For Immediate Release—Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Contact:
Tony Hoppa
Assistant Vice President for Communications
(585) 245-5516
thoppa@geneseo.edu

SUNY Geneseo President Christopher C. Dahl Issues Statement of Support to Gov. David A. Paterson

GENESEO, N.Y.—The Honorable David A. Paterson takes the helm as New York's 55^th governor with knowledge of and familiarity with the State University of New York at Geneseo, having delivered the commencement address 10 months ago as then-lieutenant governor.

On May 12, 2007, Paterson told the graduates they were receiving their diplomas from one of the top schools in the country. "I think it is so great that a No. 1 school would invite a No. 2 to be its keynote speaker," he said.

Without knowing the prophecy of his words, Paterson told the audience New York state faced many hurdles regarding economic development, education and opportunities. He reminded the graduates they were entering a world facing serious challenges and urged them to use their creativity to find solutions to housing for the poor, substance abuse, crime, unemployment, health care and education.

"I am confident that Gov. Paterson will lead the Empire State wisely and well—and I believe that New York will continue to advance, even in difficult times," said Christopher C. Dahl, president of SUNY Geneseo. "Gov. Paterson's commitment to the Upstate Revitalization Plan and to securing the resources of an endowment for public higher education is heartening to all of us."

In a memo to Paterson dated March 13, Dahl referenced last May's commencement visit and reaffirmed the College's support for the new governor. "We were impressed then, and we are confident now," Dahl wrote Paterson. "We know that you are equal to the challenges facing New York state and want you to know that we stand ready to support you in all your endeavors as you assume the Governorship. Geneseo is prepared to help you in elevating the State University to a new level of excellence under your leadership."

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