“Will Barclay has been a steady voice for our Conference and an outstanding statesman for New York. Leading a conference is not simple work,” said Gray. “It means dealing with strong opinions that may differ in the same room, moving in the same direction and doing it with respect. Will did that with diplomacy, fairness and good judgment. Will has been a steady voice for policy improvements in New York state.

“The relationship between the Barclay and Gray families goes back a generation, to the days when Will’s father, Doug, and my father, Robert, worked together while both were elected officials. That second-generation connection has always mattered, because Will brought the same decency and professionalism to the job every day.

“Deep appreciation goes to Will for his leadership and his service. Best wishes go to him and his family as he steps away from the role of conference leader, and gratitude remains for his continued work on behalf of the people of New York,” concluded Gray.