Assembly Resolution No. 921

BY: M. of A. Santabarbara

COMMEMORATING the Centennial Celebration of the
New York State Society of Professional Engineers

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor historic milestones and organizations whose purpose and endeavors
have substantially contributed to the civic, economic, and professional
life of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, The New York State Society of Professional Engineers
(NYSSPE) proudly commemorates its Centennial Anniversary in 2026,
marking one hundred years of dedicated service, leadership, and advocacy
on behalf of the engineering profession and the people of the State of
New York; and

WHEREAS, In celebration of this historic milestone, NYSSPE will host
its Centennial Gala Anniversary Dinner on August 6, 2026, a prestigious
statewide event bringing together leading engineers, industry
professionals, and distinguished guests to honor a century of
achievement and to look ahead to the future of engineering in New York;
and

WHEREAS, On April 27, 1926, a general organizational meeting was
convened for engineers who had expressed interest in forming a
professional society, laying the foundation for what would become a
lasting and influential institution; and

WHEREAS, On May 11, 1926, the first general assembly, held by public
invitation at the Schnorer Club located at 163rd Street and Eagle Avenue
in the Bronx, brought together New York's engineering community, at
which time officers were elected and temporary headquarters were
established at 470 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx, officially marking the
birth of the New York State Society of Professional Engineers and Land
Surveyors; and

WHEREAS, The Society was founded by 14 licensed engineers and land
surveyors, united by a shared commitment to professionalism, public
service, and the advancement of engineering standards throughout New
York State; and

WHEREAS, Among its distinguished founders was David B. Steinman, a
renowned civil engineer, visionary designer of the Mackinac Bridge and
numerous other iconic bridges, a published author, and a native New
Yorker who grew up in lower Manhattan inspired by the Brooklyn Bridge,
beneath which he lived and dreamed of engineering excellence; and

WHEREAS, Since its inception, NYSSPE has been steadfast in its
mission to advocate for professional licensure laws, ethical engineering
practice, fair and adequate compensation, and public recognition of the
essential role engineers play in safeguarding public health, safety, and
welfare; and

WHEREAS, In 1934, NYSSPE played a pivotal role in the formation of
the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), helping to

elevate the voice and influence of licensed engineers at the national
level; and

WHEREAS, The Society experienced early and sustained growth through
the establishment of local chapters across the State, including the
Monroe Professional Engineers Society (MPES) founded in 1929,
strengthening regional engagement and professional collaboration; and

WHEREAS, Demonstrating a forward-looking commitment to education and
workforce development, NYSSPE launched pioneering STEM initiatives in
the late 1980s-originally known as "Learn Tech"-under the leadership of
Beverly Schwartz, inspiring generations of students to pursue careers in
science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and

WHEREAS, Today, NYSSPE continues to serve as a respected voice for
professional engineers, fostering innovation, leadership, and public
trust while addressing the evolving challenges facing the engineering
profession; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Centennial Celebration of the New York State Society of
Professional Engineers, recognizing its profound contributions to the
State of New York and its citizens over the past one hundred years; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the New York State Society of Professional Engineers.