Suffolk County Community College has announced that Neftali Collazo, College Associate Dean of Athletics and Special Events, has been selected as a fellow for the prestigious SUNY Hispanic Leadership Institute (HLI) for the 2025 cohort.
The HLI is a nine-month, rigorous leadership development program designed to support and empower emerging Hispanic and Latinx leaders in higher education. This competitive fellowship will provide Neftali with invaluable training, mentorship, and networking opportunities designed to further strengthen his leadership skills and expand his influence within the SUNY system and beyond.
Neftali Collazo, who has been with Suffolk County Community College for over 15 years, has played a key role in shaping the college’s athletics and special events programming. As College Associate Dean, he manages a wide range of responsibilities, including leading the college’s intercollegiate athletic programs and community outreach initiatives, and overseeing the college’s athletic fields, facilities, and event management systems.
Chancellor John B. King Jr. of the State University of New York (SUNY) announced the selection of Neftali and nine other emerging Hispanic leaders and allies for the 2025 HLI cohort, a group known for their commitment to inclusivity, leadership, and service in higher education.
Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College commented, “Neftali’s selection as a fellow for the Hispanic Leadership Institute is a testament to his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to our college. His involvement in the program will not only enhance his own growth as a leader, but will also bring back valuable knowledge and perspectives that will benefit our students, faculty, and staff.”
“I am honored to be selected for the 2025 Hispanic Leadership Institute,” said Collazo. “This program will provide me with the opportunity to advance as a leader, while also representing the importance of diverse voices in higher education. I look forward to connecting with other leaders across the SUNY system and continuing to enhance the student experience here at Suffolk.”
The SUNY Hispanic Leadership Institute has been a key initiative in supporting Hispanic and Latinx leaders in higher education since its launch in 2017.
