PLATTSBURGH — Rotarians Maria Alexander and Linda Brienza have been selected as the Rotary Club of Plattsburgh’s 2026 Paul Harris Fellows.
It is the Rotary’s highest honor recognizing individuals who exemplify the organization’s motto of “Service Above Self.”
Alexander and Brienza will be honored during a special luncheon Wednesday, June 17, at the MHAB Dining Hall in Plattsburgh.
Named after Rotary founder Paul Harris, the distinction is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to their community and club.
“Few individuals embody the spirit of Rotary more completely than Linda Brienza and Maria Alexander,” Rotary Club of Plattsburgh President Betsy Vicencio said in a press release. “Both have devoted countless hours to strengthening our community, supporting those in need and leading with humility and purpose.
“Their influence extends far beyond the organizations they serve; it can be seen in the lives they have touched and the positive change they have helped create throughout the North Country.”
LINDA BRIENZA
Brienza, president of Triangle Electric based in Plattsburgh, joined the Rotary Club of Plattsburgh in 2009.
She currently serves as co-chair of the Rotary Bed Race Committee, a role she has held for many years where she helps secure sponsorships and contributions, coordinates event logistics and manages volunteer activities.
Brienza also serves on the Rotary Club’s Board of Directors and has contributed to numerous committees, including the service, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards and public relations committees.
Her volunteer efforts extend across many of Rotary’s initiatives and community service projects, including the Fishing Classic, mural painting projects, Camp Jericho cleanups, Roducky Derby, Vacation Raffle sales, First Thursday events, the Polio Bike-a-Thon, holiday card writing and sorting, and Christmas gift wrapping programs.
Beyond Rotary, Brienza has served on the TDC Board of Directors for the past three years.
MARIA ALEXANDER
Alexander serves as executive director of the Senior Citizens Council of Clinton County, Inc.
Her career in the nonprofit sector began as a family worker with the JCEO Head Start Program. She advanced through numerous roles, including teacher, senior outreach coordinator, director of the Senior Outreach Program and director of the Big Buddy Program before joining the Senior Citizens Council.
Alexander has also served on the JCEO Board of Directors, the Samuel F. Vilas Home board, Hospice of the North Country board, Lake Forest Senior Living Community board, North Country Association for the Visually Impaired board and Cycling Without Age.
A member of the Rotary Club of Plattsburgh since 2009, she served as club president during the 2017-18 year. She currently serves on the food shelf and ornament committees and has previously contributed to the Roducky Derby, senior citizens and program committees.
REGISTRATION INFO
Community members, Rotarians, family members and friends are invited to attend the Paul Harris Fellows Luncheon.
Reservations are required and must be made by Friday.
Registration can be completed online at tinyurl.com/26PburghPaulHarrisFellowLunch.
The cost of the luncheon is $35 per person or $10 to attend only for refreshments and dessert.