Vince Horrigan

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation has presented the 2025 John D. Hamilton Community Service Award to Vince Horrigan at a special event held at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute.

The annual award, presented since 1993, recognizes an individual’s dedication, leadership, and support in furthering community spirit and enhancing the quality of life in the region.

The celebration was a tribute to Horrigan’s unwavering commitment to public service, which began with a 27-year career in the United States Air Force and continued as executive director of the Southwestern NY Chapter of the American Red Cross, a Chautauqua County legislator and Chautauqua County Executive. He dedicated hours to volunteer work with numerous local organizations, including the Rotary Club of Jamestown, Chautauqua Leadership Network and United Way of Chautauqua County.

Tory Irgang, Executive Director of the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, spoke to the impact of the event.

“The evening was full of positivity and excitement in gratitude to a most well-deserved man,” Irgang said. “We are so grateful to Vince for his lifetime of service to our community.”

Horrigan’s family also shared their pride in his achievements. His daughter, Carrie, reflected on the honor.

“There are no words to describe the pride my family and I have in watching our father receive such an award,” she said.

His son, Sean, highlighted his father’s character and integrity.

“My dad practiced what he preached,” Sean noted. “He not only raised me right, but he treated the community and those around him with the same respect he showed his own family.”

Throughout his career, Horrigan has been known for his ability to bring people together and navigate complex issues with respect and a drive toward unity. His extensive record of volunteer work includes serving on the Bemus Point Central School District Board of Education and as a volunteer pilot for the Bemus Point-Stow Ferry.

The award is named in honor of John D. Hamilton, in celebration of his tireless efforts and leadership. It is fitting that this tribute was given to Horrigan, who has followed in those footsteps, leaving a lasting legacy on the community he and his wife, Barbara, call home.

To make a gift in honor of Horrigan and send him a message, visit www.crcfonline.org.