
Paul L. Dowen, CPA and managing partner of Whittemore, Dowen and Ricciardelli LLP in Queensbury, received the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 31st annual J. Walter Juckett Community Service Award at the organization’s annual dinner on March 6 at the Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing.
More than 300 attended.
The organization’s award is named after J. Walter Juckett, whom ARCC notes had a remarkable business career and was recognized as a major community leader in his adopted home, the village of Hudson Falls, and the entire region. His leadership and commitment traversed a wide range of civic, charitable, religious, political, business and educational activities.
He was recognized with honors for his work and contributions to the Boy Scouts of America, New York Business Development Corp., Salvation Army, Norwich University, Presbyterian Church, Hudson Falls Central School and many other organizations. He served as a director of the Lake George Opera, and as a major force in The Hyde Collection Capital Campaign.
Dowen grew up in Saratoga Springs and made his way up to the Glens Falls region in 1976, attending Adirondack Community College (now SUNY Adirondack). Upon his graduation from Castleton State College (now Castleton University) in 1980, he returned to Glens Falls and started his accounting career with the CPA firm of Silverstein and Loftus.
Dowen started his own firm in 1987 and has been in partnership with Phillip Whittemore, as well as other partners, since 1994. His long-standing partnership with Phillip Whittemore merged with Edwards, Williams, McManus & Ricciardelli to form Whittemore, Dowen & Ricciardelli in April of 2006.
He joined the Glens Falls Rotary Club in 1982 has continued his membership and commitment to the organization for almost 40 years. He has been involved with numerous other community and charitable groups serving in various roles including board seats, committees and just volunteering his time.
Dowen currently serves on the boards of SUNY Adirondack Foundation, the House of Grace of the Adirondacks, the Adirondack Hockey Coalition and Christ Church United Methodist.
The format of this year’s event featured an hour-long program where two videos were presented. One was centered around the ARCC’s impact in the business community, and the other honored Dowen.
“This is the first time, in recent years, that the Chamber has done a video highlighting our efforts,” said Amanda Blanton, ARCC Marketing and communications manager. “It was a really great experience getting to interview our members and work with a videographer. The crowd seemed to enjoy it.”
In addition to honoring Dowen, the ARCC presented its 2019 Ambassador of the Year award to Holly DeKleine of nePROMO, and honored state Sen. Betty Little for her many years of service, dedication and hard work.