By Maylan L. Studart
Nassau Community College has selected a Massachusetts college official as its next president.
Jermaine Williams will leave his position as vice president for student affairs at the North Shore Community College in Essex County, Massachusetts, to become NCC’s seventh president starting July 1. He was recommended by State University of New York Chancellor Kristina Johnson, endorsed by the SUNY Board of Trustees and brings years of experience in student affairs.
“Nassau Community College has a long-standing history of academic excellence and career preparation for diverse learners, which Dr. Williams will support and uplift,” SUNY Board Chairman H. Carl McCall said. “His work to increase equity in education and create a welcoming and inclusive environment will serve Nassau well.”
For the last four years, Williams served North Shore Community College, where he restructured academic advising and created policies and initiatives on food and housing, among others.
Previously, he climbed the leadership ladder at Northeastern Illinois University. He was assistant dean of academic development, assistant vice president for access, transition and success, and acting vice president of student affairs.
Previously, Williams was Community College of Philadelphia’s director of student initiatives and an academic adviser and coordinator of first-year student programs at Temple University. At St. John’s University he was assistant to the director of the university freshman center and assistant coordinator of the self-pace program.
Jorge Gardyn, chair of the NCC Board of Trustees, said Williams will bring a “youthful exuberance” to the college that he says needs more youthful energy to address enrollment and campus life.
“When you meet with him the energy is palpable,” said Gardyn. “Resumes can always look good on paper, but when you meet the person, you can tell what they’re about.”
Williams said he is humbled to be selected as NCC’s next president and wants to focus on the students’ experience on campus.
“I look forward to focusing on the student experience by partnering with faculty, staff, external stakeholders and others who can enrich our efforts to ensure equitable access, completion, and post-completion success for everyone who can benefit from the excellent educational experience NCC has to offer,” he said.
Williams holds a doctorate and master’s in education from Temple University, a master’s in sociology from St. John’s University, a bachelor’s degree from Lafayette College, as well as a certificate from the Harvard University Graduate School of Education’s management development program.
