New Rochelle, NY — October 2, 2025. The Westchester Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) marked its 70th anniversary with an inspiring celebration at the Greentree Country Club in New Rochelle, recognizing a decade-spanning legacy of service and sisterhood. The milestone event honored at least ten organizations and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to education, health, and community empowerment across Westchester County.
Among this year’s distinguished honorees was Environmental Leaders of Color (ELOC), a Mount Vernon–based nonprofit that continues to lead the charge in promoting environmental education and sustainable development in underserved communities. ELOC received the Dr. Thelma Daley Environmental Award, one of the organization’s highest honors.
ELOC: Leading the Way in Environmental Justice and Equity
Accepting the award on behalf of ELOC were Dr. Diana K. Williams, Executive Director, and Marvin Church, Associate Director. Dr. Williams—a respected dentist and MBA holder—has led ELOC’s mission to educate, empower, and equip young people to become future leaders in environmental and technological innovation.
“This award is a testament to the power of education and faith in action,” Dr. Williams shared. “It reflects the dedication of our 609 graduates, the tireless work of our staff, and the belief that environmental justice is not separate from civil rights—it is at the heart of them.”
Mr. Church, a long-standing advocate for green workforce development and clean energy initiatives, emphasized the importance of inclusion in both environmental and emerging AI fields. “We’re building a future where those most impacted by pollution are also leading the solutions,” he said.
Honoring Dr. Thelma Daley’s Legacy
The award is named after Dr. Thelma Daley, who is a trailblazer in education and civic leadership whose life’s work embodied empowerment and progress. The Dr. Thelma Daley Environmental Award honors individuals and organizations that advance sustainability, innovation, and justice—particularly within communities of color.
A Call to Continue the Work
The 70th Anniversary Gala united community leaders, policymakers, educators, and advocates around a shared vision of progress and purpose. It was not just a night of recognition—but a call to action to support the next generation of changemakers who are tackling environmental, economic, and health disparities head-on.
ELOC expressed its heartfelt gratitude to NCNW for the honor, reaffirming its commitment to advancing environmental equity and sustainable opportunity throughout Westchester County.
“We thank the NCNW Westchester Section for recognizing our mission and legacy,” ELOC stated. “Together, we’re proving that environmental justice is community justice.”
