President, York College

What one factor is most important to success?

The single most important factor in success is preparation, and by that I mean educational preparation as well as attitude. Like the Boy Scouts, “Be Prepared.”

What do you look for in an employee?

I look for honesty, integrity, excellent communication, good work ethic and smarts. And then I look for value-added qualities, what unexpected value does she/he bring to the table.

What’s the best way to save money?

401K, automatic savings plans, bonds, through a credit union as well as investment in real estate.

What’s the best way to spend money?

On education, your own or your family’s, and education includes outside the classroom, home, vacation, charity.

What’s your greatest pleasure?

Driving trips in the countryside, any countryside - but especially where there are mountains and seashores.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

I look at the clock and give thanks to be awake.

How do you deal with stress?

At best, I work out. At worst, I eat.

What one lesson do you hope topass on to your children?

To the children in my family, especially the next generation of grandchildren and godchildren, I say take risks. After you have taken the first one, the next one is easier.

How do you bounce back from adversity?

I suck it up and move on.

What’s your favorite thing about Queens?

York College, of course.

Marcia Keizs is currently in her second stint at York College. Before becoming president in February, Keizs served as the acting president once before in 1996. Her career in higher education began after earning her doctorate in African American literature from Columbia University, when she taught for four years at Queensborough Community College.