Thursday, October 24, 2002

Tom Sykes Named to Special Services School Board

County Executive Dennis Levinson announced today the appointment of Thomas J. Sykes of Atlantic City to the Board of the Atlantic County Special Services School.

According to Levinson, Sykes has a unique set of skills and experience that will make him an important asset to the Board as it completes construction on its new facilities in Mays Landing. "Tom is a highly regarded and capable architect who has a history of solid public service. He previously served for 13 years as Chairman of the Atlantic City Convention and Visitors Authority. The new convention center was constructed during his tenure. He also has a personal understanding of the needs of our Special Services students, having had a brother with a disability. His appointment comes at a good time. His expertise will be invaluable in getting construction of the new school building, which is now behind schedule, back on track. We are extremely fortunate that he is willing to accept this appointment. I look forward to working with him," Levinson said.

Sykes is the founder and principal of SOSH Architects, one of the largest and most respected architectural firms in the area. He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and a member of the American Institute of Architects and BOCA International. His designs include several casino expansions, the Atlantic County Fire Training Center, the Atlantic City Public Safety Building, the Wildwood Convention Center, the Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City and the Atlantic City High School Boathouse.

Syke's brother, Donald, was an effective community leader and served as the chairman of the county's Disabled Citizens Advisory Board. After his death in 1991, the county renamed its annual Disability Awards program in his memory.

Sykes stated he is deeply interest in the mission of the Special Services School and looks forward to working with the school's teachers, staff and members of the Board.

His nomination was unanimously approved by the Board of Freeholders at its meeting on October 22. For more information, please contact Howard Kyle, Chief of Staff, at 343-2223.

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