Dr. Murray Recipient of U of Albany Excellence Award 
May 10, 2010
Herkimer County Community College President Ann Marie Murray is among 13 outstanding University of Albany alumni who were honored on May 1 at the Crowne Plaza in Albany at the 2010 Alumni Association’s annual Excellence Awards Gala.
The awards recognize UAlbany graduates for careers of excellence, honoring alumni making a difference in the University, local and international communities. Dr. Murray received the Excellence in Education Award. She holds M.A., M.S. and Ph.D. degrees and a Certificate of Advanced Studies from UAlbany, and a B.A. from Mount Saint Mary College.
Dr. Murray, the third president of Herkimer County Community College, has amassed a wealth of experience as both an administrator and faculty member. Prior to joining HCCC in August 2008, she served as vice president for academic affairs at Broome Community College.
Earlier, at Hudson Valley Community College, Dr. Murray forged an impressive 24-year record in administration and teaching. She held the positions of dean of business and engineering and industrial technologies, associate dean of academic services and department chair for mathematics and science and engineering science. She also taught mathematics at Hudson Valley for 19 years, advancing in rank from an adjunct to full professor. While at Hudson Valley, she received the Excellence in Teaching Award, the President’s Award for Service, and the prestigious SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.
“Ann Marie is a true devotee to community colleges,” said Robert Bangert-Drowns, dean of the University of Albany’s School of Education. “She recognizes the importance of access to post-secondary education for all, as evidenced, for example, by her work in increasing distance learning opportunities. She works to ensure that the community college will remain accessible and cutting-edge, better preparing students for employment.”
Dr. Murray has an excellent record of academic publication and successful grant seeking; one grant to which she was a major contributor (Title III) was valued at over $1.8 million. Active in the community, she is a member of the Institute for Community College Development Board and also serves on the Mohawk Valley Edge Board, the Genesis Board, and is involved in consulting activities for the New York State Education Department.
James LaGatta, HVCC’s vice-president for administration, attributes Dr. Murray’s leadership to “outstanding achievement and dedication in the field of education. She enriches the lives of those she works with and serves.”