UTICA, NY - Dr. Mark Montgomery, who brings decades of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiative implementation experience to his new role as SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s (SUNY Poly’s) Chief Diversity Officer, is looking forward to campus-wide respectful exchange and cooperation to enhance the institution’s diversity plan.

Dr. Montgomery who, for over 35 years, has researched and worked on academic motivation and retention for at-risk students, says his most pressing goal is to make positive impacts at SUNY Poly while “moving the social responsibility needle forward.”

“Social responsibility and social change are a result of enhanced dialogue and respectful exchanges through which each member of SUNY Poly values each other’s ideas and experiences in an effort to ensure a campus community that is welcoming and supportive, and also values differences and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff,” Dr. Montgomery said.

In 2015, Dr. Montgomery began providing workshops in secondary and post-secondary school environments to train teachers, administrators, and others to motivate students across cultural lines.

Most recently he served as Dean of the School of Public and Human Services for Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC), was named educator of the year in 2008, and was nominated for the SUNY Chancellor’s Award in 2009 for excellence in service. He has received the Outstanding Community Service award, Contribution to Black History award, Contribution to Education and Community Service Award, and in 2017, he was named the Friend of Children of the year for his efforts serving children with Cancer.

After completing a 62-county bicycle tour of New York, Dr. Montgomery biked across the Edmond Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, to honor his parents and African American history. Most recently, in 2019, he received the NYS Commendation for lasting contribution to community. An author, mentor, and role model, Dr. Montgomery’s life is dedicated to God and making a positive influence on the lives of others.

“I look forward to having the opportunity to listen to each member of the SUNY Poly Community share their concept of a campus that respects the differences and the uniqueness of each individual,” he said.