Contact: Sunny Mindel/Samantha I. Lugo (212) 788-2958
"I applaud Governor George Pataki's appointment of Benno C. Schmidt, Jr. as Vice-Chairman of the CUNY Board of Trustees. As Chairman of the Mayor's Task Force on CUNY, Mr. Schmidt exhibited a deep philosophical commitment to raising educational standards at CUNY, as well as a practical grasp of how to get the job done. The Task Force's report is an excellent roadmap for improving CUNY and Mr. Schmidt's appointment creates a unique opportunity to implement its recommendations.
I am also pleased to announce that I am appointing Randy Mastro to the CUNY Board. Mr. Mastro will replace Richard Stone, who is stepping down on the expiration of his term on June 30, 1999. When he served my Administration as Deputy Mayor, Mr. Mastro demonstrated a unique ability to bring about change at large institutions, as well as a sensitive and insightful understanding of the importance of raising standards of education at all levels.
I would also like to thank Richard Stone for his service on the Board. Mr. Stone has been a vigorous advocate for reform at CUNY. His understanding of excellence in higher education helped move forward the ongoing process of improving the quality of education at CUNY.
I also congratulate the Governor on his appointment of Jeffrey Weisenfeld to the CUNY Board of Trustees.
Appointments to the CUNY Board are made subject to the advice and consent of the State Senate."