KINGSTON—For the past nine years, the Ulster County School Boards Association (UCSBA) has recognized outstanding community members from each of the County’s school districts with its Distinguished Friend of Education Award. These champions of education, who include educators, business owners, volunteers, advocates, and other community members who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to supporting local schools, were celebrated during the UCSBA’s annual dinner on November 20, held at The Venue Uptown in Kingston, NY.

“These individuals embody what it means to belong to a community that truly believes in its children,” said Dr. Jonah Schenker, District Superintendent of Ulster BOCES, who helped coordinate the event on behalf of UCSBA. “Their dedication and generosity help create the kind of supportive environment where every student can be seen, valued, and inspired to succeed.”

Following is a list of this year's honorees:

• Iris Friedman was honored by the Ellenville Central School District for her decades of service as a teacher; Board of Education member, including serving as Vice President from 2016 through 2022; and devoted community member, who has contributed in countless ways—from caring for school grounds as the "Resident Gardener" to advocating for the district's TV & Radio Studio in honor of her late husband's legacy. 

• Steven Laubach was honored by the Highland Central School District for his many contributions to the school district in his 42 years of service and leadership in the Highland Rotary Club, during which he brought financial literacy programs to elementary students, organized book projects, mentored high schoolers through the Interact Club, and supported students in need through annual drives and community initiatives.

• Joe Beichert was selected by the Kingston City School District for his many years of support through his role as Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Timely Signs, contributing signs, logos, and gifts for school events; supporting Kingston Athletics with spaces like the Varsity Club Corner; and donating "Kingston Strong" shirts that united the community after tragedy.

• The Marlboro Central School District selected Devon Mullen for her service as president of the Marlboro Elementary School PTA, during which she transformed the organization into a dynamic force by propelling membership growth, funding field trips for every grade level, and ensuring all students have access to enriching educational experiences, both inside and outside the classroom.

• The New Paltz Central School District honored Nancy Owen for her 25 years of service as the Drama Club and Spring Musical Advisor, during which she directed dozens of productions, built a vibrant theater program where students discovered their artistic voices and launched careers in the arts, and brought the community together through beloved classics and unique, challenging shows that delighted audiences year after year.

• Mary Leonard was selected by the Onteora Central School District for her dedication to teaching instrumental music in Onteora elementary schools for 33 years, building award-winning bands and jazz ensembles that consistently earned top NYSSMA honors, and for continuing to volunteer her time, even in retirement, to prepare students for competitions and help ensembles achieve excellence.

• Benny Calcagno, owner of Benny's Pizzeria in Stone Ridge, was selected by the Rondout Valley Central School District for his generosity and community leadership, including providing free lunches for students during the COVID-19 pandemic, celebrating student athletes through his "Student Athlete of the Month" program, and honoring local veterans through events and ongoing acts of appreciation.

• John and Margaret Mullen were honored by the Saugerties Central School District for their extraordinary generosity and commitment to students, having raised over $348,000 in scholarships for 170 students through their Andrew Mullen Memorial Trout Fishing Derby, and for their shared dedication to empowering young people through trades education and lifelong learning.

• The Wallkill Central School District selected Joe LoCicero for his 15 years of service on the Board of Education, including 14 consecutive years as Board President, during which he guided major capital projects, championed innovative programs that enriched students' academic and social experiences, and maintained responsible financial stewardship.

• The late Joe Cotter, former President of National Resources, was honored by Ulster BOCES for his visionary partnership in transforming the former IBM site into the new Ulster BOCES Career Academies at iPark 87, creating a hub of learning and opportunity that places students and families at the center of economic mobility. His son, William Cotter, accepted the award on his behalf.

“Each of these honorees represents the powerful impact that occurs when schools and communities work together in service of young people,” said Dr. Schenker. “Their actions remind us that education thrives when it is rooted in connection, care, and shared purpose.”

“Every year, for the past nine years, I am amazed by the Distinguished Friends of Education in Ulster County. Just when I think we must have found them all, more dedicated individuals pop up,” shared Krista Barringer, UCSBA Vice President. “As a Board Member, a parent, and a grandparent, my heart thanks every champion of education that goes above and beyond for the children of Ulster County."