ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — A former St. Augustine education leader is being recognized for his service to the community. That in itself is not unusual, but Action News sat down with him to talk about why this award is so special.
Otis Mason made his mark on the Lincolnville community starting at what used to be Excelsior High School. Now, after decades of services he's being awarded for his role.
With his name brandished across a brand new plaque, Mason said he's so grateful to be honored with the Gus Craig Award.
“Gratifying, it really was,” he said.
The award recognizes people deeply involved in the St. Augustine community. Mason received it Thursday night. He's the 17th recipient of the award.
“I'm in the top 20,” he said.
On top of that, there's an even bigger accomplishment: He's the first African-American to receive it.
“Things don't just happen overnight. It’s nice that I have lived long enough to accomplish that and I also feel that not only does it represent Otis Mason, but it represents the entire community,” he said.
Mason said he helped push for major changes to infrastructure in the Lincolnville area.
“We have now began to see improve in the street the drainage the lighting,” he said.
A man of many accolades, Mason was also the first black school superintendent in St. Johns County. His wife, Myrtis, says she couldn't be more proud.
“I was very proud that he did this type of work to help others and I felt that he was really ready to because he showed those same traits at home," Myrtis Mason said.
Traits that have now earned Otis Mason the right keep this award close for a lifetime
Otis Mason said he never imagined being on the front page of the paper. He plans to hang it up with the rest of his awards.
WJAX
