
and why what we do is critical to our collective future. We together stand at the
forefront of ensuring that our students will succeed, will be the leaders of tomorrow,
will remember to embed civility into even controversial conversations or debates,
and will make sure that the economy will thrive. At the same time they will strive
to secure a healthy environment, where human values will not be lost. There are no
jobs today as crucial as those involved in educating for the future.
This is why I am excited to embark on my role as president here at Farmingdale State
College. I recognize our students as the emerging scholars I’ve always worked with.
Our dedicated faculty and staff are individuals who know the importance and value
of public regional institutions. I appreciate Farmingdale’s strong position among
New York institutions and the remarkable potential that resides in our collaborative
efforts.
As a New Yorker, being at Farmingdale is like coming home. I am lucky to land on this
beautiful campus with all that Long Island offers. I am again close to family, close
to the biota of coastal Long Island that I know well from past research, and surrounded
by the best diners in the country. All that and a remarkable cadre of faculty, staff,
students, alumni, and external supporters, embedded in the strong and vibrant SUNY
system. I’m looking forward to the opportunities to work with all of you in supporting
and growing the incredible programs we already have, and together considering new
directions, new programs, new partnerships, and new collaborations.
In the weeks and months to come we’ll have opportunities to gather as a college, but
I would also like to visit with you in smaller groups, time permitting. I look forward
to sharing some of the lessons I’ve learned, including what I believe works and doesn’t
work in higher education and, more importantly, learning the same from you.
I roundly applaud President Nader, his administrative team, and, of course, all of
you who have worked so hard to secure Farmingdale’s enviable position. But even the
strongest positions require forward movement and an eye on the time ahead. It is this
that drives education, the ongoing evolution of students, the next disciplinary discovery,
new methodologies to educate, and the generation of new ideas. It is this drive that
makes the “education business” remarkable. We are always looking forward. What can
be more important, and more fun?
I’m very pleased to be part of the Farmingdale team as we focus on student success
and pursue all that academia represents. I hope to see you all at Convocation next
week. While I may not know you personally just yet, if you see me out and about on
campus, please stop to say hello, introduce yourself, and share your best idea. Go
Rams!
Robert S. Prezant, PhD
President
Professor of Biology
