WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – The Israel A. Shapiro Citizenship Award is one of the biggest honors given out in Watertown each year.
“Something I know is important to Cathy is building the next generation of leaders. While I know she’d never say this herself, she has done exactly that,” said Michelle Carpenter.
It’s the culmination of more than 40 years of serving the community.
“I was absolutely shocked. I was not expecting it,” said Catherine Quencer.
Catherine Quencer is the latest recipient of the Israel A. Shapiro Citizenship award, the Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce’s greatest honor.
“This award is really for a true leader in the community. It’s not about credentials. It’s about making an impact,” said Kaylee Millward.
Volunteer leadership is in Quencer’s blood. Over the past four decades, she’s served with groups ranging from The Northern New York Community Foundation to The ARC Jefferson – St. Lawrence. That service was inspired by her mother.
“I grew up watching her volunteer. I always say it’s just something you just do. It was always expected. When I came back from Law School and settled in here, somebody recruited me onto the first board. It just blossomed from there. I enjoy doing it,” said Quencer.
Despite being the center of attention at the ceremony, she’s staying humble.
“There are so many other people I serve with on these volunteer boards that are equally deserving. It’s nice to be recognized, but I’m not the only one,” said Quencer.
She may have had a role in building the next generation of volunteers, but Quencer has no plans to slow down. She says she’ll be volunteering well after she retires.
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