Senator Robach To Co-chair Suny Legislative Alumni Caucus

The State University of New York, in concert with State Senator Joseph Robach, SUNY Brockport classes of 1980/82 and Member of Assembly Sam Hoyt, Buffalo State College class of 1992, have formed the SUNY Legislative Alumni Caucus - bringing together the 51 current members of the state legislature who are alumni of the State University. Senator Robach and Assemblyman Hoyt are the Caucus co-chairs.

The purpose of the caucus is to create a cohesiveness between SUNY alumni legislators and the University to reconnect them with their alma mater, and the University as a whole, to continue the dialogue that began when they were students, with the goal of providing a better understanding of role SUNY plays in public higher education through its educational offerings, research, and cultural and community interactions.

"The outstanding education I received at SUNY Brockport prepared me to meet the challenges I face everyday as a state Legislator," said Sen. Robach. "A SUNY Legislative Alumni Caucus will help to focus attention on the important role of public higher education in preparing our students for the demands of the global economy and to address many other issues such as enhancing SUNY’s impact on the state economy. I am very happy to be able to play a part in leading the SUNY Alumni Caucus."

"The number of SUNY alumni in the Legislature has increased from five in the early 1960’s to more than 50 today," said Member of Assembly Hoyt. "Strengthening the voice of SUNY in the Legislature will help our campuses achieve their educational, research and public service missions. As a proud alumnus of Buffalo State College, I am pleased to help lead this important initiative."

The caucus will provide a forum to the sharing of educational programs and a dialogue for our legislators to discuss issues affecting higher education that are relevant and timely. The inaugural event for the Caucus was held Monday, Jan. 28 at the State Capitol and was hosted by Carl T. Hayden, chairman of the SUNY Board of Trustees and the Interim Chancellor Clark.