Genesee Community College has appointed its next dean of Student Services, a familiar face with years of experience working with students, faculty and staff, and service to the College. Patricia “Patty” Chaya emerged as the top choice from a lengthy search of many qualified candidates. Her previous role was associate dean of the GCC Warsaw and Lima Campus Centers.
Chaya joined the College in 2002 as associate dean of the Warsaw campus, and inherited the same role with the Lima campus in 2012. Handling multiple duties, she was charged with leading, directing, team building and administrative oversight for all operations at both campus centers. In 2013, Chaya was awarded the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service, an award given to recognize consistent superior professional achievement.
“Her familiarity with the GCC community and experience working with our students will make her an invaluable asset to our team,” said Dr. Virginia “Ginny” Taylor, vice president for Student and Enrollment Services. “We are excited for the students, faculty and staff at the Batavia campus to begin working with Patty, whose passion for helping others has always been evident.”
Chaya holds a Bachelor’s in Sociology from SUNY Fredonia and a Master’s in Student Personnel Administration from the University at Buffalo. She was a resident assistant while attending SUNY Fredonia and became residence hall director after earning her bachelor’s degree.
“I am thrilled for the opportunity to take on a new professional challenge,” Chaya said. “There is great potential with the dean of student services position, and new initiatives are important for moving forward. Not only do I hope to cultivate new programs such as those relating to wellness, but I plan on expanding the delivery and availability of these programs using our current technology, making them more accessible for our students.”
As the dean of student services, she will work closely with college administration to enhance its current leadership program and expand innovative student development programs. She will also focus on student retention and degree completion, as well as handling student conduct and discipline. Chaya officially began her new role on January 3rd.
