Empowering Communities, Inspiring Generations
Brenda Episcopo, a proud Herkimer College alumna from the Class of 1994, embodies the transformative power of education, determination, and passion. A graduate of the Human Services A.A.S. program, Episcopo’s journey began in Bridgewater, NY, as the daughter of a logging family. College was neither expected nor encouraged in her household, but inspired by her grandmother's words— “The way to break the cycle is to go to college.” Episcopo worked hard to graduate in the top of her high school class and charted her path to success as a first-generation college student.
At 17, Episcopo balanced a rigorous schedule of academics, work, and volunteerism. Her time at Herkimer College was a pivotal period of growth and discovery. “I always knew I wanted to help kids and inspire young women,” Episcopo recalls. Her involvement with the Human Services Club, working evening shifts at McDonald’s, and volunteering overnight at the YWCA Rape Crisis Hotline exemplify her work ethic and passion. Episcopo recalls her classes at Herkimer as new and exciting, and the environment as close-knit. “Herkimer provided a level of support you don’t see at most colleges.”
After Herkimer, Episcopo earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in sociology from SUNY Institute of Technology (now SUNY Poly). At this time, she was an intern for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), and when the program’s funding ended, she found herself running the program as a volunteer. “I worked for free for a year, because I believed in it.”
Her passion for serving high-risk youth and marginalized communities led her to roles of increasing responsibility, including executive director of the Peacemaker Program by age 30. In this role, she expanded staff, grew clientele, and launched four programs to support at-risk youth. Her leadership style—rooted in collaboration, innovation, and determination—set her apart and made her a sought-after leader.
Episcopo’s career trajectory took her to the United Way, where she held multiple leadership roles, including CEO of the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area and later president and CEO of United Way of New York State. Among her many achievements, she secured $10 million in community impact funding and spearheaded critical research like the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) reports. She also led statewide efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, coordinating resources and advocating for vulnerable populations while overseeing the state’s 2-1-1 network.
Since 2021, Episcopo has served as CEO of Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York, overseeing programming for 15 counties and 5,000 girls. Joining during the height of the pandemic, she implemented a recovery plan that brought stability and growth to the organization. “I’m proud to see tangible impacts—double-digit membership growth and older girls staying involved longer. These young women are articulate, passionate, and inspiring.” One standout project involved a 16-year-old Gold Award candidate transforming a vacant lot into a green space for her community, demonstrating the Girl Scouts’ profound ability to inspire change.
Episcopo’s advice to young people resonates deeply: “You don’t have to have it all figured out. Follow your passion, take one step each day in the right direction, and use your strengths for good.”
At 50, Episcopo reflects on her journey from a determined teenager at Herkimer College to a transformative leader impacting thousands. “I think back to that 17-year-old girl who wanted to help people. Now, I do that every day with 5,000 girls at a time. It’s amazing.”
As Episcopo continues her work as a changemaker, she carries her grandmother’s wisdom with her: the reminder that education was her key to achieving her dreams and building a meaningful life. “I think my grandmother would be proud to see how far her encouragement took me,” Episcopo says. “She inspired me to create a future filled with impact and purpose.”
By Rebecca Ruffing