Dr. Adiam Tsegai: Women’s History Month and Recognizing Women Immigrants and Refugees

In honor of Women’s History Month, we recognize the economic, cultural, political, and social contributions of influential immigrant and refugee women who’ve helped shape America’s vibrant tapestry. Today, we spotlight SUNY Erie Community College President, Dr. Adiam Tsegai.

Dr. Adiam Tsegai was born in Eritrea, East Africa, and immigrated to the Bronx, New York, with her family in the 1980s. Although relocating was a major adjustment for Tsegai and her family, she viewed those obstacles as opportunities. As she began her education in the Bronx, she simultaneously enrolled in ESL classes and became immersed in New York City’s diverse environment.

From a young age, Adiam’s mother instilled in her the importance of education and empowerment for women, inspiring her to prioritize academics. Tsegai attended John F. Kennedy High School in the Bronx, where one of her teachers helped her prepare for college. Inspired by her sister, who lived in Buffalo, Adiam applied to SUNY Erie and was accepted, then moved to Western New York after her high school graduation.

After receiving her associate’s degree in liberal arts and social science from SUNY Erie, she completed a bachelor’s degree from the University at Buffalo, with a dual major in Psychology and African American studies. Following her undergraduate work, Tsegai capitalized on her momentum and earned both a master’s degree in education and a Ph.D. in educational leadership policy and social foundations.

Dr. Tsegai held multiple positions at Bryant and Stratton College before returning to her SUNY Erie stomping grounds in 2018. This time to serve as the dean of engineering and technologies.  Soon, she was promoted to officer-in-charge and also served as the school’s Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. In 2023, Adiam was elevated to the position of president of SUNY Erie by a unanimous vote via the school’s Board of Trustees.

The promotion to the school’s highest position made history. Tsegai is not only the first Black president of SUNY Erie, but also the first woman, alumna, and immigrant to be sworn in to the position. As president of SUNY Erie, Tsegai has focused on creating an accessible environment for students of all kinds, focusing on accommodating the diverse needs of the student body and promoting student success and empowerment. Dr. Adiam Tsegai’s story exemplifies SUNY Erie’s mission statement, “Start Here, Go Anywhere,” inspiring students from Buffalo and beyond to shatter the glass ceiling to success.