Betty S. Hedgeman, Ph.D., Crc

ALBANY – Betty S. Hedgeman, Ph.D., CRC, passed away on Sunday, May 03, 2009. She was born in Dunkirk, NY and was the daughter of the late Anthony and Frances (Giordano) Syracuse. Dr. Hedgeman was a rehabilitation counselor for over 45 years. After spending several years supervising the Vocational Rehabilitation Unit at Bellevue Hospital, she became the Executive Director of the Epilepsy Institute in New York City. She had been a rehabilitation counselor educator at New York University and the University at Albany. Most of her employment was in the state-federal system ending as Director of Staff Development and Training for the New York State VESID. Most of Betty's professional work included leadership in the National Rehabilitation Counseling Association (NRCA), the American Rehabilitation Counseling Association (ARCA) and the National Rehabilitation Association (NRA). She was also past-president of NRCA, ARCA and NRA. Of particular interest to her, was the credentialing of rehabilitation counselors. She served on councils/committees for NBCC, CRCC and CORE/Accreditation and Standards. Dr. Hedgeman also served as Treasurer and member of the Governing Council of the American Counseling Association (ACA). Over several years, Dr. Hedgeman received numerous Lifetime Achievement Awards. She enjoyed reading, baking, sudoku and listening to her favorite singer, Anne Murray. Betty was the beloved wife of 30 years to the late Howard E. Hedgeman. She is survived by her devoted friend and caretaker, Ann Waters. She is the sister of Phyllis Kohler and Thomas Syracuse. Also surviving are five nieces and nephews and five great-nephews. A special thank you is extended to Dr. Roberta Miller and the staff of Community Hospice at St. Peter's Hospital, for all of the care and compassion they gave to Betty during her illness.
Funeral services will be private. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to the Alliance for Homebound People, 16 Crimson Oak Ct., Schenectady, NY 12309-2234 in memory of Dr. Hedgeman.