Dobbs Ferry College President Promotes Hard Work, Passion

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. - Kimberly Cline learned at an early age that maintaining straight A’s and a strong work ethic would guide her towards any future she could imagine for herself.  

At Mercy College, where she has been president for the past 3 years, students are able to do the same and explore all types of career opportunities. There are over 90 programs available on the Dobbs Ferry campus which lies on the Hudson River shoreline.

“It’s really important to me that we have such a selection of options here,” she says.

Cline says her goal on campus is to provide the best education possible for her students. She makes that happen by hiring the right professionals to prepare young adults for the job market.

Cline is no stranger to working in higher education—before she arrived at Mercy College, she served as vice chancellor for the 64 campuses of the State University of New York. She also helped oversee a $10 billion budget as the chief financial officer.

Given her wealth of experience in the field, it may come as a surprise that Cline did not always envision herself in a top post at a college. In fact, she began her college studies with aspirations to be a pediatrician before an interest in math led her to study accounting. Nowadays, she teaches students to hone their academic attention towards areas they enjoy.

“You have to focus on what you’re good at. If you can find a passion, that’s where you can focus on a career," she adds.

Cline’s other piece of advice is to always strive for greatness by never settling for mediocrity. As part of her position as President of Mercy College, she regularly analyzes program quality to keep it top-notch.

“I say, ‘this is a good program, but how can we take it to the next level for our students?’ You must always challenge yourself—it’s a part of learning,” she says.

Cline will stand as a role model for professional women everywhere this Wednesday, Oct. 5, when Girls Inc. hosts its event, Power of the Purse at Ardsley’s LIFE: The Place to Be.

The organization will continue to follow its mission, which is “inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold.”

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