SUMMARY

Issue for Decision

Erin Meehan-Fairben, Superintendent of the New York State School for the Blind (NYSSB), will resign from her position on July 28, 2010.  Should the Regents approve the appointment of Deborah Cromwell-Stamp as Acting Superintendent at the School?

Reason for Consideration

The plans for a Superintendent search are well underway.  However, even with an aggressive search timetable, strong interim leadership is essential to ensure that the operation of the School is not compromised in any way. Deborah Cromwell-Stamp has extensive knowledge of the policies and procedures of the NYSSB. Ms. Cromwell-Stamp has been employed with the NYSSB for the past twenty-eight years. For twenty-three years, she worked in the capacity of Instructor until transitioning into a leadership role as the Department Head for Residential Services. She held this position for two years prior to moving into the Department Head for Education position which she has held for the past three years. Appointing Ms. Cromwell-Stamp as Acting Superintendent at the School would create a smooth transition for the new Superintendent as Ms. Cromwell-Stamp is familiar with the families, students, and staff and would be able to oversee the essential tasks of running a school in the interim. She will not be a candidate for the permanent position but is willing to step into the position until a search is completed.  Her resume is attached.

Proposed Handling

The Regents will review Ms. Cromwell-Stamp’s credentials and experience in Executive Session on July 19, 2010.

Procedural History

Deborah Cromwell-Stamp has been recommended for this position by the current Superintendent, Erin Meehan-Fairben, and this recommendation has been endorsed by Jackie Bumbalo, VESID’s Senior Manager, who oversees the State Schools. 

Recommendation

That the Regents approve the appointment of Deborah Cromwell-Stamp to serve as the Acting Superintendent of the New York State School for the Blind, beginning on July 29, 2010, until a permanent appointment has been made and the incumbent is in place.