SALEM — Nancy Harrington, who spent more than half-century on the Salem State University campus as a student, dean, and eventually as the first woman to serve as president, died suddenly Saturday at age 81 after suffering a heart attack.
Harrington, a Salem native, served as the 12th president of the university for 17 years, from 1990 to 2007.
“If anyone ever was, she was the embodiment of Salem State,” said Julie Whitlow, the Assistant Provost for Global Engagement, who worked with Harrington for 15 years. “There was never a doubt that all that she worked for was to make Salem State the best experience possible for the students, the faculty and staff.”
In a letter sent to the faculty, current SSU president John Keenan described her as a “trailblazer and mentor” to many, known for her “talent, leadership, and deep commitment to (SSU) students.”
He applauded her for being a partner to the Salem community.
“Growing up in Salem was something she held dearly. She made sure that everyone on campus was a good community partner,” said Keenan. “And it’s a tradition we hold to today.”
Harrington’s role as the first female President inspired female faculty, staff and students.
“When I arrived at Salem State, it was an institution led by powerful women,” said Keja Valens, Professor of English. “Nancy Harrington represented that and was responsible for it. What power and poise and passion. A life well lived.”
Harrington received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the then-Salem Teachers College back in 1960, after entering the school as in 1956.
She saw the school transition to Salem State College in 1960, and Keenan credited her leadership for “paving the way” for the institution’s 2010 transition to Salem State University.
Under Harrington’s leadership, the school purchased the 37.5-acre former GTE site, which is now Salem State’s central campus.
She opened the school of graduate studies, solidified the connection between the College and Horace Mann Lab School, and expanded international learning opportunities.
“She certainly helped create and highlight the Center for International Education, and to expand Salem State’s outreach as a place where global experience for students was possible,” said Whitlow.
When President Keenan worked as a State Representative, he met with Harrington to discuss the transition to University status.
“The first time I went to meet with her as State Representative, I was a little intimidated because I understood her reputation and what she meant to Salem State,” said Keenan. “But she made me feel right at home, and part of the team, and built a relationship so we could work together in my time in the legislature.”
Except for a brief period as an elementary-school teacher in West Peabody, Harrington remained at Salem State for more than 50 years, devoting her life and career to its future.
“She was the type that was seen in the lunchroom every day,” said Whitlow. “Her door was open and she was always willing to listen. She was known to go to the mat with the legislature to advocate and fight for resources for Salem State.”
“She really believed in the mission of Salem State and what it meant in terms of social mobility and allowing students in this area to climb the economic ladder,” said President Keenan. “Her love for the students here was unparalleled.”
Her family will hold a private ceremony at this time, and hopes to allow others to celebrate her life when it is safe to do so.
