News

April 3, 2026:

United Way of the Southern Tier will celebrate local individuals and organizations at its Community Awards Dinner, presented by Kennedy Valve, on Thursday, April 30 at the Corning Museum of Glass.

The theme of this year’s dinner is “Every Drop Counts,” which recognizes that individual efforts, regardless of size, create far-reaching, lasting impact in the community.           

United Way will present Community Awards to the following:

• John G. & Bobbie Ullman: The Ullmans will be recognized for their extraordinary and sustained impact on the community. Over the past two decades, they have contributed more than $1.8 million to initiatives focused on youth development, education and science, arts and culture, and overall community well-being.

• Patty Howe: Patty Howe, a retired reading specialist from the Horseheads Central School District, will be honored for her dedicated volunteer service with United Way’s local chapter of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Her hands-on involvement has helped strengthen the program, particularly by ensuring that children continue receiving books even as families relocate.

• Corning Credit Union: Corning Credit Union will be recognized for its ongoing partnership and steadfast support of United Way of the Southern Tier. Whether through employee giving campaigns, donation drives, special events, Day of Action, or participation in the Tour de Keuka charity ride, the CCU team consistently shows up and makes an impact.

United Way will present a special award to Corning Incorporated, recognizing its 175th anniversary. For generations, Corning and its employees have demonstrated a deep commitment to the community through generous financial support, employee engagement, and volunteerism. From hosting annual fundraising events like the golf tournament to mobilizing volunteers for Day of Action and other service projects, their contributions continue to strengthen the region.

Special recognition will also be given to Corning Incorporated employees Kristine Dale, Charles Gardiner, and United Steelworkers Local 1000 for their leadership and dedication to giving back, getting involved, and driving meaningful changes in the community.

Tickets for the dinner are $80 each and available online. Seating is limited.

United Way is grateful to our dinner sponsors, including: Kennedy Valve, The Hilliard Corporation, Chemung Canal Trust Company, Socha Financial Group, Gough Holding Corporation, Hale Roofing, Angela and Tymon Daniels, First Heritage Federal Credit Union, MMB + CO, and John G. Ullman & Associates.

For more information about the dinner, please contact United Way Coordinator of Community Engagement Hope Howell by email or at 607-377-5836.