2025 Honorees!
WILLIAM L. EVANS & WHITNEY M. YOUNG, Jr. HUMANITARIAN AWARD

NYS Assembly Majority Leader
CRYSTAL PEOPLES-STOKES
Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes has faithfully served New York State’s 141st Assembly district since 2003. In January 2019, she was elevated to become the Majority Leader of the New York State Assembly by Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, becoming the first woman and the first African American to hold the position in the state’s history.
EMERGING LEADER
AWARD
Visionary and Community Builder
LINDSEY L. TAYLOR
Lindey L. Taylor is the current Director of Development at Buffalo PAL, Lindsey L. Taylor drives impactful relationships with corporate and foundation partners, fueling the organization’s mission. He spearheads major donor events and engagement activities, creating dynamic opportunities for advancement support.
COMMUNITY LEADER
AWARD

HIGHMARK
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is the region’s leading health plan, with over 1,300 dedicated local team members. With roots dating back to 1936, the organization has dedicated itself to helping millions lead healthier lives, offering a comprehensive range of insured, self-insured, and government programs tailored to businesses, families, and individuals.
HEADLINE SPONSOR
PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS
