ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Black leaders in the Southern Tier are getting recognition. 

Senator Lea Webb presented four awards highlighting their impact and accomplishments across the 52nd state Senate district. One recipient is Ithaca City School District Superintendent Dr. Luvelle Brown, who received the New York State Senate Commendation Award. 

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from Senator Webb,” Brown said. “I have served young people and my community in the Southern Tier for nearly 15 years.  During that time, I have had the privilege of working and learning with many as we have significantly increased graduation rates, attendance, co-curricular engagement, and many other academic achievement indicators.  The achievements along with stability in leadership has contributed to the cultivation of a loving community and organizational culture”.

The other three people receiving awards:

  • Asia Ambler, School Mental Health Site Supervisor at Binghamton University Community Schools (BUCS); A recipient of a NYS Senate Commendation Award
  • Jesus Clarke, Owner of Big Zues Barbecue; A recipient of a NYS Senate Empire Award
  • Dr. Tracy Hudson, Assistant Professor at SUNY Cortland; A recipient of a NYS Senate Commendation Award

“Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and leadership of those who are making a difference in our communities,” Webb said. “I am honored to recognize Ms. Asia Ambler, Dr. Luvelle Brown, Mr. Jesus Clarke, and Dr. Tracy Hudson for their outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship, service, leadership, education, and uplifting the next generation of students. Their dedication and impact within Senate District 52 serve as an inspiration to us all, and I am proud to celebrate their work in building a brighter, more equitable future not just during the month of February but every day of the year.”