Senate Resolution No. 909

BY: Senator GRIFFO

HONORING Perry Courto upon the occasion of his
retirement after 27 years of distinguished service
to The Arc Madison Cortland

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge the
significant milestones in the distinguished careers of esteemed
residents of this noble Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Perry Courto upon the occasion of his retirement, effective Thursday,
January 5, 2026, after 27 years of distinguished service to The Arc
Madison Cortland; and

WHEREAS, For the past 27 years, Perry Courto rendered faithful,
conscientious and valuable service to The Arc Madison Cortland earning
the admiration, esteem, and affection of his colleagues; and

WHEREAS, Since joining The Arc Madison Cortland in 1998, Perry
Courto has held various positions, and in July, 2019, he earned the
esteemed leadership role of chief executive officer; and

WHEREAS, In his capacity as chief executive officer, Perry Courto
led The Arc Madison Cortland with loyalty, honor and distinction, and
was governed by a keen sense of duty and always showed a unique grasp of
human problems in his official acts; and

WHEREAS, Perry Courto led The Arc Madison Cortland through many
challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and staffing storages;
despite these challenges, Perry Courto ensured critical services
continued while simultaneously prioritizing the health, wellness, and
safety of staff and individuals supported; and

WHEREAS, Amongst the many accomplishments achieved by Perry Courto,
one of the most impactful achievements has been the increase in direct
care wages, which rose from $13 an hour in May, 2021, to $20 an hour by
February, 2025, an impressive 54% increase, further showcasing Perry
Courto's commitment to staff and the care provided; and

WHEREAS, The high standards of care and support provided by The Arc
Madison Cortland has been cultivated by Perry Courto and his skilled
leadership team, and they have be reaccredited from The Council on
Quality and Leadership in March 2019 and August 2023; and

WHEREAS, The drive, dedication, and heart of Perry Courto, in tandem
with his experienced staff, fostered exceptional care for the people
supported by The Arc Madison Cortland; and

WHEREAS, Perry Courto will serve in a new role as senior advisor to
facilitate a smooth leadership transition during the next year, and he
looks forward to spending more time with family in his retirement; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens
of the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Perry Courto upon the occasion of his retirement after 27 years of
distinguished service to The Arc Madison Cortland; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Perry Courto.