Cerri Banks to step down May 31, national search begins immediately

Dear Skidmore Community, 

I write to share the news that Cerri Banks, dean of students and vice president for student affairs, has informed me that she will step down from her position at the end of this academic year. Her last day will be May 31.   

Cerri is leaving Skidmore after an impressive five years of service to students and the Skidmore community. She has done an exceptional job during a very challenging time and provided important leadership on a wide range of issues and initiatives, including the move to a smoke-free campus, Skidmore Speaks, the development of a social justice space and reimagined model of student engagement, the implementation of updated federal Title IX guidelines and navigation of the COVID-19 crisis. Cerri’s active participation in national conversations about free speech and expression, student activism and student development has given Skidmore a voice in those important discussions. 

Cerri offered this message to the community: "This is a deeply personal decision and not an easy one. I have done this work for a long time in good times and bad. I want to thank Skidmore and especially the Division of Student Affairs, which is one of the best teams I have ever worked with. I am confident students will continue to be in good hands with them. I am thankful for all our campus collaborators among staff, faculty and administrators and for your commitment and dedication to our students. I will miss partnering with you."

"To our students, thank you for all that you do and will do to make Skidmore and the world a better place. I have learned the most from you and will be forever touched by the many lessons and the love you have shown. You are my sunshine. Keep making wise decisions. Keep taking care of yourselves and each other. Go to class! What you do matters. Remember, too, that relationships transcend institutions."

Cerri’s service and leadership during this very challenging year of COVID-19 have been particularly important. I am especially grateful for all her support and assistance throughout the presidential transition. Cerri’s commitment has always been to our students and their welfare, and she has helped the College continue to move forward and seek new paths to provide our students with the best possible experience. The impact of her leadership will be felt at Skidmore for years to come. 

A national search to fill this position will begin immediately, following the formation of a representative committee of students, staff and faculty, with the hope of appointing a new vice president for student affairs by the summer. We will have time and occasion to celebrate Cerri for her many contributions to Skidmore in the months to come.   

Please join me in thanking Cerri for her work on behalf of our students and our community.  

Sincerely,
Marc C. Conner
President