Senate Resolution No. 5717

BY: Senator BONACIC

CONGRATULATING Steve McLaughlin upon the occasion
of his retirement after 48 years of dedicated
service to the field of Human Services

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished citizens of this great Empire State who have
devoted themselves to faithfully serving the best interests of their
community and the needs of its residents; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
congratulate Steve McLaughlin upon the occasion of his retirement after
48 years of dedicated service to the field of Human Services; and

WHEREAS, After a career in Human Services which traversed nearly
five decades, Steve McLaughlin served the last eight years as Executive
Director of Action Towards Independence (ATI); he officially retired
from this esteemed position on Sunday, May 13, 2018; and

WHEREAS, Under the luminous direction of Steve McLaughlin, ATI
serves and empowers people with disabilities; additionally, this vital
organization promotes the independence, inclusion, participation and
personal choice of these individuals; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his illustrious career, Steve McLaughlin has
truly advanced the independent living philosophy, advocating for the
legal and civil rights of individuals with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, Steve McLaughlin has been instrumental in the
numerous and remarkable changes in how society provides care and
services to people with disabilities, including going from institutions
to living in the community and providing a free and appropriate
education to all children; and

WHEREAS, With a fundamental caring and respect for human life and
dignity and a drive toward making things better for other people, Steve
McLaughlin has been a staunch supporter of the disabilities rights
movement to provide equal access, inclusion and self-direction; and

WHEREAS, Sincerely loved and greatly respected by all those with
whom he worked, Steve McLaughlin will be remembered for his honesty,
integrity, keen sense of duty and ability to show a unique grasp of
human problems in his official acts; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a compassionate
blending of strength, leadership, intellect, and commitment as that
demonstrated by Steve McLaughlin over a lifetime of sacrifice and
dedication to others; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Steve McLaughlin upon the occasion of his retirement after
48 years of dedicated service to the field of Human Services; and be it
further


RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Steve McLaughlin.