Provided photo: Pat Turner, co-president of Alpha Theta, presents the Alpha Theta Woman of Distinction Award to Nelda Callard.
MEDINA – Every other year Delta Kappa Gamma Chapters recognize a Woman of Distinction. A Woman of Distinction is a woman who stands out and is recognized for her achievements, leadership and positive influence.
This woman is a chapter member who embodies what it means to be a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. She is involved in all phases of the chapter and makes significant contributions to education.
Nelda Callard of Medina is a retired teacher from Royalton-Hartland Central School. She was an outstanding teacher and continues to foster education and learning in our society and the community.
Nelda is presently the Treasurer for Apha Theta and a treasured member of Delta Kappa Gamma.
ALFRED – The Spring 2024 Dean’s List features 755 Alfred State College students including several from Orleans County. To be named to the Dean’s List, students had to take a minimum of 12 credit hours of course work and earn a minimum 3.5 grade point average (GPA) out of a possible 4.0.
“I’m continually impressed by the dedication our students show in both the classroom and the labs,” commented Vice President for Academic Affairs Carrie Cokely, PhD. “Congratulations on achieving this milestone—keep pushing forward in your pursuit of academic excellence!”
The students from Orleans County on the Dean’s List include:
Lorelei Dillenbeck of Lyndonville, majoring in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Owen Hirschman of Kendall, majoring in Welding Technology
Alex King of Kendall, majoring in Business Administration
Xavier King of Medina, majoring in Welding Technology
Ethan Kuhn of Kendall, majoring in Health Sciences
James Salvatore of Albion, majoring in Motorsports Technology
Jacob Wilson of Lyndonville, majoring in Elec Cons & Maintenance Electrician
BUFFALO – The following students from Orleans County graduated from the University at Buffalo.
• Jylees Bermudez of Albion graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in health and human services from the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Brooklyn Brown of Medina graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in public health from the School of Public Health and Health Professions.
• Amaya Cancino of Holley graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in health and human services from the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Thomas Costello of Medina graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
• Ethan Creig of Medina graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history/social studies adolescence education from the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Nathan Dillenbeck of Lyndonville graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
• Matthew Drum of Medina graduated with a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
• Anthony Gagliardo of Medina graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the College of Arts and Sciences and a bachelor’s degree in physics from the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Ej Lloyd of Albion graduated with a bachelor’s degree in cognitive science from the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Allison Lyndaker of Holley graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Elizabeth McCarthy of Medina graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
• Jaklin Mofardin of Lyndonville graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from the College of Arts and Sciences and a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from the College of Arts and Sciences.
• Chris Shabazz of Albion graduated with a bachelor’s degree in geographic information science from the College of Arts and Sciences.
UB is New York State’s flagship and the largest and most comprehensive institution in the State University of New York system. The university awarded over 10,100 degrees across 18 school-based degree-conferral ceremonies held May 1-18 and earlier in the academic year.
Photos courtesy of Orleans/Niagara BOCES: From left include Scott Clark (Royalton-Hartland), Edward Grabowski (Medina Board of Education Representative for ONBOCES) and Sophia Goyette (Medina).
Press Release, Orleans/Niagara BOCES
MEDINA – Four students, at the Orleans (OCTEC) and Niagara (NCTEC) Career and Technical Education Centers received the Dr. Clark J. Godshall Scholarships at their end-of-the-year ceremonies.
The following students were awarded the scholarships: Sophia Goyette (Medina), who is in the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Program; Scott Clark (Royalton Hartland), who is the Computer Technology Program; McKenzie Taggart (Niagara Falls) in the Allied Health Program; and Sean Kropp (Wilson) in the Computer Technology Program.
Sean Kropp (Wilson) is shown at left, while NCTEC Principal Michael Mann congratulates McKenzie Taggart (Niagara Falls).
