Meet Ben Sher
What is your name?
Ben Sher
What’s your job title?
Director, Office of Global and Lifelong Learning
Years/Months at NYU:
8 years, 5 months
What’s your hometown?
New Jersey
What kind of projects do you work on?
I coordinate the continuing education programming for the Silver School of Social Work. We offer certificate programs, conferences, workshops, and self-study/asynchronous events. This is for licensed social workers and licensed mental health counselors. Many alumni take our programs. I also administratively coordinate our short-term study away options for MSW students.
What’s your role in the AMC?
I am starting my second year as the co-chair of the Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Committee. This role includes work with the Executive Committee of the AMC. I am also the Senior Unit Representative for Silver.
What made you choose NYU or what contributes to NYU being special to you?
In many ways, I feel like I “grew” up here. I got my Master’s in Counseling and Wellness from Steinhardt in the 1990s, so when the OGLL Director position opened up in 2015, I felt I had come full circle. I love the passion for knowledge and the diversity that NYU offers. There are so many opportunities here to grow and expand your understanding, regardless if you are a student, faculty, staff, or administrator.
What does a normal day look like for you?
I usually begin by answering constituent emails (e.g., questions about our certificate programs or attendees at our events), and then move on to one of many meetings. These are usually about planning a new program, meeting with a potential continuing education presenter, or addressing some of the collaborative work done with the bursar, registrar, or University Programs.
Any advice for new administrators?
If you are new to administration, I’d suggest becoming a mentee in the AMC Professional Development Committee’s Mentoring Program. You will likely be connected with a mentor outside of your home department. This will give you a valuable connection to the university and assist you in transitioning to your new role. I’ve had the privilege of mentoring numerous administrators, and it’s one of the best things I do.
Is there an NYU benefit or perk that you use or think everyone should know about?
Of course, tuition remission comes to mind, as it is so beneficial in helping your family and you get an education at NYU. I think everyone should know about accessibility at NYU (https://www.nyu.edu/life/information-technology/web-and-digital-publishing/digital-publishing/accessibility.html). The resources here to make digital and other content accessible to everyone are amazing. There are templates and suggestions for every form of document, website, or presentation.
Name your favorite spot on campus.
I would say Washington Mews because it reminds me of old New York.
Who do you know that you think we should know? Why?
Am I allowed to say a department? The Operations Team at Kimmel. They are so graceful and easy to work with for events and planning. Their professionalism rings true in everything they do, and they make it look easy.
What is your fondest memory in your time here?
One of many fond memories is seeing my daughter cross the stage as an undergraduate and graduate degree recipient (Gallatin and Global Public Health).
We spend a lot of time at our desks and they can tell us a lot about your personality. Show us yours!
Do you have a hidden talent, skill or side gig you’d like us to spotlight?
I don’t do it enough, but I love to bake.
What is your favorite book and why?
The Escape Artist: The Man Who Broke Out of Auschwitz to Warn the World. It left a deep mark on me after I finished it because it showed how even first-hand information cannot be easily trusted. It made me think a lot about how much misinformation and false truths are a part of our media experience now.
What is your go-to app on your phone right now?
“Finch” – its a nice wellness app shared with me by my older daughter. Its a nice way to track you daily mood and have a fun little avatar who goes on adventures!
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why?
I know Superman is in my desk picture, but quite honestly, I have always been drawn to Batman. I just love his intellect and ability to problem-solve as much as he uses brute strength to vanquish his enemies.
Books or TV?
Both
Coffee or tea?
Coffee all the way – love the Matto app!
Describe yourself in only three words.
Kind, Generous, Driven.
Horror or comedy?
Comedy.
What’s your favorite season?
Fall
Favorite travel destination?
Paris. I have been blessed to be there three times.
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