Two newcomers, Stephanie Cogan and Colleen Gizzi, are running unopposed for two open seats on the Board of Education. Incumbents Christine Badger Mele and Shelle Jaquish are not seeking re-election to office.
Stephanie Cogan
Stephanie Cogan is a lifelong resident of the district. She became active in district affairs when her children were in school, serving in officer roles on the Shaker Road Elementary School and Colonie Central High School PTAs, and as PTA Council president. She has also served on many\ district stakeholder committees. Cogan earned a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Pennsylvania State University and served as a commissioned bank examiner for the federal government for nine years. She has also been self employed for 16 years in the management of professional associations. She is president of the South Colonie Girls Lacrosse Booster Club, trustee at Christ Our Light Church, and former treasurer of Boy Scout Troop 1022. She and her husband, Jim, have three children, two CCHS graduates and a CCHS sophomore.
Colleen Gizzi
Colleen Grizzi is seeking her first term on the school board. A graduate of Colonie Central High School’s Class of 1982, she is the former owner of Copies by Colleen, a commercial copier for medical and business records. She has also worked since 2005 as an administrative assistant at Cool Insuring Agency. Gizzi has been a volunteer at Animal Lovers in Albany for many years, helping to rescue and rehabilitate animals. She has also been actively involved in girls youth ice hockey. She and her husband, Brian, have one daughter and two grandchildren.