POTSDAM -- The SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association recently honored George C. Arnold, a member of the Class of 1992, with the 2013 Distinguished Service Award at the College's annual Reunion Weekend.

The Distinguished Service Award is presented to an alumna or alumnus who has made exceptional contributions to the Alumni Association and/or the College. Arnold was honored for his significant achievements and exceptional contributions to both SUNY Potsdam and the Alumni Association.

For 31 years, Arnold has demonstrated his culinary artistry, professionalism, and abiding dedication to the College and the North Country community time and again. Many alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and friends have enjoyed his inspired meals at memorable campus events.

Arnold joined Potsdam Auxiliary College Educational Services in 1982 as catering chef, and currently is the executive director of dining services for PACES. A certified executive chef and food management professional, Arnold has contributed actively to his profession, and has received statewide and national recognition. He believes in the educational role that dining services plays on campus, and the benefits of locally sourced food. Over his tenure, Arnold has created a stellar student-centered campus dining program, with outstanding staff and quality dining options and superb special events. In large part due to his efforts, students voted PACES dining services No. 1 in SUNY in 2012.

In 1992, Arnold received his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from SUNY Potsdam and received the President's Award for Excellence in Professional Service that same year. He is a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society, the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society and Delta Kappa Theta.

Through his steadfast commitment to students and the entire campus community, Arnold has created a legacy of quality, creativity and generosity. Always going above and beyond, he has contributed his time and talents, volunteering on many committees and for a multitude of events, including for Reunion Weekend. He has been a loyal donor to several programs across campus, and has generously supported numerous North Country organizations. In recognition of his service, the College honored Arnold with the 2005 Leadership Through Service Award.

From 2001 to 2012, he served as a trustee for the SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association, and was president from 2008 to 2010. Through his numerous contributions as a trustee, Arnold has helped to deepen connections among alumni and other members of the Potsdam family. A fellow trustee has described him as "caring, creative, organized, super energetic and most committed to his alma mater."

To find out more about SUNY Potsdam's committed alumni, visit www.potsdam.edu/alumni