Honor Michael Doherty’s Retirement

Senate Resolution No. 2784 BY: Senator O'MARA COMMENDING Michael Doherty upon the occasion of his retirement after more than 36 years of dedicated service to the Arc of Chemung WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to acknowledge the significant milestones in the distinguished careers of esteemed residents of this noble Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Michael Doherty upon the occasion of his retirement after more than 36 years of dedicated service to the Arc of Chemung; and WHEREAS, The Arc of Chemung, originally known as the Chemung County Association of Retarded Children, was founded in 1953; for more than half of its history, Michael Doherty has held the esteemed position of Executive Director; and WHEREAS, While working on his Masters of Psychology degree from the State University of New York at Cortland, Michael Doherty came to Elmira to work for Comprehensive Interdisciplinary Developmental Services, Inc.; and WHEREAS, At this point, Michael Doherty decided to work on the applied side of psychology and work directly with people; and WHEREAS, After earning his Ph.D. in special education from Temple University, Michael Doherty arrived at the Arc of Chemung; and WHEREAS, When Michael Doherty first started, there were major implications regarding the expenses required to continue the house; under his able leadership, the organization was able to come out of an extreme deficit and has grown considerably; and WHEREAS, Michael Doherty has uplifted the Arc of Chemung, creating a person-centered agency; he and his staff have worked diligently to ensure the safety and security of his customers; and WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, Joanne, and their three children, who have all shown him love and support and rejoice in his many achievements; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who enhance the quality of life in their community and have shown a long and sustained commitment to the maintenance of high standards in their profession, certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend Michael Doherty upon the occasion of his retirement after more than 36 years of dedicated service to the Arc of Chemung; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Michael Doherty.