After 15 years as president of Union College, Roger Hull will be stepping down in June. No, not to retire or to make a ton of money in the private sector – two common reasons why successful executives leave their jobs – but to start a national charitable foundation that will create academies on college campuses for at-risk grade school children. In other words, to do good works. Good for him.
Hull brought energy, idealism and commitment – not just to the college but to the community. For instance, he strongly believes in public service, and he showed it by making a day of service a requirement for freshmen. And by getting involved himself, helping found Schenectady 2000 to beautify the city and the Metroplex Development Authority to revitalize it.
He also physically extended the college into the community – controversially on the east side with lawsuits over Lenox Road, and to universal acclaim on the west side with a neighborhood renewal project on Seward Place. As part of that project, there is a community center where Union students tutor and otherwise work with local children. The academies that Hull envisions – a successful model for which exists at Beloit College in Wisconsin, started by him when he was president there before coming to Union – will make use of college students as well.
Hull has also excelled in another area that college presidents are usually measured by: fund-raising. His prowess there has led to the construction or renovation of many buildings on campus, including the beautifully restored Nott Memorial.
President Hull, with his love for the liberal arts and interest in international education, will move on. But his impact on the college and community will continue to be felt for many years to come.