Honoring Mohawk Valley’s Unsung Heroes: Celebrating Older New Yorkers’ Day 2025

By David LaGuerre – 

On May 27, 2025, the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) held its annual Older New Yorkers’ Day celebration at the Crowne Plaza Hotel-Desmond in Albany, recognizing the invaluable contributions of older adults across the state. Among the honorees were several distinguished residents from the Mohawk Valley, whose dedication to community service exemplifies the spirit of civic engagement and the enduring impact of volunteerism.

Recognizing Lifelong Commitment to Community

The event, traditionally held in May to coincide with Older Americans Month—a national observance since the Kennedy administration—returned to an in-person format after several years of virtual ceremonies due to the pandemic. This year’s theme, “Powered by Connections,” highlighted the importance of social engagement and intergenerational relationships in promoting health and well-being among older adults.Office for the 

Nancy Nicholl: A Legacy of Service in Oneida County

Oneida County honored Nancy Nicholl, a former Deputy Sheriff and School Resource Officer, with the Outstanding Older Citizen Award. Nicholl’s dedication to fostering community connections is evident through her active involvement with Copper City Community Connections, where she organizes and funds numerous activities to bring people together. Her efforts have significantly enhanced social engagement and wellness among older adults in the region.

Kathy Freunscht: Championing Community Initiatives in Madison County

Kathy Freunscht of Chittenango received special recognition from NYSOFA for her extensive volunteer work spanning over four decades. Her contributions include active participation in the Chittenango Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, the Chittenango Garden Club, and the Lions Club, where she played a pivotal role in establishing the Lions Club Botanical Park and its fairy garden. Freunscht’s commitment to community service has left a lasting impact on the Village of Chittenango and the Town of Sullivan.

The Broader Impact of Older Adults in Civic Life

The recognition of individuals like Nicholl and Freunscht underscores the vital role older adults play in sustaining and enriching community life. According to the New York State Office for the Aging, the state’s 4.8 million older adults contribute significantly to the social and economic fabric of their communities.

Governor Kathy Hochul’s Fiscal Year 2026 Executive State Budget reflects this understanding, proposing historic investments in aging services, including enhanced support for home and community-based programs. These initiatives aim to promote independence and quality of life for older New Yorkers, ensuring they can continue to contribute meaningfully to society.

Looking Ahead: Building Age-Friendly Communities

The achievements of Mohawk Valley’s honorees serve as a testament to the enduring value of civic engagement and the importance of fostering age-friendly communities. By recognizing and supporting the contributions of older adults, we not only honor their legacy but also inspire future generations to engage in community service.

As we reflect on these stories, let us consider how we can continue to build inclusive communities that value the experiences and contributions of all members, regardless of age.