The vote followed the appointment of Jim Malatras as system chancellor. Malatras, a longtime aide/ally of Governor Andrew Cuomo, was appointed via direct appointment and without a national search. “Critics are concerned about his limited experience leading higher education institutions and how his appointment expands Cuomo’s influence on the public college system. The governor’s office appoints SUNY board members and all 15 members of the current board were picked by Cuomo.” Read more from Inside Higher Education.