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The Russell Sage College Board of Trustees has announced the contract renewal of President Matthew Shaftel for a five-year term, extending his appointment at Russell Sage through 2031.
Shaftel joined Russell Sage in July 2024 and has since led the college through historic growth, an ambitious new strategic plan, record fundraising, and a transformative merger with Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences to create Russell Sage University in fall 2027.
He has been serving as the interim president of Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences until the merger receives final regulatory approval and he takes the helm at Russell Sage University.
“Matt’s leadership has been transformative at Russell Sage,” said Russell Sage College Board of Trustees Chair Caroline Leavitt DeCota. “His energy, vision, and experience have moved the college from stability to growth, and the excitement he’s created at the college and in the community is palpable. The trustees are grateful for his leadership during this historic chapter and are thrilled to have him with us for five more years.”
The college has received two $10 million gifts since Shaftel’s arrival, achieved its largest enrollment in 25 years, and raised its profile across the state and nation.
Shaftel serves as a trustee for the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities in New York and vice chair of the board for New American Colleges & Universities. He is co-chair of the Capital Region Higher Ed Alliance, a coalition of 16 private and public colleges and universities and the Capital Region Chamber, aimed at increasing college attainment to spur economic growth and community wellness. He is a frequent speaker at local, state, and national conferences.
“Russell Sage aligns deeply with my values: access to education at all stages of life, a relentless commitment to student success, and innovative teaching and learning that leads to strong career outcomes,” Shaftel said. “I am deeply grateful to the board for its confidence, and to a leadership team, a group of dedicated employees, and community partners who make this work a joy. My partner, Dr. Jen Murphy, and I have been embraced by this community, and the Capital Region has become a place we love. The best part of this job is that the work is never finished, and I can’t wait to keep building Russell Sage with this team.”