Devoted community member Maude Bruce has received the Ulster County School Boards Association (UCSBA) Distinguished Friend of Education Award. The annual award recognizes residents from the county’s school districts and Ulster BOCES for their dedication and commitment to students and schools.
Bruce was presented with the award during the UCSBA’s annual dinner, which was held at the Best Western in Kingston on November 21.
For decades, Bruce has fought tirelessly on behalf of Ellenville’s students, never hesitant to speak up on their behalf in a continual quest for justice and equity. Her civic contributions are many, and generations of Ellenville’s youth know her as a bold woman of principle, strength, and faith.
As president of the Ellenville NAACP, Bruce initiated a school supply distribution event that ensures all students begin the year with the tools they need. She is a constant and welcome presence on campus, inspiring voter registration and civic engagement, hosting Black History Month assemblies, and presenting student awards. Bruce also sponsors the annual Jimmy Lee Bruce, Jr. Memorial Award, named for her son, which is given to a senior who has distinguished themselves as an advocate for equality, social justice and community service.
Bruce has also given her time and expertise to the Wawarsing Economic Development Committee and, as a St. Paul AME Zion Church parishioner, served as Church Secretary, Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Lay Council Board President, and Home Mission Local President.