The four scholarships recipients were chosen by retired Orleans/Niagara BOCES’ District Superintendent Dr. Clark Godshall to receive $500 each to use towards furthering schooling and/or tools to start their careers.
Medina Board of Education Representative for ONBOCES Edward Grabowski commends Gloria Haller (Barker).
Gloria Haller (Barker), who is in the Security and Law Enforcement program, received the $500 Wayne Van Vleet, Esq. Memorial Scholarship. Mr. Van Vleet was the former General Counsel and Executive Director of Personnel, Human Resources & Labor Relations.
Photos by Natalie Baron: The top 10 graduates for Lyndonville’s Class of 2025 stand and are recognized during a banquet on Wednesday at the White Birch.
By Natalie Baron, Orleans Hub intern
LYNDONVILLE – The top 10 graduates for the Class of 2025 from all five school districts of Orleans County were honored at the annual Top 10 banquet on Wednesday evening at the White Birch Golf Course.
Top 10 graduates had plenty of advice to offer incoming high school freshmen. Jacob Pitcher, ranked No. 3 from Lyndonville, wanted freshmen to know they should be themselves and not procrastinate in order to have success.
Garrett Koch, the third-ranked student at Medina, and Dan Owen De Vera, the valedictorian from Medina, carried a similar sentiment: Even in your first years of high school, don’t slack off! That will only hurt you later on, they said.
Ava LaMay, ranked No. 5 from Kendall, said “Don’t sweat the small stuff,” and instead focus on what really matters in order to be successful. Isabella Goodrich, the salutatorian from Kendall, advised freshmen that they should “Stick to a schedule” and prioritize themselves.
Dr. Steven Blount of Medina gave the keynote address.
In the keynote speech, students from Holley, Kendall, Lyndonville, Medina and Albion were lauded for their dedication to hard work.
The speaker this year was Dr. Steven Blount, a former top 10 graduate from Medina. Dr. Blount has a Doctorate in Health Administration from D’Youville University, as well as degrees in Physician Assistant studies and Nuclear Medicine Technology. He is working toward the completion of an MBA.
Dr. Blount practices family medicine in Medina and hospitalist medicine in Batavia. He is an assistant professor at D’Youville University and a captain in the Army National Guard, working with the Medical Detachment.
Dr. Blount is also a community leader. He has leadership positions within the Medina Central School District Board of Education and the Medina Zoning Board. In the past, he was also involved with the Hospice of Orleans.
In his speech, Dr. Blount expressed how he changed his major four times and at one point was working three jobs on top of doing college work. “Grit isn’t about never wanting to give up, it’s about committing yourself to feeling that way and then choosing to continue anyways,” he said.
Dr. Blount stated that in being from Orleans County, these graduates understand grit better than most. Orleans County’s farmers don’t stop after one good harvest or bout of bad weather, he said. Their continued achievement relies on ceaseless effort. “Success isn’t a destination. It’s a way of living. Grit is how you build a meaningful life.”
Dr. Blount challenged the students to look around them and identify someone in the room who helped them to see and meet their potential. “Build your team,” he advised. “Find that person who will push you, surround yourself with people who inspire you, and never forget to be that person for others.”
In ten years, no one will be thinking about the graduates’ GPA, he said. They will be thinking about what the graduates did using that GPA, their treatment of other people, the problems they solved, and whose lives they touched along the way. “That’s the legacy of grit.”
As a takeaway, Dr. Blount implored the students to never back down, even when they want to fail, and challenged them to do something that scares them in the next thirty days.
“Talent without effort is just unmet potential,” Dr. Blount said. “Talent might open the doors, but grit keeps you walking through them.”
The Albion Top Ten include: Bottom Row: Tye Talbot, Kelli Dingle, Kenadie Patten, Ella Trupo, Mallory Ashbery and Oliver Beach. Top Row: Sawyer Brigham, Zackary Baron and Tracy Garrett. Missing from the photo: Leo Bolton. Included in the photo are principal Jennifer Ashbery, superintendent Mickey Edwards, and board president Linda Weller.
