Michael J. Hickey

As chief of staff, Mike Hickey plays a pivotal role working across the organization to optimize operations and promote data-informed decision-making. He helps ensure Siena is positioned to address the many issues challenging colleges across the country, and is prepared to take advantage of emerging opportunities. Hickey brings extensive experience and expertise in these areas and has served Siena College faithfully for many years. In 2012, Hickey founded the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Siena.  

Hickey also has over 30 years’ experience as a senior executive in industries such as high-performance materials, automotive, software, clean energy and economic development. Hickey has served in roles as CEO, President, COO and Executive Vice-President for such companies as Allied Signal (Honeywell), Mapinfo and Pitney Bowes.

In 2008, Mike was named to Tech Valley’s Hot 10 list of executives and government officials who make things happen in Tech Valley. In 2012, Hickey was invited and participated in the Clinton Global Initiative to help work on solutions for entrepreneurship in America. Hickey served as Chairman of the Board of the Center for Economic Growth and the Albany-Colonie Chamber of Commerce.  Hickey is a member of NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Capital Region Economic Development Council Executive Committee where he also served as co-chair of the Upstate Revitalization Initiative advisory committee, chair of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative advisory committee, co-chair of the Technology and Innovation committee and chair of the Special Projects committee.

Hickey holds a BS from Siena College and an MBA from University at Albany.

My Siena Experience

My Teaching Philosophy

My philosophy of teaching is rather simple. I am trying to engage 100% of the students and I won't settle for anything less. Once students are engaged you can tailor their learning to their passions and make the class enjoyable for them as well. I try to bring in as much of my real world experiences as possible to give them context.

What I Love About Siena

What I love most about Siena is the community. It truly is like an extension of your family. The alumni is very supportive of the students and each other. The Friars have established a wonderful culture on campus that is often demonstrated by the fact that once you get here, you never want to leave and that includes the students.

My Favorite Courses to Teach

I like to teach Entrepreneurship and Strategy and though I haven't taught it yet my background as an executive would be a great fit to teach Leadership.

My Professional Experience

Awards & Distinctions

• Tech Valley Hot 10 List - named to tech Valley's Hot 10 list of executives and government officials who make things happen in Tech Valley.
  Category: Other
  Tech Valley, 2008