Senate Resolution No. 762

BY: Senator TEDISCO

COMMENDING Rabbi Robert S. Kasman upon the
occasion of receiving an Honorary Doctorate from the
Jewish Theological Seminary of America on March 2,
2017

WHEREAS, The character and richness of religious and community life
in this noble Empire State are nourished and fulfilled through the
faithful concern and selfless devotion of those who commit their
energies and purpose to the ministry of others; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to bring full
recognition and just tribute to individuals who distinguish themselves
and the ministry through their unremitting commitment and preeminence of
service; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Rabbi Robert S. Kasman upon the occasion of receiving an
Honorary Doctorate from his alma mater, the Jewish Theological Seminary
of America at its Convocation on Thursday, March 2, 2017, at the Sutton
Place Synagogue, in New York, New York; and

WHEREAS, After attending grade school, junior and senior high school
in Queens County, New York, Robert S. Kasman graduated from both
Columbia University and The Jewish Theological Seminary of America in
New York City; and

WHEREAS, After obtaining his degree, Robert S. Kasman began his
career as a spiritual leader serving in several counties throughout the
State of New York including Westchester, Bronx, Nassau, Dutchess, and
Schenectady; today, he holds the title of Rabbi at Temple Beth El in
Rensselaer, New York; and

WHEREAS, For the last 15 years, Rabbi Robert S. Kasman has been a
leader in Interfaith partnership in the Capital District; in this
capacity, he has served as a voice for peace and cooperation with
neighbors of all religions in various roles including an Interfaith
Chaplain at Sunnyview Hospital in Schenectady, and a Rabbinic Advisor to
the Historic Jewish Catholic Dialog in the Albany Roman Catholic
Diocese; and

WHEREAS, In addition, Rabbi Robert S. Kasman has taught ethics and
religion at various Catholic Schools, Maria College and Siena College in
Albany; currently, he chairs the Interfaith Meditation Room at the
Albany International Airport; and

WHEREAS, With a tremendous pride for his heritage, Rabbi Robert S.
Kasman has shown initiative and commitment toward constantly pursuing
higher goals for himself; he has worked tirelessly to better his
community through an overwhelming spirit of charity and compassion,
acting from vision and enlightenment in conducting his administrative
and spiritual duties, while always displaying the highest standards of
personal and professional integrity and dedication; and


WHEREAS, This distinguished man of God has always given
enlightenment, guidance and wisdom to the many entrusted to his care and
has administered abundantly and unstintingly to the spiritual and
corporal needs of all; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when a person
of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our attention it is
appropriate to publicly and jubilantly proclaim and commend that
individual for the edification of others; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Rabbi Robert S. Kasman upon the occasion of receiving an
Honorary Doctorate from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America,
noting his unremitting and compassionate faith and his exemplary service
to God, man, and his community, and extending to him heartfelt best
wishes for a future of continued purposeful success and well-being; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Rabbi Robert S. Kasman.