Warren Hilton, Ed.D. - President
Dr. Warren M. Hilton is the ninth President of Onondaga Community College. He was selected following a nationwide search and began his presidency on July 1, 2022.
The hallmark of Dr. Hilton’s presidency has been collaboration in support of OCC students. Working with the Board of Trustees, students, faculty and staff, and community partners, he has strengthened the College’s focus on student success and helped drive improvements in graduation rates. In recognition of this progress, OCC was named a Leader College by Achieving the Dream, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing community college student success.
In his first year as president, Dr. Hilton welcomed the President of the United States to OCC for the historic announcement of Micron Technology’s plan to invest $100 billion in the region and establish a semiconductor manufacturing mega-campus in Onondaga County. Under Dr. Hilton’s leadership, OCC has positioned itself to play a critical role in preparing the workforce for this transformative industry, including through the construction of the Micron Cleanroom Simulation Lab on campus, where students gain hands-on experience with the technologies and processes used in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Hilton has strengthened the College’s commitment to preparing students for careers in high-demand fields while meeting the evolving workforce needs of Central New York. OCC has constructed new facilities supporting degree programs in Welding and Metal Fabrication Technology and Commercial/Heavy Equipment Service Repair, while also completing a 40,000-square-foot renovation of the first floor of Ferrante Hall. The transformed space provides students with technology-enhanced, real-world healthcare environments as they prepare for rewarding careers in high-demand health professions.
OCC’s growing role in meeting the region’s workforce needs was recognized with the Community Visionary Award from CenterState CEO in 2025. The award recognized OCC’s efforts to create greater economic opportunity and contribute to community prosperity.
Prior to coming to OCC, Dr. Hilton served students for more than 25 years at higher education institutions. He also gained experience in the private sector, working for large corporations.
A native of Philadelphia, Dr. Hilton has found the many sports connections between Syracuse and Philadelphia enjoyable. He is a self-described “foodie” who has embraced the Central New York food scene during his tenure at OCC. He enjoys sharing his culinary experiences with others and is always looking for recommendations on new places to explore.