LIFEPATH'S THIRD AGE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
2025 HONOREES
Frederick M. Altman
Attorney
Altman and Associates
Fred Altman has built a lifelong career centered on service and leadership as a dedicated attorney and veteran who values the importance of mentorship. Born in the Bronx and raised in Queens, Fred pursued his education at CW Post College, part of Loyola University. Although he aspired to attend West Point, fate led him down a different path that would see him make a lasting impact in law and military service.
After moving to Albany in 1970 to pursue a master’s degree, Fred worked as a substitute teacher before being introduced to Daniel Mahoney, a prominent trial lawyer who would become his mentor. Under Mahoney’s guidance, Fred took an unconventional route into the legal profession through New York’s Lincoln Law, which allowed him to study law as a certified clerk rather than attending law school. With Mahoney’s direction and Fred’s determination, he successfully passed the bar exam sans law school, and has been a practicing attorney for over 50 years.
In addition to his legal career, Fred has an extensive military background. Enlisting in the Army Reserve in the late 1960s, he served in various capacities before becoming a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer. His 21-year military career culminated in his retirement as a Major. Even after retiring from active duty, Fred remains deeply involved in veterans’ affairs by assisting veterans and their families with legal matters and advocating for their rights.
Fred’s passion for service extends far beyond his professional life. As the commander of a local veterans’ organization, he plays a pivotal role in supporting military personnel and their families. One of his most meaningful initiatives is the annual Four Chaplains Memorial Award, which honors individuals who exemplify selfless service, an ethos Fred embodies.
Outside of his legal and military commitments, Fred enjoys woodworking, a craft that runs in his family. While he no longer skis or hunts as often as he once did, he finds fulfillment in mentoring young professionals, including his son, who now works alongside him in the legal field.
Fred credits his work ethic to his father, a World War II veteran and businessman, and his mentor, Daniel Mahoney. He believes in giving back and passing on the wisdom gained from his experiences to the next generation. For Fred, success is measured not just by professional achievements but by his impact on others, a principle he upholds every day.
Barbara E. Carroll
Volunteer
Whiskers Animal Benevolent League • LifePath
Barbara Carroll is known for her unwavering work ethic, love for animals and dedication to her family and community. Born and raised in Albany, N.Y., Barb grew up alongside her younger sister and brother, enjoying a modest childhood in a Catholic school environment where she maintained close-knit friendships that she still cherishes today.
Barb received a marketing degree from Siena College and spent 34 years with the Department of Motor Vehicles for the State of New York, where she worked on various projects, including implementing online defensive driving courses. Her father’s influence steered her toward state employment, and his legacy of hard work and dedication left an indelible mark on Barb’s work ethic.
Upon retiring at 55, Barb was determined to remain active and engaged in her community. Rather than sitting idle, she turned to volunteerism. Beginning as a volunteer at Whiskers Animal Shelter in 2013, Barb found a deep sense of purpose in giving back. What started as a simple Thursday morning shift became a more profound commitment, and Barb became an integral part of the organization. She covered extra shifts, ran errands and eventually took on the role of volunteer coordinator. Known for her calm demeanor and her ability to advocate for the animals, Barb also works closely with the shelter’s veterinary team. She plays a key role in ensuring the cats receive necessary care and, in difficult moments, offering comfort during their final hours.
Barb’s work with Whiskers reflects her dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. Whether working with animals or people, she is driven by a desire to contribute to her community and offer a helping hand whenever needed. Through her work at Whiskers, she has built lasting friendships with fellow volunteers and developed a deep connection with the animals she has helped care for. Her work there continues to be a testament to her kindness and selflessness, encompassing her unwavering commitment to giving back to the community.
Barb’s spirit of service extends far beyond Whiskers. Motivated by her family’s influence, particularly her father’s example of staying active in retirement, she began volunteering with LifePath in 2022, offering her time to support LifePath’s mission. She currently volunteers in the organization’s Administrative Office, continuing her dedication to helping others in meaningful ways.
Whether offering a listening ear, sharing a glass of wine or caring for animals in their final moments, Barb’s impact continues to resonate in the lives she touches. In every role she takes, her caring heart and steady presence leave a lasting impression on those around her.
