A rumored split of one of the Capital Region's largest colleges may be closer to fruition.
Since early spring, there has been talk of making the University at Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering a "standalone" component of the State University system, a 65th campus. New York has devoted millions of dollars in tax incentives to attract high-tech jobs through the research college center. The Times Union reports it has learned a seven-member group assembled by SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher unanimously agreed that CNSE needs greater ability to function independently to reach its potential. The SUNY trustees are set to meet Tuesday to perhaps decide once and for all whether UAlbany will shed the offshoot nano-school. Except for a brief written statement, UAlbany president Bob Jones and nano chief Alain Kaloyeros have been mum so far.
Splitting CNSE from UAlbany would need approval of the SUNY board of trustees, the governor and the legislature.
