The State University of New York at Old Westbury today welcomed SUNY Board of Trustees Chair, Dr. Merryl H. Tisch, to campus to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on teaching and learning. Joining Dr. Tisch throughout her visit was SUNY Old Westbury President Timothy E. Sams.
“We were very pleased to welcome Dr. Tisch and to speak with her about the challenges and accomplishments on our campus amid the pandemic,” said Dr. Sams. “All on our campus have adapted in multiple ways, whether it relates to new approaches to teaching and learning or how we provide and receive support when we need it. As we look forward towards next fall, we appreciate her commitment to our success and her leadership as we continue the work together to be certain that all on our campus have the tools to succeed while enjoying a healthy and safe educational experience."
Also taking time to meet with Dr. Tisch were Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Duncan Quarless and faculty members Dr. Laura Anker, Dr. Jennie D'Ambroise, Dr. Linval Frazer, Dr. Julio Gonzalez, Dr. Michael Kavic, Dr. Manya Mascareno, Dr. Kasia Platt, and Dr. Ryoko Yamamoto. In another session, Chairman Tisch met with students Christopher Belizaire, Alissa Christofey, Kimberly Cox, Kevin Diaz, Ammar Koshk, Kalief Metellus, Gianna Ventiere, and Adelyn Veras.
Their conversations covered various perspectives about online learning, such as the impact on training and student life, zoom fatigue, social isolation, mental health, campus health and safety, and public transportation issues.
Among the nation’s most influential voices on education, Dr. Tisch was appointed Chairman of the SUNY Board of Trustees in 2019, continuing her dedication to ensuring high-quality education for all New Yorkers. Prior to joining the SUNY board in 2018, she had served on the New York Board of Regents for nearly 20 years, including leading the organization as Chancellor from 2009 to 2015. As Chancellor, she was responsible for setting the state’s education policy and overseeing both public and private education throughout New York. Her policies were informed by years of experience in the fields of education, community service, and philanthropy, including her work as a first-grade teacher. In response to the health crisis, Dr. Tisch is focused on how SUNY can improve the student experience and support academic and personal growth.