Senate Resolution No. 3087

BY: Senator BRESLIN

HONORING Neal J. Johnson upon the occasion of his
retirement after 20 years of distinguished service
as President and CEO of Special Olympics New York,
Inc.

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
Neal J. Johnson upon the occasion of his retirement after 20 years of
distinguished service as President and CEO of Special Olympics New York,
Inc.; he will officially retire on September 1, 2017; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion will be celebrated with a cocktail
reception held in his honor on Friday, September 15, 2017, at the
Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Albany, New York; and

WHEREAS, A graduate of St. Bonaventure University, Neal J. Johnson
has spent nearly his entire adult life in service for people with
intellectual disabilities, both professionally and as a volunteer; and

WHEREAS, Neal J. Johnson began his journey with the athletes of
Special Olympics New York (SONY) when he was asked to help establish the
program in the Bronx, New York; since then, he has served as a
volunteer, a coach, and for the past 20 years, as President and CEO; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his esteemed career, Neal J. Johnson has
successfully guided New York to become the largest program in North
America and the sixth largest program in the world; SONY has grown to
include 68,547 athletes, 35,000 volunteers, and 5,478 dedicated coaches
who are supported across New York State; and

WHEREAS, Globally recognized for his expertise in both coaching and
officiating in Special Olympics sports as well as training athletes with
disabilities, Neal J. Johnson has served as a Lead Clinician for
coaching and officiating sports internationally and has been an
International Technical Official at every Special Olympics World Games
since 1995; and

WHEREAS, On behalf of people with intellectual disabilities, Neal J.
Johnson has spoken and presented to many corporations and civic
organizations as well as multiple levels of government including the New
York State Legislature, the United States Congress and the United
Nations; and

WHEREAS, In May of 2014, Neal J. Johnson was the recipient of an
Honorary Doctorate from St. Bonaventure University in recognition of his
four decades of lifelong service and tenacious leadership to those with
intellectual disabilities; and

WHEREAS, For the past 43 years, Neal J. Johnson rendered faithful,
conscientious and valuable service to Special Olympics New York, Inc.,
earning the admiration, esteem and affection of his colleagues; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom 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 this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Neal J. Johnson upon the occasion of his retirement after 20 years
of distinguished service as President and CEO of Special Olympics New
York, Inc.; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Neal J. Johnson.