11 New Hempstead Road, New City, NY 10956
Telephone: (845) 638-5100
Fax: (845) 638-5675
Email: legclerk@co.rockland.ny.us

Rockland County Legislature Recognizes Community Leaders at 2025 MWBE Celebration

Legislators Aney Paul, Toney Earl, Beth Davidson, And Dana Stilley Honor Sajan Augustine, Sonya Burnham, Tahisha Cull-Ewing, And Brianne Higgins & David Budway

The Rockland County Legislature celebrated the achievements of exceptional residents during its 2025 Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Recognition Ceremony, hosted by County Legislators Aney Paul, Toney Earl, Beth Davidson, and Dana Stilley.

The annual event honors local business owners and community leaders whose work exemplifies the MWBE mission by advancing inclusion, entrepreneurship, and empowerment across Rockland’s diverse communities.

“Each of these honorees truly represents the heart of MWBE — lifting up our communities through opportunity, partnership, and civic spirit,” Legislator Aney Paul said. “By supporting small businesses and driving innovation, they not only strengthen our economy but also inspire others to serve and make a difference.”

Each of this year’s honorees was presented with the Distinguished Service Award, the County Legislature’s highest honor, during a ceremony in the Legislative Chambers.

“For Sajan Augustine, business is an avocation,” Legislator Paul said. “It’s not just about making a living — it’s about helping people and building a stronger, healthier community.”

A visionary entrepreneur and healthcare leader, Sajan Augustine serves as CEO of West Nyack Sports Medicine and Triboro Pain Rehab, which provide advanced rehabilitation and pain management services across Rockland County.

Beyond his professional success, Augustine is deeply active in civic life, serving as Vice President of the NY Social Club and supporting numerous organizations, including the Rockland Hispanic Law Enforcement Association, Better Business Bureau, and the Asian Political Forum. He is a Nanuet resident, husband, and father.

Owners of Maureen’s Jazz Cellar in Nyack, Brianne Higgins and David Budway have transformed their venue into a cornerstone of Rockland’s arts and culture scene. Since opening in 2016, the club has hosted world-renowned and local performers while offering a space for poetry readings, classical recitals, drag shows, and community events.

The couple also organizes free outdoor festivals and benefit concerts, including a recent fundraiser for families affected by the Nyack Plaza fire. Legislator Stilley presented the DSA to them on behalf of Legislator Beth Davidson.

“Brianne and David have built more than a music venue — they’ve built a community,” Legislator Stilley said. “Their generosity and creativity have enriched Rockland’s cultural life and brought people together.”

A business leader, author, and community advocate, Sonya Burnham has built a diverse career spanning finance, consulting, and healthcare, with leadership roles at U.S. Trust, JPMorgan Chase, Aon Hewitt, and Cigna. A certified emotional intelligence practitioner and leadership coach, she is also a member of several nonprofit organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Burnham is the founder of Savanna & Steep, a modern afternoon tea bistro launched in partnership with The Angel Nyack, a nonprofit focused on community uplift. The venue doubles as a space for small businesses and artists to connect and collaborate.

“Sonya Burnham embodies fortitude, creativity, and purpose,” Legislator Stilley said. “She has turned vision into reality, using business as a force for connection and empowerment.”

Educator, small business owner, and community leader Tahisha “Hisha” Cull-Ewing has dedicated more than 17 years to teaching in both New York City and Rockland County. She is founder and executive director of Smarty Pants Daycare, where she combines education with community engagement.

Cull-Ewing has worked with Meals on Wheels and the Rockland County Department of Health and currently serves as President of the Spring Valley Rotary Club, where she will soon become Assistant Governor. A Clarkstown resident for over two decades, Cull-Ewing and her husband, Eric, are proud parents of a University of Connecticut student.

“Hisha reminds us that leadership begins with service,” Legislator Earl said. “She uplifts others through education, mentorship, and faith — the very values that strengthen our county.”

At the close of the event, Legislator Earl reflected on the importance of recognizing those who give back to their communities.

“Rockland County thrives because of individuals like our honorees,” Legislator Earl said. “They represent the very best of who we are — people whose achievements in business, culture, education, and civic life strengthen our community and inspire future generations.”

Rockland County Legislators Toney Earl and Aney Paul (left), along with County Legislators Dana Stilley (right) and Beth Davidson (not pictured), recognized this year's MWBE Honorees during a celebration in the Legislature's Chambers. Starting 2nd from left: David Budway & Brianne Higgins, Tahisha Cull-Ewing, Sajan Augustine, and Sonya Burnham.

###