By Julia Mericle
Assistant News Editor
Br. F. Edward Coughlin, O.F.M., Ph.D. accepted the position as the new president of Siena College, appointed by the Siena College board of trustees.
Coughlin has experience in higher education as both a professor and senior administrator and over 40 years as a Franciscan brother. He was previously employed at St. Bonaventure as vice president for Franciscan mission.
After the college’s previous president, Fr. Kevin Mullen O.F.M., Ph.D., left to take the position of provincial minister of Holy Name Province in August, Coughlin was appointed. Holy Name Province is the largest Franciscan community in the United States.
Robert McCormick, board treasurer and chair of the presidential search committee, said he is delighted by the way Coughlin is leading the college.
Coughlin plans to focus on career preparation and readiness in students in the context of a liberal arts program with a Franciscan tradition. He has also been spending time creating personal relationships and connections with students and colleagues at Siena College.
According to Tom Kaczmarek, student senate president, Coughlin embodies the Franciscan mission and has established a welcoming atmosphere in the college community.
Siena College is taking on a strategic plan and a $50 million comprehensive campaign titled “Living our Tradition.” With Coughlin on board, the college has improved student engagement, scholarship investments, Division I athletics, and technological advancements.
Challenges that face Coughlin include a decreasing college-age population and online course offering competition.
According to Coughlin, keeping a balance between staying true to Siena College’s roots and also expanding into new directions will be a concentration during his presidency.
As the eleventh president of Siena College, Coughlin will begin his role immediately. The formal date of his installation is yet to be determined, but will take place during the 2015 spring semester.
“While we are saddened to know Br. Ed’s absence from our campus is extended, we wish him and the Siena family the very best.” Said Sr. Margaret Carney, O.S.F., “Siena is, indeed, in good and wise hands.”
