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Herkimer College Announces Passing of Founding President, Robert McLaughlin

Herkimer County Community College is mourning the loss of its founding president, Robert McLaughlin, who passed away on May 23, 2023, in Geneseo, NY, at the age of 101.

McLaughlin's passion for education led him to a leadership role at SUNY Farmingdale, and then as president of Herkimer County Community College, where he served from 1966 to 1986. As the founding president, he played a pivotal role in shaping the institution's vision and ensuring its future success. Throughout his twenty years of dedication to the College, he initiated and oversaw the development of academic programs, student services, and institutional facilities. He also engaged the services of the original faculty. As a result of his many efforts, McLaughlin gained stature as one of the most respected presidents among the community colleges in SUNY system. The College Center was named for and dedicated to Robert McLaughlin on May 25, 1986.

"President McLaughlin was a true visionary,” Herkimer College Officer in Charge Nicholas F. Laino said. “His unwavering dedication to accessible education and bold leadership leaves behind a lasting legacy. We are deeply saddened at his passing, and on behalf of the entire campus community, we extend our most heartfelt condolences to the McLaughlin family.”

The full obituary can be found at: https://rector-hicksfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/1208/Robert-McLaughlin/obituary.html