Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed Ernst Valery, a veteran real estate development executive, investor, and educator, to the Rockland Community College Board of Trustees.
Valery was appointed pursuant to New York State Education Law Section 6306 and will serve a term through June 30, 2029. He succeeds Susan Oelkers-Ramos, who recently resigned from the Board.
Rockland Community College President Dr. William P. Mullaney welcomed the appointment, saying Valery’s extensive background in leadership, education, real estate development, and community-focused investment aligns closely with the college’s mission of expanding opportunity and fostering economic mobility throughout Rockland County.
Board Chair L’Tanya M. Watkins, Esq., said Valery’s expertise in strategic development, urban planning, and creating opportunities for underserved communities will bring valuable insight to the Board as RCC continues to expand access to education, support student achievement, and meet the evolving needs of the county’s diverse population.
Valery currently serves as President of EVI, where he oversees daily operations, project execution, and strategic partnerships. During his more than 25-year career, he has led the development and investment of a wide range of real estate projects across eight states and Washington, D.C., including affordable housing developments, large-scale rehabilitation projects, mixed-use properties, and condominium conversions.
In addition to his work in real estate, Valery has held teaching positions in higher education. He serves as an adjunct professor of strategic management at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and teaches equitable real estate development and anti-displacement strategies at Cornell University.
“Rockland Community College is foundational to the continued success of the dynamic and diverse people in our County,” Valery said. “I am excited to join my fellow Trustees and College leadership and contribute my passion for expanding educational opportunities and access to upward mobility for all of our residents, especially the most vulnerable.”
Valery earned a Master of Science in Real Estate Development from Columbia University, a Master of Public Administration and International Affairs, and a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Studies from Cornell University. He is also a Mel King Community Fellow with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Community Innovators Lab.
