On November 25, the Sullivan County Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) proudly celebrated its 75th anniversary—marking seven and a half decades of commitment to the students, educators and communities of Sullivan County. 

The event was held at SUNY Sullivan in the Grossinger’s Dining Room, where state and county officials, representatives from local school districts, and community partners gathered to honor this milestone achievement.

 The celebration began with a reception prepared through a collaborative effort between the culinary programs at Sullivan BOCES and SUNY Sullivan. Students from both institutions worked together to craft and serve a menu that showcased their skills and highlighted the value of hands-on, career-focused education.

 During the program, several officials and community partners offered remarks, including BOCES Board President Linda Berkowicz; Camille O’Brien, representing Senator Peter Oberacker’s office; Dr. David Potash, President of SUNY Sullivan; and Megan Evans, Philanthropy Manager at Garnet Health Medical Center–Catskills.

 Nadia Rajsz, Legislative Chair for Sullivan County, emphasized the deep and lasting impact of BOCES on the region. 

“Sullivan BOCES has impacted thousands of lives by teaching real-world skills and continually adapting to meet the needs of our children and community while responding to the demands of an ever-changing workplace,” said Rajsz. “I can’t imagine life in Sullivan County without BOCES. The institution and its staff fill a niche no one else can. The success of BOCES has been our county’s success, and we hope it will continue to serve our community for many years to come.”

 The event also highlighted the organization’s commitment to community service. Proceeds from the commemorative journal, beyond event costs, were donated to the Sullivan BOCES Backpack Program, which provides food support to students in need. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and SUNY Sullivan, Dr. Robert M. Dufour, District Superintendent at Sullivan BOCES, presented a $3,000 check to Megan Becker, Director of Special Education at BOCES. The donation will help feed more than 50 families during the holiday season.

 Since its founding in 1950, BOCES has been dedicated to expanding educational opportunities  and preparing students for success in college, careers and life through Career & Technical Education and Special Education to Adult Education, Itinerant Services and Professional Development.

“Our 75th anniversary is not just about looking back—it’s about recognizing how far we’ve come together,” said Dr. Dufour. “BOCES exists because of collaboration. For 75 years, we’ve worked side-by-side with our local school districts to create opportunities for students, strengthen our workforce, and support our communities.”