The Peru Gazette

Neil Battinelli (L) and Clinton Community College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Steve Frederick

Clinton Community College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Steve Frederick and Jason Borrie ’99

PLATTSBURGH — The Clinton Community College Foundation has announced the recipients of the Maureen Moll: Excellence in Community Theatre Award, honoring individuals who exemplify the spirit and dedication of Maureen Moll, a leader in local performing arts whose influence spanned nearly five decades.

Moll believed in the transformative power of community theatre and how it brings people together to create, perform and celebrate the arts. From 1965 to 2013, her leadership and passion shaped countless productions, fostering friendships and building a vibrant cultural legacy that continues today.

In 2012, members of Plattsburgh Little Theatre, including William D. Laundry, Frederick G. Smith, Judith Heintz, Vicky Sloan and Lee Ann Thomas, entrusted Clinton Community College Foundation with funds to preserve Moll’s legacy. Clinton was a natural choice, given its longstanding collaboration with local theatre groups, including Plattsburgh Little Theatre, Adirondack Regional Theatre and Artistry Community Theatre.

This year’s award celebrates two outstanding contributors to the arts:

• Neil Battinelli, recognized for his exceptional work with Adirondack Regional Theatre, has directed acclaimed productions such as 12 Angry Jurors and The Play That Goes Wrong. Neil’s innovative “Pick-Up Plays” series offers free monthly play readings, expanding access to theatre and fostering community engagement.
• Jason Borrie, Clinton Class of 1999, honored for his contributions to Artistry Community Theatre, has worn many hats—actor, director, set designer and board member. Jason directs student productions in the Northeastern Clinton Central School District and co-founded the improv group Completely Stranded, using performance to support local causes. His service as a Town of Champlain councilperson reflects his deep commitment to both the arts and public service.

The Maureen Moll Award links a rich history of community performance, from the Plattsburgh Airbase in 1965 to today’s thriving theatre organizations and celebrates the enduring impact of live theatre on our region.

“Community theatre thrives because of people like Maureen Moll, who believed that creativity brings people together,” said Clinton Community College Vice President of Institutional Advancement Steve Frederick. “We are proud to celebrate her legacy and the invaluable contributions of Neil and Jason in our community.”

For more information about the Clinton Community College Foundation, visit www.clinton.edu/alumni-and-foundation.