December 2025 Newsletter
A Year of Recognition, Leadership, and Community As 2025 ends, we are taking a moment to celebrate the incredible accomplishments, dedication, and spirit of our ERAPPA community3 . This December edition highlights the best moments of the year.
📑📑 Table of
Contents
● President's Message (Mary Grube, ERAPPA President) …………………………………………......... 2 ●
ERAPPA 2025 Annual Conference Recap…………..........3 ○ A Resounding Success in Atlantic City ○ Memorable Moments & Highlights
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ERAPPA 2025 Awards & Recognition Ceremony Recap
○ Welcoming New Emeritus Members ………………………………………………………………………4 ○ Rising Star Awards……………………………………………………………………………………………………5 ○ Chapter Champion Awards………………………………………………………………………………………7 ○ Norman H. Bedell Award (Sheri Vucci) ……………………………………………………………………10 ● Looking Ahead to ERAPPA 2026 ……………………………………………………………………………………12 o ERAPPA 2026 Preview - Revolutionary Ideas ● Thank You to Our Sponsors & Exhibitors ………………………………………………………………........14 ● 2025-2026 ERAPPA Board of Directors ………………………………………………………………...........15 ●
In Memoriam: George Stooks …………………….………………….......16
● Closing Thoughts ………………………………………………………………………………………………...........20
1 ERAPPA Members having fun at the Steel Pier in Atlantic City.
President’s Message Mary Grube, ERAPPA President It was my pleasure to join so many of you at the 2025 ERAPPA Annual Conference, held September 28 – October 1, 2025, in vibrant Atlantic City, New Jersey. This year’s theme, “Guide Your Future,” served as an inspiring backdrop as we gathered at the Hard Rock Casino and Resort to learn, connect, and celebrate the work we do across our institutions. Our conference co-chairs, Amy Baker and Sue Maddalena, fully embraced the theme and delivered an exceptional experience from start to finish. The event opened with a warm welcome to our 182 first-time attendees at a special reception, an energizing start that set the tone for the days ahead. We then kicked off the conference with the opening of the Hall of Resources, featuring 100 business partner booths that highlighted innovative solutions and strengthened our partnerships. Throughout the conference, attendees had the opportunity to participate in 25 educational sessions presented by both institutional members and business partners. These sessions offered valuable insights and practical strategies, supporting our shared commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence. We concluded our time together with the Awards Banquet and the installation of the 2025–2026 ERAPPA Board of Directors, a fitting end to an event focused on growth, leadership, and the future of our organization. The 74th Annual ERAPPA Conference delivered outstanding educational programming and rich networking opportunities. More importantly, it provided space for members to advance their professional development goals while forming connections that will continue to grow into lasting friendships and meaningful collaborations. Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, volunteered, or contributed in any way. Together, we truly guided our future. Looking Ahead to ERAPPA 2026 Join us at the ERAPPA 2026 Annual Conference: Revolutionary Ideas in Providence, Rhode Island, taking place September 20 – 23, 2026 at the Omni Convention Center. Come prepared with revolutionary ideas or be ready to discover them as we explore new opportunities in facilities management. A robust selection of educational sessions, along with networking events you won’t want to miss, will ensure another powerful professional experience. We’ll see you there!
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ERAPPA 2025 • Atlantic City
A Resounding Success at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino A Conference That Truly Delivered ERAPPA 2025 in AtlanƟc City was a milestone gathering for our region. From the moment a endees arrived at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the atmosphere was filled with connec on, excitement, and a shared dedica on to strengthening higher educa on facili es leadership. Anchored by our theme, “Guide Your Future,” this year’s conference delivered a rich mix of professional development, leadership insights, wellness experiences, and opportuni es for meaningful engagement. A endees repeatedly noted how relevant, energizing, and though ully curated the program felt. A hear elt thank-you goes to the planning teams, presenters, and the many volunteers who brought this event to life. Their commitment ensured valuable programming, smooth logis cs, and the kind of welcoming environment that ERAPPA members appreciate year a er year.
