Senate Resolution No. 1322

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 75th Anniversary of Utica
College

WHEREAS, New York State's commitment to education is unparalleled;
its history and stature are secured by the superlative caliber of its
educational professionals and the students they inspire; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those institutions of true purpose and high achievement whose
exemplary programs and accomplishments clearly demonstrate an enduring
pursuit of excellence in higher education for the young adults 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
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Utica College; and

WHEREAS, The leaders of the City of Utica and Syracuse University
formally announce the opening of Utica College at a community dinner
held at the Hotel Utica on September 16, 1946; and

WHEREAS, Two weeks later, the inaugural Convocation ceremony was
held in the sanctuary of Plymouth Church, officially starting Utica
College's first academic year; and

WHEREAS, On October 19, 1961, the Burrstone Road campus was formally
dedicated, concluding the move from Oneida Square to the College's new
permanent location; and

WHEREAS, By 1978, Utica College was independently accredited; and

WHEREAS, Utica College was afforded governance and autonomy as an
independently chartered institution in 1995; and

WHEREAS, On October 17, 2008, Syracuse University and Utica College
publicly announced Utica's transition to full independence, fulfilling
the founding promise of a freestanding four-year college in the City of
Utica; and

WHEREAS, Utica College seized the initiative among America's
colleges and universities in addressing affordability by reducing its
tuition price by 42% on September 15, 2015; and

WHEREAS, Steeped in a proud and distinguished history, Utica College
may look back with pride upon its humble beginnings, find just
satisfaction in its purposeful growth and hold true of purpose in its
dedication to serving the educational needs of its students; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Utica College, noting the propriety
of its goals, the dependability of its commitment, and the significance
of its accomplishments; and be it further


RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Laura Casamento, the first female President in the
history of Utica College.