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Gerard Rooney
Gerard Rooney
Gerard Rooney
President, St. John Fisher College
Years in current role: 5
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I value most having the opportunity to engage with our students as they pursue their collegiate studies at Fisher. It is a privilege to be part of their educational journey and the most fulfilling aspect of my role. It is also very invigorating to work with dedicated colleagues who are committed to creating a student-centered learning and living environment that enables our students to flourish and realize their educational goals and aspirations. The transformational impact of education is palpable on our campus and visible in our graduates.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve dealt with over the past year?
I would begin by acknowledging all who have lost loved ones in the pandemic and those who have served on the frontlines of society throughout the pandemic. The uncertainty the pandemic has created has been the greatest challenge of the past year for us, and for so many. We benefited from the collective commitment of all on campus to continue to deliver the Fisher experience to our students. Our ability to work together for the good of all has enabled us to overcome challenges that we have faced and to move forward as an institution.
What community organizations do you support as a volunteer and why?
I am a member of the board of directors of the Rochester Chamber of Commerce, Goodwill of the Finger Lakes, and Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. The good work that these organizations engage and commit to on behalf of our community, promote and advance our individual and community interests and meet the needs of individuals who benefit most from their services and in their time of greatest need. As an anchor institution in Rochester, supporting community organizations is a foundational aspect of our college’s purpose and something I personally enjoy and believe in.
