LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Walter D. Lace upon the occasion of his
retirement as Principal of the St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School

WHEREAS, New York State's commitment to education is unparalleled; its
history and stature are secured by the superlative caliber of its educa-
tional professionals and the students they inspire; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge the
significant milestones in the distinguished careers of those outstanding
educational leaders, whose dedication and achievements have been instru-
mental in developing character and academic excellence in the young
people of New York State; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Walter D. Lace upon the occasion of his retirement as Principal of the
St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School; to observe his retirement, a
gala celebration will be held in his honor on Thursday, November 10,
2011 at Villa Lombardi's in Holbrook, New York; and
WHEREAS, Walter D. Lace earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Iona
College in 1967, followed by his Master of Arts degree from Stony Brook
University in 1979; and
WHEREAS, For the past 44 years, Walter D. Lace rendered faithful,
conscientious and valuable service to St. John the Baptist Diocesan High
School, earning the admiration, esteem and affection of his colleagues;
and
WHEREAS, Walter D. Lace began his career at St. John the Baptist
Diocesan High School as a Social Studies Teacher and Department Chair;
in 1991, he served as the school's Assistant Principal until ultimately
being named its Principal in 1995; and
WHEREAS, In his capacity as Principal of St. John the Baptist Diocesan
High School, Walter D. Lace is credited with increasing student popu-
lation within the school from just 900 students in 1995 to its current
enrollment of over 1,500 students, with a substantial waiting list for
future enrollment; and
WHEREAS, Educators like Walter D. Lace provide a tremendous service to
the future of our State and Nation, inspiring generations of young
people in their educational journeys and ensuring their success in their
future years; and
WHEREAS, Walter D. Lace has clearly had an enduring impact on the
youth of the St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School, as well as on
the community-at-large, and accordingly merits recognition and applause
for 44 years of impressive dedication to others; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend the
efforts of those individuals who work to support our proud tradition of
public education by providing their skills and talents to our schools;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Walter D. Lace upon the occasion of his retirement as Principal of
the St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School, and for his significant
contributions to education in New York State; and to wish him continued
success in all of his future endeavors; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution; suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Walter D. Lace.