Memorable Moments & Highlights
Beachfront Wellness Yoga at sunrise, offering a
refreshing and grounding start to the day An inspiring plenary session with Hoan Do,
centered on resilience, leadership, and naviga ng change Strong engagement in sessions focused on
frontline workforce development, supervisory skills, and opera onal excellence Countless informal conversa ons that
strengthened rela onships and sparked new ideas across the region While certain elements will con nue to evolve and improve, a endee feedback was overwhelmingly posi ve. ERAPPA 2025 highlighted the generosity, professionalism, and camaraderie that make our community so special.
See you in Providence, RI September 20—23, 2026!
Several standout moments defined the ERAPPA 2025 experience: Dave Raymond’s Keynote – “The Power of
FUN” The former Phillie Phana c delivered an unforge able keynote about the importance of joy, crea vity, and connec on in building strong teams. His message—and his energy—set the perfect tone for the week. Monday Night Networking on Steel Pier A one-
of-a-kind experience featuring helicopter rides, the exhilara ng Sling Shot, and the incomparable live performance by THE NERDS. This event brought together the perfect mix of fun, music, and Atlan c City spirit—crea ng a night a endees will be talking about for years. 3
ERAPPA 2025 Awards by Mary Grube At the 2025 ERAPPA Annual Meeting Awards Banquet, outgoing President Greg Clayton was honored to recognize the outstanding contributions of our members. The 2025 award recipients were: New Emeritus Members Michelle Frederick With an incredible 35 years of service in educational facilities at American University and the Smithsonian Institution, Michelle Frederick is a true pillar of the APPA, ERAPPA, and MD/DC APPA communities. Since joining in 1992, Michelle has made a lasting impact through her leadership and dedication. She has served as ERAPPA President (2014), ERAPPA Vice President for Professional Development, Dean of APPA’s Supervisor’s Toolkit and Invest in Success, and contributed to ERAPPA Host Committees in 2009 and 2017. Michelle’s achievements are remarkable: recipient of the APPA President’s Award (three times!), APPA’s Pacesetter Award, APPA’s Meritorious Service Award, and ERAPPA’s Norman H. Bedell Award. She helped design and developed the Supervisor’s Toolkit and Invest in Success programs, delivered over 20 presentations at APPA and ERAPPA conferences, and more than 15 at MD/DC APPA events. Michelle’s passion, expertise, and commitment have shaped the professional development of countless members and strengthened our community for decades. Greg Clayton With 25 years of dedicated service at the University of Prince Edward Island, Greg has made an extraordinary impact on both his AAPPA Chapter and ERAPPA. His leadership roles include six years as Chapter President, seven years as Chapter Treasurer, five years as ERAPPA Vice President for Membership, and serving as ERAPPA President-Elect, President, and now Past President. Greg’s commitment extends beyond leadership positions - he has contributed to three Host Committees: Professional Development for ERAPPA 2002, Treasurer for ERAPPA 2011, and Co-Chair for ERAPPA 2020+3. Remarkably, Greg has attended every ERAPPA Annual Meeting since becoming involved and has shared his expertise through numerous presentations at AAPPA Chapter Meetings. Greg’s unwavering dedication and passion have strengthened our community and inspired countless members.
