Larry Davis Named Brighton Rotary Citizen of the Year Award

The Brighton Rotary Club presented the 2026 Brighton Rotary Citizen of the Year Award to Larry Davis in June. The honor recognizes his extraordinary dedication, leadership, and volunteer service to the Brighton community.

A lifelong advocate for young people, families, and community engagement, Davis has devoted decades to serving Brighton through education, recreation, mentorship, and civic leadership. He has served on the Brighton Central School District Board of Education for the past 15 years and currently serves as President of the Board. During his tenure, he has been widely respected for his collaborative leadership style, thoughtful decision-making, and unwavering focus on doing what is best for students.

“Larry represents the spirit of service that defines Brighton,” said Brighton Central School District Superintendent Dr. Kevin McGowan. “His humble, kind, and thoughtful dedication to this community has touched countless lives. Whether through his leadership on the Board of Education, his support of youth programs, or his work creating opportunities for children and families, Larry consistently puts others first and leads with compassion, integrity, and purpose.”

Davis’s impact extends far beyond the school district. He has spent many years supporting youth athletics and recreation opportunities in Brighton, including extensive involvement with Brighton Little League and the Town of Brighton Parks and Recreation Department. He has also dedicated significant time and energy to YMCA Camp Gorham, where he has helped provide life-changing camp experiences for children and families who otherwise would not have access to them.

“Larry Davis, the current Brighton School Board President, is an excellent choice for the honor of being named Brighton Rotary’s 2026 Citizen of the Year,” said Gary LaRusso, President of the Brighton Rotary Club. “Larry has guided the School Board in a very positive direction affecting the quality of education for our schoolchildren. His leadership, service, and commitment to the Brighton community truly embody the spirit of this award.”
Letters supporting Davis’s nomination highlighted his unique ability to bring people together, his deep respect for others, and his enduring commitment to ensuring Brighton remains a strong, connected, and caring community. Supporters described him as a listener, mentor, advocate, coach, and tireless volunteer who embodies Rotary’s guiding principle of “Service Above Self.”

In recognition of Davis’s longstanding commitment to Camp Gorham and youth opportunity, the Brighton Rotary Club made a donation in his honor to the YMCA Camp Gorham Laura and Larry Davis Jr. Fund, which continues to provide support for campers in financial need.

Established in 1962, the Brighton Rotary Citizen of the Year Award honors individuals who live or work in Brighton and have made significant contributions to the welfare, betterment, and improvement of the Brighton community through volunteerism or professional achievement.