LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Father Mark Connell upon the occasion of
his designation as recipient of the Human Rights Award by the Orange
County Human Rights Commission

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made signif-
icant contributions to the quality of life therein; and
WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain
extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued
contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Father Mark
Connell upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Human
Rights Award by the Orange County Human Rights Commission, to be cele-
brated at its 21st Annual Awards Dinner on Thursday, April 21, 2016, at
The Fountains of Wallkill, Middletown, New York; and
WHEREAS, This esteemed man has been called upon to contribute his time
and talents to countless civic and charitable endeavors and has always
given of himself unstintingly; he is being honored by the Orange County
Human Rights Commission in recognition of his steadfast dedication to
the community and his work to build better relationships among diverse
people, encouraging them to participate in community life on an equal
basis; and
WHEREAS, In 2004, Father Mark Connell gathered students and their
families from different walks of life to create the San Miguel Academy
of Newburgh, a school for underserved boys which provides a safe haven
for intellectual, emotional and spiritual growth; and
WHEREAS, Under Father Mark Connell's luminous guidance, San Miguel
Academy has helped its students defy the odds of succeeding academically
utilizing small class sizes, extended school days, and an extended
school year to fight the cycle of poverty through education; and
WHEREAS, Father Mark Connell's vision, dedication and commitment to
the students of San Miguel and their families has helped over 150 boys
to graduate and embark on their journey to a brighter future with the
skills necessary to be leaders in the 21st Century; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of his community service, a
period of constructive involvement, Father Mark Connell has stood
constant in dignity, good grace and humor; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Father Mark Connell has displayed
throughout his life; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-
tion, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of
this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Father Mark Connell upon the occasion of his designation as recip-
ient of the Human Rights Award by the Orange County Human Rights Commis-
sion on April 21, 2016; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Father Mark Connell.