BINGHAMTON, NY (607NewsNow) – Local leaders have been recognized for their service.

On December 12, Senator Lea Webb presented the State Senate Commendation Award to four individuals for their contributions to Southern Tier residents. The award highlights people who have made lasting impacts in their community. It’s one of the highest honors a state senator can bestow.

Among the winners were locals from Cortland and Ithaca, including Cortland Fire Chief Wayne Friedman, Southside Community Center Executive Director Chavon Bunch, and Rejoice the Vote Founder Jeff Furman. The final winner was Jerry Willard, the Executive Director of the First Ward Action Council in Binghamton.