Assembly Resolution No. 1623

BY: M. of A. Friend

HONORING Dr. Paras N. Prasad upon the occasion of
his designation for special recognition at the
Symposium Celebrating University at Buffalo's
Institute for Lasers, Photonics, and Biophotonics

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor individuals whose vision, dedication, and achievements have
brought distinction to the State of New York and have advanced the
welfare of humanity; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Dr. Paras N. Prasad upon the occasion of his designation for special
recognition at the Symposium Celebrating University at Buffalo's
Institute for Lasers, Photonics, and Biophotonics, to be held July
16-18, 2026, at the University at Buffalo North Campus in Buffalo, New
York; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Paras N. Prasad, SUNY Distinguished Professor at the
University at Buffalo and internationally renowned scientist, has
devoted more than five decades to pioneering research in photonics,
biophotonics, nanophotonics, and nanomedicine; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Paras N. Prasad's remarkable journey from rural India
to becoming one of the world's leading scientists exemplifies the
transformative power of education, imagination, perseverance, and
innovation; and

WHEREAS, Reflecting on the source of his creativity and scientific
vision, Dr. Paras N. Prasad attributes his ambition and imagination to
growing up in rural India without electricity and running water, leaving
him with much time to think, reflect, and dream big; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Paras N. Prasad's spirit of imagination and bold
thinking has led to pioneering discoveries that have transformed the
fields of photonics, biophotonics, nanophotonics, and nanomedicine,
improving lives and advancing scientific understanding around the world;
and

WHEREAS, Dr. Paras N. Prasad's peers have recognized the
extraordinary impact of his work, and other professors and scholars in
his field agree that his groundbreaking research over his career has
advanced the field of photonics; it is agreed that Dr. Paras N. Prasad
is part of the elite group of individuals who have pioneered
advancements in science; and

WHEREAS, Through his visionary leadership, groundbreaking
scholarship, and commitment to mentoring future generations of
scientists and engineers, Dr. Paras N. Prasad has brought great
distinction to the University at Buffalo, the State University of New
York, and the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, In 2006, Dr. Paras N. Prasad was honored by the State of
New York, recognizing his groundbreaking scientific achievements and his
leadership in advancing research and innovation; and

WHEREAS, Since that time, Dr. Paras N. Prasad has continued to
expand the boundaries of scientific knowledge through transformative
discoveries that have advanced medical diagnostics, cancer treatment,
imaging technologies, and nanotechnology applications with global
impact; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Paras N. Prasad's research has helped establish the
University at Buffalo and the State University of New York as
international leaders in photonics, biophotonics, and nanomedicine,
attracting scholars, researchers, and students from around the world;
and

WHEREAS, Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Paras N. Prasad
has authored hundreds of scientific publications, secured numerous
patents, mentored generations of scientists and engineers, and fostered
international scientific collaboration; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Paras N. Prasad's many honors include recognition as
one of Scientific American's Top 50 Leaders in Science and Technology,
election as a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, Fellowship in
multiple prestigious scientific societies, the SPIE Gold Medal, the IEEE
Photonics Society William Streifer Scientific Achievement Award, and
numerous other national and international distinctions; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Paras N. Prasad's work has translated scientific
discovery into practical technologies that improve lives, strengthen
economic development, and enhance the reputation of New York State as a
center for innovation and academic excellence; and

WHEREAS, Equally important has been Dr. Paras N. Prasad's commitment
to education, mentorship, and public service, inspiring future
generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and
medicine; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Dr. Paras N. Prasad upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition at the Symposium Celebrating University at Buffalo's
Institute for Lasers, Photonics, and Biophotonics; and

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Dr. Paras N. Prasad as a token of the esteem in which he
is held by the people of the State of New York.