Dr. Margaret ‘Maggie’ M. Kirwin: A talent in so many roles at Saint Rose

In more than 40 years at Saint Rose, Dr. Margaret “Maggie” Kirwin strengthened programs and built collaborations that helped bring education students to the front lines of teaching at all levels. Those who saw her at meetings and enjoyed impromptu conversations with Kirwin quickly observed her belief in the power of education to bring about social and economic change.

In 1995, she established a partnership with the Center for Integrated Teacher Education (CITE) that has enabled thousands of New York City-area teachers to earn certifications as school administrators. In 2007, she became dean of the Thelma P. Lally School of Education.

Kirwin introduced a multi-faceted partnership with the Pine Hills Elementary School, secured a federal grant to promote service learning, and introduced The College Experience, which provides those with intellectual challenges a chance to take part in college life. She also built a portfolio in the area of assessment and accreditation. But as needs arose, Kirwin also served in nearly every senior leadership post at Saint Rose. Her time as interim provost and then interim president (the first laywoman to hold the presidency), on top of her years in the education school, prompted her to reflect that she had not just held many jobs at Saint Rose but enjoyed several careers.

In 2014, the College’s recognized her work and service to others by awarding her the Carondelet Medal, the College’s highest honor.

Now retired, she is remembered for fully embracing whatever job she performed, from helping a student to guiding the institution.