Maude Bruce, president of the Ellenville chapter of the NAACP, was presented with the Ulster County School Boards Association (UCSBA) Distinguished Friend of Education Award.

Each year, the award honors individuals across Ulster County's school districts and Ulster BOCES who make a difference in the lives of students and schools. Bruce was recognized for her tireless devotion to the students of Ellenville, her pursuit of justice and equality, and her many contributions to civic life.

For decades, Bruce has been a voice in the Ellenville community. As president of the Ellenville NAACP, she organized a school supply giveaway so that students could have the tools they needed to start each new year. She has promoted voter registration, organized Black History Month assemblies, and sponsored student awards. Bruce is also the sponsor of the annual Jimmy Lee Bruce, Jr. Memorial Award, named after her son, which is presented to a graduating senior who has demonstrated a commitment to equality, social justice, and community service.

“For decades, Bruce has fought tirelessly on behalf of Ellenville’s students,” the Ellenville Central School District wrote, “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.”

In addition to her work with the NAACP, Bruce has volunteered with the Wawarsing Economic Development Committee and has held numerous leadership positions with St. Paul AME Zion Church, including Church Secretary, Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Lay Council Board President, and Home Mission Local President.

The UCSBA Distinguished Friend of Education Award recognizes the mark that Bruce has made on the lives of generations of Ellenville youth. The award ceremony was held on November 21 at the Best Western in Kingston.