Huntington Officially Becomes President of College of New Rochelle

On Friday, Judith Huntington officially assumed the office of president of the . She is the 13th president in its 108-year history, as well as the first lay woman in the top spot.

Huntington began her tenure at the college vice president for financial affairs in 2001. The financing of the construction of the $28 million Wellness Center highlighted her 10-year term in that position.

Prior to coming to the college, she worked at accounting firm KPMG LLP for 15 years, serving as audit senior manager in firm’s metro-New York higher education, research and other non-profit practice, providing audit and accounting services.

Huntington brought a 25-year business background into the Castle during stormy economic times, but believes there is hope on horizon.

"While the economic challenges may seem daunting, they also provide the necessary impetus for us to change, adapt and innovate," she said. "Clearly, the challenges cannot be ignored and standing still is not an option." 

In her inauguration speech, Huntington outlined a plan to use smart investments, reallocation of expenses and new ways of revenue to advance the college's technology and better the quality of services for the student body.

The selection of Huntington seems to be following a new trend. Stephen J. Sweeney, the preceeding president, was the first lay president of the college and served as the chief academic officer in the college for 18 years prior to his presidency. recently appointed Dr. Joseph Nyre as its first lay president.

Joe Williams of the Brooklyn Campus said he thought Huntington was a good choice.

"I believe in her visionary skills and business background to help this college," he said.

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