CANTON -- The SUNY Canton College Council has selected a professor who teaches in the veterinary science technology program as the recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Faculty Award.

Dr. Tony Beane was presented the award at the college's Pauline A. Graveline Honors Convocation Ceremony April 26.

During his 18-year career at SUNY Canton, he has built a reputation as an engaging and caring educator, according to the announcement from the college. Students say his passion for animal care and emphasis on intellectual development inspires them to reach their full potential, the statement said.

"Dr. Beane is devoted to creating a learning community that fosters the academic, social and professional growth of our students," said Associate Provost and Dean of Academic Support Services and Instructional Technologies Molly A. Mott, Ph.D.

Upon accepting his award, Beane thanked the students, faculty and administrators who wrote letters of support for his nomination, and he congratulated those who were being recognized at the ceremony.

"I hope that I, along with your other teachers, advisors and mentors, have been able to prepare you for your futures," he told the audience.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he is an active member of the campus community, serving on the Canton College Foundation Board of Directors and the Faculty Affairs Committee. His most visible contribution to the college is a beautification project in which he personally selected, planted and maintains several varieties of trees and plants across campus.

"Not only do Dr. Beane's activities show his commitment to the school and the community, but they also serve to make him a tremendous role model to the students," said Veterinary Science Technology Department Chair Dr. Mary O'Horo Loomis.

He is currently the attending veterinarian on the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees for St. Lawrence and Clarkson Universities and has served as the Vice President of the Potsdam Humane Society Board of Directors. Beane is also the Secretary-Treasurer for the Northern New York Veterinary Medical Society.

He received a bachelor of arts in biology from SUNY Potsdam in 1984 and a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Cornell University in 1988.