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SUNY ESF Appoints Seth Thompson as Chief Diversity Officer
Syracuse, N.Y. — Aug. 27, 2025 —The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) appointed Seth A. Thompson as its new Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) effective Aug. 19. Thompson brings over two decades of experience in higher education leadership, diversity programming, and student support services, with a proven track record of fostering inclusive campus environments.
“The role of CDO is vital to our mission at ESF. Seth brings a wealth of experience, vision, and dedication to equity and inclusion,” said ESF President Joanie Mahoney. “His leadership will lead a campus culture where every member of our community feels valued, heard, and empowered.”
Thompson most recently served as VP of Student Affairs and Senior Diversity Officer at Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) in Dryden, N.Y., where he was a member of the President’s Cabinet and Executive Council. During his tenure, he led the development and implementation of strategic diversity and inclusion plans aligned with SUNY system goals, created equity-focused recruitment strategies, and coordinated Title VI, VII, and IX investigations.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to work with ESF and use my skills to advance education in my hometown of Syracuse. My sincere appreciation goes out to the recruitment committee and campus community for believing in my skills and experiences. I am excited to collaborate with stakeholders to maximize ESF's existing efforts to support a thriving and interconnected environment.,” said Thompson.
Prior to his role as CDO, Thompson held several key positions at TC3, including Director of Diversity Education & Support Services and Director of Multicultural Services. He also served as Director of Diversity Affairs & New Student Programs and Acting Director of Residence Life at SUNY Canton, where he launched initiatives like the North Star Adirondack Adventure Program and oversaw international student advisement.
Thompson has taught courses such as Race and Ethnicity in the United States and African American History as an adjunct instructor. He is a SUNY Chancellor Award recipient for Professional Service and a Leadership Development Institute Scholar with the National Council on Black American Affairs.
Outside of his professional life, he served as the fifth ward alderman for the City of Cortland, a member of the Cortland Chamber of Commerce DEI Committee, and a coach and trustee for the Crown City Little League in Cortland.
He is a candidate in Capella University's Doctor of Education program. Thompson holds a Master of Science in Education and a Bachelor of Science in history from SUNY Potsdam, and an Associate of Science from SUNY Canton.
About SUNY ESF
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.