Upper New York Conference Communications | September 15, 2025
BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Upper New York Annual Conference is delighted to announce that Dr. Scott L. Johnson has been honored with the Excellence in Social Justice Award from the New York State Council of Churches, comprised of nine partner denominations working together for justice and ministry across New York State.
Scott L. Johnson
Dr. Johnson, who serves as pastor of First United Methodist Church of Buffalo and Pendleton Center United Methodist Church, was recognized for his unwavering commitment to justice across multiple spheres of ministry and scholarship.
The conference’s first lay leader following the merger that created the Upper New York Annual Conference, Dr. Johnson has demonstrated exceptional leadership in pursuing systemic change. His scholarly work on the faculty of Buffalo State University examining racism in criminal justice processes provides intellectual foundation for reform, while his pastoral ministry serves Buffalo’s urban poor with compassion and dedication.
Following the tragic May 14, 2022, mass shooting in Buffalo, Dr. Johnson helped create the Buffalo 10 Scholarship, transforming community grief into educational opportunities for youth in affected neighborhoods. This initiative exemplifies his ability to bridge academic expertise with faith-based advocacy.
Dr. Johnson will receive this prestigious award on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, in Albany, to celebrate his recognition and continued commitment to creating communities characterized by love, justice, and peace.