2026 Black Achiever’s Awards Honors Seven

By Jennifer L. Warren

POUGHKEEPSIE – When Terri “T.T.” Irving first discovered she was being considered as a Black Achiever’s recipient, one word dominated her thoughts, feelings and entire being.
“Ecstatic,” recalled Irving about that priceless moment. “My mind immediately went to the remarkable group of individuals who have received this award before me.”

Once Irving, whose life has been defined by service, was officially selected, she found, through prayer, family and friends, the strength to confidently and deservedly step into this esteemed family of incredible, worthy individuals.

“I am deeply grateful and profoundly honored to stand alongside such an exceptional group of community leaders,” said Irving who has resided in Dutchess County for 36 years, while involved with several organizations and is known for her deep concern for others- giving rides, calling a sick person, visiting a nursing home and a host of other small gestures considered huge lifesavers to the countless lives she impacts. “All thanks goes to my Lord and Savior, without him, nothing is possible; also to my biological family, large village, and the Beulah Baptist Church.” She added, “Keep shining and keep serving; you are simply the best.”

Irving was one of seven transformative, community icons to join that revered 2026 class and extended family of Black Achiever Award recipients Sunday. Here, at Poughkeepsie’s Beulah Baptist Church, where Reverend Dr. Jesse V. Bottoms, Jr., is the Pastor, the snowstorm-impacted, rescheduled event that was originally slated to take place in February during the last Sunday of Black History Month, took place on March 1.

Carrying the theme “Come in Unity to Build a Thriving Community,” it was led by the Social Action Ministry of the Church, it was presented by Servant Leader, Sister Rasonia, “Ray Ray,” Squire.

The celebratory occasion, including a church service, was attended by an impressive showing of local dignitaries who spanned politics, education, business as well as the religious realm, several who provided words of praise for the event as well as the outstanding honorees and their indelible, positive footprints left upon the community. Also delivering impactful words was guest speaker, Gregory Mott, Superintendent of the Poughkeepsie City School District.

Honorees hailed from a wide spectrum of backgrounds. Whether in the beginning phase of their community service journey or the latter half, making a difference with the youth or senior citizens, using sports, a clothing drive, or emergency relief as their vehicle to assist others, each honoree shared common threads of: altruism, devotion, empathy and a genuine desire to uplift others.

“Above all else guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it,” is a favorite scripture recipient, Nevaeh Groucher uses as a compass for everything she does. Raised in Poughkeepsie and possessing deep Jamaican roots, the 2022 Poughkeepsie High School graduate, whose community service traces back to her teenage years, continues that philanthropy now as a graduate student at SUNY Albany, where she is involved with sending life essentials back to Jamaica, providing books for young readers, and treasured hurricane relief among countless other life altering, dynamic gestures.

“This award means a lot to me because it’s rewarding to see the time, effort and dedication I put into what I do is making an impact and being recognized within my community,” said Groucher, involved in street cleanup and holiday outreach projects in high school. “In accepting this award, I hope it encourages other young, striving students and community leaders to reach for the stars.”

Fellow recipient, Jarmar “Pop” Richardson, was inspired three decades ago to reach those lofty heights. Involved in community service for over 30 years, the soon to retire state employee has devoted innumerable hours to making his community a better place.

Through the catalysts of football and basketball, Richardson-a beloved mentor- has ignited the youth in his community to fulfill their potential, while honing priceless self esteem.

Additionally, he has been selflessly involved with an assortment of other volunteer, community venues. Sunday’s honor encapsulated the full breadth of all he has aspired to do by giving back throughout his adult life.

“This was a lifetime achievement for me,” reflected Richardson. “It really summed up everything all in one that I try to do; I have been honored by other organizations, but there was just something truly special about this recognition that was unlike all the other ones, something that brings nothing but gratitude.”

Other 2026 Black Achiever’s Awards honorees, saluting areas of Leadership, Education, and Outstanding Community Service included; Jasmaine Clay, Deacon Seaton McKenzie Sr., Shamel Tolbert as well as Outstanding Education and Youth Leadership recipient: Madison Rowley.