The Holley Top Ten include: Bottom Row: Zoey Wolf, Allison Merle, Maggie Skehan, Natalie Foose and Mason Hein. Top Row: Alexia Renner, Alivia Wolf and Owen Schultz. Missing from the photo: Abigail Merkley and Gabriel Stevens. Included in the photo are superintendent Karri Schiavone, board president Anne Winkley, and principal Matthew Feldman.
The Kendall Top Ten include: Bottom Row: Isabella Goodrich, Inez Stangler, Savannah Holzschuh, Adareli Contreras Solis, Ava LaMay and Lia Larson. Top Row: William Kludt, Colby Hughes, Nicholas Baxter and Michael Hallowell. Included in the photo are principal Melissa Strelick, board president Rachel Fisken, and superintendent Nicholas Picardo.
The Lyndonville Top Ten include: Bottom Row: Emma Freas, Ava Austin, Aidan Allen, Evee Heinsler, Addison Dillenbeck and Alyssa Prine. Top Row: Elisabeth Ingersoll, Jacob Pitcher, Hannah Marker and Madison Davis. Included in the photo are board president Jerod Thurber, principal Aaron Slack, and superintendent Sharon Smith.
The Medina Top Ten include: Bottom Row: Abigayle Wright, Theresa Biesinger, Dan Owen De Vera, Sofia Gagliardi, Josephine Pollock and Makenzie McGrath. Top Row: Cameron Kenward, Garrett Koch, Riley Tompkins and Ryder Jones. Included in the photo are principal Michael Cavanagh, superintendent Mark Kruzynski, assistant principal Mollie Mark, and board president Alissa Mitchell.
Photo from Arc GLOW – The eight graduates show their certificates and citations from State Sen. Rob Ortt and Assemblyman Steve Hawley. The graduates were recognized on May 31 during a celebration at the Cornell Cooperative Extension in Orleans County.
Press Release, Arc GLOW
KNOWLESVILLE – Eight people with Arc GLOW recently celebrated their graduation from SANYS-U, a six-week course developed by the Self-Advocacy Association of New York State.
The graduates on May 31 stood proudly with certificates from SANYS-U in front of local representatives, friends and family at Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension.
This program is designed to provide people with developmental disabilities and their direct support staff with a deeper understanding of self-advocacy through engaging discussions, hands-on activities, and collaborative learning. Arc GLOW had a second cohort of five self-advocates and three self-direction assistants successfully complete the program.
Willow Baer, the newly appointed commissioner of the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), had a recorded message for the graduates, and Orleans County District Attorney Susan Howard gave words of encouragement.
Sophia Roberts and B.J. Stasio from SANYS presented the graduates with their certificates with Julia Bauer, constituent relations staff and community liaison for state Sen. Rob Ortt, and Assemblyman Steve Hawley giving each graduate a citation.
This graduation was a special one as it was held on the 4th Annual Jonathan Doherty and Gladys Hopper Self-Advocacy Day, established in honor of two self-advocates and founding members of Orleans County Self-Advocacy All-Stars.
“At the time of his passing, Jonathan was deeply committed to creating a day that celebrated and empowered self-advocates. To carry forward his vision and legacy, our group came together to make his dream a reality—and Self-Advocacy Day was born,” said Andrew Johnson, President of the Self-Advocacy All-Stars and graduate of SANYS-U. “Each year, we bring together individuals, advocates, and organizations to share resources, ideas, and inspiration. We invite community partners to speak or host informational tables on a variety of topics that support independence, well-being, and advocacy.”
Johnson added the Self-Advocate Annual Talent Show raised $900, and they wanted to give back this year. They donated $200 to SANYS-U and Mercy Flight each.
Arc GLOW is a public non-profit serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties. To learn more, visit ArcGLOW.org.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 6 June 2025 at 7:57 am
Photos by Tom Rivers: Karter May of Kendall accepts commendations on Thursday as one of 14 youths honored during the annual youth recognition banquet. May has dedicated over 600 hours of community service, and also is involved as a leader of several clubs at Kendall.
