Longtime Rochester news anchor Norma Holland has been appointed to SUNY Geneseo’s College Council for a six-year term by Gov. Kathy Hochul.
Holland, a 1997 Geneseo graduate who spent 23 years at 13WHAM News, joins an advisory and oversight body that reviews major college plans and policies, according to a news release.
The council’s responsibilities also include recommending candidates for college president and strengthening connections between Geneseo and the community.
“Geneseo is an important part of my story, and it means a great deal to have the opportunity to give back,” Holland said.
Broadcasting and university work
Holland earned a bachelor’s degree in communication with a minor in public relations at Geneseo. At 13WHAM, she anchored the morning and noon newscasts, covered breaking news and community stories, and produced the weekly public affairs program Many Voices, Many Visions.
She later worked at the University of Rochester, most recently as chief of staff for the Office of University Engagement and Enrichment. In that role, she worked with senior leaders on communications and stakeholder engagement and oversaw the launch of a campus-wide constructive dialogue initiative intended to strengthen civic discourse.
Her earlier university roles involved public relations, community engagement and leadership at the School of Medicine and Dentistry.
Holland now works as an executive presence and leadership coach with Holland Communications, LLC.
Community ties
Her community service includes board membership with Bishop Kearney High School, the Alzheimer’s Association of Rochester and Huther Doyle Substance Abuse Services. She has also served on the boards of the Bivona Child Advocacy Center, Rochester Downtown Development Corporation and Causewave Community Partners.
“Many people across our region know Norma as someone who helped them understand what was happening in their communities and why it mattered,” Geneseo President Melinda Treadwell said. “We are proud to count her among Geneseo’s graduates.”
“Throughout my career, I’ve seen how much depends on our ability to listen, ask good questions, and connect with people whose experiences differ from our own,” Holland said.
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