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Christopher Ames is Leading Sage’s Financial Turnaround, New Strategic Plan and Resiliency During COVID-19
The Russell Sage College Board of Trustees has unanimously voted to extend the contract of President Christopher Ames through 2024. Ames became Sage’s 10th president in 2017.
Under Christopher Ames’ leadership, Sage has improved its financial position, going from a deficit of $5.5 million to two consecutive years of surpluses in excess of $2 million.
Ames and the Sage community have implemented a strategic plan which rebranded Russell Sage College under its original name and restructured it as a single coeducational college with campuses in Albany and Troy, New York. Russell Sage College continues to provide undergraduate and graduate professional programs in a small-college environment conducive to student success.
Other achievements under Ames’ presidency and strategic plan include a new Women’s Institute and a signature program called Thrive, which emphasizes wellness and well-being across student life and academics.
During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, Ames and Sage administrators developed a comprehensive safety plan that has featured on-campus and hybrid instruction and allowed the college to operate successfully with no layoffs or furloughs. The ongoing commitment of students, faculty and staff to adhere to policies and health guidelines through the Sage Strong campaign has been crucial to a successful fall semester.
“Dr. Ames has led the college through some of the most challenging times in its history, including financial hardship and a global pandemic,” said Patricia Sparrell, chair of the Russell Sage College Board of Trustees. “Russell Sage College is a stronger institution today because of his vision and leadership, and I and the board of trustees look forward to working with the president as he guides and shapes the college in the years ahead.”
“I found a wonderful home at Russell Sage College and in New York’s Capital District, and I know that small colleges can make a big difference. I’m grateful for the confidence of our trustees and the dedication of our creative faculty, staff and administration,” said Ames. “And the vital and optimistic students at Sage make me feel good about our future.”
Follow Christopher Ames on Twitter at @SagePrez and find links to his biography and a blog about Sage and national issues in higher education at Sage.edu/president.