Vice President for Strategic Relations & Communications
Lenore VanderZee
- Ph.D, Political Science and Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame
- J.D., LL.M., International Human Rights Law, Notre Dame Law School
- B.A., Calvin University
VanderZee joined SUNY Canton as an adjunct instructor teaching Contemporary Global Issues, American Government and Politics, and Middle East History and Politics. She was appointed chief of staff in 2013 and has since served as Executive Director of University Relations and, Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives and Legislative Affairs. She was appointed to Vice President for Strategic Relations and Communications in 2023.
VanderZee leads SUNY Canton's economic development, entrepreneurship, and government relations. She oversees the Center for Workforce, Community, and Industry Partnerships, Liberty Partnerships, the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, the Office of Public Relations, and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) operations in Canton and Plattsburgh. She also serves on seven local boards, including the Canton-Potsdam Hospital Board of Directors, the University Economic Development Association, and the St. Lawrence County and Canton Chambers of Commerce.
VanderZee was named an emerging leader in 2015 by Northern New York Business Magazine. She received the President's Meritorious Service Award in 2021 for her service and accomplishments during the COVID-19 pandemic, and also received the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce Day Award in 2022.