Clockwise starting in back right: Karter May of Kendall, Aidan Oberther of Medina, Hannah Rowland of Shelby, Kylee Dann of Holley, Grace Goodrich of Medina, Madison Davis of Lyndonville, Garrett Koch of Medina, Noah Fox of Lyndonville, MacKenzie Fiorito of Holley, Keira Zambito of Albion, Theresa Biesinger of Medina and Morgan Bidwell of Kendall. Not pictured include Christina Molina of Medina and Makenzie McGrath of Medina.
LYNDONVILLE – The Orleans County Youth Board recognized 14 students and three adults on Thursday for their service to others.
About 100 people attended the 43rd annual youth recognition banquet at the White Birch Golf Course. They received commendations from the Orleans County Legislature, Assemblyman Steve Hawley and State Sen. Robert Ortt.
Students give many hours of community service and find ways to assist others through clubs and organizations in their schools, or outside of school through the fire department or other programs.
The following students were recognized: Morgan Bidwell, Theresa Biesinger, Kylee Dann, Madison Davis, MacKenzie Fiorito, Noah Fox, Grace Goodrich, Garrett Koch, Karter May, Makenzie McGrath, Christena Molina, Aidan Oberther, Hannah Rowland and Keira Zambito.
Father Mark Noonan, a priest with the ONE Catholic Parish in Orleans County, was the keynote speaker. He thanked the students and the adult honorees for committing themselves to service and kindness for others.
“The best things are yet to come,” Father Noonan shared in his message.
John Grillo, a Youth Borad member and Albion’s recreation director, thanked the students for setting a good example for their peers.
“You are the leaders in the community,” Grillo said. “We only hope others will follow in your footsteps.”
The Youth Board accepted nominations from the community for the awards for the youth and the adults.
“We have great hopes for them to become the best they can be and to continue to be great contributors to their communities now and into the future,” the Youth Board stated.
These adults were recognized for their service to youth and the community, from left: Pastor Al Wilson, Katherine Anderson and Saul Harrison.
Two adults received the Eileen Heye Adult Youth Volunteer Award: Katherine Anderson of Medina and Pastor Al Wilson who leads the Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministries in Albion.
Anderson was nominated for helping many of her neighbors mow their lawns and shovel sidewalks. She volunteers at the YMCA, helping children with pointers on shooting basketballs and kicking soccer balls.
“I just like helping others,” she said.
Anderson is a member of the Self-Advocacy All Stars through the GLOW Arc. She is a role model for every young person with her positive attitude and willingness to help others.
“She makes a huge impact on the Medina community,” said Allison Gursslin, who nominated Anderson for the award.
Pastor Al Wilson of the Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministries in Albion leada a church that serves 2,000 chicken barbecues for free every year near Christmas, runs an easter Egg Hunt with about 15,000 eggs full of treats on the Courthouse lawn, donates food throughout the year, provides lunches once a week during the summer parks program in Albion, and provides lots of encouragement through words and hugs, said John Grillo, Albion’s recreation director.
“Pastor Al has a passion for youth in our community and has been volunteering his service in Orleans County for many years, especially in the Village of Albion,” Grillo said. “His message and blessings are spoken with love and peace, all with a touch of humor,” Grillo said.
Wilson urged the group to keep loving others and sharing grace.
Saul Harrison of Albion receives the Helen R. Brinsmaid Adult Youth Worker Award. He is congratulated by Barb Flow of the Youth Board.
Harrison started as a youth care worker with the county in 2008, assisting children in foster homes.
“Saul is a gentle giant and is an inspiration in our community while spreading the message of love in his profession,” Grillo said.
Harrison does supervised visits with parents and children during the day or evening. His kindness and generosity are apparent while he works with others in challenging situations.