Fredrick W. Erlich
Founder & CEO Living Resources (40 years) • Community Service Consultant & Board Member
Fred Erlich has dedicated his career to creating innovative and compassionate services for individuals with disabilities, brain injury survivors and older adults. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he was the youngest of his family, often looking to his Uncle Phil for guidance and mentorship. Fred moved to the Capital Region in 1967 to attend the University at Albany, where he earned degrees in Political Science, Social Welfare and Business. In 1973, he co-founded Living Resources, a nonprofit organization that became a leader in providing a wide range of essential services, such as housing, employment, college-based programs and specialized smart homes for individuals with significant disabilities.
Serving as CEO from 1981 to 2020, Fred oversaw Living Resources’ growth into an organization with over 850 employees, a $50 million annual budget and services supporting more than 2,000 individuals. He credits the success of the organization to strong collaboration among dedicated staff, supportive families and an engaged Capital Region community.
Fred has also been deeply involved in initiatives that strengthen the community. He has served as Vice President of the International Center of the Capital Region along with contributing to innovative elder care solutions through EverHome. His passion for environmental sustainability has led him to work with organizations such as the Healthy Earth Alliance and the Mid-Atlantic Regional Seed Bank. Among his many accolades, Fred has received the Tech Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Leadership Award, the UAlbany Distinguished Alumni Award and the U.S. President’s Award for Promoting Employment for People with Disabilities.
Fred is a person who thrives on staying active, always finding ways to burn off his abundant energy. From an early age, he was known for his inability to sit still, a trait that has only fueled his love for outdoor activities. Whether it’s biking with friends, playing pickleball, golfing or hiking, Fred is always looking for ways to stay active and keep both his body and mind engaged.
Now enjoying retirement, Fred remains an active advocate for community-based solutions that improve the lives of individuals and families. He cherishes time with his wife, Beth, their three children and four grandchildren, who keep life joyful and full of adventure.
Chris Foster & Patrick White
Harbinger Theatre
Chris Foster (right) and Patrick White (left) have built a vibrant life together, rooted in their shared love for theater and the Capital Region, as well as their dedication to the arts and community. Their journey began in the performance world, where each brought a unique perspective yet found common ground in the theater’s power to connect people.
Patrick’s theater journey began in high school, where an influential 10th-grade English class sparked his passion for performance. He spent years striving to make a name in New York City, but after facing setbacks, he found a renewed sense of purpose in the Capital Region theater scene. Here, he met Chris, a California native who had also dedicated his life to the stage.
Chris’s path led him from California to Penn State for graduate school and eventually to the Empire State Institute for Performing Arts in Albany. As both an actor and teacher, he spent two decades helping students earn high school diplomas and learn English as a second language while continuing to act and direct in the theater world. Chris seamlessly blended his passion for teaching and theater, eventually becoming a prominent figure in the regional theater community.
Their shared passion for the arts brought them together. Though they knew each other through mutual theater friends, their paths crossed at the audition for Gross Indecency: The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde. Both auditioned for the lead role of Oscar Wilde; ultimately, Patrick was cast as the narrator, and Chris was cast as the lead. This collaboration marked the beginning of their personal and professional relationship. Their connection grew as they worked together in the theater and the two complemented each other perfectly.
Together, they attend over 300 shows annually, traveling to performances nationwide. Between seeing multiple shows in a day or producing, directing and acting in their own productions, Chris and Patrick’s lives revolves around the theater. Their commitment has led them to found Harbinger Theatre, where they’ve staged over 15 plays and many regional premieres. They also established the Capital Region Festival of Theatre, a nonprofit dedicated to showcasing new voices and elevating regional theater.
Despite challenges of a demanding theater schedule, Chris and Patrick prioritize their relationship. Their bond extends beyond the stage, and their shared experiences in the theater only deepen their connection. They balance their busy lives with moments of simple joy and always support each other’s personal and professional growth.
In recent years, their roles as community leaders have expanded. Chris now leads gardening projects for local businesses, while Patrick continues to teach and review theater. Though they’ve retired from full-time careers in education and performance, they remain intensely active in Capital Region.
The theater has been a constant source of fulfillment for Chris and Patrick through all the highs and lows. It’s more than just a job or hobby, it’s the thread that ties their stories together, giving them a platform to express themselves and connect with others. As they move into the next phase of their lives, they have no intention of slowing down. They continue to inspire and create with plans to expand their theater company, grow their festival and mentor the next generation of artists.
