On Monday, February 24th, the Nassau County Legislature honored two community leaders as part of its Black History Month celebration. Each of the honorees have made significant contributions to making Nassau County the great community it is today.
The honorees are:
William Joseph Johnson:
William Johnson grew up in Glen Cove, and at age 18 became a member of the Tuskegee Airman, the first all-black fighter pilots in the U.S. Military during World War II. The Tuskegee Airman fought racism at home, and the German air force in the skies. They flew more than 15,000 missions, destroyed 1,000 enemy aircraft, and never lost a U.S. bomber they were protecting. Today Johnson is 94 years old, and very proud of his accomplishments for both integration and his service.
Dr. Zodelia Williams:
Dr. Zodelia Williams, DSW, LMSW, is the Founder/ Executive Director of 3 D’s Aftercare Inc, 3 D’s Empowerment Circle, LLC and 3 D’s Community Empowerment Center in Baldwin. She believes that all children have the right to be free from circumstances or challenges that hinder their development, and she is dedicated to encouraging children and giving them the tools to make their dreams come true. Currently she is serving her 18th year as a NYC Department of Education Pre-K Social Worker. On top of this, she is a Girl Scout Co-Leader for Troop 2305; a Nurturing Parent Program Facilitator; ABA provider for children diagnosed with autism; Home Care Provider for the elderly; Scholarship Committee Chair for Nassau/Suffolk Association of Black Social Workers and Sunday School Teacher.
“Black History Month allows us to highlight some of the community’s best and brightest leaders from across Nassau County,” Presiding Officer Richard Nicolello said. “Mr. Johnson and Dr. Williams have all accomplished great things in their respective fields; from education, to child welfare and military service, this year’s honorees showcase just some of the amazing leaders making a difference every day in Nassau County.”