Yesterday, the University of Cincinnati announced that it would award Nancy L. Zimpher its highest award an honorary doctorate during the University’s April 29th Commencement ceremony. An integral part of the New York Academy of Sciences, Dr. Zimpher has served on the Board of Governors since 2010 and served as Chair of the Board of Governors from September 2011 to September 2016.
A former president of the University of Cincinnati, since 2009, Dr. Zimpher has served as the 12th Chancellor of the State University of New York, the nation’s largest comprehensive system of higher education with nearly 463,000 students and 64 campuses. She is a recognized thought leader in the areas of teacher preparation, urban education, and university-community engagement. During her time in charge of the SUNY system she has led initiatives in diverse fields including research and innovation, energy, health care, global affairs, and the education pipeline. She is a vocal advocate for providing broader access to higher education, and ensuring that higher education acts as an engine of economic revitalization throughout New York State.
Besides her role in the Academy Dr. Zimpher is active in numerous state and national education organizations. She is the current chair of the National Association of System Heads, from 2005 to 2011 she led the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities, and from 2012-2013 she was chair of CEOs for Cities. She also co-founded StriveTogether a national nonprofit network that seeks to ensure opportunity for every child regardless of their race, income, or zip code.
Dr. Zimpher received her BA, MA, and PhD in Teacher Education and Higher Education Administration from The Ohio State University. She has co-authored books, monographs, and academic articles on teacher education, urban education, academic leadership, and university partnerships.