
Alumni in the Classroom & Notes
Rockefeller College’s Thinking Ahead class gives students an opportunity to hear first-hand from professionals working in the field. Drawing on both Rockefeller’s successful alumni network, as well as friends of the College, each class session features a different guest speaker, introducing students to a range of careers that once began in a political science or public administration classroom. The course also provides students an opportunity to practice and fine-tune behaviors linked to success in internships, graduate school, and careers. Thank you to all who took the time to participate in Thinking Ahead during the 2020-21 academic year.

From the Top
Featured in the Spring 2021 UAlbany Magazine, Jim Malatras, SUNY chancellor and three-time UAlbany alumnus, thinks higher education can learn from jazz.

Director Debra Rood Retires From ITSMR, Jerry Miller To Take The Wheel
After four decades at the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research (ITSMR), a research center within the University at Albany’s Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy, ITSMR Director Debra Rood has decided to change lanes and take the exit to retirement. Effective July 1st, Gerard “Jerry” Miller will take the wheel, replacing Debra who has been in the driver’s seat for nearly 22 years.

Brabham, Rangel Join Dean’s Advisory Board
During the 2020-2021 academic year, the Rockefeller College Dean’s Advisory Board enthusiastically welcomed two new members: Lola Brabham BA ’95, MPA ’00 and Nic Rangel BA ’06, MPA ’11.

Semester in Washington Spring 2021 Placements
Despite the uncertainty of the past year due to COVID-19, 12 University at Albany students were able to actively participate in the Semester in Washington Program and live, learn, and intern in the nation’s capital during the Spring 2021 semester. Established in 1997, Rockefeller College’s Semester in Washington Program has served as a gateway into careers in government, the private sector, news media, nonprofits, and nongovernment organizations.

UAlbany’s Rackmyer part of SUNY Student Advocate First Class
Taryn Rackmyer, '20, has been named by SUNY Chancellor James Malatras to the inaugural class of the SUNY Student Advocate Fellowship Program.

Juneteenth Scholarship Recipients Honor Parents, Grandparents Through Education
Rising seniors Jordan Ozley and Nicholas Chin have been selected to receive the Juneteenth Scholarship, honoring their achievement while promoting values of diversity and inclusion.

Biden, Putin Set To Meet Amid Tense Relations
With President Biden set to meet with Vladimir Putin, Rockefeller College's Jim Steiner spoke about the US/Russia relationship with WAMC. Prior to UAlbany, Steiner spent more than 30 years with the CIA and focused on Soviet defense and economic issues.