Education Leader Honored for Life-Long Contributions

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Kevin Mulligan

ALBANY, NY (05/11/2021) (readMedia)-- ALBANY, NY – Kevin Mulligan, retired school administrator from the Chazy Central Rural School District, has been selected as the recipient of the 2021 Irving Schwartz Distinguished Retiree Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). Irving Schwartz was a founding member of SAANYS. 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.

Having served in North Country schools for more than 30 years, it was during Mulligan's tenure in the Chazy Central Rural SD, that the district was recognized for its high academic achievement. Mulligan was known as an educator who took exception to the concept of teaching for the test and instead embraced the practice of inspiring students to learn and engage in skills of analysis and writing, as well as spoken expression. Commented retired principal Thomas Tregan, "During his career, he effectively and expertly impacted education, culminating as superintendent of schools. Due to his work, dedication, and vision we were recognized as a US Department of Education High performing Blue Ribbon School. Though the actual recognition occurred after his retirement, his support, skillful hiring, development of programs and school systems were instrumental in the recognition." Tregan continues, noting that " Kevin's contributions did not end with retirement. He remains a steadfast advocate for children, schools, and administrators, and the values that we hold high in education."

Since retiring, Mulligan has served as a SAANYS Region 7 labor relations specialist as well as currently

serving as president of the board of directors for the Retired Educators of NY (RENY), formerly NYS Retired Teachers' Association (NYSRTA). Commented RENY Executive Office Manager Mary Kathleen Bassett, "He has worked tirelessly to help move the Association forward. Kevin has been instrumental, in fact, he has been the driving force, behind reidentifying and marketing RENY to attract new members." Commented SAANYS member Joanna Valenti Orr, "Kevin works for all retired educators in New York State. He is especially interested in the issues surrounding health insurance. He works hard for SAANYS members and other educators too. Kevin's sense of humor and keen insight have gotten us through tough times. I rely on him for advice on many issues."

Mulligan received his bachelor of arts, master of arts, and certificate of advanced studies from SUNY Plattsburgh.

SAANYS represents nearly 8,000 school administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. 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