GENESEO — Just as First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt graced the stage of Wadsworth Audtiorium in 1956, this Thursday another outstanding and eloquent woman took the podium, this time as President of SUNY Geneseo. Dr. Denise Battles who is now officially the second woman to lead the college as president.
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Dr. Battles was joined by family, friends and dignitaries from across New York State and the SUNY system to celebrate her appointment as the 13th President of SUNY Geneseo.
“It is with profound gratitude and deep humility that I accept the presidency of this fine institution SUNY Geneseo,” said Dr. Battles. “I pledge to do my utmost to advance the college and fulfill its abundant potential.”
Prior to the ceremony, the crowd enjoyed a performance by the Ghanaian Dance and Drum Enseble led by Yahayo Alhassan and the Sure on the Shining Night, Geneseo Chamber Singers, Directed by Gerard Floriano, ’84.
“You nailed it,” said Nancy Zimpher, Chancellor of the State University of New York, referring to SUNY Geneseo’s extensive search and selection process. “I think the most celebrated comment that I can make about this investiture is the coherence and comradery, and the conclusion drawn by all members [sic]. Denise Battles is the right person, at the right time and certainly at the right place.”
Dr. Battles, who has a professional background in geology, presented the attendees with a commemorative pin with a ‘V’ on it, representative of the beautiful Genesee Valley.
Gahu Korye Geneseo performs for President Battles. (Photo/ Josh Williams)