Outstanding Community Leaders Recognized

The Rockland County Legislature honored four outstanding community  leaders with Distinguished Service Awards as part of its 2026 Black History Month celebration.  

The awards were presented by Legislators Toney L. Earl, Dr. Dana G. Stilley, and Dr. Aney Paul recognizing individuals whose leadership, service, and dedication have made a lasting impact across  Rockland County. Michelle Bullock, Anthony Burrows, Donnette Darling and Cari Davis are this year’s  honorees. 

“Each of these honorees represents the very heart of Black History Month – leadership rooted in service,  sacrifice, and a deep commitment to lifting others,” County Legislator Earl said. “Their work continues to  strengthen our communities and inspire future generations.” 

The Distinguished Service Award is the County Legislature’s highest award. 

“These award recipients remind us that meaningful change happens every day through dedication,  compassion, and leadership,” County Legislator Stilley said. “Rockland County is stronger because of their  service, and we are proud to recognize their extraordinary contributions.” 

Michelle Bullock was honored for her enduring commitment to faith-based leadership, public service, and  civic engagement. A devoted member of St. Charles AME Zion Church, Michelle serves as Vice  Chairperson of the Steward Board and President of the Usher Board, where she helps guide the church’s  spiritual and administrative ministries.  

Beyond the church, she has served since 2016 as a commissioner and Vice Chairperson of the Village of  Nyack Water Department, safeguarding one of the community’s most vital public resources. Her leadership  also includes service with the Nyack Housing Authority, the Kiwanis Club of Spring Valley, the NAACP,  the Rockland Negro Scholarship Fund, and the Order of the Eastern Star, reflecting a lifelong dedication to  equity, service, and community uplift. 

Anthony Burrows was recognized for blending professional excellence with meaningful community  leadership. A senior finance executive at Morgan Stanley with more than 35 years of experience, Anthony  has also built a successful real estate enterprise and founded the Tobu Wealth Literacy Camp to promote  financial education and economic empowerment.  

His commitment to service includes mentoring Black professionals, supporting voter registration and youth  programs through Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, and serving as a board member and financial leader for several  nonprofit organizations, including the MLK Multi-Purpose Center. Through these efforts, he has worked to  expand opportunity, strengthen institutions, and invest in the long-term success of Rockland County  communities. 

Donnette Darling was recognized for her leadership in education, youth advocacy, and community  engagement. An educator in the East Ramapo Central School District with more than 20 years of experience,  Ms. Darling has developed and supported programs that promote student leadership, STEM education, and  career pathways.  

She has organized youth workshops, community forums, and countywide initiatives addressing public  safety, education access, and civic awareness. Through her work in schools and her faith-based leadership  at Berea Nyack SDA Church, she continues to empower young people and families through education,  service, and advocacy. 

Cari Davis was honored for more than four decades of compassionate, hands-on service to Rockland  County residents. A lifelong member and trustee of First Baptist Church of Spring Valley, Cari is known  for her tireless commitment to helping others, including donating blood annually for more than 40 years  and serving as a notary public for over three decades.  

She founded the Sharing Is Caring Ministry and the Caring Is Sharing Ministry, providing food, clothing,  furniture, transportation, and support services to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families in need.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a critical role in food distribution and outreach, and she  continues to lead community events, seasonal clothing drives, and charitable initiatives that strengthen and  support vulnerable populations.