The NYS Senate Awards

The New York State Liberty Medal is the highest civilian honor that can be bestowed by a Member of the New York State Senate upon a resident of New York State. Liberty Medals are adopted by resolution and remain on file in the Secretary of the Senate’s office. 
Key Details of the award program include the following: 

• Liberty Medals are authorized by Senate Resolution; 
• Award criteria include heroic actions, military service, (having prior honors, i.e. purple heart, bronze star, etc.) action taken by law enforcement and first responders which is above and beyond the call of duty, (having prior honors/recognition through employment or community, i.e. Medal of Valor, Distinguished Service, etc.) or exceptional lifetime achievement by the recipient on behalf of their community and New York State; 
• Recipients must be a New York State resident; 

Procedure for obtaining a Liberty Medal: Email the name of the individual nominated (for consideration), along with a brief bio and description of the actions that you would like them  honored for to persaud@nysenate.gov

The NYS Senate Commendation Award recognizes exceptional people who
have made a lasting contribution to their community. 
Key Details of the award program include the following: 

• Individuals who exemplify the spirit of volunteerism. They devote their personal time, energy, creativity, and expertise to others; they participate in philanthropic efforts, display exceptional generosity through either direct financial support, or outstanding civic and charitable work; their drive and generosity encourages others to get involved in their community. 
• Leaders in the community who enrich the social, health, and educational well-being of their fellow citizens. They demonstrate leadership by chairing committees; engage in neighborhood causes and mentoring others. 
• Nominee’s efforts and dedication improve the quality of life in their communities. 

Procedure for obtaining a Commendation Award: Email the name of the individual nominated (for consideration), along with a brief bio and description of the actions that you would like them honored for to persaud@nysenate.gov

The NYS Senate Empire Award recognizes excellence in business in Senate District 19. 
Key Details of the award program include the following:

• Businesses that are leaders in their industry, are developing an outstanding, thriving business; using innovative methods or product(s); increasing jobs, economic growth, and making significant contributions which positively impact their local community and New York State; 
• Businesses that encourage other area businesses to form, or have formed partnerships within the community; those that hire veterans; hire/train individuals with disabilities; those that have created entrepreneurial success by increasing economic opportunities; family-owned businesses that have successfully passed from one generation to another; an emerging innovative business that has developed an outstanding and successful product or service. 
• Businesses that have created a culture of philanthropy, those that volunteer their time or services, and demonstrate exceptional leadership in the community; conduct virtuous ethical practices; utilize green practices, outstanding service, or have contributed significantly to their community’s quality of life. 

Procedure for obtaining an Empire Award: Email the name of the individual nominated (for consideration), along with a brief bio and description of the actions that you would like them honored for to persaud@nysenate.gov