Merchants Insurance Group’s Board of Directors celebrates Dr. Muriel A. Howard’s retirement from the Board after 28 years.
After 28 years, Dr. Muriel A. Howard is retiring from Merchants Insurance Group’s Board of Directors. Since 1997 when she joined Merchants’ Board, Dr. Howard has been an invaluable advisor and trusted leader, offering steady guidance, thoughtful perspective, and an unwavering commitment to the long-term success of the organization.
Dr. Howard served as President of The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) for 9 years. She was the first African-American to lead one of the six presidentially based higher education associations in Washington, D.C., and was also AASCU’s first female president.
Formerly the president of Buffalo State College, State University of New York from 1996 to 2009, Dr. Howard led a campus of more than 11,000 students, approximately 1,700 faculty and staff, and a financial operation of more than $214 million. Prior to joining Buffalo State, she was the vice president for public service and urban affairs at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York, where she served in various leadership capacities over a 23-year period.
Dr. Howard holds a Bachelor Degree from City University of New York, Richmond College. She also earned a Master in Education and PhD in Educational Organization, Administration and Policy from the State University of New York at Buffalo.
Dr. Howard’s extensive career includes numerous designations, awards, and certificates, including credentials from Harvard University’s Institute for Educational Management.
Dr. Howard has been granted seven honorary degrees and multiple awards for her contribution to higher education, community service and commitment to diversity, in addition to the following:
- Air University – Former Chair
- American Academic Leadership Institute
- TIAA Charitable Trust Advisory Board
- PackBack Advisory Board
- Delta Sigma Theta – Member
- Links, Inc., Washington, D.C. Chapter – Member
Merchants Insurance Group’s Board of Directors, and other special guests, celebrated Dr. Muriel A. Howard’s retirement on December 9th at The Buffalo Club for dinner.
“Dr. Howard’s impact on Merchants Insurance Group over the past 28 years cannot be overstated,” said Charles Makey, President & CEO of Merchants Insurance Group. “Her wisdom, integrity, and dedication to excellence have helped guide our Board and leadership team through periods of growth and change. We are deeply grateful for her many years of service and the legacy she leaves behind.”
Bob Zak, Chair of the Board and immediate past President & CEO; Dr. Muriel A. Howard, retiring Board Member; Charles Makey, President & CEO
