Senator Monica R. Martinez Recognizes Chamber’s Leadership in Advancing Community and Economic Empowerment

BRENTWOOD, NY — March 8, 2026 — The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) was honored with a Legacy Award by the New York State Senate during the annual Black History Month Celebration hosted by New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez, who represents the Fourth Senatorial District in Suffolk County.

The recognition highlights the Chamber’s longstanding commitment to economic empowerment, minority business development, entrepreneurship, and community leadership across Long Island and New York State.

The recognition highlights the Chamber’s longstanding commitment to economic empowerment, minority business development, entrepreneurship, and community leadership across Long Island and New York State.

The celebration brought together community leaders, educators, first responders, entrepreneurs, veterans, and nonprofit organizations whose contributions continue to strengthen communities throughout Suffolk County.

“Organizations our organization the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce play a vital role in advancing economic opportunity and supporting small businesses throughout our region,” said Rose Ward. “Their leadership helps create pathways for entrepreneurs and strengthens our local economy.”

Strengthening Minority Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity

Under the leadership of Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, the organization has become a leading advocate for minority-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and economic development initiatives across Long Island.

The Chamber works to expand opportunities for small businesses by connecting entrepreneurs with business resources, government programs, contracting opportunities, and strategic partnerships that help businesses grow and thrive.

“This recognition from the New York State Senate is an honor that reflects the collective work of our members, partners, and community leaders who believe in the power of entrepreneurship and economic empowerment,” said Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce. “Our mission is to continue building pathways that support minority-owned businesses, strengthen communities, and create generational economic opportunity.”

The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce also works closely with local governments, chambers of commerce, business leaders, and nonprofit organizations to advocate for policies and programs that support small business growth, workforce development, and economic inclusion.

Additional Honorees Recognized

The Black History Month celebration also recognized numerous individuals and organizations whose leadership and service have had a lasting impact on the community.

Honorees included:

Entrepreneur Award
Black Momma Vodka

First Responder Award
Charles Goodman

Student Leadership Award
Marcellus Bradford

Community Leadership Award
Gerri Coleman-Odom

Educator Awards
Kenneth McCloud
Dr. Nathaniel Marner
Jonathan Morgan
Dr. Maria Cox-Vineyard

Law Enforcement Award
Michael St. Lewis Jr.

Religious Leader Award
Zorina Costello

Veteran Award
Gizzryl Cook
Rev. Leonard M. Davis

Not-for-Profit Leadership Award
Vanda Bordies

Additional Legacy Award recipients included:

• Islip-Smithtown NAACP Branch
• Bethel A.M.E. Church of Copiague
• Belmont Lake Civic Association

The event also featured cultural presentations and performances that highlighted the contributions of African American leaders and organizations in shaping communities across Suffolk County.

About the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce - The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is one of the leading advocates for minority-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in the region. The Chamber works to promote economic development, small business growth, and business advocacy across Nassau County, Suffolk County, Queens, and Brooklyn.

Through networking initiatives, educational programs, policy advocacy, and partnerships with public and private sector leaders, the Chamber supports the growth and sustainability of minority-owned businesses while strengthening the regional economy.

The organization also plays a key role in connecting entrepreneurs with resources that support business expansion, government contracting opportunities, financial access, and workforce development.

For more information about the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, visit:
www.liaacc.org