The East Greenbush Education Foundation is proud to recognize Wayne Pratt as the recipient of the Community Leader Award. There are few people among us who deserve this award more than Wayne.  He has selflessly volunteered in the East Greenbush School District for over forty years.  He found time to do this while entrenching himself in a successful career as the President of Walter S. Pratt and Sons, an industrial and construction equipment sales company.

The help that Wayne provided didn’t just focus on one particular area of the District.  He assisted in the maintenance and repairs of the football fields, buildings and bleachers.  He was an active participant in the renovation of Genet’s playground.  He helped to raise funds for its purchase, and he was an integral part of the construction of the playground.  He even drove a piece of his commercial equipment to the playground. 

He supported the theatre arts program in the district, which flourished under the direction of his wife, Carolyn.  He was a part of the restoration of the auditorium at Genet. 

He has served as the chairperson for the Budget Review and Advisory Committee for numerous years.  In this capacity, Wayne has been a part of many changes in the district.  Several redistricting studies were tasked to this committee.  This committee reviews District enrollment on an annual basis.  Wayne supports the budget process every year.  He accompanies the superintendent to district PTO meetings and other community meetings for presentations about the upcoming budget vote.  He can always be seen at the District Art Show, where he greets people at the door and provides information that can help residents make an informed decision.  His company’s signs can be seen flashing throughout the community as they encourage people to vote.

Wayne’s volunteerism doesn’t stop at our schools. He also serves on the board of trustees of Hudson Valley Community College, raising funds for scholarships, and building pathways for students to be hired by local companies. 

Wherever he volunteers, Wayne continues to help our community prosper. The East Greenbush Education Foundation recognizes Wayne Pratt for his community leadership and we thank him for his life-long service to our community.