CORRECTED: City Educator Honored for Life-Long Contributions

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James Cannon

ALBANY, NY (03/26/2009)(readMedia)-- James D. Cannon, retired administrator from the Syracuse City School District, has been selected as the 2009 recipient of the Irving Schwartz Distinguished Retiree Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS).

Irving Schwartz was a founding member of SAANYS. His exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to his profession was demonstrated through his countless years of participation in SAANYS and its national affiliate, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). This award is given annually to a retired SAANYS member who, in retirement, has made significant contributions to the welfare of the association, education, and the greater community.

Cannon has been a dedicated leader with an exceptional commitment to education that has spanned nearly 30 years – all within the Syracuse City School District. He began his career in education as an interdisciplinary teacher in the Occupational Learning Center. After six years, he moved into administration where he served in several positions including vice principal, principal, and assistant director of special education.

In retirement, Cannon has continued his commitment to students and the community through involvement in community organizations and activities. He remains active in SAANYS, the Syracuse Association of Administrators and Supervisors, the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Syracuse City School District Educational Foundation, and ARC of Onondaga.

According to Syracuse Assistant Director of Special Education Linda Mulvey, "Jim has been a mentor to many teachers, administrators, and students over his 30+ year career in our district. In retirement, he continues to lead and mentor others." Asked about his educational philosophy, Cannon states, "I believe, as school leaders, we must recognize the value of each individual; articulate a vision that embraces a preferred future for educating our children; and motivate others to achieve the goals, mission, and objectives of our organization to realize our vision."

Cannon will be honored for his accomplishments at an awards banquet, May 1, 2009 at the Gideon Putnam Hotel in Saratoga Springs, New York.

SAANYS represents more than 7,000 school principals, supervisors, and directors. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

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