CANTON -- Several SUNY Canton employees were awarded for their outstanding service and contributions at the college's annual Recognition Day event.

Excellence in College Service Award

The SUNY Canton College Council selected two recipients of this year's Excellence in College Service Award: Instructional Support Associate for the Physical Therapist Assistant program Anne L. Reilly and the entire Information Services Department.

Reilly has been part of the progression of the college's two-year Physical Therapist Assistant program since its launch in 1996. Her duties extend well beyond the day-to-day operations of the laboratory space, and her colleagues noted her extensive volunteer work on campus, engagement in faculty governance and commitment to professional growth.

"Anne is a skilled clinician who is passionate about her profession and passes that enthusiasm on to our students," said College Council Chair Ronald M. O'Neill. "We are privileged to have her as a colleague and pleased to recognize her with this award."

The council also selected the Information Services Department to receive this year's award for facilitating the pivot to remote learning and instruction in 2020. Nominators credited their professionalism and efficiency during unprecedented circumstances.

"As the pandemic required the college and its students to rely entirely on technology to work, teach and learn, the Information Services Department stepped up to the challenge and kept us connected and, most importantly, moving forward," O'Neill said.

President's Meritorious Service Award

Before the conclusion of the event, SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran presented two employees with the 2022 Meritorious Service Award: Veterinary Science Technology Program Director Dr. Mary O'Horo Loomis and Director of Student Conduct Kristen Roberts.

O'Horo Loomis is a SUNY Canton alumna and began working for the college as an adjunct instructor in 1994. She teaches Animal Agriculture, Health and Disease of Farm Animals, Large Animal Medicine, Animal Hospital Practices and Procedures, as well as several courses in Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology. O'Horo Loomis was also involved in establishing the college's other veterinary-related degrees: she developed the curriculum for the four-year Veterinary Technology degree and was instrumental in implementing the four-year Veterinary Service Administration degree.

"Mary consistently has gone above and beyond her job duties during her entire 28-year career at the college," Szafran said. "She's a phenomenal advisor and a fantastic educator, as well as devoted colleague."

Roberts began working for the college as a residence hall director in 2007 and was promoted to director of student conduct in 2013. During that time, she has earned the respect of students and co-workers alike for her integrity and compassion. Nominators described her as a dedicated student advocate whose primary goal is always to create an environment where students feel safe and heard.

"Her exceptional wisdom and judgement is invaluable to guide students back on the right path and help them access resources if they are struggling with problems on campus or at home," Szafran said. "Serving as a confidant, 'bonus' parent, advisor, mentor and friend, Kristen continually 'shows up' for those who need an extra adult in their lives."

All recipients were presented with their awards during a formal ceremony at the college May 20.

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SUNY Canton Instructional Support Associate Anne L. Reilly, center, accepts a SUNY Canton College Council award from Council member Jennifer Stevenson and SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran at the college's Employee Recognition Day. SUNY Canton Photo.