Honoree-
George Sutton

George Sutton’s long association with the University began while he was studying at the C.W. Post Campus. He needed a night job and Post’s security department needed a mounted patrolman to keep its wooded lanes secure. Mr. Sutton was hired and fully outfitted with an equestrian uniform. He was more than pleased when he was able to trade his horse in for a patrol car. Mr. Sutton eventually became director of security, at the same time doing graduate work at Post in math, management science and engineering. These were fields in which he excelled, sharp-ening his skills and tutoring others. His long days included a part-time job in Post’s athletic department as coach of the rifle team he led to an NCAA championship.

It was during his time as director of security, from 1967-1973, that C.W. Post became a rallying point for war-protesting students from all over Long Island. Protesters were active and vocal, but not violent. As long as there was peace, Post President Robert Payton felt there should be tolerance — a position made possible by the security director.

Mr. Sutton, who holds a B.A. in history and education from the State University of New York, went on to work as assistant director of institutional research at Post, later becoming director at University Center. Subsequently, he served as University director of personnel and labor relations for 10 years. During this time, he went to Touro Law School at night, earning his J.D. and graduating with honors.

In 1990, Mr. Sutton joined the law firm of Fulbright & Jaworski, counselors for Long Island University. He specialized in labor, personnel and commercial litigation. Two years later President David Steinberg offered him the position of legal counsel at University Center. Today, he serves as vice president for legal services and university counsel. He and his wife, Joyce, reside in Northport, New York. The Suttons have two children.

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