Harrison helps the youths work on goals, taking them to fitness gyms and also to local libraries.
He has been a long-time volunteer coach for youth football and baseball programs. Harrison is also a deacon at the Shiloh Church and cooks his barbecue fundraisers, often donating the funds to sports teams, Grillo said.
Harrison said he is thankful for his career and co-workers. He noted that many of his colleagues donating their personal and vacation time during his recent cancer treatments that kept him out of work for five months. Harrison didn’t have to collect disability because of his co-workers’ generosity.
Harrison said the cancer is treatable and his health has improved. He said the experience has been an opportunity to testify about God’s mercy and power in his life.
“I look forward to helping more youth,” he said.
Hannah Rowland, a junior who is home-schooled, was recognized for her service to the Shelby Volunteer Fire Company. She is a firefighter who has been an active volunteer with the fire company the past four years.
Garrett Koch, a senior at Medina, has been a trustworthy volunteer at Boxwood Cemetery, the MAAC Thrift Shop and with Medina IMPACT Day.
Photos courtesy of GCC: Top row from left include Barry Chow, Heather Jones and Kelly Starchok. Bottom row: Paul Brew and Amy Westfall.
Press Release, Genesee Community College
BATAVIA – Five exceptional members of the Genesee Community College team have been recognized by the State University of New York for outstanding contributions to their profession, the campus and the community.
The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence is given in recognition of consistently superior professional achievement and encourages the ongoing pursuit of excellence.
“The SUNY Chancellor’s Awards represent the highest recognition of excellence across the SUNY System,” said Dr. Craig Lamb, president of GCC. “I am incredibly proud of our faculty and staff whose passion, innovation and dedication have earned this distinguished honor. Their work exemplifies the very best of Genesee Community College and our commitment to student success.”
The following faculty and staff members earned a SUNY Chancellor Award for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Paul Brew won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching. This award recognizes consistently superior teaching at the graduate, undergraduate or professional level in keeping with the State University’s commitment to providing its students with instruction of the highest quality.
Mr. Brew has been a member of Genesee’s history faculty since 2008 and has taught a variety of courses including American History, World History, and American Government to name a few. History can be a challenging subject to engage students and they may often not recognize its value.
Mr. Brew uses a variety of strategies and approaches to spark curiosity and guide students to make connections between historical information and the present. He also effectively engages students in historical inquiry through active learning strategies, debates and collaborative projects.
Amy Westfall won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in the Classified Service. These are system-level awards established by the university to give system-wide recognition for superior performance and extraordinary achievement by employees in the Classified Service. These awards demonstrate the university’s commitment to individuals who provide superior service to its students and the community at large.
During her career in the library, Westfall has demonstrated an exceptional ability to anticipate and meet the needs of faculty, ensure continuous and efficient library operations, and foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of the campus community.
Her contributions extend beyond her daily responsibilities, as she consistently advocates for students, identifies opportunities to enhance services, and offers guidance and support with the utmost compassion and discretion. Her role in facilitating a seamless transition during the relocation of the Learning Center and her personal commitment to student safety and well-being, are testaments to her profound impact.
Barry Chow won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service. This award recognizes the consistently superior service contributions of teaching faculty. This service must be sustained over multiple years and may occur in a variety of venues.
During his 26-year career at Genesee, Chow has been instrumental in fostering innovation, curriculum development and faculty leadership. His service to the college includes impactful presentations, committee leadership, and mentorship, shaping both academic policies and student engagement.
He has advised multiple student organizations, including the TV Club and Phi Theta Kappa, providing hands-on learning experiences that bridge theory with real-world application. Beyond the college, Barry has made contributions to the media and education fields, serving in leadership roles within the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) and the Television Academy. His professional expertise has influenced both institutional advancements and industry standards.
Kelly Starchok won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. This award recognizes consistently superior professional achievement within and beyond the position.
