Release
UAlbany Remembers Kermit Hall, 17th President of the University
ALBANY, N.Y. (August 13, 2007) -- The University at Albany community gathered today for a moment of remembrance of Kermit L. Hall, the 17th president of the University. The ceremony took place at the small fountain in front of the Campus Center. Following remarks, the carillon bells rang 17 times in his honor. Hall passed away on August 13, 2006.
"Today we remember the life and accomplishments of Kermit Hall," said Susan Herbst, Officer in Charge and Provost of the University. "We all feel him with us today, as we view so many of the things he envisioned and fought for. The University at Albany carries forward plans from his time, as we also continue to develop and promote new initiatives that serve to honor Kermit's vision, which was to improve academic excellence and the student experience."
University Accomplishments, 2006-2007:
- Honors College freshmen enrollment has gone up 48 percent over last year's mark -- increasing 120 to 175.
- Presidential Scholars have increased 28 percent over last year -- increasing 156 to 199.
- A $4 million plan for the Entry Plaza includes a park-like setting with more green space, ornamental trees and gardens, fountains and bench seating. The project is part of a larger $25 million provision in the 2006-2007 New York State budget, which will enable the University to address crucial revitalization needs in the future.
- Applications for 2007-2008 are at an all-time high, surpassing 20,000 (20,249 applications) for the first time.
- During the 2006-2007 season, UAlbany captured eight America East Conference championships and five teams appeared in the NCAA Tournament, including the men's lacrosse team, which posted the school's first-ever NCAA Division I victory. John R. Fallon Jr., whose contribution helped finance the lacrosse field named after him, donated $250,000 to fund construction of an all-weather lacrosse field to further bolster the success of UAlbany's athletic teams.
- In May, International SEMATECH agreed to locate headquarters at UAlbany's NanoCollege. The $300 million project will support new research at the Nanotech Center in Albany as well as serve as an additional resource supporting existing operations of SEMATECH members in the Hudson Valley and the Capital Region.
For more information, visit Hall's memorial Web site.
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