2008 AWARDS LUNCHEON
Service Award
Anthony J. Baynes
Anthony J. Baynes, CEO of Extra Mile Transportation, has a tireless work ethic which he applies to his professional and personal life. In addition to leading the AJ Baynes Group, one of the leading third party transportation logistics companies in the country, he serves as the chair of the Erie County Fiscal Stability Authority and is a board member of the Roswell Park Cancer Alliance, Buffalo State College Foundation and the Bison Scholarship Fund. He is a former board member of Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the New York State Economic Development Council and New York State Small Business Advisory Board and chaired numerous fundraisers for institutions such as Women and Children's Hospital and the March of Dimes.
Diversity Award
Joseph J. Abdallah
Joseph J. Abdallah, chief development officer for the Greater Niagara Frontier Council of the Boy Scouts of America, has worked to serve the Western New York community through diverse partnerships designed to assist children and families. One of ten children of parents of Palestinian heritage, Joseph has worked with those from the Palestinian, Muslim and Jewish communities to build greater understanding among cultures. His work with local law enforcement agencies, the Erie County Youth Board, community based organizations such as the United Way and faith based organizations has helped those involved to develop a deeper appreciation for the value of diversity and eliminate dangerous stereotypes.
Inclusion Award
Gail E. Johnstone
Gail E. Johnstone recently retired from the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo after a ten year tenure as its president/CEO. Gail is deeply committed to the importance of having the voices of people affected by community decisions involved in those decisions. She has assisted in the creation of many community collaborations including the 21st Century Fund, the Western New York Women's Fund, Good Schools for All, the September 11th Response Fund and the Charitable Report Card. Her ability to ensure that all voices are at the table has also opened the community's eyes to new solutions to the issues we face and clearly demonstrates the power of being inclusive.
Openness to Change Award
Howard Zemsky
Howard Zemsky, managing partner of Taurus Partners LLC, is known for his vision, energy and courage to lead groups to achieve outcomes considered beyond the bounds of standard expectations. The Darwin Martin House Restoration Corp., which he led for many years, is a testament to this. He helped to raise over 50 million to ensure the project would restore the property to its original grandeur yet remain a good neighbor. Other initiatives benefiting from his vision include the 21st Century Fund, the Richardson Complex and the redevelopment of the Larkin Exchange Building. Creating change which enhances communities is his trademark.
Leadership Impact Award - Wegmans
Danny Wegman Colleen Wegman
One definition of leadership is guiding others where they would not have ventured on their own. Wegmans announcement earlier this year that it will no longer sell tobacco products is a bona fide example of leadership that hopefully others will follow. Since the company was founded in 1916, Wegmans has fostered its growth by making decisions based on the "pledge for continuous improvement." Improving the quality of life for its employees and this community by eliminating the sale of tobacco products was a bold and groundbreaking decision and most fitting of Leadership Buffalo's Leadership Impact Award.
