D. David Conklin, the president of Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, has announced he will retire when his contract expires in August 2014.
Conklin, currently the second longest-serving president in the State University of New York system, will have led DCC for 22 years when he retires.
The yearlong notice, a contract stipulation designed to give the college sufficient time to search for a new president, was submitted to the school”™s board of trustees earlier this month and announced at the Aug. 13 board meeting.
“While the board had hoped the president would accept another contract extension, we respect and understand his decision to retire at the end of his current commitment,” Thomas LeGrand, chair of the school”™s board of trustees, said. “Dave has provided the institution with exemplary leadership over the past two decades, and his work with faculty and staff to enhance academic programs, services and facilities has resulted in Dutchess Community College being one of the most highly regarded community colleges in the SUNY system. His knowledge, commitment and responsible stewardship have earned the college a reputation for providing a quality, affordable education that prepares students for success.”
LeGrand also commended Conklin for the volunteerism he has demonstrated within the community during his tenure, serving on numerous nonprofit boards and participating in many initiatives designed to enhance the mid-Hudson Valley.
Since Conklin became president of the college in 1992, enrollment has increased nearly 40 percent, now attracting 36 percent of all college-bound high school graduates in Dutchess County.
The board will begin the presidential search process over the next few months.