Her passion for fostering student engagement led her to her current role as Director of Student Engagement & Inclusion, where she has redefined student involvement post-pandemic, creating an inclusive and dynamic campus environment. She has launched impactful initiatives and spearheaded the establishment of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) chapter at GCC.
Starchok’s management of over 30 student clubs, supervision of major campus events and hands-on approach (e.g., stepping into the College mascot costume when needed) demonstrates her tireless dedication. Beyond her position, her creativity and problem-solving are evident in her successful implementation of GCC’s Bus Services, ensuring accessible transportation for students. She actively participates in key campus committees and represents GCC in external leadership initiatives, including Leadership Genesee and national student engagement conferences.
Heather Jones won the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. This award recognizes consistently superior teaching at the graduate, undergraduate or professional level in keeping with the State University’s commitment to providing its students with instruction of the highest quality.
Jones has been a GCC faculty member since 2008 teaching a range of courses including Drawing, Painting, 2D Design, Art History and Portfolio Development. Her teaching philosophy, rooted in learner-centered strategies and Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory, creates an engaging learning environment for students.
She utilizes a “5C’s” rubric to empower students to create and critique artwork using a guided approach to assessment that fosters a deeper understanding of the creative process. Beyond the classroom, Jones has demonstrated leadership through her work in art exhibits, illustration publishing, study abroad programs, collaborations with international institutions and innovative uses of technology. Her work as a Fulbright-Garcia Robles Scholar demonstrates her commitment to enhancing cross-cultural understanding through art.
Photo courtesy of O/N BOCES: Pictured from left include Dr. Ronald Barstys (Director of Special Programs of Orleans/Niagara BOCES), Krista Macomber and Dr. Taweepon Farrar (District Superintendent/Chief Executive Officer of Orleans/Niagara BOCES).
Krista Macomber, a Special Programs Coordinator at Orleans/Niagara BOCES, was among those recognized from across the Western New York area by the Western New York Educational Service Council (WNYSEC) on April 30 at their Awards of Excellence ceremony at the Creekside Banquet Hall in Cheektowaga.
WNYSEC is an organization that provides support for the educational community, such as professional development, mentoring opportunities and research. Each year, WNYSEC honors exceptional teachers, support staff, administrators, and board of education members for their outstanding service to their students, schools, district, and community.
According to Special Education Placement, Testing and Extended School Year Coordinator Lorrina Kostuk-Madonia, Mrs. Macomber’s legacy reflects a deep commitment to education, leadership and service to the community.
“She has had a remarkable journey from when she was hired in 2004 to her upcoming retirement this year,” Kostuk-Madonia said. “She has done impactful work throughout her tenure with Orleans/Niagara BOCES as a principal at the Orleans Learning Center, our classrooms at Emmet Belknap, Newfane Learning Center and the Godfrey Learning Center.”
In her career at ONBOCES, Mrs. Macomber has been named the Administrator of the Year and received the Exemplary Service Award for her work with the 13 component districts of ONBOCES.
“Krista is highly respected by her staff, colleagues and students,” says Kostuk-Madonia. “She has built strong, positive relationships with her team, which has contributed to her staff’s willingness to follow her through transitions and support the various programs she leads. In summary, she is a highly accomplished educational leader whose impact extends far beyond the schools she oversees.
“Her dedication to her students, staff, and community, as well as her exceptional leadership qualities, make her an exemplary model for others to aspire. Her career reflects the highest standards of integrity, commitment and service, and she is truly deserving for any recognition for her contributions to education.”
Photo by Tom Rivers: Betty Sue Miller, the Hoag Library director, gives blood on Dec. 17, 2022 during a blood drive at the library. Miller has welcomed blood drives and many other programs into the library.
Press Release, Hoag Library
ALBION – Hoag Library is proud to announce that Library Director Betty Sue Miller has been awarded the Outstanding Service Award by the Nioga Library System, recognizing her exceptional leadership and dedication to public library service across Niagara, Orleans, and Genesee counties.
