[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 66 (Thursday, April 21, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E396]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING MICHAEL J. PERRY FOR FORTY YEARS OF SERVICE AT SUNY CANTON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 21, 2022

  Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and commemorate 
the life of Michael J. Perry, known to his students as ``Poppa Mike,'' 
for 40 years of diligent service to SUNY Canton.
  Mr. Perry joined the SUNY Canton family in 1976 and served the 
students until his retirement in 2016. From Bookstore Manager to 
Executive Director of the College Association, Mr. Perry held many 
roles that established his supportive presence on campus. He was a 
member of the Canton College Foundation as well as both the Eastern and 
National Associations of Auxiliary Services. Upon retirement, Mr. Perry 
served as Town Supervisor for the Town of Hermon from 2020 until 2022. 
He remained actively involved with SUNY Canton by keeping score at 
their basketball games and advocating for student success.
  Students remember Mr. Perry as a strong advocate for their well-being 
and a major cultivator of their college experience. Many credit him for 
inspiring their passion for student leadership. For years, he organized 
the famous hot air balloon rides on Family Weekend and helped create 
numerous scholarships and enrollment opportunities. His colleagues will 
remember him as a unique and quick problem solver that helped their 
school thrive throughout many pivotal periods.
  Mr. Perry is survived by his four children and seven grandchildren, 
all who will undoubtedly carry on his legacy of service and 
encouragement. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to honor 
and remember Michael Perry for his four decades of dedication to the 
students and communities of the North Country.