CUAA Special Election 2015 for Alumni Trustees

Dr. George L. De Feis

AT15 George De FeisCE ‘82
Brooklyn, New York


Current Position, Organization:
Professor of Management, Iona College, New Rochelle, NY


Relevant Skill:

Executive background/training, balance of not-for-profit/for-profit work; academia, corporate, fundraising & grants, development, foundations, and engineering. Personally designed and directed re-engineering and growth periods for several organizations. Expertise with youth organizations, international relations. Excellent interpersonal, leadership and motivational skills.


Professional Qualifications:

Professional Qualifications: I spent much time in the corporate world, not-for-profit world, and, now, academic world. Some on my positions include:

  • STEM eLearning/SGV-ConsultEd  / Founder/President  /  2004-2007
  • U.S. Chess Federation Executive Director & CEO  / 2000-2002
  • American Society of Civil Engineers Director  /  1987-1996
  • Port Authority of NY/NJ Engineer  / 1982-1987

I possess degrees as follows:

  • D.P.S. Pace University  / Management  /  5/2013
  • M.B.A. Baruch College  /  Finance & Investments  /  6/1987
  • B.E. Cooper Union  /  Civil Engineering   / 6/1982

Personal Statement:

I’ve been associated and dedicated to Cooper Union from the late 1970s/early 1980s, entering the engineering world (Port Authority, ASCE, Technology Utilization Foundation, Concrete Industry Board) soon after I was schooled at Cooper. I’m looking to bring my full experience, which includes: engineering, corporate, not-for-profit, and academic, to help us understand the path we came from; contemplate and embark on the path forward, and, strategically, returning Cooper Union to its position and stature in higher education, as envisioned by its founder. To this end, we will make this travesty that occurred just a short “blip” in a renowned past and long-term future of tuition-free education for those who qualify.


Additional Information:

  • Balanced Demeanor: I will weigh all sides to determine to best way forward for Cooper, knowing Cooper’s ultimate wish (tuition-free);
  • Personal Integrity: I value integrity in people the utmost, and they will find integrity in me;
  • Never Arrogant: Someone once said: “With malice toward none, and charity for all” (Lincoln 1865).