Pfizer Director Anthony J. Helstosky to be Recognized with SUNY Delhi Honorary Doctorate

DELHI, NY (05/09/2015)(readMedia)-- Anthony J. Helstosky, a 1975 SUNY Delhi graduate who serves as Director of World-Wide Regulatory Strategy for Pfizer Global Research and Development, will be presented an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree at SUNY Delhi's 98th annual commencement exercises Saturday, May 16, at 10 a.m. in the Maines Arena, Clark Field House.

"Tony has devoted his career to making health better for mankind, and we are proud that millions worldwide are leading healthier lives because of his expertise and dedication," said President Candace S. Vancko. "His success as a SUNY Delhi Veterinary Science Technology graduate epitomizes the college's stature as the first and finest program in the nation."

Helstosky has served as the principal liaison to the federal Food and Drug Administration for Pfizer since 2004. In that role, Helstosky works closely with teams that develop new vaccines to both prevent and treat disease. He also leads sub-teams that coordinate regulatory activities with health agencies in other countries and with colleagues at Pfizer offices around the globe.

Helstosky's distinguished 35-year career in the biopharmaceutical industry is highlighted by participating in the development of several products approved by the FDA, including Primacor® and Toprol-XL® to treat congestive heart failure, Macugen® to treat retina disorders such as macular degeneration, and Entocort® CIR to treat Crohn's disease. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the industry, Helstosky has been the recipient of numerous corporate quality assurance and individual performance awards.

Helstosky's support of SUNY Delhi students and his alma mater is exceptional. He was honored as a Delhi Titan in 2007, returning to campus to share his career experiences with students, faculty and staff. The following year, he accepted an appointment to the college's Veterinary Science Technology Academic Advisory Council. In that role, he brings valuable insights on employment opportunities and trends in the biomedical and biopharmaceutical industries that help shape curricula and improve the learning experience for students. He and his wife Linda, who is also a Delhi graduate, recently established a scholarship endowment for Delhi Veterinary Science Technology students.

Over 600 candidates for baccalaureate degrees, associate degrees and certificates are expected to graduate on May 16. President Vancko will recognize the Baccalaureate Degree Student of the Year and the Associate Degree Student of the Year. Also scheduled to address the graduates are Provost John Nader and Vice President for Student Life Barbara Jones. Anthony Galloro, assistant professor for hospitality management, will sing the national anthem and the alma mater.

Prior to the conferring of degrees and certificates, President Vancko will recognize students, faculty and staff who earned the 2015 Chancellor's Award for Excellence, the State University's most prestigious honor.

SUNY Delhi is a member of the State University of New York, the largest comprehensive university system in the U.S. Delhi's seamless approach to education includes over 60 academic programs leading to baccalaureate degrees in specialized program areas, including Nursing, Hospitality Management, Business and Professional Golf Management, Golf and Sports Turf Management, Information Technology Management, Architectural Design and Building, Construction Technology and Management, Business and Technology Management and Criminal Justice. For more information about SUNY Delhi, call toll-free 1-800-96-DELHI or visit Delhi's web site at www.delhi.edu