Joshua M. Patterson, assistant professor of Education at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, N.Y., was recently elected as the Vice President of Policy and Administration for the New York State Council for the Social Studies (NYSCSS).
Following a formal motion and vote by the NYSCSS Board of Directors, Patterson began his two-year term on July 1. The term will run through June 30, 2028.
“Social studies taught me how to ask questions about the world, and now I get to help shape how the next generation learns to do the same,” said Patterson. “I’m truly grateful to the NYS Council for the Social Studies for this opportunity and excited for what we’ll build together.”
In his new role with NYSCSS, Patterson will serve as a core liaison between local and national councils, overseeing affiliate operations, processing local council re-affiliations, and offering continuous guidance to regional leadership and newly forming local councils across New York State.
Additionally, he will direct key organizational meetings at the annual NYSCSS Convention, serve on the Membership Committee, oversee presidential committee assignments, and contribute to the ongoing governance of the Board of Directors.
In addition to his duties as a professor, Patterson currently serves as Curriculum Committee Chair at Mount Saint Mary College. His appointment strengthens the continued collaboration between higher education leadership and statewide K-12 social studies curriculum advocacy.