Stanley W. Silverman, former president and chief executive officer of PQ Corporation, has been named chairman of the College of Medicine board of trustees, Drexel University announced May 11 in a press release.
Silverman, a member of the University’s board of trustees and the College of Medicine’s board, replaces Manny Stamatakis, who will step down in May after 13 years as chairman of the board.
“We are extremely thankful for Manny’s tireless leadership over the years and are grateful that he will continue as a member of the College of Medicine board as he steps down from his role as board chairman. I am confident that Stan will pick up right where Manny left off, resulting in a seamless transition going forward,” President John A. Fry said in a press release announcing Silverman’s new position.
After attending Drexel for both his undergraduate degree in chemical engineering (‘69) and his master’s degree in business administration (‘74), Silverman has been a committed member of the Drexel community.
Having served four years on the College of Medicine’s board prior to being announced chairman of the board, Silverman is well aware of his responsibilities.
“The college has a long and venerable history. It is the largest private medical college in the U.S., and educates one out of 73 physicians. My goal and that of each member of the board of trustees is to ensure the College of Medicine continues to move forward and provide a great education to our students,” he said.
Silverman has also served for 11 years on the University’s board of trustees and plans to continue in his role as chairman of the finance committee.
“I am proud to have been part of all the initiatives that have been taking place over the past few years that have transformed Drexel University, and look forward to being part of the new initiatives to come,” he said.
A member of the Drexel 100 and of the College of Engineering’s advisory council, Silverman received the College’s Alumnus Award in 1995. More recently, he received the A.J. Drexel Paul Award in 2009 for his service to his alma mater.
“I received an incredible education at Drexel that led to my success later in life. I can think of no better legacy than helping the next generation become successful,” Silverman said.
Silverman credited his Drexel education for teaching him the skills he used during his 33-year career at PQ Corp., a global company in chemicals and engineered glass materials. He started as a chemical process engineer and worked in many other positions before serving as president and CEO of the company from 2000 to 2005.
Additionally, Silverman has served as a guest lecturer at the LeBow College of Business, where he holds the position of executive in residence. He is also on the advisory board for the college.