ROCK HILL – On Sunday, October 18, The Center for Discovery awarded Assemblymember Paula Elaine Kay the Senator Thomas P. Morahan Lifetime Achievement Award. This annual accolade recognizes individuals whose leadership, compassion, and commitment have made a profound difference in the lives of others.

This year’s award was presented during The Center’s Harvest Festival Weekend, which included the 2026 Harvest Festival, the Food is Medicine Dinner, and the presentation of the Green Shovel Award to New York State Governor Kathy Hochul. The Green Shovel Award was accepted on the Governor’s behalf by New York State Budget Director and Sullivan County native Blake Washington.

Assemblymember Kay said, “I am honored to have received this recognition from an organization that continues to innovate and inspire through every ambition they pursue. The Center’s work pushes the limits and redefines areas of care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the new Transitional Living Community is a testament to their consistency and compassion.”

“Assemblymember Paula Kay understands the needs of our families and the importance of having a strong voice advocating for rural communities like Sullivan County,” said Dr. Terry Hamlin, President and CEO of The Center for Discovery. “Her unwavering support has helped us advance critical initiatives, including our new Transitional Living Community. Paula recognizes that behind every project and every funding request are real people and families whose lives will be changed for the better.”

The Center’s lifetime achievement award is named in honor of the late Senator Thomas P. Morahan. Senator Morahan was first elected in 1999 and served over 10 years in the New York State Senate. He chaired the Senate Committee on Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities and had a deep interest in assisting those with developmental disabilities.