I am very pleased to announce that, following a nationwide search and extensive campus participation, Ira Persky has been appointed as the new Vice President for Finance and Administration at the College of Staten Island, effective Tuesday, May 1, 2012.  

Mr. Persky has over 30 years of comprehensive experience in higher education and most recently served as the College’s Interim Vice President for Finance and Administration. Previously, Mr. Persky served as Executive Director of the College of Staten Island Auxiliary Services Corporation. During his tenure, the Corporation grew in stature by expanding services and renovating facilities on campus and supporting the Mission of the College by funding programs and scholarships. He served on many significant College and Auxiliary Services Corporation committees including the Middle States Steering Committee, Strategic Direction Committee, Resource and Budget Advisory Committee, Transportation Task Force, Bookstore Committee, and the Committee on Campus Parking. Mr. Persky was also charged with representing CSI Student Housing LLC in completing the final terms of contracts leading to the successful financing and commencing of construction on the new two-building, 133-apartment housing complex.  

Prior to coming to CSI, Mr. Persky served as Executive Director of the Faculty Student Association of The State University of New York at Stony Brook where he was instrumental in facilitating a multi-million-dollar renovation of several dining facilities, and as General Manager of the CATA Inc., a not-for-profit corporation at Rutgers College of Rutgers University responsible for food and beverage operations in three student centers. 

Mr. Persky received his BA and MA from Adelphi University.  

I would like to commend the outstanding work of the search committee chaired by Michael Kress, Vice President for Technology Systems. The committee’s diligence and insight produced an impressive pool of applicants, ensuring the success of this important search.   

Please join me in congratulating Ira Persky on his appointment.