Michael Oriolo
Provost and Chief Academic Officer
Hired in 1981
Education
B.S., Manhattan College;
M.S., SUC at Cortland
Bio
Michael Oriolo has been a dedicated member of the Herkimer County Community College community since joining the faculty as a mathematics instructor in 1981. Over the course of his career, he has advanced through numerous academic and administrative leadership roles, including professor, division chair, division dean, and dean of academic affairs, before being appointed Provost.
As provost and chief academic officer, Mr. Oriolo oversees the development and management of more than 40 associate degree, certificate, and micro-credential programs. His leadership extends across key areas such as the library, academic support, advisement, career services, community education, workforce development, and the Internet Academy. He also supports and advances major academic initiatives including the College-in-Prison program, international programming, academic partnerships, and the College Now concurrent enrollment program.
Mr. Oriolo possesses a deep knowledge of higher education policy and practice, particularly within SUNY and Herkimer College. Above all, he approaches every decision with a student-centered mindset, consistently asking what will best support student success.
He holds a B.S. from Manhattan College and an M.S. from SUNY Cortland. His commitment to educational excellence was recognized in 1992 with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. In 2024, Mr. Oriolo was recognized by The Genesis Group with induction into the Education Hall of Distinction.
Honors & Awards
SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Professional Service-1992