Chairman of the SUNY Board of Trustees H. Carl McCall has been named recipient of the Reverend James C. Finlay, S.J. Award for his ongoing efforts to increase college access and completion for all students, in part through ensuring an affordable and equitable path to higher education. The Chairman’s leadership over the past seven years at SUNY has illuminated the university system as national leader in higher education affordability and transparency hand-in-hand with Chancellor Nancy Zimpher’s steadfast dedication to educating more New Yorkers, and educating them better.
The Reverend James C. Finlay, S.J. Award is named after Fordham University’s 21st president. In addition to his reputation as a priest, scholar, teacher, and counselor, Father Finlay was chairman of the Commission of Independent Colleges and Universities. During his tenure as chairman, Father Finlay immersed himself in the politics of Albany for the betterment of Fordham and our independent sector colleagues. He was a fierce advocate for students, advocating on behalf of the Tuition Assistance Program, HEOP, STEP, and C-STEP; and was particularly vocal about educational and professional opportunities for women.
Recipients of the award are those men and women who have distinguished themselves as serving in the best interests of NYS’ colleges and universities through government action.
“This award has some very significant alumni, several who are here this evening in Albany – and not the least, last year’s awardees Senator Skelos and Senator Breslin,” Chairman McCall told the packed audience at the Empire State Plaza in May 2014, also noting this year’s co-recipient, Assemblymember Debra Glick.
“As Chairman of the SUNY Board of Trustees, I know firsthand the myriad challenges that face our institutions and the commitment that is required to make tough decisions for the best interest of our stakeholders,” Chairman McCall continued, highlighting the honor of the recognition in the spirit of Reverand Finlay, who McCall said “epitomized an engaged, active and staunch advocate for not only the students he served as the President at Fordham … [but for] women’s equality on all fronts and students’ rights in the financial aid arena.”
“I could not be prouder to be accepting this award on behalf of all of us who, like Reverend Finlay, fight every day to ensure the quality and excellence of our universities is preserved,” Chairman McCall added.