Paul Grondahl
Opalka Endowed Director
NYS Writers Institute at the University at Albany
Growing up in the gritty, industrial city of the Pacific Northwest in Tacoma, Washington, Paul Grondahl adopted a strong work ethic and deep appreciation for storytelling. His father was a mailman and his mother worked at the University of Puget Sound, where Paul later attended college, becoming the first in his family to earn a degree.
In 1981, Paul moved across the country to Albany, New York for graduate school, drawn by the University at Albany’s renowned English Literature program and a fellowship that made his education possible. A four-day train ride across the country; his journey east was an adventure in itself. He met fascinating people and this trip introduced a defining passion in Paul’s life: listening to people’s stories and sharing them with the world. What was meant to be a two-year stay turned into a lifetime as he built his career, family and community in Albany.
Travel remains a cornerstone of Paul’s life, whether it’s returning to the Pacific Northwest to visit his 93-year-old mother in Tacoma or exploring new places with his wife. He cherishes experiences over possessions, believing that the moments shared with loved ones and the people he meets along the way are the true markers of a fulfilling life.
Having been a staff writer at the Albany Times Union since 1984, his work has taken him to five continents where he has met and interviewed political figures, celebrities and everyday individuals with extraordinary stories. He is an award-winning journalist, biographer and director of the New York State Writers Institute at the University at Albany. A passionate advocate for literature and storytelling, Paul has been a fixture in the Albany literary community for decades.
He has also written four books, including well-received biographies of Erastus Corning and Theodore Roosevelt. His second book, That Place Called Home, was excerpted in Reader’s Digest and optioned by CBS for development as a made-for-TV movie. He has contributed to The New York Times Book Review, Smithsonian Magazine, Newsday and other major publications. His literary contributions have earned him recognition as Albany Author of the Year and Notable Author of the Year by several regional libraries.
Paul is also a dedicated educator. Having led writing workshops for students from elementary school to college, his commitment to mentoring young writers extends to programs like the Minds-On workshop at the Rensselaerville Institute and the New Visions Public Communications program at the Times Union. He was honored as a distinguished alumnus in arts and letters by UAlbany in 2005. His long-standing engagement with the New York State Writers Institute includes multiple appearances as an author in the Visiting Writer Series and decades of participation as a journalist, reader and supporter of the literary arts. Under his leadership, the Writers Institute is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in fostering literary culture and public discourse.
The Rev. Dr. William R. Hinrichs
St. John's Episcopal Church of Cohoes • Episcopal Diocese of Albany
The Rev. Dr. William R. Hinrichs has dedicated his life to ministry and service. Raised in Mexico City, Fr. Bill came to the United States at 14 to attend boarding school in Pennsylvania before continuing his education in Colorado. His unique background as an immigrant and a descendant of Mayflower passengers has given him a deep understanding of the complexities of identity and belonging.
After earning a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Denver, Fr. Bill initially pursued a career in the hospitality industry, working for Ramada Inns and Howard Johnson’s. However, feeling a stronger call to serve, he attended Nashotah House in Wisconsin, where he trained for the priesthood. He later earned a Doctorate in Ministry from Drew University in New Jersey.
Ordained as an Episcopal priest, Fr. Bill has spent over 46 years in ministry. He began his service in Colorado before being invited to join the Diocese of Albany in 1987. Over the years, he has served congregations in Massena, Clifton Park and Duanesburg before becoming the part-time Rector of St. John’s in Cohoes. Throughout his ministry, Fr. Bill has prioritized not just the spiritual needs of his congregations but also the well-being of the wider community.
His passion for service reaches far beyond the church walls. A longtime advocate for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease, Fr. Bill worked for the Alzheimer’s Association for 12 years where he focused on program development and training caregivers, earning multiple Train-the-Trainer certifications. He also helped establish caregiver support groups and dementia-friendly congregations. As both his mother and grandfather suffered from the illness, this cause has been deeply personal to him.
In addition to his parish work, Fr. Bill has served on various boards, including mental health organizations in Colorado and local initiatives in New York. He has been involved with the Capital Area Council of Churches, interfaith programs and volunteer organizations such as the Ignatian Volunteer Corps. His commitment to social justice and public policy has led him to work with legislators to enact meaningful change for seniors and caregivers.
Now serving as Diocesan Chaplain and Transition Minister under Bishop Jeremiah Williamson, Fr. Bill directs the Diocesan Healing Ministry and assists clergy and congregations in transition. His role allows him to intersect his decades of pastoral experience and passion for service.
