College of Liberal Arts 2020-2021 Distinguished Alumnus: Osbourne A. McKay

The Distinguished Alumni Awards are presented annually by each of RIT’s nine colleges and the School of Individualized Study to alumni who have performed at the highest levels of their profession or who have contributed to the advancement and leadership of civic, philanthropic, or service organizations. It is the highest award an RIT college can bestow upon its alumni.

The 2020-2021 recipients will be honored during a virtual ceremony on April 29. Learn more and register for the event.

College of Liberal Arts 2020-2021 Distinguished Alumnus

Osbourne A. McKay ’88 (criminal justice)
Deputy commissioner, Correctional Industries, New York State Department of Corrections

What is your favorite RIT memory?

“I have several favorite RIT memories, so allow me to share just two. My first favorite RIT memory is becoming a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity 35 years ago. I am a life member and remain active in our local alumni chapter. My second favorite RIT memory is being awarded the Alfred L. and Ruby C. Davis Scholarship and being honored by the Mark Ellingson Association.”

What is your career highlight?

“My career highlights include running a statewide occupational firm in the mid-1990s and becoming deputy commissioner for New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, where I had the opportunity to bring about institutional change to infuse fairness and equity in the workplace.”