SUNY-ESF Employees Honored by Chancellor

12/20/2012

Three employees of the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) were honored by Chancellor Dr. Nancy L. Zimpher for their service to the State University of New York.

James Halligan, an instructional support specialist for the Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, was honored with the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Professional Service. The award recognizes consistently superior professional achievement within and beyond the position and those who serve as professional role models for a university system in the pursuit of excellence.

Halligan has been with ESF for more than 32 years. He began his career as a silviculture technician and helped organize and manage the summer program in field forestry. He became associate director of the department's 10-week summer field course at Pack Forest. He became increasingly involved with the scientific equipment including computers used by his academic department. He helped develop the first geographic information systems courses taught at ESF and has been a primary resource for students and faculty with regards to the technical aspects of their research.

Michael Webb, survey technology program instructor at The Ranger School in Wanakena, received the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching.

This award honors those who consistently have demonstrated superb teaching at the undergraduate, graduate or professional level.

Webb has been with ESF since 2001. He has learned new computer software, incorporating into his classes and developing manuals to assist with student learning. As a licensed surveyor with a history of running his own business, he brings professional experience to his classes. His effective teaching style combines enthusiasm for the subject and class involvement.

Sara Young, secretary I in the Department of Human Resources, received the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Classified Service. The award is given to University Classified Service staff who have consistently demonstrated superlative performance within and beyond their position.

Young has been with ESF since 1999 and was recognized for her willingness to go beyond her job description. She has helped increase opportunities for training on campus, serves on multiple college committees and often adjusts her schedule to accommodate the needs of fellow employees who need assistance.