LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Estella Williamson upon the occasion of
her designation as recipient of the LGBT POC Health and Human Service
Award by In Our Own Voices, Inc. on July 17, 2016

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Estella Williamson upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of
the LGBT POC Health and Human Service Award by In Our Own Voices, Inc.,
to be celebrated at its Annual Jazz in July Event on Sunday, July 17,
2016, at the State Room, Albany, New York; and
WHEREAS, In Our Own Voices is an autonomous organization dedicated to
addressing the many needs and ensuring the physical, mental, spiritual,
political, cultural, and economic survival and growth of the Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual and Transgender People of Color (LGBT POC) community in
the Capital Region of Upstate New York; and
WHEREAS, The LGBT POC Health and Human Service Award is given to an
individual or organization that has visible evidence and a direct impact
on elimination of oppression and marginalization in LGBT POC communi-
ties; Estella Williamson is one such individual; and
WHEREAS, Assistant Dean and Director of the Field Education Program at
the University at Albany School of Social Welfare, Estella Williamson
assists students in learning to develop, apply and integrate learned
theoretical skills in social work practice settings; and
WHEREAS, Estella Williamson's past experiences in social work leader-
ship involved managing programs in child welfare, outpatient mental
health and addictions, prenatal services and HIV clinical and preventive
care; and
WHEREAS, Furthermore, her management of clinical programming included
the development and implementation of services, program monitoring and
evaluation, and the procurement and management of State and Federal
grants; and
WHEREAS, Throughout her illustrious career, Estella Williamson has
served as a field instructor, adjunct instructor and speaker on social
work practice and theory; she is also a therapist in private practice;
and
WHEREAS, Our society is greatly benefited by the purposeful efforts of
individuals who unite for the cause of improving the quality of life for
others, and who proactively work toward the goal of dignity for all;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Estella Williamson upon the occasion of her designation as recipi-
ent of the LGBT POC Health and Human Service Award by In Our Own Voices,
Inc., and to wish this exemplary woman continued success in her vital
work on behalf of the community she serves; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Estella Williamson.