Dr. Steven Mauro got the energy going at the beginning of his opening address
From Alfred State College,
Faculty and staff were welcomed to the Spring 2026 semester by Alfred State President Dr. Steven Mauro. In his opening address, he spent time reflecting on and recognizing the splendid work that has been done and concluded with thoughts on what lies ahead.
Reflecting on the last four years, Mauro highlighted the positive student enrollment trends that have led to the largest new incoming class (Fall 2025) this century and an overall enrollment that is second highest this century. He praised innovations in open houses, expansion of existing academic programs while developing new programs, and strategic financial packaging. He also recognized the work done in student retention, facility improvements, and expansion of student work programs.
“We have been fearless with our approach,” stated Mauro. “The work we have done here has increased enrollment, raised retention rates, and provided momentum for success in our fundraising efforts. We are realizing success in all three pillars of our strategic plan. (2023-2027 Strategic Plan)”
Mauro welcomed new employees and then highlighted the success of the Celebrate Alfred: Day of Service program, athletic teams’ success in the Alfred Cup, and thanked Northland campus faculty members Sal Polizzi and Jonisha Scott for leading a trip to Myrtle Beach, SC to work with Habitat for Humanity.
He also showcased work and honors received by faculty members. Work that included Jessica Hutchison and Mohammed Elshaky receiving the NSF-ATE grant, Alan Vlakanic, Nick Stefanski, Max Mertel, and Erika Solis having work presented or published, Taylor Craft for completing her master’s degree, and Travis Matteson for being elected Vice Chair of the NY College English Association.
In closing, Mauro offered thoughts on what the road ahead might look like. He shared goals and visions and spoke on his excitement to begin work in the fall on the next strategic plan. He also outlined new initiatives for this semester that will celebrate academic and community diversity, recognize members of the classified service staff, and support professional development.
He concluded his address by thanking the faculty and staff for their hard work and wished them all a successful semester. The Spring semester begins on Tuesday, January 20.
