SUNY Potsdam Appoints John Wicke to Lead College's Start-Up NY Economic Development Efforts

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John M. Wicke has taken on the role of director of strategic alliances at SUNY Potsdam.

POTSDAM, NY (12/12/2013)(readMedia)-- SUNY Potsdam has appointed John M. Wicke as the College's director of strategic alliances. In his new role, Wicke will focus on SUNY Potsdam's economic development efforts, leading Start-Up NY coordination for the campus.

Wicke joined the College in 2011 as a development officer, a role he will continue to hold in addition to his new duties. He will work closely with community leaders, SUNY Potsdam alumni, business owners and entrepreneurs to further the College's mission, with a special focus on Start-Up NY and other economic development and community initiatives.

"I am very pleased to accept the new role at SUNY Potsdam and look forward to partnering with our community and business leaders to help the North Country's economy. Governor Cuomo's exciting new initiative Start-Up NY provides major tax incentives for businesses to locate in the North Country," Wicke said. "Given today's challenges, it is paramount to build upon the great legacy of SUNY Potsdam's exceptional education and combine it with regional economic development efforts. SUNY Potsdam is an integral part of the North Country's economy and I look forward to help lead the implementation of the Start-Up NY legislation at SUNY Potsdam to further the North Country's economy and quality of life."

Wicke has more than 20 years of experience in community organizations, small business services and economic development efforts. He attended Potsdam as a student prior to graduating from Clarkson University, and has been a recipient of numerous community citations. Before joining the SUNY Potsdam staff, Wicke was previously a member of the SUNY Potsdam College Council.

"SUNY Potsdam is pleased to have John expand his role, as we increase our efforts to help the North Country's economy. His commitment to the North Country and enthusiasm for our College mission, combined with his proven skills and extensive contacts, are a natural fit to help lead the College's Start-Up NY efforts," said Vice President for Advancement Vicki L. Templeton-Cornell.

SUNY Potsdam has designated three areas as possible future business sites through Start-Up NY, including Lehman Park and Natco Park, which are both on campus, as well as the Potsdam Commerce Park, which is located in the Village of Potsdam. To learn more about Start-Up NY, visit www.startup-ny.com.

To find out more about SUNY Potsdam's Start-Up NY efforts, contact John Wicke at wickejm@potsdam.edu or (315) 267-2106.

Founded in 1816, and located on the outskirts of the beautiful Adirondack Park, The State University of New York at Potsdam is one of America's first 50 colleges. SUNY Potsdam currently enrolls approximately 4,300 undergraduate and graduate students. Home to the world-renowned Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam is known for its handcrafted education, challenging liberal arts and sciences core, excellence in teacher training and leadership in the performing and visual arts. Empowered by a culture of creativity, the campus community recently launched Take the Lead: The Campaign for Potsdam, which aims to raise $27 million by the College's bicentennial in 2016.

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