Albany, N.Y. - Alan Goldberg, president and chief executive officer of First Albany Corporation, received the first Education Vision and Innovation Award from the Hudson Mohawk Association of Colleges and Universities (HMACU).

Goldberg was presented the award at HMACU's 16th annual awards ceremony and dinner last night that was attended by presidents, supporters, and friends of the region's higher education institutions. Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson introduced the award, which was presented by Carlos Santiago, provost at the University at Albany.

The Education, Vision, and Innovation Award recognizes an individual, organization, or collaboration that has promoted inter-institutional educational, research, or related efforts. The award signifies cooperation, unity, and collaboration between and among HMACU members and institutions.

The award pays tribute to area philanthropist Morris "Marty" Silverman and the key role he has played in advancing education, science, and medicine in the Hudson Mohawk region.

"In creating this award, the members of the board of trustees took, as its inspiration, an individual who infuses vision into everything he does," said Jackson. "The trustees have created this award in Marty's image, and in Marty's honor. Marty has always been able to look beyond our individual colleges, and to see the power of collaborative action."

Two Men of Vision and Commitment
Alan Goldberg joined First Albany Corporation in 1980 and was named president in 1989. In keeping with his belief that business leaders are responsible for stimulating growth in the Capital Region, Goldberg has served as chairman of the board of both the Center for Economic Growth and the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce. Currently, Goldberg is a director of the University Heights Association and the Watervliet Arsenal Business and Technology Partnership. In addition to his contributions to area business, Goldberg invests his talents and resources in support of organizations that continue to revitalize the Capital Region. He has served as chairman of the board of trustees of the Albany Institute of History and Art, and is now chairman of the board of the Albany Symphony Orchestra, chair of the advisory council for the University at Albany's Center for Jewish Studies, and board member for the University at Albany Foundation.

Morris "Marty" Silverman has played a key role in advancing education, science, and medicine in the Hudson Mohawk region. As part of his vision, he has encouraged and supported a number of inter-institutional alliances and projects. Most recently, he has proposed an international school of nursing to be located in Albany's University Heights. Last year, Silverman established the "Noble Enterprise Constellation" at Rensselaer with a gift of $7 million, which will be matched by the university. This $14 million package will foster a "constellation" of internationally known faculty that will focus on innovative biotechnology research. The faculty members will hold academic appointments at Rensselaer and joint positions at the Wadsworth Center of the NYS Department of Health, promoting cooperation and creating a pool of shared scientific resources within the region. Silverman will be awarded an honorary degree at Rensselaer's 197th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 17.

About the Hudson Mohawk Association of Colleges and Universities
The HMACU is a consortium of 21 institutions of higher education in upstate New York and western Massachusetts, which aims to enhance member activities through collaboration. These efforts include professional development, resource sharing and diversity, and minority access. The HMACU acts as an organizational force to bring professionals on campus together with their colleagues at other institutions, and also sponsors community events such as the College Fair and Parent's Information Night. The HMACU's Education, Vision, and Innovation Award is part of a group of annual awards recognizing contributions to education in the Hudson Mohawk region.

Contact: Theresa Bourgeois
Phone: (518) 276-2840
E-mail: bourgt@rpi.edu