(MINEOLA, N.Y.) – In recognition of February as Black History Month, Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Nuñez (D – Valley Stream) welcomed a distinguished group of District 14 community leaders to the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building on Wednesday, Feb. 25.
During a special ceremony, Legislator Nuñez recognized community leaders from Valley Stream, Lynbrook, and Elmont for their meaningful contributions to public service, civic engagement, and community empowerment. The honorees have demonstrated a deep commitment to strengthening neighborhoods, expanding opportunity, and uplifting residents across Nassau County.
“The sacrifice demonstrated by this extraordinary group of community leaders reflects their deep resilience, an enduring belief in the promise of America, and a commitment to making this a more perfect union for all of us,” Legislator Nuñez said. “Their dedication to uplifting others is what makes our neighborhoods stronger, and I am grateful to each of our honorees and their families for their unwavering focus on leadership and service.”
PHOTO CREDITS – Office of Legislator Cynthia Nuñez
DISTRICT 14 BLACK HISTORY MONTH HONOREES
Dr. Sue-Melissa Burgher
Dr. Sue-Melissa Burgher is a hospital administrator, adjunct professor, trainer, and Early Childhood Education consultant with a background in public health nursing, community health, and curriculum and instruction. She teaches in the Behavioral Science Department at Kingsborough Community College and provides mandated professional development workshops for licensed professionals and daycare centers. Dr. Burgher also trains hospital staff to uphold quality care standards and ICARE values, while her research focuses on culture, trauma in children, and how supportive systems improve outcomes.
Lynette Battle
Lynette Battle is a dedicated community advocate, education leader, and economic empowerment strategist serving as a trustee on both the Elmont Union Free School District and Sewanhaka Central High School District Boards of Education. She is the Diversity Chair for the Nassau Region PTA and an active member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Long Island Chapter and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce. As Founder of EmpowerED Ventures, Lynette advances entrepreneurship, workforce development, and ecosystem-building initiatives that expand economic mobility and opportunity for families and small businesses.
Kyle Carter
Kyle Carter is a U.S. Army veteran who served 12 years on active duty, including deployments during Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Operation Provide Comfort with the 1st Cavalry Division. Following his military service, he built a distinguished civilian career in aircraft maintenance, engineering hydraulics, and government contract quality assurance. He is an active member of VFW Post 1790 in Valley Stream, currently serving as Sergeant at Arms and Officer of the Day.
Patrick Clayton
Patrick Clayton dedicated more than 30 years of service to the New York State Courts, including key leadership roles supporting Veterans Treatment Courts in Queens and Nassau County. A U.S. Navy veteran and member of the New York Army National Guard, he earned multiple commendations for his military service. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and an MBA from St. John’s University and retired from the NYS Courts in December 2025.
Sherise Dowling
Sherise Dowling is a Valley Stream resident and strategic operations leader who champions access, opportunity, and community engagement. She serves as Vice President of Enterprise Operations at Community.Co and holds degrees in Communications from Syracuse University and The New School. Sherise is active in civic leadership, serving as the Mayor’s Representative to the Henry Waldinger Memorial Library and as Secretary of the Valley Stream Democratic Club.
Kevin Hill, U.S. Navy (Ret.)
Kevin Hill is a retired U.S. Navy combat veteran with more than 30 years of distinguished service, including deployments to the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and service during the September 11th attacks in New York City. He currently serves as Commander of VFW Post 1790 in Valley Stream and recently retired as a Regional Linen Laundry Director within the VISN 2 NYC Harbor Healthcare System. A graduate of St. John’s University, he holds advanced degrees in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security and is pursuing his doctorate in Homeland Security.
Kelly J. Johnson
Kelly J. Johnson is a retired New York City Department of Education administrator and social worker with over 31 years of service. She began her career supporting special education students and later became a founding Assistant Principal and long-serving Principal in Astoria. Kelly continues her public service as a Nassau County Board of Elections Site Manager and President of the Valley Stream Democratic Club.
Edward Priest
Edward Priest is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran (1989–1995) and retired New York State civil servant with more than 32 years of leadership experience. He serves as a Trustee for VFW Post 1790 and remains committed to veteran advocacy and community service. Edward is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who enjoys camping, surf fishing, and local sporting events.
Karen M. Seawright, EMCS (SW/EXW), U.S. Navy (Ret.)
Retired Senior Chief Karen M. Seawright served over 31 years in the United States Navy and Navy Reserves, retiring from Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, Maryland. Throughout her decorated career, she held numerous senior enlisted leadership roles across the United States and overseas, earning multiple commendations for her service. She remains dedicated to supporting veterans and volunteers with organizations including the USO and the American Red Cross.