Dr. Anne Smith, superintendent of Mattituck-Cutchogue Schools, has been chosen by the Southold Anti-Bias Task Force as the 2017 recipient of the Helen Wright Prince award.
The award was created in 2014 to posthumously honor Prince, a longtime teacher at the East Cutchogue migrant camp and an outspoken advocate for minorities. The award celebrates those who distinguish themselves as extraordinary leaders in championing civil and human rights and who have worked to promote diversity, unity and fairness in Southold Town.
Last year’s award was presented to Merle Levine, a former president of Community Action Southold Town and secretary of the Anti-Bias Task Force.
Smith has served the Mattituck-Cutchogue district for over 20 years, at one time holding the positions of elementary principal at Cutchogue East and assistant superintendent concurrently. She was hired as district superintendent in 2014. Smith received her advanced degree in educational administration from New York University and holds a doctorate degree in education from St. John’s University. She also worked as an associate professor for the Graduate School of Education at Long Island University and the Graduate and Doctoral programs at St. John’s University. She has lived in Mattituck for 30 years with her family.
In a statement from the Anti-Bias Task Force, Smith was lauded for her leadership and commitment to ensuring that all students, staff and faculty in her schools actively participate in creating and affirming an inclusive learning environment for all.
The ceremony will be held on Thursday, Oct. 5 at the Cutchogue East Elementary School library from 6 to 7 p.m.
