Elmira College Welcomes New Chief Operating Officer

Elmira, NY (09/20/2021) — Elmira College is excited to bring onboard Kathleen McDermott to oversee the College's financial and support operations including the Information Technology (IT), Human Resources (HR) and Facilities teams. Her efforts will help ensure the institution can continue to grow its innovative programs that combine experiential learning, on- and off-campus leadership opportunities, and community engagement.

Prior to joining EC, McDermott worked in finance for academic and non-profit companies including University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, New York University, Center for Urban Community Centers, Saint Vincents Hospital and Medical Center, The New York Public Library and New York City Office of Management and Budget.

"I am excited to join the Elmira team and rejoin my roots in this region, which is where I grew up," said McDermott. "My vision is to oversee and foster excellence within the operational disciplines, which I feel are equally important to creating a vibrant institution as having a strong and professional faculty. We all contribute to the College's success."

McDermott earned her bachelor's from Vassar College and her master of business administration (MBA) from Columbia University in the City of New York.

About Elmira College

Founded in 1855, Elmira College is a private, residential, liberal arts college offering 25-plus majors, an honors program, 17 academic societies, and 18 Division III varsity teams. Located in the Southern Finger Lakes Region of New York, Elmira's undergraduate and graduate student population hails from more than 20 states and nine countries. Elmira is a Phi Beta Kappa College and has been ranked a top college, nationally, for student internships. The College is also home to the Center for Mark Twain Studies, one of four historically significant Twain heritage sites in the U.S., which attracts Twain scholars and educators from around the world for research on the famous literary icon. Proud of its history and tradition, the College is committed to the ideals of community service, and intellectual and individual growth.

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Kathleen McDermott, chief operating officer, will oversee the College’s financial and support operations including the Information Technology (IT), Human Resources (HR) and Facilities teams.