Senate Resolution No. 900

BY: Senator O'MARA

COMMEMORATING the 125th Anniversary of the New
York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those commemorative historical events which symbolize the growth
and development of the educational institutions which comprise the
communities of this great State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the New York State College of
Ceramics (NYSCC) at Alfred University, to be celebrated with a myriad of
events, including an exhibit opening reception entitled "History: A
Legacy in Motion" on Thursday, May 8, 2025; and

WHEREAS, This monumental exhibit will be on display from May 8,
2025, through December 14, 2025, displaying the works of over 23 artists
who taught and continue to teach at this remarkable educational
institution, showcasing works from 1900 through the current day; and

WHEREAS, The New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University
has been a unique public/private partnership in higher education since
its inception in 1900; the program attracts renowned artists and
scientists as faculty in ceramics, glass, and other materials, while
producing world-class alumni in engineering and groundbreaking artists
across all media; and

WHEREAS, 125 years ago, Charles Fergus Binns was invited to become
the first director of a new initiative at Alfred University, the New
York School of Clay-Working and Ceramics; the new director, along with
his initial core of instructors, launched American studio ceramics and
simultaneously transformed Alfred University into a renowned hub of
creative ceramic activity that has persisted to this day; and

WHEREAS, With a core understanding that interdisciplinary
collaboration is pivotal to the modern student, the New York State
College of Ceramics at Alfred University works closely with The School
of Art & Design, the Inamori School of Engineering, and the Scholes
Library to uphold the tradition of offering cutting-edge programs in a
myriad of areas of study; and

WHEREAS, Interdisciplinary education offers valuable benefits by
fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and a comprehensive
understanding of complex issues; it encourages students to explore
diverse viewpoints, evaluate conflicting perspectives and develop their
own informed opinions, as well as exercise creativity and imaginative
thinking in all facets of life; and

WHEREAS, From groundbreaking ceramic, glass, and video art to
advancements in materials science used in aerospace, medicine, and
electronics, the NYSCC remains a global leader in its disciplines; and

WHEREAS, Those dedicated educators, past and present, who have given
of their time and energies to the field of education and to those in
pursuit of such knowledge are most worthy of the highest praise and
recognition of all citizens of this great State and Nation; and

WHEREAS, Ceramics and art are at the root of human expression,
connecting humanity to its earliest histories, bridging the gap between
countless generations; the arts continue to develop and evolve, shaping
new expressions of culture, identity, emotion, and our shared
experiences, and are most worthy of our devout safeguarding and
uplifting for years to come; and

WHEREAS, Steeped in a proud and distinguished history, the New York
State College of Ceramics at Alfred University may look back with pride
upon its humble beginnings, find just satisfaction in its purposeful
growth and hold true of purpose in its commitment to serving the
educational needs of the citizens of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the New York State College of
Ceramics at Alfred University; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred
University.