Ed Mucenski Recognized As Paul Harris Fellow

"Because you all know Ed, you know already that he does what he does very quietly, and without fanfare," said 2007-2008 Potsdam Rotary President Laura Cordts in recognizing Mucenski before more than 70 Rotarians and community members. "Tonight we have the chance to remedy that. In our club, the Paul Harris award is the highest honor we bestow. We award it only to those who truly go above and beyond in living up to our Rotary Motto of 'Service Above Self.'"

Mucenski was honored for his demonstrated commitment to the goals and purposes of Rotary and "in appreciation of his tangible assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations among peoples of the world." He received a commemorative certificate, a Paul Harris Fellow pin, and a medallion.

One-thousand dollars has also been donated in Mucenski's name to the Rotary Foundation, a not-for-profit corporation that supports the efforts of Rotary International to achieve world understanding and peace through international humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchange programs.

The contribution honoring the new Paul Harris Fellow will be used for projects like saving the lives of children through immunization, bringing water to remote global villages, or the establishment of hospitals in under-developed countries.

Mucenski, a certified public accountant, joined the Rotary Club in 1987 and has been a vital member ever since. He has served as club treasurer for many years and served as treasurer for the Rotary District 7040 Conference in 2005.

He also volunteers as chairman of the board at Canton-Potsdam Hospital and previously served as the chair of the board of trustees at Mater Dei College. Mucenski, the 2006 recipient of the SUNY Canton College Council's Distinguished Citizen Award, has also been involved with St. Joseph's Rehabilitation Center, St. Mary's Church, and several other community institutions.

A 1968 alumnus of SUNY Canton and 1971 graduate of Clarkson University, Mucenski resides in Potsdam with his wife of 36 years, Nancy. They have five children: Amy, Dennis, Patricia, Lynn and Caitlin.

Photo caption: Ed Mucenski is presented with Paul Harris Fellow recognition by 2007-2008 Potsdam Rotary Club President Laura Cordts.