Beyond his professional life, family is central to Fr. Bill’s life, and he cherish time spent with his grandchildren. Among his hobbies of hiking and watching British mystery shows in his free time, travel is the most special. Whether it be a Viking Cruise or a trip to Mexico, each journey is more meaningful than the next. As a lifelong learner and connector, Fr. Bill continues reinventing himself, always seeking new ways to serve. No matter the path he takes, he remains dedicated to fostering community, compassion and faith in an ever-changing world.
Richard F. Holub, M.D.
President
Alzheimer's Disease Research Center
Dr. Richard Holub is a leading neurologist and researcher dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. As the President and Director of the Alzheimer’s Research Center, he has devoted more than 35 years to clinical research, helping shape the landscape of Alzheimer’s treatment through groundbreaking clinical trials. His expertise and commitment to innovation have been instrumental in developing five FDA-approved treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, underscoring his critical role in neurology.
Dr. Holub has overseen more than 134 successful clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and emerging therapies. His work has significantly contributed to the ongoing pursuit of more effective interventions for Alzheimer’s and related memory disorders. Under his leadership, the Alzheimer’s Research Center has become a premier institution for neurology research, as a full member of the Global Alzheimer’s Platform (GAP), and renowned for its rigorous scientific approach and compassionate patient care.
Dr. Holub’s passion for neuroscience and medical research was ignited early in his education. He earned his undergraduate degree from Rutgers University, where he distinguished himself as a dedicated scholar with a deep interest in the complexities of the human brain. He then pursued his medical degree at Georgetown University School of Medicine, where he laid the foundation for his career in neurology.
Following medical school, Dr. Holub completed specialized training in neurology, further refining his expertise in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders. His dedication to medical education and mentorship has also impacted the next generation of neurologists and researchers.
Beyond his research and clinical practice, Dr. Holub is deeply committed to patient advocacy and community engagement. He actively supports numerous philanthropic causes and believes education and early intervention are key to effective Alzheimer’s care. Through public lectures, educational seminars, and outreach initiatives, he strives to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, early warning signs and the importance of participating in clinical trials.
In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Holub prioritizes personal wellness and family. As a devoted father of four and grandfather of five, he cherishes every opportunity to create lasting memories with his loved ones. He also practices a healthy lifestyle and emphasizes the importance of physical activity, such as going to the gym or playing table tennis, cognitive engagement and social interaction as key components of brain health.
Dr. Holub remains steadfast in his mission to advance Alzheimer’s research and find a cure within his lifetime. His work continues to pave the way for groundbreaking treatments, offering hope to patients, caregivers and families affected by this devastating disease.
Charles Patricelli
Mayor
City of Watervliet
Mayor Charles Patricelli is a lifelong resident of Watervliet, growing up in a close-knit Italian neighborhood surrounded by a diverse community. Raised by his mother and grandmother alongside his two sisters, he learned responsibility at a young age, taking on the role of “man of the house” early in life. His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of family and community.
A dedicated Boy Scout, he earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout as a freshman in high school, one of the youngest to achieve this honor. His Uncle Pat, served as a significant mentor by teaching him the value of hard work and perseverance. Through hands-on experiences, his uncle conveyed lifelong lessons about dedication and resilience, shaping his future leadership style.
After high school, Mayor Patricelli attended Hudson Valley Community College before transferring to Siena College, where he earned a degree in marketing and management. His career began in county government before the City of Watervliet recruited him for an entry-level position. His dedication and work ethic quickly set him apart, leading him to a serve for a 35 yearlong impactful tenure at the Watervliet Housing Authority. Under his leadership, the Housing Authority transformed from a struggling entity into a well-managed, thriving community.
Deeply committed to public service, Mayor Patricelli has been actively involved in numerous community organizations, including the Boy Scouts, where he continues to mentor young scouts on their journey to becoming Eagle Scouts. He has served on the board of the United Way and contributed to various civic initiatives. His philosophy of giving back stems from personal experiences. Having been the recipient of generosity as a child, he believes in paying it forward to help others.
Beyond his official duties, he takes pride in hands-on work. From repairing city infrastructure to organizing volunteer projects, his passion for improving the city is evident in his responsiveness to residents’ needs and his ability to rally support for projects both big and small.
A devoted husband, father of three, and proud grandfather, Mayor Patricelli cherishes time with his family. He enjoys working with tools and outdoor activities like camping and hiking. Despite his many responsibilities, he remains dedicated to fostering a strong, connected community in Watervliet.
