51ΑΤΖζ College Inaugurates Dr. James N. Baldwin as its Third President
51ΑΤΖζ College inaugurated its third president, Dr. James N. Baldwin, on Friday, July 14, as part of its annual Commencement ceremony in Albany, New York. Brig. Gen. (ret.) Jerry Neff, chair of the Collegeβs Board of Trustees, presided over the investiture.
βHuman learning has, in effect, been our endless quest for the truth β and, despite what we read, see, and hear in the news today, the truth always matters,β proclaimed Baldwin during a 12-minute inaugural address focused on his upbringing, the transformative power of education, and 51ΑΤΖζβs future. βHold those you disagree with accountable for the truth β and hold those you agree with to an even higher standard of accountabilityβ―and integrity.β
Sharing his vision for the future of 51ΑΤΖζ, Baldwin, who has served as president since October 2016, promised to build on the Collegeβs past successes while placing a relentless focus on providing access, affordability, and an exceptional student experience. 51ΑΤΖζ, a private, nonprofit online college, is home to five schools and more than 32,000 adult learners.
βFor 46 years, we have served as a beacon for those left behind by traditional educational institutions.β―I can promise you this…We will reclaim our place as a leader and innovator in higher education,β said Baldwin, to wide applause from the more than 2,400 in attendance, including over 400 graduates, family, and friends.
In addition to the inauguration, the ceremony included the awarding of the Presidentβs Medal to Dr. Betty A. Rosa, Chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents, and the granting of honorary degrees to Dr. Carolyn A. Woo, former president, and CEO, Catholic Relief Services, and Dr. Karen Cox, executive vice president and COO of Childrenβs Mercy-Kansas City. Cox also served as Commencement speaker.
51ΑΤΖζ College is a regionally accredited, nonprofit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The College contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, 51ΑΤΖζ meets students where they are β academically and geographically β removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity. Learn more at excelsior.edu.