Honor Polly Lougen’s Achievement

Senate Resolution No. 526 BY: Senator RANZENHOFER HONORING Polly Lougen upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the 2017 Sister Lucille Socciarelli/Father John Sturm Making a Difference Award by The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo WHEREAS, New York State's commitment to education is unparalleled; its history and stature are secured by the superlative caliber of its educational professionals and the students they inspire; and WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to acknowledge the significant achievements in the distinguished careers of those outstanding educational leaders, whose dedication and accomplishments have been instrumental in developing character and academic excellence in the young people of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Polly Lougen upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the

2017 Sister Lucille Socciarelli/Father John Sturm Making a Difference Award by The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, celebrated at its GALA 22:6 on Thursday, January 19, 2017, at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center in Buffalo, New York; and WHEREAS, Founded in 2001, this annual award is given to one teacher in the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo whose outstanding dedication is making a difference in Catholic Education; Polly Lougen has exhibited the true spirit of this prestigious award through her tireless dedication and commitment to her students and coworkers by discovering new and creative ways to teach and cultivate her skills; and WHEREAS, Polly Lougen attended Mount Mercy Academy and the former St. Ambrose School in South Buffalo; after graduation, she earned her master's degree in Education from the University at Buffalo; and WHEREAS, Throughout her 22 year career teaching in Catholic schools, Polly Lougen has always strived to teach her students that faith is essential to a good education and life; and WHEREAS, For the last 19 years, Polly Lougen has been an inspiring science teacher in grades three, four and five at St. Mary School in Swormville, New York; and WHEREAS, This exceptional educator has diligently worked to bring Common Core standards and science, technology, engineering, math and other topics into the classroom through creative projects which make learning more enjoyable and interesting for her students; and WHEREAS, Educators like Polly Lougen provide a tremendous service to the future of our State and Nation, inspiring generations of young people in their educational journeys and ensuring their success in their future years; and WHEREAS, Polly Lougen has clearly had an enduring impact on the youth of St. Mary School, as well as on the community-at-large, and accordingly merits recognition and applause for her impressive dedication to others; and WHEREAS, Throughout her career thus far, Polly Lougen has brought an uncompromising standard of excellence to her work and a warm sense of caring and concern to every young person she educates; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Polly Lougen upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the 2017 Sister Lucille Socciarelli/Father John Sturm Making a Difference Award by The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Polly Lougen.