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George Stooks With an impressive 38 years of service in higher education facilities, George was a driving force within the NYAPPA Chapter and ERAPPA. His leadership included two years as Chapter President, one year on the ERAPPA Membership Committee, one year as ERAPPA liaison to APPA’s Membership Committee, and six years as ERAPPA Vice President for Annual Meetings. George attended his first ERAPPA Annual Meeting in 2008 (Baltimore) and quickly stepped into leadership, having agreed to serve as Host Committee Co-Chair for ERAPPA 2013 in Rochester, New York, and later contributed to the ERAPPA 2022 Host Committee. Throughout his involvement with NYAPPA, George presented and moderated numerous sessions at chapter and regional conferences, sharing his expertise and strengthening our professional community. George’s dedication and leadership have left a lasting mark on ERAPPA and NYAPPA, benefiting colleagues across the region. * Please see In Memoriam tribute on page 16. Dale DeBlois With 27 years of dedicated service in higher education facilities, Dale has been an active leader within APPA, ERAPPA, and NNEAPPA since graduating from the Institute for Facilities Management in 2001. His leadership journey includes serving NNEAPPA as State Director, Secretary/Treasurer, President-Elect, President, and Past President between 2003 and 2013. Dale continued his impact at the regional level as ERAPPA Vice President of Chapter Development, President-Elect, President, and Past President from 2010 to 2016. Beyond these roles, Dale has chaired and hosted multiple chapter meetings, presented at regional conferences, and remains active through the ERAPPA History Committee. Dale’s exceptional service has earned him the APPA Dedicated Service Award, the Unsung Hero Award, and ERAPPA’s Merit and President’s Awards. Dale also holds the CEFP credential, underscoring his commitment to professional excellence.
Rising Star Awards Darryl Williford – MD/DC APPA Darryl is a consistent and valued leader on the MD/DC Board, serving as Director at Large and recently stepping into the role of Vice President. His efforts have been instrumental in developing learning programs that enrich member engagement and elevate the overall experience.
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Beyond his chapter contributions, Darryl actively supports ERAPPA through the Membership Committee, welcoming first-time attendees and helping recruit new members. He also volunteers at the NFMT booth to promote our work and foster connections within the facilities community, while contributing to the MD/DC Business Partner Committee to strengthen partnerships. Darryl’s dedication, leadership, and commitment position him as a rising leader in our profession, making him a truly deserving recipient of the Rising Star Award. John Argento – NJAPPA Over the past two years, John has served with distinction as NJAPPA’s Director of Professional Development, bringing focus, thoughtfulness, and integrity to one of the chapter’s most critical roles. He has enhanced the quality and relevance of educational offerings, strengthened regional relationships, and delivered presentations that resonate with members. Committed to shaping ERAPPA’s future, John is actively pursuing the NJAPPA presidential track, a six-year leadership journey that will allow him to continue influencing and advancing our community. In addition, he serves as a NJAPPA’s representative on the ERAPPA Professional Development Committee, further demonstrating his dedication to growth and collaboration. John’s vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment make him an outstanding recipient of the Rising Star Award. Colleen McArthur – OCAPPA Colleen McArthur has quickly emerged as a dedicated and impactful leader within the educational facilities community. As Chair of OCAPPA’s Technology & Collaboration Committee, she has enhanced member engagement by keeping the website current, highlighting professional development opportunities, and actively promoting the member forum. Her impact extends to the regional level through her service on the ERAPPA Technology & Communication Committee, where she shared OCAPPA’s successful strategies, most notably, how their monthly newsletter boosted forum and website traffic. Thanks to her innovative approach, ERAPPA adopted similar practices to enhance engagement across the eastern region. Colleen’s commitment, collaborative spirit, and innovative thinking exemplify the excellence celebrated by the Rising Star Award. Her contributions continue to elevate both OCAPPA and ERAPPA, setting the stage for even greater achievements ahead.
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Maria Morrissey – SNEAPPA Maria Morrissey has been an active and impactful member of our organization for the past four years, consistently stepping up to lead and innovate. Starting as an at-large member of SNEAPPA, she quickly embraced leadership roles and made meaningful contributions to advancing the chapter’s mission. Maria played a key role in developing and refining the meeting-hosting process, hosted a SNEAPPA meeting at UMass Lowell, and even rewrote the meeting-hosting manual to improve clarity and efficiency. Her commitment goes beyond the chapter level—Maria has filled in as Secretary when needed, actively supports ERAPPA 2026 Annual Conference planning through the Promotions Committee, and volunteers on the ERAPPA Strategic Planning Committee. She currently serves as Treasurer for SNEAPPA and will also serve as Treasurer for ERAPPA 2026, demonstrating her reliability and leadership. Maria’s willingness to step up, her thoughtful ideas, and her dedication to improving our organization make her a deserving recipient of the Rising Star Award.
