On Sept. 24, 2025, the New York Community College Trustees (NYCCT) held its 71st Annual Conference in Saratoga Springs, where Mohawk Valley Community College Trustee David Mathis received a leadership award and the College’s C3 program received an innovation award.
Mathis received the prestigious Donald M. Mawhinney, Jr., Trustee Leadership Award, which recognizes exemplary leadership and service among community college trustees across New York State. Established in honor of Donald M. Mawhinney, Jr., a dedicated trustee with over 50 years of service at Onondaga Community College, the award celebrates those who demonstrate exceptional leadership, vision, and commitment to the community college mission.
Mathis has served MVCC with nearly five decades of transformative leadership, holding almost every leadership role within the Board, including three terms as Board Chair. He has guided MVCC through significant growth and change and has been the President of the MVCC Alumni Association since 1996, strengthening alumni and community engagement. His equity-focused leadership has driven sustainable fiscal policies, expanded mental health supports, and enhanced inclusive governance. In addition to his local contributions, Mathis is a respected leader statewide and nationally, having served as Chair of the Association of Community College Trustees Board and remaining actively engaged with NYCCT.
MVCC’s College-Community-Connection (C3) program received the Community College Innovation Award, which recognizes outstanding programs across New York State community colleges that creatively address critical challenges and improve student success.
The C3 program functions as a centralized network providing students with access to essential non-academic resources and support services. Since August 2023, the C3 food pantry has distributed over 100,000 pounds of food and served 2,183 students with food, school supplies, and hygiene products for both students and their families. The program also offers technology assistance and, through community partnerships, connects students to vital services such as tax preparation, child and elder care, legal aid, housing assistance, HEAP/utilities resources, and health insurance guidance.
“This recognition underscores MVCC’s commitment to supporting students both inside and outside the classroom,” said MVCC President Dr. Randall J. VanWagoner. “Trustee Mathis’ leadership and the innovative work of the C3 program exemplify our dedication to fostering student success and well-being.”
New York Community College Trustees
The New York Community College Trustees (NYCCT) is an organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the success of community colleges throughout New York State. NYCCT serves trustees from both CUNY and SUNY community college systems, providing professional development, advocacy, and networking opportunities to strengthen community college governance and advance student success.