President Cathy Dove to retire in September

Cathy S. Dove, president of Paul Smith’s College, has announced she will retire on Sept. 30, 2020.

“This has been a tremendously challenging decision and one that I’ve made solely for personal reasons,” said Dove, who plans to relocate closer to family in the fall. “I’m truly honored to have had the opportunity to work alongside such wonderful people. Paul Smith’s has a bright future and I look forward to remaining connected and helping however I can through this transition and beyond.”

Dove, who joined the college in 2014, has overseen a wide variety of initiatives at the college, including the introduction of a master’s degree program, expanded undergraduate offerings, and the expansion of athletics including esports, women’s ice hockey and the rollout of of a world-class program for student athletes with ties to US Biathlon and USA Nordic.

Her tenure also includes college affordability efforts highlighted by tuition scholarship programs with North Country Community College and SUNY Adirondack, as well as a “graduation guarantee” initiative for future Paul Smith’s enrollees.

Mark Dzwonczyk, chair of the college’s board of trustees, said that the board plans to appoint an interim president in order to provide time to ensure a comprehensive, inclusive search for a permanent replacement.

“President Dove’s legacy of leadership and vision has raised campus expectations and cemented a strong foundation of excellence in the administration leadership, in the faculty and staff, the student body and among our supportive alumni,” Dzwonczyk said. “I have no doubt whatsoever that this college, consistently resilient since its inception 75 years ago, is on a sturdy foundation for the next 75 years.”

In a letter to the Paul Smith’s community, Dove acknowledged the challenging timing of the announcement – the college moved to online coursework this semester due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic – but necessary in order to provide as much advance notice as possible. However she said that the way the community stepped up to deal with the crisis solidified her confidence in the depth of leadership at the college and ability to serve its students even during adversity.

“This recent crisis just demonstrates the strength of the college and its people,” added Dove. “I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to serve the college, and know that Paul Smith’s will continue to transform the lives of so many students for years to come.”

About Paul Smith’s College

At Paul Smith’s College, it’s about the experience. We are the only four-year institution offering broad-based higher education in the Adirondacks. Our programs – in fields such as natural sciences, sustainability, forestry, business, hospitality, recreation, and culinary arts – draw on industries and resources available in our own backyard while preparing students for successful careers anywhere. For more information, visit paulsmiths.edu.