Awards & Honorary Degrees
Distinguished Service Award
Since 1966, the University Council has recognized a person or persons who have directly or indirectly played a key role in advancing SUNY Plattsburgh. This award, given at the pleasure of the University Council, was originally conceived by former President Dr. George W. Angell.
Awardees have included:
- The Honorable Ronald B. Stafford, New York State Senator, 43rd District and Chairman, Senate Committee on Higher Education
- The Honorable Daniel P. Moynihan, U.S. Senator
- Admiral Grace M. Hopper, Ret., United States Naval Reserve, pioneer in the field of scientific computing; teacher; engineer; researcher and author
- Roger W. Tubby, former White House Press Secretary under the late President Harry S. Truman.
Individuals have been recognized for their:
- Contribution to the university community or state.
- Demonstration of leadership ability in the service of others.
Nominations. If you would like to nominate someone for this prestigious award, please email [email protected]. Your email should address the person’s qualifications for the recognition.
The University Council considers selection of nominees periodically for presentation at the spring and/or winter commencement ceremonies.
Past Recipients
Honorary Degrees
The purposes of honorary degrees awarded by the State University of New York are to:
- Recognize excellence in the fields the degrees authorized at SUNY campuses as well as business, philanthropy, public affairs, and public service, which exemplify SUNY’s mission;
- Honor meritorious and outstanding service to SUNY, the State of New York, the United States, or to humanity at large; and,
- Recognize those whose lives and significant achievements serve as examples of SUNY’s aspirations for its diverse student body;
- Elevate SUNY in the eyes of the world by honoring individuals who are widely known and highly regarded for achievements in their respective fields of endeavor.