Senate Resolution No. 2861
BY: Senator GOUNARDES
COMMENDING Hunter College of the City University
of New York upon the occasion of celebrating its
150th Anniversary
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those exemplary institutions of higher education within the
State of New York for their enduring commitment to the pursuit of
academic excellence; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Hunter College of the City University of New York upon the
occasion of celebrating its 150th Anniversary with a myriad of events to
be held throughout the year; and
WHEREAS, Located on Park Avenue in New York City, Hunter College is
a public university which truly values learning in the liberal arts and
sciences as a cornerstone of individual development and a vital
foundation for a more just and inclusive society; and
WHEREAS, Since its inception, Hunter College has strived to promote
personal development and self-awareness, foster life-long learning, and
equip each and every student with the habits of mind, character, and
confidence to embody its motto: The Care of the Future is Mine; and
WHEREAS, Throughout its 150-year history, many distinguished
individuals have graduated from Hunter College such as Nobel Laureates,
Rosalyn Sussman Yalow, Gertrude B. Elion; in addition to these notable
luminaries, numerous others have gone on to become Pulitzer Prize
winners, National Medal of Science winners, Presidential Medal of
Freedom winners, elected officials, and leaders in various fields across
the globe; and
WHEREAS, In 1870, Hunter College was established as the nation's
first free teacher's college, and was known as the Female Normal and
High School, and then as the Normal College of the City of New York; and
WHEREAS, In 1914, the college adopted its current name in honor of
its founder and first President Thomas Hunter, and under his progressive
leadership, the school became known for its rigorous academics, pursuit
of higher education for women, high entry requirements, and impartiality
regarding race, religion, ethnicity, financial or political favoritism;
and
WHEREAS, Even though the institution began as a teaching college,
the curriculum quickly expanded to a broader liberal arts program, and a
summer session began in 1916; shortly thereafter, students were offered
evening and extension classes for the first time, and in 1921,
graduate-level courses were introduced to the female student body; and
WHEREAS, In 1961, Hunter College was incorporated into the City
University of New York (CUNY), and three years later, it began admitting
men; today, more than 20,000 students are enrolled in 170 academic
programs which equip them with the tools to succeed in their chosen
professions; and
WHEREAS, For 150 years, Hunter College's undergraduate, graduate and
professional curricula have challenged students to think critically, to
approach problems from multiple perspectives, distinguish the questions
each raises, and recognize the kinds of evidence each values; and
WHEREAS, Under the visionary guidance of President Jennifer J. Raab,
Hunter College truly stands proud and prominent, always looking to the
future and the needs of those it serves; and
WHEREAS, Steeped in a proud and distinguished history, Hunter
College may look back with pride upon its humble beginnings, find just
satisfaction in its purposeful growth and hold true of purpose in its
dedication to serving the educational needs of its students; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 150th Anniversary of Hunter College of the City
University of New York, noting the propriety of its goals, the constancy
of its commitment and the significance of its accomplishments in
preparing the youth of today and leaders of tomorrow; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Jennifer J. Raab, President, Hunter College of the City
University of New York.