Task Force Members

Pat Gillule

Pat Gillule is a mom to five, including two with different abilities and medical needs. She has been a special education teacher for 36 years, having taught half of that time in Tioga County. Pat is the Camp Director for Lions Camp Badger in Spencer, Special Olympics Coach for the Candor-Spencer team, and a member of the Tioga County Community Services Board Mental Health Committee. She looks forward to discovering untapped potential in our community that will benefit people with special needs.

Gayle Pado

Gayle Pado is the mom of a teenager with various disabilities and medical needs. She also serves as the Director of Family Resources at Racker Center. Gayle is a member of the Tioga County Disability Subcommittee as well as the Regional Family Support Council. She sits on the Statewide Family Support Council, representing the families from our region. Gayle is a strong advocate for individuals with disabilities in the Tioga County area.

Wendy Watkins

Wendy Watkins has been a special education teacher for 25 years, with most of her educational service being in Tioga County. She has volunteered for the Special Olympics and is a member of the Committee on Preschool Special Education as well as the Committee on Special Education. Wendy is a strong supporter of efforts to improve opportunities for people in our community.

Sara Banas

Sarah Banas is a mom to kids with different abilities. She serves as a Family Peer Advocate for two local agencies and is eager to promote opportunities for independence for all individuals who need them.

Roseann Cole

Roseann Cole is a resident of Nichols, business owner and Certified Safety Manager. She was also a fierce advocate for her sister Janice who had both physical and mental challenges. Roseann believes ALL residents of Tioga County should be supported and enabled to live their best life.

Gabby Ayres

Gabby Ayres serves as a Vocational Services Supervisor and Employment & Outreach Coordinator for Catholic Charities in Tioga County. Her energy and passion for bettering the lives of others has enriched our community.

Karen Warfle

Karen Warfle is a free-lance writer, speaker and parent with twenty years of experience using Augmentative and Alternative Communication with her son. Karen has presented at American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) annual conventions, Ithaca College, Davis College and women’s conferences. She has also been published in lifestyle and homeschooling magazines. Karen is available to speak to groups, conduct workshops, and collaborate with parents, professionals, and community organizations. She volunteers locally with the Southern Tier Challenger League, Kiwanis Club of Owego and The Village Chapel-CMA in Candor.

Emily VanScoy

Emily VanScoy is a lifelong resident of Tioga County; she currently works full-time as a Grant Coordinator at Cornell University's Office of Sponsored Programs. She hopes to bring accessibility of all kinds to the Tioga County area. Emily specializes in grant administration.