Bryant & Stratton College Announces The Lori Appleford Administrative Excellence Scholarship

Bryant & Stratton College announced today the launch of the Lori Appleford Administrative Excellence Scholarship. The Scholarship recognizes Bryant & Stratton College’s longest-serving employee, Lori Appleford, who is retiring from the College at the end of this month after 45 years with the College. It honors her commitment to academic and professional excellence and is available to eligible students interested in enrolling in the College’s administrative programs.

Ms. Appleford started her career at Bryant & Stratton College as a student and has worked for the College longer than any employee in the institution’s history. Prior to graduating, she began working in a temporary capacity for Bryant Girl, a subsidiary of the institution, which provided temporary secretarial assistance to area businesses. She graduated from Bryant & Stratton College in September 1968 and that November was hired as a full-time keypunch operator for the College.

In the years to follow, Ms. Appleford was promoted to a position in the payroll division and served as Executive Administrative Assistant to Francis (Fran) Gustina, Treasurer at Bryant & Stratton College. In 1980, Mr. Gustina became President of Bryant & Stratton and Ms. Appleford continued as his Executive Administrative Assistant. Subsequently, Ms. Appleford served in this position for five different presidents. While supporting the respective Presidents, Ms. Appleford provided assistance for a number of Vice-presidents, Directors and professional staff. In addition, Ms. Appleford has been responsible for all administrative matters related to the Board of Directors.

“Lori’s absence will be felt when she retires at the end of the month and by creating the Lori Appleford Administrative Excellence Scholarship, we not only honor her service, but her legacy as well,” said Dr. Fran Felser, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at Bryant & Stratton College. “The Appleford Scholarship is a fitting tribute to our friend and colleague whose dedication and commitment to the College is an inspiration to all. The significant contributions she made over her 45 year career with the College will continue on as the Appleford Scholarship helps future generations of administrative professionals realize career success as well.”

The Lori Appleford Administrative Excellence Scholarship may be awarded to new students enrolling in administrative programs at any of the New York State campuses. To be eligible, students must submit a written essay prior to their third week of their first term. Full and part-time students, who maintain their academic standing in accordance with the College’s established scholarship guidelines, may be awarded up to $1,000 per term not to exceed $5,000. Up to 10 scholarships may be awarded in each semester. Students interested in applying for the Appleford Scholarship should contact their local campus.

After retirement, Ms. Appleford plans to stay involved in the Buffalo community by volunteering at the Botanical Gardens as well as spending time with her family and traveling.

To learn more about Bryant & Stratton College, its degree programs and available scholarships visit http://www.bryantstratton.edu.