Chapter Champion Awards Craig Hickey – AAPPA Craig has been an unwavering advocate and supporter for AAPPA, demonstrating exceptional commitment through active participation in both AAPPA and ERAPPA events. His leadership journey includes six impactful years as AAPPA President, previous to which he served as the chapter’s Vice President of Technology & Communications and Secretary. Throughout his tenure, Craig has exemplified the importance of engagement, fostering growth and professional development for facilities management professionals and business partners across the region. Under his guidance, AAPPA’s Fall Professional Development Conference has expanded significantly, now consistently reaching full capacity, a testament to his vision and dedication. Craig’s outstanding leadership, tireless contributions, and passion for advancing the profession make him a truly deserving recipient of the Chapter Champion Award. Brian Richards – KAPPA Brian has been a long-time and dedicated member of the KAPPA Board, consistently working to grow membership and strengthen relationships with business partners. His leadership was instrumental in guiding KAPPA through post-pandemic recovery, introducing innovative engagement strategies that benefited both institutional and business partner members. Beyond his contributions to KAPPA, Brian served on the ERAPPA Membership Committee for several years and was honored as an ERAPPA Rising Star in 2022. Known for his ability to
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think creatively and focus on results rather than recognition, he has been a loyal advocate for connecting institutional members with business partner resources. Now serving as Director of Facilities at the Penn Trafford School District, Brian continues to bring fresh perspective and passion to both KAPPA and ERAPPA. His dedication, leadership, and relationship-building make him a deserving recipient of the Chapter Champion Award. Sue Maddalena – NJAPPA Sue has been a tireless advocate for NJAPPA and the business partner community, serving as Business Partner Liaison and now as Co-Host of the ERAPPA Annual Conference. With authenticity, warmth, and vision, she has strengthened connections between NJAPPA and ERAPPA, elevated the member experience, and played an indispensable role in making this year’s conference a resounding success. Sue’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to fostering collaboration make her a truly deserving recipient of the Chapter Champion Award. Bryan Coady – NNEAPPA Bryan’s journey with NNEAPPA began in 2011 when attending his first conference at the University of Vermont sparked a passion for active involvement. In 2023, he was elected Secretary/Treasurer, where he made significant contributions to chapter finances and introduced improvements to conferences and events. Most recently, Bryan was elected Vice President of NNEAPPA, continuing to strengthen relationships within the facilities community and organize valuable learning opportunities for members. Beyond his chapter work, Bryan is deeply engaged with APPA, having completed the Institute for Facilities Management and currently participating in the Leadership Academy, demonstrating his commitment to professional growth and excellence in facilities management. Bryan’s leadership, vision, and dedication make him a truly deserving recipient of the Chapter Champion Award. Brent Thomas – OCAPPA Brent has served as Treasurer of OCAPPA for more than six years, ensuring the chapter’s financial health with transparency and dedication. During times when in-person meetings were not possible, he kept members engaged through annual professional development events and bimonthly chapter meetings. In the absence of others willing to serve, Brent graciously extended his term, an outstanding example of commitment and leadership. Known for his positive energy and respected input across all OCAPPA colleges, Brent has also supported the Energy Subcommittee, helping advance initiatives in energy and carbon 8
reduction through innovative campus technologies. His dedication and impact make him a valued leader in OCAPPA and a truly deserving recipient of the Chapter Champion Award.
