Siena College Moves Closer to University Status
Siena College, a well-regarded private Franciscan institution in Loudonville, New York, is on the cusp of a major transformation. The school is preparing to rebrand itself as Siena University, following a significant vote by the Board of Trustees. This decision, announced by President Chuck Seifert, marks a pivotal step in the college’s ongoing growth and modernization.
Board of Trustees Approves University Transition
On Friday morning, Siena College’s Board of Trustees officially voted in favor of the name change, signaling their strong support for the transition to university status. President Seifert shared the update in a video message sent to faculty and staff, confirming the college is actively pursuing formal approval to become Siena University.
The final approval for the name change is now in the hands of the New York State Board of Regents, which could grant it later this year.
Why the Change?
According to President Seifert, the decision is not just about a new name—it’s about aligning the college’s title with the work it already does. Over the past few years, Siena has expanded far beyond its undergraduate roots. It now offers graduate and professional programs, conducts advanced research, builds partnerships with local and national organizations, and continues to invest in cutting-edge facilities.
“We are already doing the work of a university. It’s time we own it,” said Seifert.
He emphasized that this move would strengthen Siena’s reputation and open new opportunities for students and faculty alike. More importantly, it would allow Siena to better compete with peer institutions, both in New York and across the country.
Community Feedback and Concerns
While many are excited by the news, the administration did not make the decision lightly. President Seifert noted that the college actively sought input from its community, including faculty, students, alumni, and staff. During the months-long process, many voiced enthusiasm, but others raised concerns about the potential shift in identity.
Some feared that changing the name might signal a departure from Siena’s traditional values—particularly its Franciscan, mission-driven foundation. Seifert directly addressed these concerns in his video statement:
“Now, to be fair, some of you expressed reservations about a name change. We took your feedback to heart. You underscored that becoming a university cannot turn Siena into something we’re not. I completely agree.”
He reassured stakeholders that the college’s values and commitment to a student-centered education would remain intact.
A Mission-Driven Evolution
The potential transition from college to university is not an abandonment of Siena’s roots—it’s a natural evolution of its mission. According to Seifert, the change reflects the growth, ambition, and academic rigor that Siena has cultivated in recent years.
“This is about standing taller in what we are: mission-driven, value-centered, future-focused,” he said. “That will never change.”
The president described the transition as a “proud step forward” that would better position Siena to thrive in the years to come. He believes that the new title will help attract more students, faculty, and partnerships while enhancing Siena’s visibility and prestige.
Strategic Investments Fuel the Transition
Siena’s move toward university status is also backed by substantial investments in its academic and physical infrastructure. In recent years, the college has:
- Launched graduate and professional degree programs
- Strengthened research and academic partnerships
- Modernized its campus with state-of-the-art facilities
- Enhanced student experiences both inside and outside the classroom
These efforts are part of a strategic vision to transform Siena into a more dynamic and competitive institution.
What Comes Next?
With the Board of Trustees’ endorsement secured, the next milestone will be the formal approval from the New York State Board of Regents. If approved, Siena could officially become Siena University later in 2025.
In the meantime, the administration will continue working with faculty, students, and alumni to ensure that the transition is smooth and transparent. Communication will remain a top priority, with updates expected as the process unfolds.
Reactions from the Siena Community
Early responses from the Siena community have been mixed but largely hopeful. Many students and alumni view the university designation as a badge of honor that acknowledges the college’s evolution and future potential.
Faculty members have expressed optimism that the new name will help attract top-tier faculty and research funding, further boosting Siena’s academic profile.
Still, some alumni remain nostalgic about the college identity and have voiced a desire to maintain the spirit and community that defined their experiences at Siena.
Final Thoughts: A Milestone in Siena’s Journey
Becoming a university is more than a rebrand—it’s a reflection of the progress Siena College has made over decades of educational service. From its humble roots to its current place as a respected institution, Siena has consistently delivered a value-centered, student-first education.
The transition to Siena University is designed to build on that legacy, not replace it.
As President Seifert put it:
“This proud step forward will open new doors for our students, strengthen our reputation, and put us in a stronger position to compete, lead, and thrive.”
With a strong foundation and a clear mission, Siena stands ready for the next chapter of its journey.