ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC) Director Dr. Leslyn McBean-Clairborne has been honored at the state level.

State Senator Lea Webb recently chose McBean-Clairborne as her nominee to be recognized by the 2025 New York Legislative Women’s Caucus. Webb chose McBean-Clairborne for her dedication to social justice, diversity, and inclusion.

McBean-Clairborne joined Webb in Albany the same day Webb introduced a resolution on the Senate floor celebrating Women’s History Month.

“Leslyn is a true visionary,” said Webb. “Her leadership, commitment to equity, and unwavering advocacy for underrepresented communities have made a lasting difference in Ithaca and beyond. She exemplifies the very best of public service and community engagement, and I am honored to recognize her contribution.”

McBean-Clairborne has lived in Ithaca for 34 years, 20 of which she served as a Tompkins County legislator, advocating for justice, inclusion, and community empowerment.

“Being selected for this honor by Senator Webb is truly humbling,” said McBean-Clairborne. “Throughout my life, I have been driven by a passion for justice, inclusion, and community empowerment. This recognition reaffirms the importance of our collective efforts to build a society where every voice is valued, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.”

McBean-Clairborne also previously won the New York State Harriet Tubman Humanitarian Achievement Award, the Finger Lakes PULSE LGBTQ+ Ally of the Year Award and is the namesake for the Tompkins County Legislature’s Leslyn McBean-Clairborne Strength in Diversity Award.