The award was presented during the Nioga Library System’s annual meeting, where colleagues and library leaders gathered to celebrate excellence in library service. The Outstanding Service Award honors individuals who go above and beyond in promoting library access, innovation and community impact.
Miller was recognized not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her welcoming personality and commitment to building strong relationships with the community. Patrons and colleagues alike know her as someone who is always ready with a smile, a warm greeting and a genuine interest in helping others. Her approachable nature and willingness to meet with and listen to patrons have made Hoag Library a trusted and inviting space for all.
Under her leadership, Hoag Library has expanded outreach programming, enhanced technology offerings, and strengthened community partnerships. She is also a recent graduate of the 2024 Leadership Orleans program, where she collaborated with leaders from across the region to address local challenges and build stronger communities.
For more information about Hoag Library’s programs and services, visit www.hoaglibrary.org.
Provided photo: Pictured from left include Lianna Sheffer, CFS Foster Care & Preventive Supervisor; Tim & Kathy Drake, Orleans County’s Foster Parents of the Year; and Lizzy Boring, CFS’s Homefinder.
Press Release, Orleans County Department of Social Services
ALBION – The Orleans County Department of Social Services Child and Family Services Unit (CFS) hosted its annual Foster Care Family Fun Night last week, where Tim and Kathy Drake were honored as the 2025 Foster Parents of the Year.
“Within the past year, Tim and Kathy have opened their home to several children that have either been placed directly with them or who are provided daycare in their home while the youth’s given foster parents are working,” said Lianna Sheffer, CFS Foster Care & Preventive Supervisor. “Tim and Kathy have shown empathy to the youth they have had in their care, while also being strong role models for each youth, and advocates for the youths’ wants and wishes. They attend school meetings, and are always willing to assist the caseworkers with transportation for visitation and various other appointments.
“Tim and Kathy have also gone above and beyond to be a resource and support for biological families and to reinforce the agency goal of safely reuniting families, while making it known to the youth in their care that they will always be a resource for them, whatever the outcome of the case,” Sheffer said. “Orleans County thanks the Drakes for their continued dedication and support to our community.”
The event was organized by CFS’s Homefinder, Lizzy Boring. Boring has been in the role for three months, providing support to foster and adoptive families, and working on recruiting more foster parents for youth in need. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, please contact Boring at 585-589-3161.
BROCKPORT – Zoe Seniuk of Albion, daughter of Denise Johnston-Burris and John “Jack” Burris, graduated summa cum laude on May 17 from SUNY Brockport, receiving her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree.
She will be attending the University of Buffalo School of Law beginning in August of this year.
Editor’s Note: Send news about college graduations and achievements to news@orleanshub.com.
Photo by Tom Rivers: Patrick Olles, left, and Lukas Moore are both certified master technicians from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
Press Release, Pat’s Auto Repair
ALBION – Patrick Olles, owner of Pat’s Auto Repair at 13305 West Lee Rd., recently received ASE Master Technician Certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Olles joins mechanic, Lukas Moore of Pat’s Auto Repair, in earning the ASE master technician certification.
Olles and Moore have both passed exams A1 through A8 in the Automobile and Light Truck test series. Pat’s Auto Repair is an ASE Blue Seal of Excellence-recognized business. Olles opened the auto repair business in 2015.
ASE offers a series of certification exams for professionals specializing in automobile and light truck, collision repair and refinish, medium/heavy truck, truck equipment, school bus, transit bus, alternate fuels, automobile service consultant, undercar specialist, and parts specialist.
Upon passing at least one exam and providing proof of two years of hands-on work experience, a professional becomes ASE certified. Every five years, professionals must be retested to remain certified.
Certified professionals wear blue and white insignia and carry credentials listing their exact areas of expertise; employers display those credentials in the customer service waiting area.
