DELHI - State University of New York (SUNY) Trustees appointed Dr. Mary Bonderoff, acting president of SUNY Delhi since 2022, as president during a meeting held Wednesday, June 26. Bonderoff’s appointment took effect immediately.
Following an executive session, SUNY Chancellor John King Jr. introduced Bonderoff as a candidate for the position, noting her 25 years of education experience. Since 2022, Bonderoff served as interim then acting president at SUNY Delhi, he said. “Dr. Bonderoff has served SUNY Delhi exceptionally by increasing enrollment and developing significant partnerships between SUNY Delhi and local partners to ensure the success of Delhi’s students.”
Following the introduction, trustees appointed Bonderoff as president at a salary of $250,000.
Chairperson of SUNY Delhi’s Presidential Search Committee and College Council Member Wayne Oliver said Bonderoff is the 11th president of SUNY Delhi throughout its 111 years of operation. SUNY Delhi was established in 1918, Oliver said, and has expanded from graduating 19 students in 1918 to graduating approximately 1,800 students in 2024.
As interim and acting president, Bonderoff established herself as an open and honest leader, Oliver said, who is highly visible, approachable, “and has an energy level that’s second to none.”
Bonderoff faced financial and enrollment issues at SUNY Delhi head-on, Oliver said, with enrollment levels increasing and expenses decreasing by several million dollars. “We are all extremely please she was appointed our 11th president,” Oliver said, and council members look forward to continuing to support her.
Bonderoff began her professional career at SUNY Delhi as a resident hall director “many years ago,” she said, and feels as if her appointment as president brought her full-circle. Throughout her career within the SUNY system, Bonderoff always aspired to be president and feels deeply honored to serve as SUNY Delhi’s next president.
“It is truly a privilege to serve as the next president of SUNY Delhi,” Bonderoff said. “The past two years are a testament of the work we have done building a strong commitment to our students and community. SUNY Delhi provides tremendous opportunities for students through our strong academic programs and co-curricular experiences. I look forward to strengthening SUNY Delhi’s position as a premier technology institution.”
