Troy, N.Y. — Philanthropist Morris “Marty” Silverman will be honored in a new award to be presented annually by the Hudson Mohawk Association of Colleges and Universities (HMACU).

The award will recognize an individual, organization, or collaboration that has promoted inter-institutional educational initiatives, research, or related efforts in advancing higher education in the Hudson-Mohawk region.

The award, approved April 9 by the HMACU Board and announced at the association’s annual dinner, will be presented for the first time in spring 2003, said HMACU executive director John Higgins.

The award, to be named later, will pay tribute to both the recipient and to Silverman, who has been a pioneer in advancing health, education, science, and medicine in the region and has created visionary inter-institutional alliances that involve HMACU members.

The award was proposed by Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute; Dr. James Barba, president of Albany Medical Center; Dr. Jeanne Neff, president of the Sage Colleges; and Dr. Karen Hitchcock, president of the University at Albany, in recognition of Silverman’s leadership in creating the Capital Region Biotechnology Research Consortium and University Heights Association, as well as supporting several members of the Hudson Mohawk Association.

“This award will pay tribute to one of the Capital Region’s greatest benefactors and will recognize the attributes and accomplishments of individuals and organizations that have moved forward to implement his vision for our region,” said Jackson, who will chair an association subcommittee that will develop nomination criteria.

The Hudson Mohawk Association of Colleges and Universities (HMACU) is a consortium of 20 institutions of higher education in Upstate New York and Western Massachusetts. The focus of the association is to enhance its member’s activities through collaboration. Specifically, at the direction of the HMACU Board of Trustees, these efforts apply to professional development, resource sharing, and diversity and access. The association acts as an organizational force to bring professionals on campus together with their colleagues at other institutions. In addition, the association sponsors community events such as the College Fair, Parent’s Information Night, The Caravan to local high schools, and a community connection with secondary education.

Contact: Bruce Adams
Phone: (518) 276-6531
E-mail: N/A