Larkin Names Douglas J. Hovey For Statewide Award

Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson) today named Douglas J. Hovey, Executive Director of Independent Living, Inc. in Newburgh, as the 39th Senate District’s recipient of the New York State Senate's 2006 "Achiever's Award." The prestigious award recognizes an individual's ability to overcome personal, physical challenges and honors that person’s accomplishments on behalf of the community.

"The Achievers Award is a special honor because it recognizes extraordinary individuals for the remarkable work they do," said Senator Larkin. "I am especially pleased to honor Doug Hovey. His strength of character, uncompromising determination, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the rights of all persons with disabilities have served as an inspiration to all of us."

Douglas J. Hovey is the founder and Executive Director of Independent Living, Inc. In Newburgh, NY, an organization employing 250 people and serving more than 2500 annually.

Mr. Hovey has long championed the cause of equal rights, access, and opportunity for persons with disabilities. He holds graduate degrees in Health Care Administration and Rehabilitation Administration from the New School for Social Research in New York and The University at San Francisco, respectively, and is professionally and personally familiar with the challenges faced by persons with disabilities.

With 20 years of leadership experience in the field of disability related services, he is the 1995 recipient of the American Red Cross "Humanitarian of the Year Award" and currently serves as Treasurer for the New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL) and serves on the board of trustees for the St. Lukes Cornwall Hospital and the Newburgh Family YMCA. He is a member of Rotary International and the Newburgh Rotary Club and served as President in 1999 and 2000. He also served as Chairman of the New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC) in 2004 and 2005.

Doug is most notably recognized for his work in shaping the disability services system, breaking down attitudinal and architectural barriers as well as facilitating the empowerment and independence of persons with disabilities within his own geographic area and throughout the state of New York. He is an avid animal lover, works with theNortheast Cocker Spaniel Rescue Network and enjoys riding All Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s). Doug, his wife Ann, son Ryan and daughter Laura live in Gardiner, New York.

Mr. Hovey was recognized in a special ceremony at the State Capitol in Albany and presented with an "Achievers Award" and legislative proclamation.

The New York State Senate "Achievers Awards" are presented each spring in conjunction with Senate Disabilities Awareness Day, an annual event sponsored by the Senate to raise public consciousness of the efforts and accomplishments of citizens with physical disabilities.