State Senator Patty Ritchie was congratulated by SUNY Canton President Joseph Kennedy after she received the SUNY Canton Alumna Award at the college’s 104^th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday.

“Senator Ritchie has promoted SUNY Canton and the mission to provide career-driven educational options to the benefit of both its students and the greater North Country Community,” said Vice President for Advancement David Gerlach. “Her involvement and support will aid in our overall success and future growth.”

The Senator, who hold a bachelor's degree from Canton's sister college, Potsdam State, accepted her honor, and spoke about the importance of SUNY Canton and public higher education in a speech to more than 3,000, including graduating students and their families.