Schaff's death leaves a void for many

March 12, 2002|BY MARLO BARNHART

The loss of Victoria V. Schaff to cancer Friday was both a personal and professional loss for many who knew and worked with her in the community.

"She was a wonderful woman ... such an asset and a tremendous friend," said Joan Fell, executive director of Y-ME of the Cumberland Valley. "She will be terribly missed."

Active in that organization, Schaff coordinated her Y-ME efforts with her professional career as Allegheny Energy's vice president of external affairs.

"Her business expertise was invaluable to us in our long-range planning," Fell said.

In late 2000, Allegheny Energy contributed $3,750 to help Y-ME of the Cumberland Valley continue its commitment to providing information and support to people in the Tri-State area affected by breast cancer. The donation was part of a three-year, $12,410 contribution the company made.

"Y-ME of the Cumberland Valley is an outstanding organization that helps thousands of people each year who are concerned about or personally affected by breast cancer," said Schaff in 2000. "Allegheny Energy is pleased to be associated with Y-ME because of the organization's important role in serving our community."

Alan J. Noia, chairman/president of Allegheny Energy, said he will miss Schaff on many levels.

"Vicki set up our external affairs department from scratch," Noia said Sunday night. "She made us a player on the national scene."

Schaff, who held the post at Allegheny Energy for six years, was described by Noia as "a strategic thinker and a great and caring person."

Schaff, 57, of 1039 The Terrace, died Friday at her home.

In addition to being a member of the board of directors of Y-Me, Schaff was a member of the American Association of University Women.

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