The Daily Bulletin Archive

As many of you know, we are currently facing a structural deficit, and our commitment is to address this situation decisively and thoughtfully, with an eye toward meeting the requirements set by SUNY for the 2027–2028 academic year. In light of this, I have made the strategic decision to transfer the Institutional Research Office from Institutional Effectiveness and Planning, in the Division of Academic Affairs, to the Division of Finance. This decision is not taken lightly, but with a deep understanding of the synergies that such alignment can foster.

Best practices in higher education literature highlight the critical role of institutional research in driving academic excellence. With its ability to generate valuable insights into enrollment trends, student success metrics, and curriculum effectiveness, institutional research plays an indispensable role in guiding our academic enterprise. By aligning this office with the Division of Finance, we aim to integrate these insights directly into our financial planning and resource allocation processes.

Data analytics, a methodology of analyzing raw data to make conclusions and guide strategic decision-making, will also play a crucial role in this synergy. With its ability to provide a comprehensive view of the institution’s operations and performance, it will enhance our efforts to identify patterns and trends in student enrollment and performance, which can inform strategies to improve student retention and success. It will also support financial decision-making by analyzing data on the institution’s revenues, expenditures, and financial trends, helping to identify opportunities for cost savings, revenue generation, and financial sustainability.

We are pleased to announce that Yves Gachette will continue to lead this office as the director, reporting directly to James Thor, comptroller and interim vice president. Mr. Gachette will work closely with Provost Mayrose and Interim VP Thor to develop a plan for a seamless transition of the office and its current functions. Together, they will also fortify the office for its evolving role, ensuring that it becomes a critical component of Buffalo State’s strategic academic, enrollment, and financial planning.

This strategic realignment is part of a broader effort to stage the operational plan based on the reframed strategic priorities announced at the Update to the State of the University address on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. Our goal is to harness the strengths of both the Institutional Research Office and the Division of Finance, creating a powerful synergy that will position our institution for both academic excellence and financial sustainability.

Consequently, the Institutional Research Office will henceforth be known as the Institutional Research and Data Analytics Office. This renaming reflects the evolving role of the office, incorporating “data analytics”—a concept that emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making in both academic and financial contexts.

New Vision Statement
“To be a transformative engine that integrates data-driven insights with financial strategies, fostering an environment of academic excellence and sustainable growth at Buffalo State University.”

New Mission Statement
“To leverage institutional research and data analytics in the creation and implementation of strategic plans, supporting Buffalo State University’s commitment to academic excellence, student success, and long-term financial sustainability.”

We are confident that this strategic realignment will not only help us address our immediate fiscal challenges but also position Buffalo State University to realize our shared vision as SUNY’s flagship comprehensive university. We appreciate your support and shared commitment to the bright future of Buffalo State University.