For nearly two decades the internship program for the Department was conducted by Drs. Joseph Testo and Theodore Huntington. Both these persons exhibit the highest ideals of the professorship and, when nominated , were unanimous selections for an award to those who contributed the most to field and university relationships. A show of hands by the practicing superintendents at the conference revealed a vast majority had either Dr. Testo or Dr. Huntington in graduate seminars or in the internship experience. Mark Berger, Chairperson of the Department at the time of the conference, speaks for the entire EAPS faculty as he describes the spirit of the luncheon;

Honoring professors and practitioners who have worked with the department was a fitting climax to a conference dedicated to reinforcing the commitment to join practice with theory. Both honorees Joseph Testo, emeritus professor of EAPS and Ted Huntington, adjunct professor in EAPS and former District Superintendent, have had distinguished careers in service as educational administrators. Their experience and knowledge contributed to the professional development of hundreds of our students who went on to administrative careers in New York schools. It was a perfect tribute to a well ordered conference bringing the academy and community together.

The following comments reflect the giving and selfless spirit of the two candidates.

Dr. Joseph Testo:

Perhaps the most important concept I have accepted in my life is that of community. The sense of community was highly evident throughout the morning sessions of the conference. It was especially evident in the sincere exchanges of shared experiences. This type of expression of mutual concern for improved professional practice carried over into the luncheon.

Then, through the sharing of a communal meal., administrators in various stages of professional preparation joined together with faculty and retired professors to reinforce the idea of continued learning. Continued learning leads to the improvement and enhancement of administrative practice. The demonstration of our interdependence and a willingness to share experiences was strongly evident. The luncheon seemed a natural and inextricable part of the total community experience.

I would encourage the Department to continue these kinds of conferences as they are of great value. Thank you for honoring me. I feel it is a great privilege to have been an EAPS faculty member.

Dr. Theodore Huntington:

My foremost impression of the superintendent's conference is that it should be done more often. Regardless of the content of the program, the interaction of the EAPS staff and local superintendents is valuable for all involved. As for the lunch, the recognition that was provided to Joe Testo and me is deeply appreciated. As it turned out, it became the culmination of my ten years of service at SUNY.

I consider the administrative internship to be the most important part of the preparation of future administrators. As the years go by, I take great pride in the accomplishments of students who served their internships under my supervision.

While my remarks were brief, I do recall speaking to those in attendance about the challenge of identifying and mentoring high quality personnel who might pursue administrative careers. It is obvious to me that many educators are disinclined to get into administration because of a myriad of challenges and low financial rewards. I also believe that the schools providing the best curriculum and instructional programs do so because of outstanding leaders.

It is always nice to hear a word of praise. My thanks to all that planned and conducted the conference and my best wishes to the entire EAPS faculty.