CANTON -- SUNY Canton Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach has been chosen by Lincoln College in Lincoln, Ill. as its 22nd president.

Gerlach will begin his new position on June 15, according to a press release from SUNU Canton.

Gerlach is a 1983 graduate of SUNY Canton and has worked at the college for more than 30 years in an assortment of positions. For the last 11 years he has been a vice president and has overseen the alumni and college foundation offices, and previously oversaw the admissions, public relations and athletic departments during a period of strong enrollment growth.

He will be replacing Lincoln College's current president, John Blackburn, who is retiring.

"David's credentials, knowledge of higher education and experience leading a campus to new heights impressed us from the outset," said Bob Neal, chairman of the Lincoln College Board of Trustees in a press release. "We are confident David is ready to take over and build on John's track record of success."

Gerlach has a bachelor's degree from Roberts Wesleyan College, his master's from St. Lawrence University, and recently earned his doctorate from Syracuse University.

"I cannot thank SUNY Canton enough for the experiences and education that it has provided for me and my family," Gerlach said. "The college's faculty, staff, students and alumni have been a huge part of my life. Now I'm are looking to the future and building on Lincoln College's great reputation."

Gerlach is a Canton resident who grew up in Rochester. His wife, Lisa, is a 1983 and 2006 SUNY Canton graduate; his son, Joshua, is a 2011 graduate and his daughter, Kayla, attended other SUNY colleges.

Gerlach’s final week at SUNY Canton will be through Alumni Weekend June 5-7, where he said he hopes to say farewell to all of the friends he's made over the years.