As he reflects on his career and contributions, Mayor Patricelli hopes his legacy will inspire others to serve and build upon the progress he has made while continuing to make Watervliet a better place for future generations. His leadership is defined by a genuine love for his city and an unwavering commitment to its residents.
Wanda F. Willingham
Deputy Chairwoman
Albany County Legislative District 3
Wanda Willingham has dedicated her life to public service, advocacy and community empowerment. Since 1999, she has served as the representative for Albany’s 3rd Legislative District and currently holds the position of Deputy Chairwoman of the Legislature. A founding member of the Legislative Black Caucus, Wanda has steadfastly championed equity, inclusion and fair representation. She also serves as the City of Albany’s 4th Ward Leader, further strengthening her connection with the community.
Wanda has spearheaded transformative policies throughout her tenure, including the “Tobacco-Free Pharmacy” law, funding for a new senior nursing home and expanded access to Congregate Meal Services and NY Connects. She has also been a strong advocate for foster care reform, prioritizing family reunification and permanency for children. Her commitment to fair governance led her to co-sponsor legislation establishing a nonpartisan redistricting process to ensure that all voices, whether urban, rural or suburban, are fairly represented.
Beyond the Legislature, Wanda retired from the New York State Local Retirement System after a distinguished 34-year career. During that time, she played a pivotal role in launching the state’s first pre-retirement workshops. Her service extends to numerous community initiatives, including the Boys and Girls Club of Albany, the Teen Girls Leadership Program and the Capital District African American Coalition on AIDS. She is also a devoted member of Mount Olive Southern Baptist Church, where she leads the choir. Through her dedication to these programs and initiatives, she continues to mentor and uplift future leaders in the community.
Resilience, family and a passion for community-building have shaped Wanda Willingham’s journey as a lifelong Albany resident. Her impact spans generations, from directing youth choirs to founding a summer leadership program for young girls. Whether advocating for policy change, mentoring young leaders or embracing unexpected moments like an impromptu performance with Michael Bublé, Wanda Willingham remains a dedicated and inspiring force for positive change.
Dr. Benita Zahn
Certified Health Coach
B Your Best, LLC
With a distinguished career spanning over 40 years in commercial television news, Benita Zahn is a dynamic communicator and respected expert in health and wellness reporting. She is an award-winning journalist and health advocate who has earned a reputation for breaking down complex medical topics and delivering them with clarity, compassion and integrity.
Benita’s journey began on Long Island, N.Y., where she grew up with an insatiable curiosity about the world. Whether running through backyards or flipping fences with the neighborhood kids, she has always wanted to explore. That same adventurous spirit has shaped her career and continues defining her life approach. A graduate of SUNY Oswego, Benita later earned her Master of Science and Doctor of Professional Studies in Bioethics from the Alden March Bioethics Institute at Albany Medical College, expanding her expertise in patient advocacy and healthcare communication.
During her decades-long tenure at WNYT NewsChannel 13 in Albany, N.Y., Benita anchored the top-rated 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. newscasts while also serving as the station’s trusted health reporter. She produced and hosted Health Link, a public television health program on WMHT-PBS, which brought in-depth medical discussions to viewers across the region. Her journalistic excellence and unwavering dedication to public service have earned her numerous accolades, including a New York Emmy Award, multiple New York State Broadcasters Awards and an International Radio and TV Award. Additionally, she has been recognized by organizations such as the American Heart Association, American Lung Association and the American Society of Anesthesiologists for her impactful and insightful health reporting.
Benita’s passion for health and wellness goes beyond journalism. As a nationally board-certified health and wellness coach, she runs B Your Best, LLC and works with patients at Capital Cardiology Associates. She empowers individuals to take control of their health through lifestyle changes and preventive care while making informed decisions.
Her motto? “Why the heck not?”—a phrase that embodies her willingness to embrace new and exciting opportunities. Beyond the newsroom and the healthcare field, Benita is an avid supporter of the arts and an accomplished performer. She co-hosts the popular podcast “Everything Theater,” celebrating the magic of live performance and the creative arts. A dedicated actress, she has taken the stage in numerous theater productions, bringing her love of storytelling to life in other exciting ways. Whether in front of a camera or under stage lights, Benita thrives in roles that allow her to inspire and connect with audiences.