LOCH SHELDRAKE — After months of conducting their search, SUNY Sullivan has a new president. 

The State University of New York Board of Trustees appointed Dr. David Potash to fill the vacant role on Tuesday, April 16. Dr. Potash’s appointment is effective on or before July 1.

Dr. Potash will now be the college’s eighth president in their over 60-year history since they were established in 1962. 

“I am very excited to join SUNY Sullivan, a growing institution with a crucial mission,” Dr. Potash said. “Throughout the search process, I have been deeply impressed with everyone’s deep commitment to student success.” 

Dr. Potash is currently the president of Wilbur Wright College, an independently accredited community college in Chicago, where he has been since 2013. He received a bachelor of arts from Rice University - where he majored in English and philosophy, a Master’s of Art History from New York University and a doctorate in history from Cambridge University. 

“The SUNY Sullivan Board of Trustees have chosen a president that throughout his career has demonstrated a focus on rigorous academics, service to an increasingly diverse student population, and keen attention to wraparound services to ensure student success,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. 

Casey Crabill has led the two-year school as Officer in Charge since July 25, 2023, after former President Jay Quaintance left his role.

Chancellor King noted that Dr. Crabill came to SUNY Sullivan from Onondaga Community College with an excellent reputation that she only polished through her efforts at Sullivan. 

“We truly appreciate Casey coming out of retirement and leading the campus during the search for SUNY Sullivan’s eighth president,” Chancellor King said. 

The SUNY Sullivan Board of Trustees had narrowed down their search to three semi-finalists in February, who all interviewed with the Board of Trustees and College Community forum groups. Those finalists were Dr. Potash, Dr. Doug Scheidt and Dr. Emmanuel B. Awuah. 

The SUNY Sullivan Board of Trustees confidentially selected their choice of president during executive session of their February 16 meeting. SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. then brought the SUNY Sullivan Board selected finalist, Potash,  to the SUNY Board of Trustees for their approval. 

“The board of trustees is so pleased to welcome David Potash to the SUNY Sullivan community,” said SUNY Sullivan Board of Trustees Chair Nancy Hackett. “Dr. Potash brings the extensive experience in leadership and guidance that will position our college to continue to flourish.”