OXFORD – An Oxford graduate was appointed earlier this month to New York’s State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) by Governor David A. Paterson. The group is an advisory body that makes policy, procedural and operational recommendations to the State’s Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped.

A 2002 Oxford Academy graduate, Aaron T. Baier now lives in Cortland County and is the only representative from the county on the council. Baier joins 23 other from across the state assigned to the post.

“It is a great honor to have these opportunities. The appointment to the SRC will give me a chance to ensure the system that once served me so well, will continue to improve its services for individuals who are blind or visually impaired,” said Baier.

This is not the first time Baier has been chosen to advocate for the disabled. In January, he was also appointed to the Governing Board of the Maryland-based, National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN).

The organization promotes youth leadership and education through advocacy programs and Baier is the sole New York State’s representative on the national, 18-member board.

“I am honored to join the NYLN Governing Board and look forward to sharing my ideas and energy with some of the best young leaders around the country. My primary goal will be to make sure that young people with disabilities in New York know how to set and reach their own goals,” said Baier.