Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES

After nearly 23 years of dedicated service, Linda Brown looks back on her time at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES with gratitude for the people, purpose, and sense of family that defined her career.

Brown first joined BOCES in 1980, working in personnel relations at just 18 years old. After a year and a half, she left to pursue a different career, but returned in 2003. She remained in personnel relations until 2017, when she became the clerk of the District Superintendent and Board of Education.

“No day is the same… it’s a fast-paced environment and keeps your attention,” Brown said. “I like that the things I do really make a difference for the students.”

While she enjoys her day-to-day responsibilities, the family atmosphere at BOCES is what kept Brown coming back for years. Her colleagues have provided both laughter and comfort through life’s ups and downs. “It really is a family. I’m friends with many of my coworkers both in and out of work. These are people who are in my corner. Everyone is accommodating and caring, and I’ve never felt alone.”

Brown’s husband passed away in 2021, and she established the Mike Poorman Memorial Scholarship in his honor. Each year, she proudly presents the award at the Career and Technical Education graduation ceremony. While many applications arrive through the mail, one moment from a few years ago stands out. The student’s many accomplishments and personal story touched Brown, but in addition, the student showed heart and maturity beyond her years.

“The student brought her application upstairs to me, looked me in the eye and shook my hand,” she recalled. “That sticks with me to this day.”

Brown is set to officially retire in December, yet intends to stay on for several months to help train her successor. Beyond some part-time work, she looks forward to traveling with friends, making memories with her children and grandchildren, and enjoying some well-earned free time.