Jeff Gutsfeld – SNEAPPA Jeff has been a dedicated and engaged member of SNEAPPA for many years, consistently contributing to the strength and success of the organization. Recently appointed as Business Partner Representative, he has approached the role with professionalism and integrity, offering thoughtful input while upholding the chapter’s commitment to maintaining discussions free from sales influence. In addition to his primary responsibilities, Jeff has volunteered for additional board duties and provided support whenever needed. His contributions extend beyond SNEAPPA through his active involvement on the ERAPPA Business Partner Committee, where he helps develop strategies to enhance the committee’s impact across chapters. Jeff’s integrity, enthusiasm, and sustained commitment to advancing collaboration make him truly a deserving recipient of the Chapter Champion Award.
Jason Sawyer – MD/DC APPA Jason has been a dedicated leader on the MD/DC Board since 2016, serving in multiple capacities, including Director at Large, Host Committee member, and Co-Chair of Technology and Communications for the ERAPPA 2017 Annual Conference. Since 2017, he has represented MD/DC on the ERAPPA Technology and Communications Committee, assuming the role of Vice President in 2019. Currently serving as Treasurer for the MD/DC chapter, Jason continues to manage critical technology functions, including website updates, event registrations, and coordination of the 2.5-day Summer Program. In addition, he contributes to and assembles the ERAPPA newsletter, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing communication and engagement within the community. Jason’s expertise, dedication, and tireless support make him a truly deserving recipient of the Chapter Champion Award. Hugh Briggs – OAPPA Hugh has been a steadfast leader and contributor to both ERAPPA and OAPPA for decades. Currently serving as ERAPPA’s Vice President for Chapter Development, he has held nearly every leadership role within OAPPA, including President, Vice President, and Chair of the
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Energy Committee. His consistent involvement has provided stability and made him OAPPA’s rock - an indispensable source of expertise and institutional knowledge. Hugh has played a pivotal role in planning conferences, guiding committees, and strengthening connections between OAPPA and ERAPPA. He embodies the spirit of collaboration and leadership, generously sharing his knowledge, challenging peers to strive for excellence, and inspiring the next generation of professionals. Hugh’s enduring commitment, vision, and influence make him a truly deserving recipient of the Chapter Champion Award. Rex Giardine – NYAPPA Rex has been a dedicated and highly engaged leader within NYAPPA and the ERAPPA community for more than a decade. He has served in multiple leadership roles, including NYAPPA President (2022–2024) and Immediate Past President (2024–Present), consistently demonstrating professionalism, collaboration, and a strong commitment to advancing the chapter’s mission. Rex has played a pivotal role in enhancing NYAPPA’s educational programming, ensuring sessions meet CEU, AIA, and APPA credentialing standards. He also championed one-day “Lunch and Learn” events, creating valuable opportunities for regional learning and networking. His mentorship, initiative, and dedication to connecting members and business partners exemplify the spirit of the ERAPPA Chapter Champion Award. Sheri Vucci Awarded the Norman H. Bedell Award The Norman H. Bedell Award, ERAPPA’s highest award, was created in 1996 by ERAPPA to honor the legacy and recognize the contribution of Norman H. Bedell who served APPA, ERAPPA, and KAPPA as International Vice President for Professional Affairs, Regional Officer and President, and Chapter Founder and Treasurer. Norman demonstrated a unique blend of dedication and tenacity coupled with a sincere love for and belief in people. This award memorializes his contributions by recognizing another member who has served with distinction and exemplifies the leadership qualities of the late Norman H. Bedell. The Norman H. Bedell Award recipients are chosen by the ERAPPA Board. This year, ERAPPA proudly recognizes Sheri as the recipient of this prestigious award. Sheri’s involvement with APPA, ERAPPA, and MD/DC APPA spans more than three decades, beginning in 1990 and continuing through her Emeritus status following her retirement from the Smithsonian Institution in 2024. Her record of service is nothing short of remarkable. Sheri has served continuously on the MD/DC APPA Board since 1991, holding key positions including Director, Treasurer, President, and Past President. At the regional level, her leadership has been equally impactful, she has served ERAPPA as Treasurer, Vice President
