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NFIEC Spring Social and Commitment to Education Awards
The evening brings together a dynamic group of industry leaders and educators to recognize the achievements of individuals and organizations making a difference in education.
The NFIEC is proud to have spent over 50 years bridging the gap between industry and education, working together to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in today’s fast-paced workforce. This event is a chance to celebrate the incredible achievements of those who are leading the charge for a brighter future!
| 2025 Commitment to Education Awardees:
David Rust President/CEO – SAY YES Buffalo Nominated by Mark Laurrie, Partnership with Niagara Falls City School District
Stephen Tucker President/CEO – Northland Workforce Training Center Nominated by Robert Harris, Partnership with Buffalo Public Schools
Dr. Wendy Paterson Dean School of Education – Buffalo State University Nominated by Erie 1 BOCES, Collaborative Partnerships Teacher Pipeline
Phil Aguglia Band Director – Kenmore Tonawanda City School District Nominated by Marc Hunt, Organizer of High School Jazz Fest in Collaboration with Music is Art Foundation
Lisa Chimera Deputy County Executive – Erie County Government Nominated by Erie County Schools –advocate of children and families
Jayne and Brian Perry Perry’s Ice Cream Nominated for partnership with Akron Schools and Akron Market
Christopher Pistorio Founder, O’Mazing Opportunities Nominated by Workforce Development – Trades Scholarships |
Honored Guests:
Danielle Arnone Lake Shore Central School District Tara Bull Pioneer Central School District Eileen Cartonia Depew Union Free School District Robin D’Amato Tonawanda Central School District Michele Dawley Dunkirk City School District Laura Depue Fredonia Central School District Rachel Funk West Seneca Central School District Evin Harris Cleveland Hill Union Free School District Kristin Lawrence Hamburg Central School District Bronte Malner Cleveland Hill Union Free School District Susan Schnaufer Salamanca Central School District Katelyn Welker West Seneca Central School District |
Join Us in Welcoming New Board Members:
- Mark Laurrie, Superintendent, Niagara Falls City School District
- Robert Merkle, Assistant Superintendent for Business & Finance, Grand Island Central School District
- Karen Kwandrans, Vice President Government & Community Relations, Niagara University
- Robert Harris, Director of Career and Technical Education, Buffalo Public Schools
- Renee Day, retired Business Teacher, West Seneca Central School District
- JoAnn Ryan, retired Business Teacher, East Aurora Central School District; Adjunct Professor Buffalo State University
- James Suchocki, Consultant, Primerica Financial Services
We would love for you to join us in honoring these remarkable individuals and celebrating our shared commitment to educational excellence. It’s going to be an inspiring night of celebration, networking, and recognition.
Be sure to spread the word and invite friends who are passionate about education.
Register Now!
We can’t wait to see you there and celebrate this incredible journey together!
