Andrea Goldsmith, president of Stony Brook University, delivered her first State of the University Address on September 29 at the Staller Center Main Stage. She was introduced by Undergraduate Student Government President Sarah Elbaroudy to an audience that included students, faculty, staff, healthcare workers, elected officials, and local guests.
Goldsmith outlined her commitment to working with the university community to “accelerate Stony Brook’s excellence and impact across all dimensions of education, research, healthcare and service to our community, the great state of New York, the country and the world.”
She reflected on her professional journey as an academic and technology entrepreneur, emphasizing three guiding principles: believing in herself, forging new paths, and embracing high-reward risks. “In so many ways, I see Stony Brook has the same entrepreneurial spirit that I do — one that is ambitious, optimistic and bold,” she said.
Goldsmith joined Stony Brook in August. She described being drawn to the university during her interview process: “With every conversation I had and each story I read about Stony Brook’s drive to excel, to innovate, and to elevate every person associated with this university, these characteristics resonated deeply with me. It was clear this was the place I wanted to lead.”
She spoke about her own educational background in public schools from kindergarten through graduate school. “I am so grateful for the outstanding public education I have received at a price I could afford, which served as the bedrock for all my future successes,” Goldsmith said. She also mentioned previous roles in higher education and as a founder of two wireless communications startups. “Serving as your president is an opportunity for me to give back to public education.”
Goldsmith highlighted positive interactions with students at Stony Brook: “Not only are they highly aspirational and extremely talented, but they are also truly grateful to be here,” she said. Students told her they appreciate receiving an excellent and affordable education where they feel they belong.
She noted that over 40 percent of undergraduates come from economically disadvantaged families who receive federal Pell Grants. The university is one of only three Association of American Universities (AAU) institutions designated as an opportunity university under new Carnegie classifications.
Goldsmith reported a 21 percentage point increase in four-year graduation rates since 2014. This change resulted in 5,500 more students graduating within four years and generated an estimated $430 million economic benefit—$75 million saved on tuition and fees for a fifth year of college and $350 million gained in additional earnings.
“What these statistics reaffirm is what a powerful role Stony Brook has, in partnership with the State University of New York, in making excellent, affordable education accessible to students from every single background,” Goldsmith said.
The address included plans for expanding regional presence—from New York City’s Governors Island climate initiative to expanded programming at Southampton campus including plans for a new hospital. Goldsmith stated: “Just think what would be possible if we execute our strategic vision for Stony Brook from the heart of New York City…to the eastern tip of Long Island.” She added that expansion efforts aim to increase access and influence throughout Manhattan to Montauk.
Recent developments were highlighted such as Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement regarding a Quantum Research and Innovation Hub; recognition for Stony Brook Children’s Hospital as top pediatric hospital in New York State; and collaboration with Empire State Development and semiconductor company onsemi on a new research facility.
Goldsmith outlined key pillars—summarized as ABCs—for accelerating future success at Stony Brook. She emphasized strengthening ties between research activities and industry partners: “There’s so much opportunity for Stony Brook to bring big companies, startups and every in-between size of company to New York State…including those launched right here at Stony Brook…as a public good that fuels economic growth.”
Concluding her remarks alongside mascot Wolfie, Goldsmith called on attendees: “I want Stony Brook to signal excellence and impact across every discipline for everyone in the United States and around the world…But to achieve our bold vision requires all of you to be all in. And we’re going to start right now.” She encouraged participation: “Help shape it, help build it and help lead it…I look forward to working with all of you.”
A reception followed on Staller Plaza.
