Mary Papazian

Mary Papazian began their work experience in 1988 at Oakland University, where they held various positions including Assistant, Associate, and Professor of English, as well as Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Mary then moved on to Montclair State University in 2004, serving as the Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. In 2007, they joined Lehman College as the Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. Following this, they became the President of Southern Connecticut State University in 2012. In 2016, they took on the role of President at San Jose State University, where they also served as the Executive In Residence. In 2023, Mary worked as the Interim CEO at the Business-Higher Education Forum before transitioning to Arshag Consulting as a Principal Consultant. Currently, they hold the position of Executive Vice President at AGB (Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges).

Mary Papazian received their Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English Literature (British and Commonwealth) from UCLA in 1981. Mary then went on to earn their Master of Arts (MA) in English Literature (British and Commonwealth) from UCLA in 1983. In 1988, they completed their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in English Literature (British and Commonwealth) from UCLA. In addition to their degrees, Mary Papazian has obtained various certifications, including attending the ASU+GSV Summit in 2023, obtaining an ESG Certificate from Competent Boards in 2023, becoming a Certified Board Candidate (CDI.D) from Corporate Directors International in 2022, attending the Institute for Management and Leadership in Education at Harvard University in 2005, and participating in the Higher Education Leadership Institute at HERS in 2004.