Well-known local civil rights leader Connie Mitchell was honored Saturday at the Memorial Art Gallery. University of Rochester President Joel Seligman presented Mitchell with the Frederick Douglass Medal for outstanding civic engagement
First presented in 2008, the medal is awarded to an individual for outstanding civic engagement that honors Douglass's legacy.
Connie Mitchell was the first woman and first African American ever to serve on the Monroe County Board of Supervisors - now known as the Monroe County Legislature.
Mitchell was active in both political and community issues before reaching elected office; volunteering and tutoring children at the Baden Street Settlement, advocating for better conditions for farm workers in Sodus, and establishing the Action for a Better Community organization with her husband John Mitchell.
She also served as supervisor for Rochester's Third Ward - now known as Corn Hill.
Looking towards the future, Mitchell says she hopes to see more young people engaging and participating in similar efforts.
"They need to get involved. The sad part is we just don't have enough. We need to have more young people involve themselves in the community, and really do things together with people in the community."
Her daughter Constance Mitchell-Jefferson said its always inspiring to see her mothers achievements recognized.
"Every award that my mother gets I'm proud of her. And I'm just elated that the community, after all these years still recognizes her and values her."
The award was presented at the Susan B. Anthony Legacy Awards Celebration at the MAG.