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STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK
COLLEGE AT OLD WESTBURY
BOX 210 OLD WESTBURY, LONG ISLAND NEW YORK 11568
(516)876-3000
[[underlined]] OLD WESTBURY FACULTY COMMENDATION 
OF JAMES BALDWIN ON HIS SIXTIETH BIRTHDAY [[/underlined]]

For over three decades, the writings of James Baldwin have enriched our knowledge and our humanity in their elegant and masterful presentation of the Afro-American and the American experience. The publication of his first novel, [[underlined]]Go Tell it on the Mountain [[/underlined]], gave the country a forceful and compassionate portrayal of Afro-American childhood and adolescence. In subsequent novels - from [[underlined]] Giovanni's Room [[/underlined]] through [[underlined]] Just Above My Head [[/underlined]] - Mr. Baldwin's artistry, courage, and commitment to humane literacy have enlarged our vision of life and deepened our understanding of the American landscape. The modern American sensibility has been shaped and refined by the author's exploration of life and letters in his powerful essays, notably those collected in [[underlined]] Notes of a Native Son, The Fire Next Time, [[/underlined]] and [[underlined]] More Notes of a Native Son[[/underlined]]. In words and in deeds, he has played an immeasurable role in the transformation of our society and in the evaluation of our intellectual and moral life. 
In recognition of his long and distinguished career, the Faculty of the State University of New York, College at Old Westbury, extends its congratulations to Mr. Baldwin upon the celebration of his sixtieth year.