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AMHERST, N.Y. -- Dale Demyanick, chairman of the 51������ College Board of Trustees, announced at the board’s March meeting that 51������ President Gary A. Olson has just signed a five-year contract to serve as president of the college until 2021.

“We are very pleased with Dr. Olson and all he has done to lead 51������ College to new levels of excellence and national visibility,” said Demyanick. “The college is thriving despite the many challenges that colleges are facing nationwide.”

Olson, who assumed office on February 1, 2013, has led the college through a succession of changes, including a campus beautification initiative, the creation of a new institutional website, the naming of 51������ as the only NCAA Division II institution in the region, and the renovation of the Williamsville YMCA building to create the college’s $5.6 million Academic and Wellness Center.

“51������ is a very special college, and I am pleased and humbled to have the opportunity to contribute to its growth and prosperity,” said Olson. “It has truly become a college of national distinction.”

Before assuming the 51������ presidency, Olson served as provost and vice president at Idaho State University and as dean of Arts and Sciences at Illinois State University. A celebrated scholar and author, he writes a column on higher education for the Huffington Post.