POTSDAM — SUNY Potsdam’s officer-in-charge has died.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. John L. Graham, the officer-in-charge at SUNY Potsdam,” said State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras .

Graham was appointed to the position this summer after then-President Kristin Esterberg announced she was stepping down. The college has yet to name a permanent replacement for her.

“Dr. Graham embodied SUNY’s mission of access, opportunity, and academic excellence for students in every leadership position he held with SUNY. From his work at Educational Opportunity Centers, to being SUNY’s first-ever system-wide student advocate, to officer-in-charge at SUNY Potsdam, Dr. Graham believed in the promise and potential within every student. He was a unique force that is not easily replicated or replaceable, and because of that he leaves a giant hole in SUNY. On behalf of the entire SUNY community, our profound and heartfelt condolences to the family of this larger-than-life educator and leader who lived life with empathy, passion, and unwavering commitment to students," said Malatras in a prepared statement.