Potsdam Chamber of Commerce

Potsdam Chamber of Commerce Profile and History

Michael Galane '74 earned his bachelor's degree in computer science at SUNY Potsdam, and went on to complete his Master of Science degree at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Galane retired a year ago as vice president of Americas technology services for Hewlett Packard Enterprise. His responsibilities included investment, compensation and overall design of the go-to-market structure for HP's indirect sales motion for distributors, resellers and system integrators. Galane currently serves as president of the board and interim executive director for Sacramento's Powerhouse Science Center, which is building its new $50 million riverfront campus. He began his career at Eastman Kodak, and held a number of executive positions at HP in both research and development and in consulting during his career there. In recognition of his professional accomplishments, Galane was the 2004 recipient of the Minerva Award from the SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association. During his time at HP, Galane represented the company on the board of the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce, as well as several educational, human services and arts organizations, including KidsFirst, the San Francisco Shakespeare Festival, Cupertino Community Services, DeAnza College and the Cupertino Division of the American Heart Association. He led three United Way Campaigns for HP's Cupertino campus, is a senior fellow of the American Leadership Forum and was a founding director of the Industrial Computing Society of the Instrument Society of America. On top of his professional accomplishments and service to his community, Galane is also a dedicated and generous supporter of his alma mater. He previously served as the vice president of the Potsdam College Foundation Board of Trustees, and was a founding member of the SUNY Potsdam Computer and Information Sciences Board of Advisers. Galane is also a generous contributor to SUNY Potsdam, and has been instrumental in securing significant computer equipment donations to the College from HP. In support of SUNY Potsdam, Galane served as the National Co-Chair for Take the Lead: The Campaign for Potsdam from 2013 to 2016. The Take the Lead Campaign exceeded all expectations -- raising $33.5 million for scholarships, programs and unrestricted giving at the College, in time for the institution's bicentennial. In honor of his leadership, SUNY Potsdam awarded Galane the 2016 Roger B. Linden Distinguished Service Award, the College's highest honor.