Senate Resolution No. 1716

BY: Senator MANNION

CONGRATULATING Susan Constantino upon the occasion
of her retirement after 33 years of distinguished
service to Cerebral Palsy Associations of New York
State

WHEREAS, Individuals devoted to improving the quality of life for
others, enabling them to build lives of dignity and self-worth are
deserving of the highest praise and recognition; and

WHEREAS, From time to time, society calls upon these individuals to
be recognized for the significance of their contributions and efforts to
assist others in developing the skills necessary to be successful,
productive citizens; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate Susan
Constantino upon the occasion of her retirement after 33 years of
distinguished service to Cerebral Palsy Associations of New York State
(CP of NYS); and

WHEREAS, Susan Constantino earned both her bachelor's and master's
degrees in Special Education and completed some doctoral course work
from the State University College at Buffalo, becoming a certified
special education teacher and a school administrator and supervisor; and

WHEREAS, After teaching for several years and serving as a director
of an education program for children with disabilities in Buffalo, New
York, Susan Constantino held the position of Director of Children's
Services at Aspire of Western New York from 1984-1989; during this time,
this trailblazer created a program, "Special Friends and Computers", to
aid people with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, After five years, Susan Constantino moved to the Capital
District and joined the staff of CP of NYS; after holding the title of
Deputy Executive Director, she was named both President and CEO of this
vital organization in July of 2004; and

WHEREAS, Throughout her 33 year-career with CP of NYS, Susan
Constantino truly dedicated her heart and soul to the association with
24 affiliates united by a mission of enhancing the quality of life for
people with disabilities and their families; and

WHEREAS, Under her luminous and able leadership, CP of NYS
affiliates provided a wide variety of programs, including
community-living opportunities, early-intervention, special-education,
home service directors and family support services; and

WHEREAS, Susan Constantino also spearheaded the opening of five
federally qualified health center clinics, called Metro Community Health
Centers, throughout New York City and led the effort to introduce
telemedicine into residences, so individuals may see a doctor without
leaving their homes; and

WHEREAS, In addition, Susan Constantino collaborated with elected
officials and government entities to ensure public policy has a positive
impact on the lives of people with disabilities, serving on taskforces
and councils, as well as statewide coalitions representing the interests
of New Yorkers with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Widely regarded as a leader in her field, Susan Constantino
has received numerous awards and accolades such as the 2008 Outstanding
Service Award from ACCSES for her steadfast and unremitting commitment
to lifting barriers and expanding choices for all persons with
disabilities; and

WHEREAS, For nearly two decades, Susan Constantino rendered
faithful, conscientious and valuable service to CP of NYS, earning the
admiration, esteem and affection of her colleagues; and

WHEREAS, In completing her service as President/CEO, Susan
Constantino leaves behind more than mere bricks and mortar; she leaves
behind a legacy to those individuals supported by CP of NYS as well as
their families and the community-at-large; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a compassionate
blending of strength, leadership, intellect, and commitment as that
demonstrated by Susan Constantino over a lifetime of sacrifice and
dedication to others; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Susan Constantino upon the occasion of her retirement, and
to wish her continued success in all her future endeavors; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Susan Constantino.