Dr. Maureen F. Finney, dean of the School of Health Professions at D'Youville College in Buffalo, has been made a member of the 2017-2018 Senior Leadership Academy, cosponsored by the Council of Independent Colleges and the American Academic Leadership Institute, both based in Washington D.C.

The yearlong academy is designed to enhance the skills of mid-level college and university administrators for future tasks as vice presidents and cabinet officers. The program consists of two seminars, led by current and former presidents and vice presidents; a professional experiential plan the participant develops to be carried out at home or elsewhere; mentorship by a nominator and the program director, and career coaching.

Approximately 30 participants from independent institutions were selected for the special program that will begin this summer, with the first seminar scheduled for November in San Antonio. Participants had to be nominated and meet other criteria. Then-acting president Dr. William Mariani nominated Finney, and Dr. Lorrie A. Clemo, D'Youville's new president, will mentor her through the program.

"I am deeply honored and thankful to have been nominated and chosen to participate in this prestigious academy," Finney said. "I am very enthused to engage in all of the opportunities that the academy has to offer and to network with my peers. I have every intention to use what I have learned to better the academic community and my leadership skills."

Finney was named dean in 2015 after serving as chair of the physician assistant department since 2001. A graduate of Niagara University, she earned a master's degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a physician assistant degree and Ph.D. in health policy from D'Youville.