Toastmasters District 46 honored Yonkers resident Alan R. Gray, Jr., Esq. with the prestigious 2023 Toastmaster of the Year Award.
Toastmasters District 46 encompasses Manhattan north of 34th Street, the Bronx, and Westchester County. And throughout the 2022-2023 Toastmasters year, Gray held various key roles like the District 46 Parliamentarian, Vice President Education for the Goodwill Toastmasters Club, and the District’s Yoodli Ambassador-helping educate clubs about the use of this AI-powered speech coach introduced in 2022. Gray also actively contributed to the public relations team; managing content for the District’s YouTube channel and newsletter. His involvement in multiple clubs, including Advanced Debaters, La Voz Latina, and Virtual Parliamentarians, demonstrated his commitment to fostering effective communication within various communities.
Toasting a Toastmaster
The Toastmaster of the Year award was presented during the virtual “Hail & Farewell” event held on Saturday, August 5th. Here, the organization recognized Gray’s exceptional communication, leadership skills, and embodiment of Toastmasters’ core values. District Director and Distinguished Toastmaster Dora Maria Abreu praised Gray’s contributions. Abreu stated that Gray was “a true servant leader helping keep District 46 in the 21st century.”
Beyond Gray’s dedication to the organization and roles held within it, he was further highlighted by his representation of the Goodwill Toastmasters at the District-level International Speech Contest. Gray’s speech on the needs of the LGBTQ+ community within Toastmasters resonated with audiences. It showcased his understanding of inclusivity and advocacy.
Toastmaster Alan Gray is extremely worthy of this honor and is the recipient of the 2023 Toastmaster of the Year award for his exemplary work in the District at the Club and District levels with both members and guests.
Evelyn Marrero – Past District Director and Distinguished Toastmaster
Upon receiving the award, Gray expressed his humility and gratitude, emphasizing the transformative power of effective public speaking. Looking ahead, he reaffirmed his commitment to the organization, outlining his continued roles in the group for the upcoming 2023-2024 Toastmasters year.
Beyond his Toastmasters involvement, Gray is an appellate court attorney at the Supreme Court of the State of New York. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University and a law degree from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.
To learn more about Toastmasters, visit www.toastmasters.org.
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