POTSDAM -- After a national search, SUNY Potsdam has named Salvatore (Sal) Cania Jr. as vice president for advancement and executive director of the Potsdam College Foundation.

A graduate of The Crane School of Music, Cania is familiar to many in the campus community. After completing both his bachelor's and his master's degrees at the college, he held multiple positions at the campus, including as executive director of the Community Performance Series, and as director of gift planning and donor relations.

Cania's career in development later brought him to positions at other local higher education institutions. He was most recently the associate vice president for development and alumni relations at Clarkson University.

"I know that Sal's 39 years of experience will bring exceptional results to SUNY Potsdam and a positive addition to the President's Council. I look forward to working with him to build and strengthen relationships with alumni and supporters, as we seek to advance the College and its mission," President Kristin G. Esterberg said.

He has a particular expertise in gift planning, a customer-oriented approach to his work in advancement.

"I am honored to return to my alma mater in support of the faculty, staff and students at SUNY Potsdam and the North Country community. I look forward to supporting President Esterberg, our great Advancement team and our many volunteers, as we develop the philanthropic spirit of alumni and friends, so they may join us to transform the lives of others," Cania said.