This award is given annually to recognize a woman who has, through non-work related volunteer contributions, acted as a role model for the community.  Any woman who is presently a resident of Henrietta, and who has demonstrated leadership qualities and commitment to community service, is eligible for this award.

Faith & Community Service For decades, Emily Richardson has been a dedicated member and leader within the Relief Society, where she currently serves as President. She oversees vital initiatives providing spiritual support and family advocacy, ranging from mental health resources and school supplies to food and transportation assistance.

Educational Advocacy Emily’s commitment to local schools spans Winslow, Roth, and Sperry. Her leadership roles include serving as a parent leader for Scouting and Odyssey of the Mind, as well as supporting the RH Singers. She remains a constant presence in the district, volunteering her time for both theater and athletic programs.

Personal Philosophy Known for her calm and empathetic demeanor, Emily leads by quiet inspiration. She excels at navigating difficult circumstances with grace, skillfully balancing compassionate care with a commitment to empowering others toward independence.

The Relief Society was founded in 1842 as the women’s organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints. They aligned with early suffrage organizations, advocating for the rights of women. Their commitment to action echoes many of Antoinette Brown Blackwell’s beliefs.

Born in the Sudan, Mai has lived and volunteered in our community for over 25 years. She has served as a member of the Rush-Henrietta Board of Education since 2018, and Vice President since 2023. She provides an essential perspective as a Black woman, and as a parent of three children, one with special needs. She is a strong believer in families partnering with schools to support their child’s education, which is one reason she serves on the Multicultural Parent Advisory Council and works to improve support for children with disabilities and for their families.

Mai follows through where she believes there is a need. She has served as a Senior High School building representative, participates in the Shared Decision-Making Review Committee, and in the Legislative Committee of the Monroe County School Board Association. Mai connects the school district with diverse cultures of Rush-Henrietta, for example she works with the Equity and Inclusion Advisory Council, serving to connect diverse cultures within the
student community.

Mai also serves as Executive Director of Refugees Helping Refugees, empowering recent arrivals to achieve independence and growth toward their potential in a new country. She is a passionate supporter of vulnerable populations, especially women and girls. She has been a program support specialist at Empire Justice Center, and an interpreter for the New York State Unified Court System. Mai believes that community service strengthens the whole community.

Mai Abdullah is an advocate for students of all abilities, for immigrants and refugees, for vulnerable populations. A quiet leader without ambition for herself, Mai is a fierce believer in doing what is right for our entire community.