SWBOCES honors retirees for dedicated years of service

Colleagues embarking on new chapters represent 482 years of service to SWBOCES

The Board of Education and Administration of Southern Westchester BOCES honored 22 retirees from the 2024-25 school year who represent a combined 482 years of service to our students, their families, our school districts and our programs.

A reception was held prior to the school board meeting at the Career Services Campus in Valhalla June 4. Retirees were joined by loved ones, colleagues and supervisors. The Culinary Arts program, led by Chef John Damiani, catered a gourmet buffet dinner and dessert while Operations and Maintenance staff ensured every detail of the reception reflected the appreciation felt for the retirees. 

Administration and staff watched while each retiree was called up and their career accomplishments were recounted and celebrated by Deputy Superintendent/COO Dr. Brendan Lyons. Each received a certificate recognizing their service, presented by Dr. Lyons, Board President John Filiberti and District Superintendent Harold Coles.

"To those of you who have reached the end of your career, congratulations," Mr. Filiberti said. "I hope your retirement is everything you want it to be. We at SWBOCES have been very fortunate, not just to have you here but all of the people that work for BOCES. Thank you all very much."

Retirees on hand for the reception include:

Alberta Grant-Johnson, 28 years
Roseanne Pennella, 27 years
Jodi Riverso, 23 years
Mary Rossetti, 20 years
Madelie Bruno, 19 years
Maria DiNardo, 19 years
Wanda Maffia, 18 years
Anna Marie Brancucci, 12 years
Randy Hall, 9 years

Also retiring this school year were:

Sophia, Graham-Bowen, 37 years
Elizabeth O'Connor, 37 years
Mitch Cohen, 31 years
Philip Rucci, 27 years
Anne Treco, 27 years
Garfield Reynolds, 26 years
Pradel Fleurimond, 24 years
Terence Burke, 19 years
Marie Martha Emile, 18 years
Colleen Werthner, 17 years
Tania Chiavegatto, 16 years
Pedro Cano, 15 years
Leslie Handler, 13 years

View more photos from the event on our Facebook page.