C. Thomas "Chip" Cummings to be Honored During Commencement

Cummings has been an ardent supporter of his alma mater. The former Cardinal athlete came to SUNY Plattsburgh after graduating from Ticonderoga High School. As a student, Cummings was on the basketball and baseball teams, although a job as the night clerk at a local hotel stymied his participation on the basketball team. He continued, however, to play shortstop on the baseball team throughout his college career.

Inducted into the Cardinal Sports Hall of Fame in 1988, Cummings has supported the athletic program at SUNY Plattsburgh through his generous philanthropy to the Plattsburgh College Foundation. Several years ago, when he learned of the possibility of baseball returning as an intercollegiate sport at SUNY Plattsburgh, Cummings turned his excitement into action and gave a generous leadership gift of $250,000 for the construction of a top-quality baseball field. The field was dedicated in 2002 and named "Chip Cummings Field" in his honor.

A member of the Board of Directors of the Plattsburgh Alumni Association since 1977, Cummings is also a member of the Cardinal Booster Club Board of Directors. He spent his career as a teacher, administrator and school business officer for more than 30 years and was an active volunteer working with youth organizations. 

The Distinguished Service Award is presented by the College Council to honor persons who have made a lasting contribution to the College, community, state, nation and/or to the international human community.

-- 30 --