SUNY ESF Appoints Rebecca Hoda-Kearse as Executive People Officer

03/21/2022

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), the most distinguished institution in the nation that focuses on the study of the environment, is pleased to announce Rebecca Hoda-Kearse has been named the College's Executive People Officer (EPO).

"Rebecca is a talented leader who has already done great work at ESF. In her new role, Rebecca's ability to cultivate teams and streamline processes will help bring ESF's community-centric values to the forefront," said ESF President Joanie Mahoney.

A new role at ESF, the Executive People Officer is charged with creating the strategy and vision to build and retain talent. Hoda-Kearse will serve as a culture advocate and brand builder to help attract the best and brightest faculty and staff to ESF. Among her responsibilities include streamlining people-centered activities such as hiring, orientation, training, professional development, conflict resolution, and performance management to ensure they support ESF's growth and success. She will also continue to serve as Title IX Coordinator, and ensure the College is meeting regulatory compliance and conducting assessment of institutional risk.

"ESF is a warm community with extraordinary talent and I'm excited about this new role," said Hoda-Kearse. "People are at the heart of the ESF and helping staff and faculty succeed in their professional pursuits will enhance the experience of our students. "

Hoda-Kearse joined ESF in 2020 as Title IX Coordinator and Affirmative Action Officer and in 2021 was promoted to Interim Director of Human Resources. Prior to ESF, she served as Associate Vice President of Student Engagement and Learning Support at Onondaga Community College and held various positions at City University of New York. She holds a Master of Science in Education from Hunter College and did her undergraduate work at Houghton College.

Kerrie Findlay is serving as the Interim Affirmative Action Officer alongside their International Education role.