Written by Betsy Abraham Thursday, 24 October 2013 00:00

Homecoming is full of traditionsfootball games, floats, parades, dances. But this year marks the start of a new tradition for Westbury. This year, the Westbury School District, along with the Village of Westbury, will present its first Alumni of Distinction award, given to an exceptional graduate. The inaugural award is dedicated to the late J. Alfred Cannon, a renowned physician who dedicated his life to community service.

Cannon graduated from Westbury High School in 1946. He was dearly loved by his classmates, and voted junior as well as senior class president- an amazing accomplishment at a time when less than one percent of the student population was African American.

Not only did Cannon excel academically and socially, but also athletically. He lettered in several sports, including football, basketball and track and field. His exploits won him numerous awards and he was the recipient of a full scholarship to Columbia University where he was an acknowledged talent on the football field and in the classroom.

After undergraduate school he entered Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, graduating in 1954. He then went onto UCLA Medical Center and completed his residency in psychiatry.

While in medical school, Cannon engaged in a myriad of health and welfare pursuits, passionate about giving back to the community. He was innovative as well as talented in writing grants and raising money. He founded the Central City

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Honoring A Legacy