The State University of New York Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Terence L. Finley as the eighth president of Corning Community College. His appointment becomes effective January 2, 2026.
Dr. Finley, a SUNY Brockport alumnus, currently serves as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Harris-Stowe State University in Missouri. He will succeed Administrator in Charge Kim L. Frock, who has led the college since June, following former President William P. Mullaney’s transition to Rockland Community College.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said he is confident Dr. Finley will advance the college’s mission.
“Dr. Finley’s dedication to student success, retention, and completion will further catapult Corning Community College forward as a regional and statewide leader,” King said. “I also want to thank Administrator in Charge Kim L. Frock for her service during this transition.”
The SUNY Board of Trustees echoed that support, noting that Dr. Finley’s extensive experience in higher education positions him to guide the college and its students into the future.
Dr. Finley said he is honored to take on the role.
“My deep commitment to educational excellence is underscored by my belief in the transformative power of education to drive societal change, elevate communities, and create long-term impact through student success,” he said.
Corning Community College Board of Trustees Chair Michael J. Wayne said Finley’s connection to upstate New York and SUNY makes him “uniquely qualified” to lead the institution. Vice Chair Judy McKinney Cherry added that his passion and dedication to equity and student achievement will help the college continue to thrive.
About Dr. Terence L. Finley
Dr. Finley brings nearly 25 years of leadership experience across corporate and higher education sectors. At Harris-Stowe State University, he helped eliminate institutional debt, grow the endowment, secure increased state funding, expand student financial aid, and launch new leadership development programs.
His prior roles include leadership positions at Prairie View A&M University and executive positions with Intel and NVIDIA. He holds a Ph.D. in educational leadership from Prairie View A&M University, an MBA from Penn State, and a bachelor’s degree in marketing and economics from SUNY Brockport.
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