Michael R. Baumgardner

Michael Baumgardner joined the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity (CEHC) at the University at Albany in August 2016 and currently serves as Director of Student Success. In this role, his priorities focus on the successful transition of new students into the College, as well as increased retention and engagement of the students so that every student feels that they belong and matter at CEHC.

An experienced student affairs professional with nearly 20 years in higher education, Michael most recently served as the associate vice president and dean of students at Russell Sage College. He has also worked in or supervised residence life, student conduct, student activities, academic support, leadership development, first year experience, community engagement and service, admissions, advising, and health services. He has experience with leading, collaborating, and implementing programs at several institutions. 

He earned an M.A. in Higher Education Administration from the Teachers College of Columbia University in New York and a B.A. in Sociology/Anthropology from Middlebury College in Vermont where he also played football. He has completed coursework in Organizational Management from The Sage Colleges, completed a Certificate of Graduate Studies in Community College Leadership at UAlbany and is currently working towards a Ph.D. in Educational Policy and Leadership at UAlbany.