Formerly the Northern American Head of education agent IDP, Leventhal’s new role will see him in charge of developing SUNY’s global operations.

“If the SUNY system is to be the model for the world, then we must strengthen our efforts in international education,” said SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher, who recommended Leventhal to the SUNY board.

“Mitch Leventhal is the right person to enhance coordination of our international efforts and to break ground in developing new initiatives,” she continued.

Previously, Leventhal worked as Vice Provost for International Affairs at the University of Cincinnati, where his responsibilities included global strategy and international recruitment. Before that he headed up operations for IDP, an education agent run by 38 Australian universities.

“SUNY’s total global potential has not yet been realised and I am appreciative of the responsibility Chancellor Zimpher and the Board of Trustees have given me,” said Leventhal. “Providing new opportunities for faculty and student across the 64-campus system will be a challenge and one I look forward to; but equally important will be our efforts to leverage our strengths to help New York state companies more effectively compete in a global economy.”