The New York School Bus Contractors Association (NYSBCA) recognized outstanding achievement and leadership in student transportation during its 71st Annual Convention, held October 24, 2025, at the Saratoga Hilton in Saratoga Springs, New York.

Leadership Transitions

“This year’s conference was especially meaningful as it marked the end of my two-year presidency,” said Thomas Smith, past president of NYSBCA. “It has been an honor to work with our executive committee on workforce development, third-party permit testing, and advancing zero-emission school bus mandates.”

Smith said he looks forward to seeing the association continue its progress under new president Paul Mori.

“For more than 70 years, NYSBCA has brought the school bus community together to share updates, address regulatory changes, and celebrate the people who make a difference,” said Mori. “I’m honored to continue that tradition and work with our members to drive progress.”

Roger Weeks Contractor of the Year Award

The Roger Weeks Contractor of the Year Award, NYSBCA’s highest honor, recognizes a contractor who demonstrates excellence in student transportation through safety, performance, leadership, and community engagement.

This year’s award went to John BeGasse, vice president of business development at Durham School Services/Summit School Services (formerly National Express LLC).

With more than 40 years in the industry, BeGasse has been a strong advocate for student safety and operational excellence. A long-standing NYSBCA member, he has shared his expertise to strengthen the collective voice of contractors statewide.

“The New York Contractor of the Year award is an amazing honor to receive,” BeGasse said. “The New York School Bus Contractors Association is on the front lines of so many issues facing our industry today. Issues range from seat belts to alt fuel, electric vehicles, the use and regulation of alternative transportation providers, driver training and vehicle maintenance standards, to name a few. Working with this very talented and involved group has been one of the highlights of my life. To be at the table as the vital issues of our industry are discussed and to be able to participate in that discussion is a truly humbling experience.”

Heart of the Industry Awards

Sponsored by Bird Bus Sales & Service and presented by Robert Reichenbach, the Heart of the Industry Award recognizes individuals whose professionalism and compassion have made a lasting impact on school transportation.

This year’s recipients were Willie Gibbs, senior safety manager at Huntington Coach Corporation/Beacon Mobility, and Chris Kansky, safety manager for Northern New York at WE Transport.

Gibbs, a Certified Examiner and Master Instructor with more than 27 years of service, oversees accident investigations, certified instructors, and training for more than 800 drivers and monitors in partnership with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and the State Education Department.

Kansky, who has served at WE Transport for 15 years, rose from driver trainer to safety manager. Known for his leadership and commitment to safety, he serves as a 19A Examiner and School Bus Driving Instructor, mentoring drivers and advancing safety initiatives.

Distinguished Service Awards

NYSBCA also presented Distinguished Service Awards to Rachel Lane, vice president of electrification and sustainability at Student Transportation of America, and Daniel “Danny” Unverzagt, assistant director of vehicle maintenance at Suffolk Transportation Service.

Lane has supported NYSBCA’s work with state agencies such as NYSERDA, helping contractors and districts transition to electric fleets. She brings technical knowledge and practical experience to sustainability efforts in school transportation.

Unverzagt has worked at Suffolk Transportation Service since 1998, overseeing more than 2,000 vehicles. He has led innovations including deployment of the first Blue Bird hybrid bus and the launch of the TMW maintenance program, improving fleet efficiency and safety.

Recognition of Elected Officials

NYSBCA also honored several elected officials for their support of school transportation and efforts to advance zero-emission fleet initiatives.

This year’s honorees include Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Senator James Skoufis, Senator James Tedisco, Assemblymember Carrie Woerner, and Senator Patricia Fahy.

Emma Fuentes accepted on behalf of Senator Skoufis. NYSBCA extended its appreciation to all the officials for their continued collaboration and advocacy on behalf of the student transportation industry.