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SUNY Potsdam Names Dr. Alan L. Hersker an Honorary Alumnus

Dr. Alan L. Hersker of Oxbow, N.Y., Granted Honorary Lifetime Membership in the SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association

Potsdam, NY (07/15/2025) — The SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association recently honored longtime faculty member and outgoing Interim Provost Dr. Alan L. Hersker of Oxbow, N.Y., with Honorary Lifetime Membership, during a ceremony at Reunion 2025.

Honorary Lifetime Membership is presented to non-alumni who have made exceptional contributions to the SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association and/or the College. Hersker was honored for his leadership, mentorship and dedicated service.

About the recipient:

Interim Provost Dr. Alan L. Hersker has been a vital part of the SUNY Potsdam community for over two decades. During this time, he has served in a wide range of roles -- from faculty member and department chair to senior administrator -- each with integrity, thoughtfulness, and a deep commitment to the College's mission.

Hersker began his journey at Potsdam as an associate professor of anthropology and later became department chair. Demonstrating his willingness to engage in complex campus issues, he volunteered to chair the Greek Life Task Force, approaching the role with fairness and empathy. That experience led to his service as advisor to Delta Kappa Theta from 2015 to 2019.

In 2015, Hersker transitioned into administrative leadership as director of general education, followed by appointments as assistant provost, assistant vice president for Academic Affairs, and director of graduate and continuing education. In 2022, during a time of significant institutional transition, Hersker accepted the role of interim provost. As the College faced difficult decisions around academic program planning, he stepped into this role with resolve. His leadership helped guide the campus through a challenging period with transparency and a focus on SUNY Potsdam's long-term sustainability. While the work was difficult and sometimes met with mixed reactions, Hersker remained committed to respectful dialogue, collaboration and the well-being of the academic community.

Beyond his official duties, Hersker is a familiar and welcoming presence at alumni events, always eager to reconnect with graduates and celebrate their connection to the College. He is also a gracious ambassador to donors and campus guests, expressing genuine appreciation for their continued support. Hersker will continue to work in the Department of Anthropology and as the manager of special projects for the President.

For more information about the SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association, visit www.potsdam.edu/alumni.

Media Attachments

The SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association has named Dr. Alan Hersker (left) of Oxbow, N.Y., an honorary alumnus. He is seen here after accepting the award from SUNY Potsdam President Dr. Suzanne Smith (right) at Reunion 2025.

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