Making a Difference Award

Phoenix Central School District physical education teacher Angie Neiss has spent decades behind the scenes of various community service projects, volunteer efforts and student-centered functions. Always focused on the students and never seeking any accolades, Neiss was recently propelled into the spotlight for earning the Making a Difference Award.

Now in its fifth year, the award honors individuals who go above and beyond in service to the district, its students and the broader community. She received multiple nominations for the award, including recommendations by JCB Assistant Principal Patrick Fitch, physical education teacher Chad Rowe, math teacher Jill Pitcher and community member Debra Dates. Their nominations repeated a common theme: Angie’s unmatched compassion and commitment to service.

“Angie’s enthusiasm, passion and dedication to our community, and especially to our students, is evident in everything she does,” said PCSD Superintendent Christopher Byrne. “Anyone who knows Angie knows that she always goes above and beyond for our students, their families and the entire Phoenix community.”

Among her many contributions, Neiss founded and currently organizes the Oswego County Olympiad Invitational, now in its 10th year. The event welcomes more than 450 students from nine school districts and CiTi BOCES, requiring months of preparation and a deep passion for inclusion.

Beyond the Olympiad, Neiss is a driving force behind numerous initiatives, including coordinating blood drives, community clean-ups, and food and hygiene collections. She is also a key volunteer for Erin’s Angels and leads JCB’s annual Christmas food basket drive. A long-time resident of the Phoenix community, she brings pride and positivity into every effort.

Diana Cook was a true pillar of our PCSD community, generously sharing her time, energy, and talents to make a lasting difference.

A Passion for the Performing Arts

Diana had a deep love for the performing arts. She dedicated countless hours to creating costumes for student performances and organized enriching trips to New York City, providing our students with the unforgettable experience of Broadway shows and workshops. For many years, she also served as a dedicated officer of the Drama and Music Booster organization.

A Champion for Special Needs Programs

Diana was a fierce advocate for our exceptional needs programs. She actively participated as a parent representative on various Special Education committees, ensuring the voices of students and families were heard.

A Valued Board Member

Diana possessed an intuitive ability to ask insightful questions at crucial moments, making her an invaluable asset to our Board of Education.

A Lasting Impact

Our PCSD community has been immeasurably enriched by Diana Cook's unwavering dedication and presence. We honor her memory and the remarkable legacy she leaves behind.

Decades of service and volunteerism have not gone unnoticed as Doug and Judi Graham recently earned the Phoenix Central School District’s Making a Difference Award.

The recognition program began two years ago with the goal of honoring those who have gone above and beyond for the PCSD. This year’s award-winners met that criteria due to their years of contributions to Phoenix youth, according to the nomination submitted by former BOE member Paul Gilchreist.

Gilchreist detailed the Grahams’ contributions dating back to the mid-‘90s, when they began coaching Little League baseball and community youth basketball. Their volunteerism extended beyond coaching, as they helped run concessions, served as scorekeepers, ran the clocks and spearheaded fundraisers through the boosters.

“They saw the need and they stepped up to help,” Gilchreist said. “They dedicated their time and effort for all the children, not just their own two. They cared about the success of everyone …”

Even after their own children graduated, the Grahams remained active in various community programs. For decades, they impacted hundreds of lives within the community.

“They will never know the countless number of people they touched; how many children are better adults because of their mentoring,” Gilchreist said.

Upon reading the nomination, Superintendent Christopher Byrne congratulated the Grahams and presented them with the Making a Difference Award through a virtual connection.

“On behalf of the entire BOE, I can say that this is a very well-deserved award,” Byrne said. “Thank you so much for all that you have done for our students, our school and our community. Congratulations and thank you, Doug and Judi!”