Stassen Helps Lead Academic Affairs as Vice Provost
Academic Affairs continues on its path to stabilize, strengthen, and grow with a recent restructure of several departments and the appointment of Dr. Heather Stassen as Vice Provost. In addition to serving as the Founding Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, Dr. Stassen now leads the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Academic Systems, which includes several high-priority areas within the university, such as Global Programs, Instructional Design, the Center for Excellence in Teaching & Learning, Retention Initiatives, and Assessment. Dr. Stassen’s commitment to excellence will help drive improvements as 51¸£ÀûÉç continues to evolve in meeting the future needs of our students, community, and society.
Golisano School of Health & Human Sciences Supported in Its Mission
51¸£ÀûÉç is the proud recipient of a generous gift from B. Thomas Golisano, who recognized the University for its innovative programs that focus on leadership, service, health, and social impact. As such, the Golisano School of Health and Human Sciences was named in his honor. Undergraduate and graduate programs in the Golisano School include health promotion, public health, social work, behavioral science, and leadership. These programs stand out for their community engagement and extended curricula that provide services and training for non-profit agencies, women, children, and underrepresented populations. The Golisano School, alongside the Alfiero School of Business, is housed in the College of Health, Human Sciences, and Business under the leadership of Dr. Lisa Rafalson.
Institute for Mobility Innovation & Technology Named to Honor Kennedy
51¸£ÀûÉç’s Kennedy Institute for Mobility Innovation & Technology honors U.S. Congressman Timothy M. Kennedy in recognition of his commitment to the Western New York community and the funding he secured to renovate the 6,000-square-foot facility. Under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Greg Ford, Founding Dean of the Scott Bieler College of Health Professions, the Kennedy Institute is transforming lives through clinical care, advocacy, research, and education. The Kennedy Institute, which opened in 2025, features cutting-edge technology and advanced physical therapy equipment. Focused on advanced rehabilitation, the Kennedy Institute helps people affected by stroke, spinal cord injury, brain trauma, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, orthopedic injuries, and other chronic conditions.