Seasoned Leader in Western New York Education Will Take Position August 1
HAMBURG, N.Y.—Michael R. Cornell, a respected regional leader in education administration and policy, has been named Interim President of Hilbert College. He will begin Aug. 1.
Mr. Cornell is the former president of the Erie-Niagara School Superintendents Association, a longtime member of Hilbert’s Presidential Advisory Council, and the retired superintendent of Hamburg Central Schools. During a decade leading one of the area’s largest school districts, Cornell demonstrated a collaborative and innovative leadership approach. Because of his leadership, the Hamburg Schools are an example of educational excellence driven by a strong strategic vision.
“Mike is an esteemed executive who is committed to education and the development of our leaders of tomorrow,” said Hilbert College Board Chair Laurie Carra. “He brings extraordinary leadership skills, is a proven builder of high-performing teams and has a deep commitment to our Franciscan values.”
Cornell joins a Hilbert leadership team that recently added Heather Montague as chief financial officer. Montague brings more than 20 years of higher education experience in finance and administration at the State University of New York’s two flagship universities, the University at Buffalo and Stony Brook University.
Together, they will oversee Hilbert’s continued growth at its Hamburg campus, its Hilbert Global online program and at Valley College, which the nonprofit Franciscan Services acquired in 2023. Cornell also will serve as Interim CEO of Franciscan Services. Since 2019, the entire enterprise has grown from 600 students to 2,500, with revenue increasing from $14 million to $53 million during that same period.
In its next phase, Hilbert looks to take innovative steps to improve student services, bolster faculty support, and deepen community connections.
“Hilbert has incredible momentum that positions us perfectly to meet student needs, now and for years to come,” said Cornell. “We will focus like a laser on our strategic direction, and approach all of it with the joy and optimism that our Franciscan mission requires.”
Cornell has deep roots in Western New York and a record of achievement in a range of education roles. As Hamburg superintendent, he helped improve learning outcomes, culture, and sense of community districtwide, most notably during the pandemic. Before serving as superintendent, he was an award-winning principal and served for 12 years as a teacher.
Cornell also served as the co-chair of the New York State Council of School Superintendents (NYSCOSS) Legislative Committee and served two terms on the NYSCOSS House of Delegates. In 2004 Cornell was appointed by the governor to serve on the Niagara River Greenway Commission and was appointed to the Niagara County Redistricting Commission in 2011.
Cornell and his family live in North Tonawanda.
Hilbert previously announced that its current president, Dr. Michael Brophy, will depart the school this summer to become president of Hudson Valley Community College.
The board plans to commence its search for a permanent president later this year.
About Hilbert College
Hilbert College is an independent college that embraces its Catholic Franciscan roots to create programs that are welcoming to students of all backgrounds. Through affordable tuition, global access online, and a blend of liberal arts and professional programs, the college makes quality education possible for all types and manner of students and prepares them to be compassionate leaders, critical thinkers and engaged citizens ready to serve the world around them.
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