The 2016 Ron Dougherty Award was presented to Picciano on May 18 during BOCES’ annual employee recognition program.
A religious instruction teacher and volunteer with the Boys Scouts of America for more than 30 years, Picciano was nominated by co-workers for his tireless commitment to his students as well as other young people in need around the community. His efforts outside the classroom include working with the Children’s Home of the Wyoming Conference, helping the homeless and providing respite to a foster child.
“Pete is always professional and respectful … he goes above and beyond to work with all of his students,” the nomination form states. “Pete takes the time to get to know the students and uses that knowledge to encourage them, to help them meet their goals.”
The award is named for Ronald E. Dougherty, a member of BOCES’ Board of Trustees from 1976 to 2006 and its president from 1985 to 2005. A 2003 Jefferson Award winner, Dougherty is a model for community leadership and public service. He was a member of the Tioga Central School Board for 11 years, is a former Tioga County legislator and past president of the Broome-Tioga School Boards Association. He also was instrumental in the formation of the Broome-Tioga Coalition for Education.
Candidates for the Ron Dougherty Award are nominated by their peers at BOCES. Applications are then reviewed by a selection committee comprised of a cross-section of employee groups.
Pictured (l-r): Broome-Tioga BOCES Board of Education Vice President Ursula Hambalek, Ron Dougherty, Peter Picciano, and District Superintendent Allen Buyck.