LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Alex Finsel upon the occasion of his
designation as the recipient of the Jean Edgecumbe Groff Graduate Schol-
arship in Education in the School of Education at the University at
Albany

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to act, in accord with
its long-standing traditions, to honor the achievements of its young
citizens and leaders of tomorrow, whose character and accomplishments
exemplify the ideals and values cherished by this great State and
nation; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Alex Finsel
upon the occasion of his designation as the recipient of the 2013 Jean
Edgecumbe Groff Graduate Scholarship in Education in the School of
Education at the University at Albany; and
WHEREAS, SUNY Albany Distinguished Professor Daniel C. Levy has
described Alex Finsel as always being one of the first to have his hand
up in the classroom, stay engaged in conversation, and take part in
discussions outside the class; and
WHEREAS, Professor Levy further describes Alex Finsel as "being
special in that he is not only very bright, he is very inquisitive; he
tenaciously tries to figure things out and, he is similarly vigorous in
his pursuit, but he is also modest"; and
WHEREAS, In receiving this new scholarship, Alex Finsel has said that
he hopes his students will realize that if they work hard at something,
it can open up opportunities; and
WHEREAS, Alex Finsel knows that the most important gift anybody has is
their mind and that whether one chooses to use their mind or not is up
to the individual; and
WHEREAS, Alex Finsel is a graduate of Shaker High School and Shaker
High School Principal Richard Murphy has said the school is "extremely
proud of his accomplishments"; and
WHEREAS, Associate Professor of Educational Administration and Policy
Studies Sandra Vergari is Alex Finsel's Advisor at the University at
Albany and describes him as "passionate about education issues and also
a careful, analytical thinker"; and
WHEREAS, Alex Finsel has demonstrated a sincere interest in helping to
address the challenges confronting today's teachers, students and public
education in general; and
WHEREAS, An outstanding role model for his peers, Alex Finsel has
brought honor to his family, school, and community; and
WHEREAS, Alex Finsel may stand with pride in his achievements, experi-
encing the satisfaction of his labors and the joy of his accomplish-
ments, eager to face the challenge of new experiences as he continues
his education and begins his career; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Alex Finsel upon the occasion of his designation as the recipient
of the Jean Edgecumbe Groff Graduate Scholarship in Education in the
School of Education at the University at Albany; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Alex Finsel.