Buffalo State

Dr. Muriel A. Howard

Dr. Muriel A. Howard served as the president of Buffalo State College from 1996 to 2009.

She was the seventh president of Buffalo State and the college's first female president.

Prior to coming to Buffalo State, Dr. Howard was the vice president for public service and urban affairs at the University at Buffalo, where she served in various leadership capacities over a 23-year period.

College Expansion 
Under Dr. Howard's leadership, the college greatly increased and enhanced its academic programs and services, expanded its reputation for teacher preparation, and become known for its leadership in the arts and culture.

Dr. Howard also oversaw the expansion of the college's facilities and buildings: 

1998
The Frank C. Moore Student Apartment Complex opens in a renovated former dormitory.

2003
Previously known as Upton Hall Auditorium, Warren Enters Theatre is fully refurbished and dedicated to Professor Emeritus Warren Enters, the Tony Award–winning director who taught at Buffalo State from 1968 to 1992. Warren Enters Theatre now houses performances from the college's theater and dance programs.

2007-2008
The $30 million Burchfield Penney Art Center at Buffalo State College is inaugurated in November 2008.

2008-2009
Dr. Howard oversees the implementation of $350 million in new capital construction projects, including the construction of a new science and math complex, a new 503-bed apartment-style residence hall will be under construction, and renovation of the main academic quad.

During her tenure as president of Buffalo State College, Dr. Howard was widely recognized for her contributions to public higher education, service to the community, and her commitment to diversity.

Read Howard's New York Times article on "Higher Education and the Public Good."

In 2009, Dr. Howard accepted the position of president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AASCU is the leadership association of 430 public colleges and universities advocating for public higher education, including federal policies and regulations to ensure access, affordability, and opportunity for students.

Read the 1300 Elmwood cover story on Dr. Howard's legacy.

State of the College Addresses

In the annual State of the College address, the president outlines the successes and challenges of the previous academic year. President Howard's addresses were highly anticipated annual events.

2009 State of the College Address
February 19, 2009
Video
Podcast

2008 State of the College
February 21, 2008
Podcast

2007 State of the College
February 2007
Podcast (MP3, 13.99 MB)

2006 State of the College
February 23, 2006
Podcast (MP3, 20.44 MB)