Established in 1972 as a non-profit organization, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a driving force in the transportation industry. As an independent third party, ASE upholds and promotes high standards of service and repair through assessment, certification and credentialing of current and future industry professionals, and the prestigious ASE Blue Seal logo identifies professionals who possess the essential knowledge and skills to perform with excellence.
Today, there are approximately 250,000 ASE Certified professionals at work in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools, and colleges throughout the country. For more information about ASE, visit www.ase.com.
ALBION – The Orleans County Youth Bureau is inviting the public to join in celebrating young people, youth workers and youth volunteers who will be honored at the 43rd Annual Youth Recognition Banquet.
The event will take place on Thursday, June 5, at White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville. Doors to open at 6 p.m., with the program starting at 6:15 p.m. Tickets are $25 and reservations must be made by May 25. To register, please email OrleansCountyYouthBureau@OrleansCountyNY.gov or call 585-589-2740.
The 2025 Youth Recognition Awards honor those young people who have performed outstanding service for our community and/or have assumed an extraordinary role within their families by helping to support themselves. Receiving awards are:
Morgan Bidwell
Theresa Biesinger
Kylee Dann
Madison Davis
MacKenzie Fiorito
Noah Fox
Grace Goodrich
Garrett Koch
Karter May
Makenzie McGrath
Christena Molina
Aidan Oberther
Hannah Rowland
Keira Zambito
In addition to the youth recognition awards, Saul Harrison will receive the Helen Brinsmaid Award, given to an Orleans County youth-serving professional, in a paid position, whose work surpasses normal expectations.
Katherine Anderson and Pastor Al Wilson will receive the Eileen Heye Adult Volunteer Recognition Award, presented to an adult who serves the youth of Orleans County in a volunteer setting.
“I hope members of the public will consider joining us at this event as we shine a spotlight on some young people doing some amazing things, as well as honor adults who are dedicated to working with our youth,” said Jack Welch, chief administrative officer for Orleans County.
Provided photo: Kenadie Patten earned her degree from Genesee Community College on May 17, about a month before she graduates from Albion High School on June 27.
BATAVIA – Genesee Community College celebrated its 57th annual Commencement Ceremony on May 17 with a group of seven students from area high schools and home schools deserving special mention.
They completed their GCC degree requirements concurrently with their high school diplomas or New York State High School Equivalency. These graduates participated in the seventh annual cohort of the Excel Program (formerly Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Enrichment Program) through GCC’s Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) Office.
These high-achieving individuals include the following: Zoey Berggren (Attica), Jeremiah Childs (Batavia), Paige Harding (Oakfield), Holden Kelly (Perry), Tess McLaughlin (Perry), Kenadie Patten (Albion) and Olivia Swyers (Perry).
The Excel program began in 2012 allowing the students to start their college studies as early as the seventh grade. In addition to their traditional schoolwork, they enrolled in college level coursework each year taking advantage of many academic opportunities and successfully completing all of the rigorous challenges of an associate degree.
“We are extremely proud of these seven exceptional students who have not only earned their high school diplomas but also completed their GCC degree requirements,” said Ann Valento, director of Accelerated College Enrollment programs at GCC. “Their dedication and hard work demonstrate the power of early college enrollment and the opportunities it provides. They are truly an inspiration to future generations of students.”
Kaitlyn Harloff, Excel program coordinator at GCC, added, “This program highlights the remarkable achievements of our students and their ability to excel in demanding academic environments. Their success is a testament to the effectiveness of the Excel Enrichment Program and the commitment of our faculty and staff to support and guide them.”
Genesee Community College’s 57th annual Commencement Ceremony was held at the Richard C. Call Arena and featured special guest Keynote Speaker Kate Welshofer. To view the ceremony, click here.
For more information contact Director of ACE Programs, Ann Valento at (585) 343-0055 x6316, or via email: amvalento@genesee.edu.
BROCKPORT – Zoe Seniuk of Albion, daughter of Denise Johnston-Burris and John “Jack” Burris, graduated summa cum laude on May 17 from SUNY Brockport, receiving her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree.
