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Campus to Capital: Leading at the State Finance Committee
From studying business and shooting hoops at Roberts Wesleyan University to directing education and environmental conservation initiatives at the New York State Senate Finance Committee, Malik Dare '18 has transformed his Business Administration degree into a career serving New York's citizens.
Malik Dare is the Director of Lower & Higher Education, & Environmental Conservation at the New York State Senate Finance Committee. As a student-athlete at Roberts, Dare developed crucial skills in multitasking and perseverance that would shape his future success.
A pivotal influence came from Assistant Men's Basketball Coach Mark Saldzius (now the Head Coach), who shared a philosophy that became Dare's guiding principle: "How you do anything is how you do everything." This mantra continues to drive his approach to public service and his life.
In his role at the Senate Finance Committee, Dare finds purpose in his career in politics, knowing that he gets to play a part, however big or small, in helping legislatures provide funding for critical initiatives throughout the State. “New York is a state founded on putting individuals and their needs first, I’m grateful to be part of continuing this mission through work in education and environmental conservation,” said Dare.
The transition to state politics has taught Dare valuable lessons about adaptability and continuous learning. "Working in the legislative environment means navigating constant change and complexity," he explains. "Success here requires embracing uncertainty, staying flexible, and never hesitating to ask questions. It's about being comfortable with being uncomfortable while always striving to learn and improve."
What is your best advice for current students?
Say yes and sign up for as many things as possible. Make the most of your time at Roberts; the university offers many opportunities that many students miss. It all goes by fast; don’t wait, just do it!
How did your Roberts education help you prepare for your career?
I gained valuable insights into how to engage with various individuals who hold different beliefs. Everyone experiences life in their own unique way, and at Roberts, I learned to express my thoughts with compassion and knowledge.
Share your best Roberts memory:
In my Junior year, I won the Rochester Area Business Ethics Foundation award. An award for individuals who strive to promote ethical principles in business. It was my first award that was not sports-related. I was joined by then President Porterfield, Coach McCoy, and my mother, and the ceremony took place at Geva Theatre. I felt an incredible sense of pride to have been selected for that honor; it profoundly impacted where I am today.
What drew you to choose Roberts Wesleyan University for your education, and how did your time here shape your career path?
I was not familiar with Roberts until Coach Rob McCoy recruited me to come play for him. We developed a rapid rapport, and I knew right away he was going to be more than just a coach to me and that he would be there for me when basketball was no longer part of my life. I sensed that he would provide me with lessons that extend far beyond the basketball court. Fortunately for me, I was correct.
Young Alum of the Year Award Recipient 2023 with President Hayles and Rob McCoy
What was your career journey like after graduation? Were there any unexpected turns that led you to where you are today?
My journey has been very rewarding and fulfilling. That's not to say there were not any bumps in the road. I wanted to be a coach at first - a big difference from what I do now. It took me a while to find a position to venture in, and even longer to find something I was interested in. Ultimately, I think that’s what was meant to be, and I'm thankful for each of my experiences because they led me to where I am today - a place I’m extremely proud to be.
How did your university education prepare you for the challenges and opportunities you've encountered professionally?
I learned to be resilient during my time at Roberts. I was young, it was my first time away from home, and felt that I had a great weight on my shoulders the moment I stepped on campus. Navigating through that in my own way helped me learn how to deal with adversity. It changed my mindset from, “I have to do this” to “I get the opportunity to do this”.
How do you stay connected to your classmates?
I still talk to a fair amount of my classmates regularly. To name a few, I was a groomsman at Isaiah Lewis’s ‘20 wedding, I’m the proud godfather to Tyrel Dixon’s ‘16 son, Karter Elliot Dixon. These are lifelong relationships that have turned into brotherhoods.
What accomplishments are you most proud of in your career so far?
Becoming a team leader has always been a goal of mine. I've been blessed to learn, work under, and play for profound leaders. All of these experiences had an immeasurable impact on my career. It is only right that I return the favor and help others advance in their career.