106th Annual Lincoln Douglass Awards Luncheon

By Jennifer L. Warren

POUGHKEEPSIE – Terriciena A. Brown vividly recalls the day she met Frederick Douglass’s great-grandson at Poughkeepsie High School last year.

“His great grandfather’s legacy is just so strong, and I felt that through having the opportunity to meet his great grandson,” recalled Brown about that unforgettable day. “It really makes the connection to this day-honor even more meaningful.”

Brown was one of five distinguished community citizens being recognized and celebrated at the 106th Annual Poughkeepsie Neighborhood Club’s Lincoln Douglass Luncheon. Bearing the namesake of two historic, altruistic icons: abolitionist and orator, Frederick Douglass and 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, who forged a potent bond aimed at ending institutionalized slavery while creating a more equal, fair, and diversified world, the long-standing event pays tribute to individuals who embody similar ideals, focused on uplifting their communities. The event further encapsulates the revered cornerstone ideals: service, selflessness, diversity and empathy- that lie at the epicenter of the Poughkeepsie Neighborhood Club and are driven by their motto:” Lifting as we Climb.” Each of the recipients exemplifies a living example of those revered standards, ones who proudly stand on the shoulders of that rich history.

“As we go forward, I always want to lift other young women up, just as I have been lifted up,” said Brown, a graduate of Poughkeepsie High School who has been a pillar of service in her community for over 45 years and is currently in her second term as Third Ward Councilwoman for the City of Poughkeepsie.

Another deeply proud, born and raised in Poughkeespie resident, Colete Atkinson, was also among the honorees. A nursing supervisor, who is deeply connected to her Jamaican heritage and was inspired to serve by her mother’s philanthropy, Atkinson authors a book to compassionately assist others with navigating cancer on her late mother’s journey.

“The Lord Jesus reminds us in Matthew 23:11 that ‘The greatest among you are those who serve,’ like my mother,” said Atkinson. “We need to step out and do the work, just like Lincoln and Douglass did.”

Honoree, Olivia Farquarson is diligently pursuing that work ethic precedent set by Lincoln and Douglass. Growing up in Poughkeepsie, her volunteerism sparked at a young age when she tutored at Harambee. Since then, her passion for giving back has rapidly grown in momentum.

“This recognition is especially meaningful to me because the Lincoln Douglass Luncheon celebrates leadership rooted in integrity, courage, vision and service,” said Farquarson, who foremost wants to inspire others to see the difference they can make. “I believe true impact comes from creating opportunities for others, opening doors and helping people recognize their own potential.”

Likkia Moody, who possesses strong Poughkeepsie ties, particularly to the Neighborhood Club, from her youth as well as inspiration from the two men whose names give title to the event, was also deeply touched by this revered recognition.

“Having once participated in the Poughkeepsie Neighborhood’s Cotillion as a debutante, this moment feels particularly meaningful,” said Moody, the Director of SUNY Orange’s Newburgh Campus since 2017 as well as a SUNY Black Leadership nominee. “The example of Frederick Douglass’s moral courage and Abe Lincoln’s willingness to listen and grow remains a powerful model for how progress is made and continues to inform my work today.”

The final recipient, Linda Boykin, who leads security at Poughkeepsie Middle School, a passion she has been wholeheartedly immersed in for several decades, is often referred to as “someone who didn’t just guard doors, but opened them.” A lifelong Poughkeepsie resident, Boykin is lovingly dubbed a “School Mom” by thousands whose lives she has positively impacted. Guided by the potential in and love for all children, Boykin seeks to create a safe, welcoming environment for students, recognizing their authenticity, while gleaning “what other might miss.”

“God gives everyone an assignment; he trusted me to mentor our scholars, and I believe he placed me exactly where I’m supposed to be,” said a humbled Boykin. “As I continue on this journey, I pray that my dedication and passion inspire a love for learning and growth in each of our scholars; may they thrive and succeed, and may we all celebrate the impacts of our efforts in their future successes.”

The Luncheon included the presence of a large showing of political dignitaries- including Mayor, Yvonne Flowers and City Council members, all incredibly proud to be a part of such a cornerstone event in the community, recognizing those whose quiet actions have so profoundly created a lasting, positive impression on the lives they touch.

“It’s so important to recognize our unsung heroes,” said Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson, who presented each honoree with a Certificate of Recognition.

“In the world we live in today, we need to really double down on bringing others along,” added Senator, Rob Rolison. “I had the opportunity to talk to each of these honorees, and they are truly doing the work, all doing that so very important lifting and climbing.”