Molloy College Holds Drive-By Farewell For Dr. Drew Bogner

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY — Molloy College students, faculty and employees said goodbye to retiring president Dr. Drew Bogner in a socially distant, drive-by farewell party on Friday, closing the last chapter of Bogner’s 20-year tenure as the leader of the college. Bogner donned a green hat and coat, reminiscent of “The Wizard of Oz,” in a nod to his Kansas roots.

Bogner and his wife Karen waved to passersby from the balcony of Kellenberg Hall, the ceremonial site of several significant events for the college over the years. The balcony was clad to look like a hot air balloon, also in the style of “The Wizard of Oz.”

During Bogner's tenure as president, Molloy College built its first residence halls and grew the student body to more than 5,000.

“This is a bittersweet moment for me. Coming from Kansas, I have loved leading the faulty, employees, staff and the students of this big city college,” said Bogner. “Our challenges now are larger than ever, and I know the college has chosen the right leadership to sustain and thrive in the days and years ahead.”

Last year, Molloy announce it had chosen Dr. James Lentini, provost of Oakland College in Rochester, Minnesota to serve as the next president of Molloy College. His term was to begin in July, but he chose to step into the role earlier to assist with pandemic response and provide a seamless transition.