Paul J. Connor Named Trustee Of The Year

GREENPORT, NY — It's a tremendous accolade for Paul J. Connor III, vice-chair of Peconic Landing's board of trustees, who was honored by LeadingAge New York with its 2017 Trustee of the Year Award.

The award recognizes those who have “served unselfishly and with distinction, devoting significant contributions of time and effort toward the betterment of his or her organization or service to seniors,” according to LeadingAge New York.

Paul Connor was presented with the award by LeadingAge New York President and CEO James W. Clyne Jr. during a celebration at Peconic Landing on August 17, a release from Peconic Landing said.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Paul on past projects, and Paul always steps up and does the right thing when it comes to advocating for the long-term care community,” said Clyne.

Connor joined Peconic Landing’s board of trustees in 2001, "playing an integral role in the strategic growth and success of the community, advocating for members and seniors across the East End," Peconic Landing said in the release.

He was nominated by his fellow board members, with support from state lawmakers.

“I believe the true measure of the value of each of our trustees is their ability to oversee and steer our organization in a manner that allows Peconic Landing to achieve its mission while also having a vision for the future. Paul Connor does both at the highest level,” said Sandra K. Novick, chair of the board of trustees. “He provides leadership, community-based knowledge, healthcare savvy, and guidance contributing greatly to our community’s success.”

Connor said he feels it is a privilege to be part of the Peconic Landing board.

"This recognition underscores the board’s commitment to the mission and vision of Peconic Landing to create an environment where our community can age successfully,” he said.

The "depth of Paul’s commitment to Peconic Landing and its mission" was abundantly clear following the unfortunate and untimely death of its former board chairman, John M. May, who passed away during a $44 million residential living and health center expansion project in 2015, Peconic Landing added in the release.

“Taking over as interim board chairman during this expansion, Paul led the community through an at-times challenging transition, resulting in an extremely successful execution that will help the community to better serve its members,” said Robert J. Syron, president and CEO of Peconic Landing.

“Paul has spent nearly 20 years supporting the efforts of the community, assisting from concept to the creation of the CCRC we are today,” Syron added. “He has spent countless hours making himself available to community members and the management team for advice and counsel, helping to move this organization forward.”

Connor also serves as president and CEO of Eastern Long Island Hospital.

“Paul continues to work to recruit leading doctors and surgeons to provide better access to healthcare services for our local seniors,” said Tom Murray, chair of the board of trustees for ELIH. “Peconic Landing and Eastern Long Island Hospital are better organizations thanks to Paul’s many contributions and dedication to serving the residents of the North Fork.”

Paul has also served as chairman of the board of directors of the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council and on the board of the East End Health Alliance.

“Paul has an outstanding commitment and years of service to older Americans and consistently strives to make a difference in their quality of life,” said New York State Senator Ken LaValle. “Paul is committed to putting ‘care’ back in healthcare for residents and visitors alike, and is always there to lend a helping hand to those in need.”

Photo courtesy of Peconic Landing.