Bidding farewell to a Skidmore colleague
Dear Skidmore Community,
I write in great sorrow with the sad news that Skidmore’s former Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs Cerri Banks recently passed away.
Dr. Cerri A. Banks was a beloved member of the Skidmore College community, where she served as dean of students and vice president for student affairs from 2016 to 2021. In addition to overseeing the Division of Student Affairs, Cerri provided critical leadership on an array of issues and initiatives including, but not limited to, the move to a smoke-free campus, Skidmore Speaks, the development of Wyckoff Center, and the College’s response to the COVID-19 crisis.
In addition to her leadership on campus, Cerri’s avid participation in national conversations about free speech and expression, student activism, and student development provided Skidmore a voice in those important discussions. She also was an advocate for ending domestic and sexual abuse and violence in our local community.
Cerri stepped down from her position at Skidmore at the end of May 2021 to join Syracuse University, her alma mater, as Vice President for the Student Success Experience and Deputy to the Senior Vice President. Prior to joining Skidmore, Cerri served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of the College at Mount Holyoke College and as Dean of William Smith College at Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Cerri always put the good of our students first. Her commitments to Skidmore’s principles and community were always paramount. She was a great friend and colleague to many on campus, and I know this news is difficult to comprehend. If students are in need of support, please call our Counseling Center at 518-580-5555 or the Dean of Students/VPSA Office at 518-580-5760. Staff and faculty in need of support should reach out to the College’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at 518-793-9768.
We will share any additional information as it becomes available.
I ask that you please join me in keeping Cerri, her family, and all who loved her in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Marc C. Conner
President