POTSDAM -- Two new members are joining the SUNY Potsdam College Council, Waddington Town Supervisor Alex V. Hammond and WWNY-tv news anchor Jeffery L. Cole of Watertown. Harold B. Johnson II of Watertown was re-appointed to the council for another four-year term.

U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Alex V. Hammond of Waddington is a strength manager in the New York Army National Guard. When he was elected supervisor in 2018, Hammond tied as being the younger town supervisor in New York State history, at the age of 21. He graduated from Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations after completing the ROTC Early Commissioning Program at Valley Forge Military College. In addition to his work in local government and as a commissioned officer, Hammond is the Waddington Democratic Chair. In accepting his appointment, he remarked on his family ties to the college. His grandfather, Raymond C. Hammond Jr., worked as a security officer for 20 years before retiring in 1986, while his mother, Holly R. Hammond, is the secretary for the psychology department, and his sister, Brianna G. Hammond '22, is majoring in childhood/early childhood education.

"I am so honored and excited to be appointed to the SUNY Potsdam College Council. As a community leader, I have seen how this great university has had such a great impact on this region and state. My family is no stranger to its historic halls. My grandfather, mother and now sister have all benefited from its opportunities and transformative practices. Potsdam's rich and long history is what we build on, and I'm proud to be part of the next step forward," Hammond said.

Jeffery L. Cole is the news anchor and managing editor for "7 News This Evening" on WWNY-TV/WNYF-TV, the flagship newscast for the CBS affiliate in Watertown.

" The College is a remarkable institution with rich history and deep roots in the community,” Cole said. “I look forward to joining the Bear family, playing a role in the future of SUNY Potsdam and becoming more connected to the campus and greater community."

"As chair, I am extremely pleased that the Governor is continuing his support of SUNY Potsdam by his most recent appointments to our College Council,” said College Council Chair June F. O'Neill (Hon. '99). “I have served with Harold for quite a few years and welcome his reappointment for another term. Jeff and Alex are welcome additions to our strong Council and I look forward to working with them."

The new and returning members will be present at the first College Council meeting of the year Friday, Feb. 7 at 10 a.m., in the Raymond Hall seventh floor boardroom. This meeting is open to the public, and will also stream live online.