Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES presented awards to staff members for longevity of service during a welcome-back event on Tuesday, Sept. 2, at Herkimer College.

The following employees were recognized for their years of service:

25 years: John Martin.

20 years: Mary Demeree.

10 years: Gina Cannistra, Mason Fisher, Patricia Frank, Lisa Gorman, Jessie Heidelberger, Katelyn Hoke, Alisa Hubbell, Kayla Hulser, Adam Hutchinson, Margaret McAvaney, Susan McMullen, Nathan Purinton and Robert Walker.

The annual Herkimer BOCES welcome-back event takes place as part of a Superintendent’s Conference Day, when 10-month employees return to work, just before students start classes on Thursday, Sept. 4.

Herkimer BOCES Board of Education President Holly Pullis gave opening remarks, Herkimer BOCES Supervisor of Safety Services provided mandatory annual trainings, Herkimer BOCES District Superintendent D.J. Shepardson presented a BOCES update and central administration welcomed staff for the school year. Author, speaker and educator Trevor Muir gave a keynote speech.

After the morning session at Herkimer College, the event moved to the Herkimer BOCES William E. Busacker Complex for lunch, training and association meetings.