SUNY Canton Patron Helps Air Conditioning Engineering Technology Students

A World War II New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame inductee continues a tradition of donating to the college.

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Pictured are SUNY Canton alumnus John L. Halford Sr., his wife, Nelta, SUNY Canton Acting President Joseph C. Hoffman and Michael J. Newtown, dean of the Canino School of Engineering Technology.

CANTON, NY (06/19/2014)(readMedia)-- One of SUNY Canton's most dedicated supporters has made a donation to assist students working toward careers in his major.

Gouverneur's John L. Halford Sr. recently established an endowment to purchase modern equipment in SUNY Canton's Air Conditioning Engineering Technology program. Halford is a 1949 graduate who launched his own successful career based on his education.

"Careers in environmental systems continue to grow," Halford said. "I wanted to help support students who are looking into the field."

His contribution will be used annually to provide new tools and resources for students in the hands-on program. During the inaugural year, his contribution paid for approximately $25,000 in new technology. In subsequent years, the endowment will pay between $3,000 and $4,000 annually.

"We are genuinely proud of Mr. Halford and his commitment to the college and in the surrounding community," said Vice President for Advancement David M. Gerlach. "He has established a tradition of giving that has spanned more than 20 years. Most importantly, he truly wants to help area students to receive the best education possible."

While he was visiting the college, students from the SUNY Canton Veterans Association thanked Halford for his generosity by planting a tree at the main intersection on campus. Halford is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in World War II.

Shortly following the tree dedication ceremony, State Senator Patricia A. Ritchie announced that Halford would be inducted into the area's Veterans Hall of Fame. He was recognized at a special ceremony held May 15 at Fort Drum. He was then inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame on May 20 at the State Capitol.

Ritchie noted Halford's commitment to improving the lives of north country residents, especially through his work as a member of the SUNY Canton College Foundation Board of Directors. "I never expected this honor," he humbly said.

Halford is distinctly proud of his military service. He served in the Raider Battalion that was part of the raid on Makin Island in the Pacific Theater during World War II. After his time overseas, he returned to Gouverneur, finished high school and went on to SUNY Canton, then known as the Agricultural and Technical Institute. The numerous plaques denoting his generosity at the college are inscribed with the U.S. Marine Corps seal.

In the past year, the generous benefactor sponsored two scholarships that provide 15 students with annual awards. Approximately five of those students are from Halford's hometown.

"I hope students enjoy their time at the College and use their experience to shape their lives," he said. "We have many good students in Gouverneur and I'd like to see them all go on to college."

Halford holds the distinction of having the most places on SUNY Canton's campus named in his honor. The college is home to the Halford Lobby, located at the entrance of the Faculty Office Building, the Halford Alumni Suite in the Convocation, Athletic and Recreation Center ice rink, and the Halford Classroom in the Grasse River Suites residence hall. Another building will be named in his honor during the college's Alumni Weekend Celebration on July 18.

He is also a member of the SUNY Canton Hall of Fame and was selected as the college's distinguished alumnus in 2011.

About SUNY Canton

SUNY Canton is Northern New York's premier college for career-driven bachelor's degrees, associate degrees and certificate programs. The college delivers quality hands-on programs in engineering technology, health, management and public service. Faculty members are noted for their professional real-world experience in addition to outstanding academic credentials. SUNY Canton OnLine offers hundreds of flexible and convenient courses as well as eight exclusively online bachelor's degrees. The college's 14 athletic teams compete as provisional members of the NCAA Division III and the USCAA.

-www.canton.edu-