This April, Con Edison’s Manhattan Regional and Community Affairs conducted an Electric and Gas Safety Art Contest for third grade and high school students from the Harlem School District were invited to showcase their creativity, passion, and understanding of energy safety in our communities. The company said that submissions were received from over a dozen students this year.
Con Edison co-hosted an Awards Reception with Senator Cordell Cleare on April 18 at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Building to celebrate the students’ achievements. The students received citations from Senator Cleare and award certificates along with prizes from Con Edison. Parents, siblings, educators, and local leaders were on hand to celebrate this momentous occasion.
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Seven students in total, whose creative art addressed the importance of electric and gas safety, were chosen from Thurgood Marshal Academy, Thurgood Marshal Lower School, and School of Cooperative Technical Education (COOP Tech).
In attendance at the event were Anthony Gray from Senator Cordell Cleare’s office. For Con Edison -Barbette Lherisson, Manager of Regional and Community Affairs; Kimberly Williams, Director of Manhattan Regional and Community Affairs; Caroline Kretz, Director of NYC Regional and Community Affairs.
Cynthia Gillespie spoke on behalf of the Superintendent’s Office for Harlem District 5.
She said: “I am certainly thrilled to be here representing Harlem Community School District, representing our leaders – Dr. Sean Davenport and Dr. Dawn Brooks-DeCosta who couldn’t be here today but certainly sent their sentiments… Safety is most important in our lives, and by creating these beautiful crafted pieces of art, you have effectively raised awareness about the importance of being mindful and cautious when using electricity and gas, your efforts have not gone unnoticed and you should be incredibly proud of yourselves and for using your artistic abilities to make a positive impact on our community. I’m confident that your artwork will serve as a positive reminder to everyone who sees it and to always prioritize safety in their homes and communities. Your passion and commitment to this cause is truly inspiring, and I know that you will continue to make a difference in the world with your creativity and determination. I encourage each one of you to keep your artistic endeavors. Never underestimate the power that your art has to change and spread important messages. You have all demonstrated exemplary talent, and dedication and I have no doubt that you will continue to achieve great things in the future so once again congratulations to the winners of the Con Edison Art Contest. Your work is appreciated and we are thankful for it and please know that you have done a job. Well done! Keep shining!…”
The contest winners are as follows:
Grand Prize:
- Mariama Diallo -11th Grade
- Charlee Jackson – 3rd Grade
- Ipalesa Lebron – 10th Grade
People’s Choice:
- Aset Taylor – 3rd Grade
- Tommy Diaz – 11th Grade
Honorable Mention:
- Nylah Garwood – 3rd Grade
- Nicess Metger – 11th Grade
Winning artwork will be displayed in the Walk-in Center in Harlem starting April 26.
