NYS Federation of Home Bureaus

In 1991, The NYS Federation of Home Bureaus, Inc. created a scholarship in memory of Norma J. Prentice. Mrs. Prentice was an admirable woman who was dedicated to volunteering, to making a difference in people’s lives through education, and to changing the community where she lived. The NYS Federation of Home Bureau honors her outstanding work for the Federation through this scholarship. Starting in 2007, this scholarship was offered to students at Jefferson Community College. This scholarship is awarded to a full-time Liberal Arts Math and Science major with a preference for Mathematics concentration.

The New York Federation of Home Bureaus, Inc., was started by Ruby Green Smith in 1919, in Ithaca, NY. The Federation supports women and gives them the tools and skills needed to build a better life within the home and community. Taking care of your neighbors and giving back to the community are ideals for the Federation and its members.

Mrs. Norma J. Prentice was born June 27, 1942 in Gloversville, NY. She spent her childhood in Gloversville and graduated from Gloversville High School in 1960. She also attended Albany State Teacher’s College. On October 3, 1964, she married George E. Prentice and they were married for 42 years. George and Norma had two daughters, Jerilyn and Jacquelyn, who each married and blessed the family with grandchildren.

She was well known for her work with and dedication to the New York State Federation of Home Bureaus. She was not only a longtime member, but held several offices as well, including Schenectady County Chair. At the time of her passing she was serving as Second Vice-President on the State Board for Organization. Mrs. Prentice was frequently a craft instructor at the Chapter, County, District and State levels of the organization. She was known for leading Schenectady in the creation and sale of craft kits at its Annual Workshop Meeting at Delhi and State Annual meetings.

Mrs. Prentice was very involved in her community. She was a 40 year member of Cairo Chapter #380, Order of the Eastern Star, was a Brownie Scout leader, Co-leader of the Bonnie Bells 4-H group, and also a longtime member of the Glendaal Scotia and Scotia-Glenville PTA.

Norma’s strengths included being a valued friend, colleague, and volunteer. She was known for her patience, organizational skills, attention to detail and her professionalism in handling whatever came her way in life. She made lifelong friends within Home Bureau, who meant more to her than the craft skills she shared or learned. She embodied the spirit of the organization and was a true representative of its goals and meaning.

The Jefferson Community College Foundation is grateful to the New York State Federation of Home Bureaus for creating this scholarship and for allowing Norma’s memory to be celebrated through this scholarship award.