(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY, January 3, 2022) — Brian V. Carolan, Ph.D. has joined SUNY Empire State College as dean of the School for Graduate Studies. He will take on a wide range of responsibilities including planning, academic development, program delivery, academic quality, enrollment management, and increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion across the school.

Dr. Carolan comes to the college from Sacred Heart University where he served as dean of graduate studies. He was associate dean and then acting dean of the graduate school at Montclair State University, where he also served as associate and then professor of quantitative research methods in the College of Education and Human Services, Department of Educational Foundations. Prior to joining Montclair, he was assistant and then associate professor of educational foundations at the City University of New York, College of Staten Island in the Department of Education. He has research interests in social effects on educational achievement and outcomes.

Dr. Carolan earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Rutgers University, a Master of Philosophy in sociology from Columbia University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in sociology and education from Teachers College at Columbia University. He holds an advanced certificate in educational administration and supervision from Hunter College, The City University of New York.

Of his new position, Dr. Carolan said, “I am honored to serve as the dean of the School for Graduate Studies at SUNY Empire State College, which has a proud history of providing affordable, flexible and quality post-baccalaureate degree and certificate options. The college’s programs are at the forefront of several trends in graduate education, and I am excited to be a part of an institution that has been leading the way for 50 years. Together with the faculty and staff, I look forward continuing this important work and serving the needs of adult learners throughout New York State and beyond.”

Dr. Carolan will be based in the college’s Saratoga Springs and Hartsdale, New York locations.

SUNY Empire State College Officer in Charge Nathan Gonyea said, “Dr. Carolan brings a unique set of skills and interests to our School for Graduate Studies that add breadth and depth to our delivery of data-driven, student-centered graduate degree programs. We are thrilled to welcome him to our college community.”

SUNY Empire State College Acting Provost Tai Arnold said, “The college is fortunate to have an experienced, and accomplished leader to serve as dean of the School for Graduate Studies. With Dr. Carolan’s entrepreneurial approach, I look forward to continued growth and development of new opportunities for the school and the college.”