Janice C. Dougherty

Brockport Class of 1968, Summa Cum Laude

Janice C. Dougherty was a beloved member of the Brockport community whose life was marked by a deep commitment to education, family, and service. Born in 1945, Janice began her college journey at West Virginia University before moving to the Brockport area in 1965. She graduated summa cum laude with a degree in education from SUNY Brockport in 1968, a testament to her academic excellence and dedication.

Janice Petso met her future husband, Holden Dougherty, in 1963 at the West Virginia University campus library. Their love story blossomed quickly, and they were married in Morgantown, West Virginia, in 1965 while Holden was completing his master’s degree at WVU. Their marriage spanned 50 years and one month, and Janice devoted her life to her family.

Holden earned both a Bachelor and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from West Virginia University and worked as an engineer mainly in the Rochester area. His career eventually brought the couple to the Rochester area, where they settled in Brockport. There, they lived for 48 years and raised twin sons, both of whom followed in their mother’s footsteps by becoming educators.

Janice was involved in both the Brockport public schools and SUNY Brockport, contributing meaningfully to the educational fabric of the community. She was also a dedicated member of the Sweden Senior Center, where her warmth and generosity touched many lives.

In honor of Janice’s legacy, the Janice Dougherty Extraordinary Academic Scholarship was established in 2025 by her husband, Holden. This scholarship celebrates Janice’s lifelong commitment to education and community, ensuring that her spirit continues to inspire future generations of Brockport students.

Janice Dougherty will be remembered not only for her academic achievements and community involvement but also for the love she shared with her family and friends. Her life was a beautiful example of dedication, kindness, and the enduring power of education.