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for Technology & Communications, President-Elect, President, and Past President. This sustained commitment reflects not only her dedication but also her ability to lead and inspire across multiple organizational levels. Her contributions extend far beyond titles. Sheri has led five terms as MD/DC APPA Chapter President, several of which were two-year terms, and played a pivotal role in planning and hosting ERAPPA Annual Meetings, serving on four host committees - two as co-chair. She represented ERAPPA on the APPA Awards Committee, assisted APPA with editing the Body of Knowledge (BOK). Sheri has also presented at numerous MD/DC APPA meetings, sharing her expertise and advancing professional development for countless members. Sheri’s technical leadership has been transformative. She spearheaded the complete redesign and migration of the ERAPPA website to a WordPress platform - a complex, time-intensive project that significantly improved accessibility and streamlined communication for members. As ERAPPA Vice President for Technology & Communications, she not only revamped ERAPPA and chapter websites, but also provided critical support to other chapters and Annual Meeting co-chairs during their website transitions. Her passion for mentorship is equally noteworthy. Sheri has recruited and supported dozens of members – including board members and event participants, encouraging active engagement in APPA, ERAPPA, and local chapter activities. Even while deeply involved in regional planning, Sheri ensured local chapter activities thrived by identifying relevant topics, securing speakers, and hosting numerous events that kept MD/DC APPA vibrant and engaged. Sheri has been a driving force behind the continued momentum and engagement of MD/DC APPA. Sheri’s leadership continued at the highest level as ERAPPA President prior to her retirement. Remarkably, her dedication has not diminished in retirement; she remains an active Emeritus member and has graciously agreed to serve as Treasurer for the 2028 ERAPPA Annual Meeting hosted by MD/DC APPA. Her tireless service, visionary contributions, and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on APPA, ERAPPA, and MD/DC APPA. Sheri exemplifies the very qualities celebrated by the Norman H. Bedell Award - leadership, passion, and a profound belief in the power of community. We congratulate Sheri on this well-deserved honor and thank her for her extraordinary impact on our profession.
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ERAPPA 2026 Dear Colleagues and Friends, It is with great excitement and anticipation that we welcome you to ERAPPA 2026, set in the vibrant and historic city of Providence, Rhode Island. As Co-Chairs, we are honored to guide the planning of this year’s conference and thrilled to invite you to be part of what promises to be an inspiring and energizing gathering. This will be ERAPPA’s 75th Annual Meeting and 2026 also commemorates the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Our theme, Revolutionary Ideas, reflects both the innovative spirit of our profession and the revolutionary heritage of our host city. In a time when educational facilities are evolving faster than ever, we are called not just to adapt—but to lead with bold thinking and visionary solutions. We encourage you to bring your curiosity, your passion, and your boldest ideas. Together, we can spark new thinking, strengthen our community, and create revolutionary change across our institutions. Currently our Call for Presentations is open and submissions will be accepted through January 9th , 2026. We invite passionate presenters to share transformative approaches, emerging technologies, field-tested lessons, and bold successes — or even failures — that inspire meaningful action aligned with our conference theme of Revolutionary Ideas. Bring your best ideas, forward-thinking case studies, and candid reflections. We especially encourage creative, engaging presentation formats that spark discussion and stimulate revolutionary thinking. A presentation shared by an institution with a business partner is the most successful! 1. Revolution in Action: Pioneering New Frontiers in Maintenance and Operations 2. Leading the Charge: Visionary Leadership - Turning Bold ideas into Tangible Results 3. Constructing Freedom: Design and Building for Tomorrow 4. The Digital Tea Party: Technology and Change 5. Lightning Strikes: Sustainable Innovation for a Better Future Additional timely topics are encouraged. Our top-level sponsorships are also open – click here to learn more about the great opportunities that are available for ERAPPA 2026! Sponsorship provides direct access to decision-makers, enhanced brand visibility, prime exhibit options, and participation in educational sessions and networking events. Multiple sponsorship levels are available, with benefits such as premier booth placement, complimentary registrations, and access to attendee lists. Support ERAPPA 2026 and strengthen your partnership with the educational facilities community! To learn more about the conference, watch our video: https://vimeo.com/1121602291?fl=pl&fe=vl We look forward to seeing you in Providence this fall 2026—and to discovering what we can achieve together.
