Whitney Young Health’s annual fundraiser, The Legacy Event, was held virtually on October 14, 2020. This event recognizes and honors community leaders who are making a difference in the Capital Region and benefits individuals and families who rely on Whitney Young Health for affordable medical, dental and behavioral health care.
This year’s Living the Legacy Award, presented to an individual whose own life and work resemble that of Whitney Moore Young, Jr., is Dr. Elizabeth Whalen, Commissioner of the Albany Department of Health. Dr. Whalen is a leader in addressing public health issues, advocating for health equity and working to create healthier communities through programs that serve vulnerable populations. Recently, she became the public face of Albany County’s daily COVID-19 updates, and is committed to protecting the health and well-being of her constituents by partnering with organizations like Whitney Young Health to reach medically underserved populations.
Kaweeda G. Adams, Superintendent of the City School District of Albany was presented with the Community Partner Award. This award recognizes individuals who help Whitney Young Health advance their mission of providing quality, affordable healthcare to underserved residents in the Capital Region. During her tenure in Albany, Superintendent Adams has prioritized addressing health disparities facing students. In addition to increasing the number of School Based Health Centers in the district to include Albany High School, she has also partnered with Whitney Young Health to implement new programs that increase access to healthcare.
“These deserving honorees embody the spirit of our work at Whitney Young Health”, said President and CEO David Shippee, “and their dedication to creating a healthier community in Albany helps us reach the very people at the heart of our mission.”
The Virtual Legacy Event incorporated a live-streamed program featuring remarks from Whitney Young Health’s President & CEO David Shippee, as well as both honorees, with a virtual silent auction and wine pull. Sponsors included CDPHP, St. Peter’s Health Partners, MVP Healthcare, Janitronics, Hugh Johnson Advisors, KeyBank, M&T Bank, Alliance for Better Health, CohnReznick, Schuyler Companies and the Kaleel Jamison Consulting Group.
The program for the event can be viewed here