Griffiss Institute Appoints Tim Thomas as Chief Academic Officer

Rome, NY – July 5, 2024 – Griffiss Institute proudly announces the appointment of Tim Thomas as its Chief Academic Officer, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing expansion of the VICEROY Scholars program. 

Tim brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at Mohawk Valley Community College, where he excelled in multiple leadership roles, including Chief Strategy Officer, Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Associate Dean of Physical Sciences, Engineering & Applied Technologies. His leadership included overseeing comprehensive academic portfolios, guiding strategic programmatic expansions, securing and managing significant grants, and fostering vital community partnerships. 

Heather Hage, President and CEO of Griffiss Institute, remarked, “Tim’s extensive experience and leadership of academic programs designed for the next generation of technical talent to strengthen national security and the American economy make him the ideal candidate to lead the Griffiss Institute’s academic initiatives and drive the impact of the VICEROY Scholars program.” 

In his most recent role as Chief Strategy Officer, Tim provided strategic oversight to a diverse array of academic programs and spearheaded the development of new initiatives, including STEM and semiconductor training programs, in collaboration with corporate leaders and government officials. His proactive engagement with stakeholders enriched regional educational offerings and economic impact.  

Tim led a comprehensive academic portfolio at Mohawk Valley Community College, which included Schools of Public & Human Services, STEM, and Health Sciences, along with Academic Intervention Services, Community & Corporate Education, Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and Early College High School Programming. Under his guidance, five deans, five directors, and 110 full-time faculty and staff served over 6,000 credit students and thousands more non-credit students annually. 

Tim’s efforts in programmatic development were significant in enhancing the region’s semiconductor training portfolio. By collaborating with corporate leaders, economic development partners, and government officials, Tim secured essential resources and ensured that programs met community needs and industry standards. 

Tim also spearheaded strategic business development initiatives, proactively engaging with stakeholders to identify growth opportunities. He successfully cultivated partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and academic departments, thereby bolstering revenue streams and enriching educational offerings. 

In the realm of grant procurement and management, Tim secured and managed grants from prestigious institutions such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), the US Department of Labor, Empire State Development, the New York State Office of People with Developmental Disabilities, and the State University of New York (SUNY). He meticulously oversaw the entire grant management process, from proposal development to reporting, ensuring all projects aligned with funding priorities and regulatory requirements. 

Tim was also a strong advocate and representative of the institution, effectively communicating academic initiatives and achievements to the public, media, and stakeholders. He delivered presentations at federal, state, and local government-sponsored events, participated in economic development recruitment activities, and engaged in K-12 outreach to foster community engagement. 

Tim’s extensive background in academic leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement positions him perfectly to lead and further the growth of the VICEROY Scholars program. His expertise will be invaluable in driving the program’s success and expanding its reach. 

Tim has expressed his enthusiasm, stating “I am deeply honored to join the Griffiss Institute and am eager to contribute to the growth of the VICEROY Scholars program, while simultaneously supporting the Institute’s broader mission. This opportunity is truly exciting as it allows me to collaborate with a remarkably talented team, leveraging the advancement of STEM education to secure our nation’s strength and effect positive change within our community.” 

“I’m proud of the work that Tim has done in the various roles he’s held at MVCC over the past 12 years here.  His growth mindset and collaborative spirit have greatly accelerated innovative programs with numerous partners,” stated Dr. Randall VanWagoner, President at Mohawk Valley Community College. “Griffiss Institute is fortunate to have him, and I look forward to seeing him continue to drive positive change here in the Mohawk Valley region.”