SUNY Old Westbury: A History of Innovation, Diversity, and Social Justice
Introduction
The State University of New York College at Old Westbury, now styled as SUNY Old Westbury, stands as a testament to innovation and commitment to social justice within the SUNY system. Founded in 1965, it has evolved from an experimental college to a regional institution with a diverse student body and a wide array of programs. This article delves into the history of SUNY Old Westbury, its academic structure, programs, and its enduring mission.
Early Beginnings (1965-1969)
Chartered in 1965 by SUNY Chancellor Samuel B. Gould, the institution was envisioned as an innovative addition to the state system. Harris Wofford, the first president, aimed to create a small, experimental college centered on a core curriculum and individualized projects. Wofford's vision was rooted in his experience in politics and the Peace Corps, emphasizing participatory frameworks, exposure to world classics, multiculturalism, and community service.
In 1968, the campus began operations at Planting Fields, the former Coe estate in Oyster Bay, Long Island. The initial group of students and faculty faced disagreements regarding the core program's elements. The first class opposed academic requirements, demanding equal voting rights with faculty on policy matters. Political divisions led to protests, disrupting the educational program, and President Wofford's departure in 1969.
Reorganization and a New Mandate (1970s)
Following Wofford’s departure, a SUNY commission examined the campus's progress, leading to a reorganization. In May 1970, John D. Maguire, an administrator and civil rights activist, was appointed president. SUNY Old Westbury reopened in Fall 1971 with a revised mandate to educate a diverse, multicultural student population.
The new curriculum focused on a critical analysis of societal issues, exploring "the riddle of human justice." This plan emphasized building an integrated and egalitarian intellectual community and an interdisciplinary curriculum. Old Westbury II, as it was known, welcomed non-traditional students of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds. It was among the few institutions to house married students in dormitories and provide day-care facilities. The departmental organization reflected its interdisciplinary educational programs, and governance involved shared responsibility among faculty, students, and staff.
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In 1973, enrollment was capped at 3,500, and a plan was adopted to expand offerings to upper-division transfer students while reaffirming the commitment to students from diverse backgrounds. SUNY Old Westbury expanded its disciplinary and professional offerings, introducing new majors in biology, chemistry, mathematics, languages, psychology, sociology, urban studies, and business.
Maturation and Challenges (1980s-1990s)
After John Maguire's departure in 1981, Clyde Wingfield became president, attempting to remold the institution along more traditional lines. The campus building program was completed, admissions policies were revised, and the disciplinary and pre-professional elements of the curriculum were reinforced.
Following Wingfield's departure, the campus reaffirmed its commitment to multiculturalism under Acting President Ulrich Haynes and President L. Eudora Pettigrew. However, declining state support for higher education curtailed the institution's development.
Despite financial challenges, the institution matured, stabilizing its reputation in the local community. The science faculty successfully attracted institutional grants. New degree programs in literature, media and communications, science education, criminology, and world cultures were introduced, and international programs were expanded. Student enrollment reached a high of 4,226 in 1994. However, every area of the College struggled to maintain facilities and programs, leading to reduced faculty and staff numbers and deferred maintenance. By 1998, when President Pettigrew retired, the College had reached a low point in enrollment and funding.
A Period of Remarkable Progress (2000s)
In September 1999, Calvin O. Butts, III, was appointed as the fifth president of the College. Under his leadership, SUNY Old Westbury experienced a period of growth and renewal. The College introduced higher admissions standards and achieved a sustained increase in enrollment, reaching its highest enrollment in Fall 2019.
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Graduate programs were introduced in 2004, and undergraduate degree programs in Adolescence Education: Social Studies, Biochemistry, Visual Arts (BFA), and Visual Arts: Electronic Media Design were added. The campus developed student support functions such as the Honors College, Office of Transfer Services, Office of Commuter Student Services, the Student Success Center, the Panther Pantry, and the Community Action, Learning and Leadership program. More than $200 million in capital construction and renovation projects were completed, including The Woodlands Residence Halls, the Student Union, University Police Department Headquarters, and the Academic Building, which opened in 2012 as the first LEED Gold certified higher education facility on Long Island. Dr. Butts retired in August 2020 and was named President Emeritus by the SUNY Board of Trustees.
Moving Forward (2020s)
In January 2021, Dr. Timothy E. Sams was appointed as the sixth president of SUNY Old Westbury. SUNY Old Westbury aims to instill critical thinking, ethical action, and success in a competitive global society. The institution continues to serve as a vibrant learning community, providing a dynamic academic and social environment for its students.
Campus and Location
SUNY Old Westbury's campus, spanning over 600 acres, is located on Long Island. The campus is known for its diversity. In 1971, the university moved to its current location in Old Westbury, Nassau County, Long Island, on an estate formerly owned by F. Ambrose Clark.
Academics and Programs
SUNY Old Westbury offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its four schools. Over 95% of its students are undergraduates, with 15 postgraduate programs available. The college operates on a Monday-Thursday academic structure, with no teaching on Fridays, except for some science labs.
History Program
The History & Philosophy Department prepares students for critical thinking, cooperation, and leadership in today's interconnected world. The B.A. in History offers two tracks: Liberal Arts and Social Studies.
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History Liberal Arts Track
The Liberal Arts track requires 44 major credits, including courses in European History, American History, African, East Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American, and Environmental History, Geography, Global Perspective, Trans-regional Connections, Historiography, Culture, and a Senior Seminar.
History Social Studies Track
The Social Studies track requires 64 major credits, including courses in European History, American History, African, East Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American History, Global Perspective, Trans-regional Connections, Science, Technology, and Society, Geography, U.S. Politics, Economics, and a Social Studies Senior Seminar.
Accelerated Bachelor's and Master's Program
Students can accelerate their studies by beginning a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree during their final year as an undergraduate student. This program combines the B.A. in History with the M.A. in Liberal Studies, preparing graduates for careers in education, media, law, government, social work, and more.
Athletics
SUNY Old Westbury teams, the Panthers, participate in the NCAA Division III as a member of the Skyline Conference. The F. The Clark Athletic Center hosts various events, including high school basketball playoffs. The Jackie Robinson Athletic Complex includes a baseball stadium and softball field. The university also features soccer fields, tennis courts, and outdoor basketball courts.
Faculty
Approximately 80% of the university's 166 full-time professors hold the highest degree in their discipline.
Motto
SUNY Old Westbury's motto is "Own Your Future."
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