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With appreciation, Melissa Bergeron, UMass Amherst
Jessica Pepoy, Wolcott Public Schools ERAPPA 2026 Co-Chairs
Quick Links: Conference Agenda About Hotel Information Sponsorships Contact
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2025–2026
Board of Directors
Our Board continues to guide ERAPPA with strategic vision and dedication. Role President Past President President-Elect Treasurer Secretary VP Professional Development VP Annual Meetings VP Chapter Development VP Member & Community Engagement VP Technology & Communication VP Business Partner Regional Director
Name Mary Grube Greg Clayton Amy Baker Gary Goss Earl Farrell Nicola Embleton-Lake Jason Sawyer Tim Schill Andy Feick Gus Bing Leslie K. Whitby Jessica Pepoy
Not Pictured
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In Memoriam, George Stooks ERAPPA wishes to take a moment to honor the life and legacy of George Stooks, who passed away unexpectedly on September 26, 2025, at the age of 68. In August 2025, George was honored with APPA Emeritus status - a distinction that reflects his 38 years of dedicated service to higher-education facilities. Throughout his career, George made significant and lasting contributions to both the NYAPPA chapter and ERAPPA. His leadership roles included serving as NYAPPA Chapter President and Past President, NYAPPA Representative for ERAPPA Membership (2016), ERAPPA Liaison to the APPA Member Committee (2017), and ERAPPA Vice President for Annual Meetings (2018–2024). He also served on two ERAPPA Annual Meeting Host Committees and generously shared his knowledge by presenting and moderating sessions for both NYAPPA and ERAPPA. George was a steadfast advocate for the value of ERAPPA’s Annual Meeting and a strong supporter of all it represents. His commitment was especially evident during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, when two consecutive conferences had to be canceled or postponed. George worked closely with the 2020 and 2021 Host Committees to renegotiate contracts and facilitate reimbursements for expenses already incurred - ensuring both the Chapter’s and organization’s stability during an unprecedented time. Amanda Card, formerly from Direct Travel, had this to say about the challenges George faced during the extended conference planning: “Meeting George at ERAPPA 2016 in Canada marked the beginning of a 9-year professional relationship that grew into a valued friendship. Early on, I saw George's patient approach - apparent in his love for scuba diving and his commitment to ERAPPA and NYAPPA. I worked alongside George while we planned several NYAPPA Summer and Winter conferences and, of course, the ERAPPA Annual Conference. His passion and extensive work experience helped guide us to put together successful events with meaningful education. George helped plan the ERAPPA 2013 conference, which helped when he joined the ERAPPA Board. In his role as ERAPPA Vice President of Annual Meetings, we worked closely with the Annual Committees and the ERAPPA Board to ensure that each area of the conferences stayed on track. When the 2020 COVID hit, it forced George to stay in his role for even longer, helping guide professionals and ERAPPA members through some very difficult times. I loved working with George and presenting him with new ideas on how to make ERAPPA events better. Whether it was about new technology or new techniques, George was always willing to listen and was enthusiastic. We were able to execute some great events and had some great memories.
