Senate Resolution No. 2067
BY: Senator HELMING
COMMENDING Camp Stella Maris upon the occasion of
celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2026
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those organizations of high purpose and worthy
accomplishment whose endeavors have faithfully served the welfare of the
youth of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Camp Stella Maris upon the occasion of celebrating its 100th
Anniversary; and
WHEREAS, For a century, Camp Stella Maris, located along the eastern
shore of Conesus Lake in the Town of Livonia, Livingston County, has
provided generations of young people with opportunities for growth
through friendship, faith, and enriching summer experiences; and
WHEREAS, In 1926, seminarians Gerald Lambert and Eugene Hudson
envisioned the lakeshore as the ideal setting for a summer camp where
youth could grow in faith, friendship, and confidence; that first
summer, 12 boys laid the foundation for what would become a cherished
and enduring institution; and
WHEREAS, Shortly thereafter, the property which continues to serve
as the camp's home was secured through the generosity of Max Russer and,
following his passing, his wife, Eleanor Russer, who entrusted the land
to the Diocese of Rochester to ensure its continued use for the benefit
of young people; and
WHEREAS, Guided by the traditions of the Roman Catholic faith, Camp
Stella Maris expanded its mission in 1941 to include girls, broadening
opportunities for participation and leadership, and continuing its
commitment to fostering personal growth, confidence, and lifelong
friendships; and
WHEREAS, Today, Camp Stella Maris welcomes thousands of campers each
year through both day and overnight programs, with many families
returning generation after generation, establishing a legacy of shared
experiences and enduring connections; and
WHEREAS, Camp Stella Maris is steadfast in its commitment to
accessibility, providing financial assistance through the Charles M.
Bayer Campership Program, thereby ensuring that all children, regardless
of financial circumstances, have the opportunity to benefit from the
camp experience; and
WHEREAS, Beyond its summer programming, Camp Stella Maris serves the
broader community year-round, hosting schools, youth organizations, and
businesses for retreats, team-building, and leadership development
through initiatives such as the Adventure-Based Learning Experience
(ABLE) program, which has enriched the lives of thousands since its
inception in 1972; and
WHEREAS, The success and longevity of Camp Stella Maris is in direct
correlation to the vision of its founders and the steadfast dedication
of its staff, volunteers, community partners, and supporters, whose
efforts have ensured its continued impact over the past century; and
WHEREAS, As Camp Stella Maris looks toward its second century, it
remains committed to growth and innovation, including plans for a new
fieldhouse to enhance year-round programming and expand opportunities
for leadership, recreation, and community engagement; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Camp Stella Maris upon the occasion of celebrating its 100th
Anniversary, and to honor its founders, staff, volunteers, and
supporters, past and present, who have labored so conscientiously to
enrich the lives of countless young people and strengthen the fabric of
the community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Camp Stella Maris.
