June 22, 2026 — Region 7 offered three scholarships this year to dependents of Region 7 members.
Traditionally, the Region only offers two scholarships, honoring Paul Normandeau and Ellen Mainville, who both lost their lives to COVID. This year, Region 7 offered a third scholarship in honor of William “Bill” Crotty, who served as the Regional Coordinator for more than 20 years; sat on the Statewide Political Action Committee; and was a strong supporter of labor, often attending rallies in Albany, New York City and Washington, D.C.
Crotty held various positions and committee appointments during his career and was passionate about helping PEF members, especially Retirees, in his later years. After his retirement, he became the Chapter 7 Retiree President in 2010 until his passing. He was the resident historian for PEF Retirees and shared his knowledge regarding all things PEF including information about past caucuses, presidents and contract battles.
“He will be remembered for his wit, knowledge, passion and dedication,” said Region 7 Coordinator Barb Stransky. “Bill fought long and hard against cancer. To honor Bill’s passing, the scholarship committed decided to offer a third scholarship for dependents who are pursuing their education in the medical field.”
Paul R. Normandeau Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship was created in memory of Region 7 member Paul R. Normandeau, who worked for the New York State Department of Transportation. Normandeau loved boating, woodworking, carpentry, and excavation work.
This year’s winner is Tanner Jay, who is continuing his education at SUNY Canton, where he will be majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Tanner’s father, Jeffery Jay, is a Maintenance Supervisor 3 at SUNY Canton.
Ellen L. Mainville Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship was created in memory of Region 7 member Ellen L. Mainville, who was employed by the Department of Corrections as a teacher at Barehill Correctional Facility. She was also a published writer, poet, artist, and was an active leader at the New Covenant church in Malone.
This year’s winner is Braden Nephew, who is continuing his education at Florida State University studying Finance and Accounting. Braden volunteered at the Plattsburgh Interfaith Food Shelf and was active in his school’s newspaper. Braden’s mother is Kaley Nephew, who works as a Speech Language Pathologist at OPWDD-Sunmount.
Bill Crotty Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship honors PEF Region 7 member William “Bill” Crotty.
This year’s winner is Rory Lawrence, who plans on attending Clarkson University in the fall.
She will be double majoring in Psychology and Health Sciences. Rory’s mother is Desirae Goodspeed, a teacher at Franklin Correctional Facility.
“I would like to thank the Region 7 Scholarship Committee and its Chair, Carly Gagnon, for making these scholarships happen again this year,” said Stransky.