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Throughout George’s job changes, promotions, and general life busyness, he always worked hard to stay involved with ERAPPA because he believed in the association and what it brought to educational facilities professionals and their careers. George and I had many meaningful conversations about life, work, and the balance of it all. Life is too short, he would say. We would always talk about one of our greatest friends and colleagues, Yvonne. Both George and Yvonne had this zest for life. George will be missed.” One of George’s most endearing qualities was his blend of humor and humility. His birthday often coincided with the ERAPPA June Board Meeting, and we took joy in celebrating with him, even convincing a full room to sing Happy Birthday to him. Patty Smith remembers George as a personifying of grace, generosity, and gentleness. He remained calm under pressure, whether juggling family matters or helping to keep three annual conferences from unraveling during COVID. George devoted his free time to his children and grandchildren. He was the father who took on the tasks of renovating kitchens and building decks – acts of love that reflect his deep commitment to family. George was truly a gentle man, and that gentleness defined his life. “As his friend and colleague, I found his engagement to be extraordinary,” says Patty Smith. “Only after he passed did I learn that George was one of ten children. I attribute George’s gentleness in the face of calamity to knowing and caring what each one of his siblings must have meant to him.” George’s professionalism, warmth, and collegial spirit enriched our community in countless ways, and his absence will be profoundly felt. He was a vibrant presence whose quick wit and subtle humor often transformed lengthy Board meetings into moments of camaraderie and laughter. During his tenure as ERAPPA President, Arthur Walsh recalls George’s remarkable ability to monitor the tone and productivity of discussions, ensuring balance and focus when conversations grew challenging. With his characteristic smile and a glint in his eye, George would lighten the mood with his signature question: “Does Arthur need a Snickers?” Arthur took delight in having the privilege of honoring George’s many contributions by presenting him with the President’s Award at the 2019 Annual Awards Banquet. At the time, George had just begun a new role at St. John Fisher University and needed to leave the conference early on the final day to meet his new supervisor. Because award recipients are never announced in advance, Arthur assumed George would miss the celebration. Still wanting to acknowledge George’s achievements publicly, Arthur began reading the citation, only to discover, to his surprise and delight, that George was in the room, waving as the words were read. When he was invited to the stage to accept his award, George quietly whispered to Arthur, “I had to come back, I couldn’t disappoint you.” George never disappointed anyone. It was these sincere gestures, paired with his steady leadership, which made him not only an exceptional colleague but a cherished friend. 17
Beyond his professional accomplishments, George lived a life defined by service, passion, and love. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy as a Machinist Mate 2, Petty Officer Second Class. Most recently, he retired from St. John Fisher University, where he oversaw the renovation of Lavery Library, a project he approached with pride and dedication. George also held roles as an Associate Broker with Howard Hanna Real Estate and as President of Rochester Toastmasters 476. George embraced life fully. He loved traveling with his partner, Cindy Lapoff, and enjoyed gardening, scuba diving, hunting, and cooking. Above all, he cherished his family. Cindy, his loving partner, was a frequent presence at ERAPPA events, sharing in the community he valued so deeply. As we say goodbye, we celebrate a life lived generously and with purpose. We remember George’s laughter, his warm hugs, his unwavering dedication to others, and, of course, a few shared Manhattans. Though words cannot express how deeply he will be missed, we take comfort in knowing he is at peace, watching over us all. Rest in peace, George. You will always be loved and never forgotten.
Article Contributors: Jessica Pepoy, Patty Smith, Arthur Walsh, Amanda Card
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IN LOVING MEMORY GEORGE STOOKS 1957-2025 Cherished Father, Friend, and Colleague. Your kindness and humor will deeply be missed.
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Closing Thoughts 👋👋 As we conclude 2025, a heartfelt thanks to every member, volunteer, partner, and leader who made this year a success. ERAPPA thrives because of your dedication, collaboration, and commitment to excellence. Wishing you and your families a joyful holiday season and an inspiring start to the new year!
See you in Providence for ERAPPA 2026! ERAPPA 2027 Preview Dates: October 17-20, 2027 Location: Niagara Falls, Ontario Host: OAPPA & OCAPPA
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