The recognition was given during a Board of Education meeting Thursday, when officials said the expertise about election day practices has been needed annually.
"For as long as I can remember he has been the chairman of the Board of Elections for the district's elections," school board President Sean McLaughlin said. "He oversees our budget votes, our board elections, and is the one who makes sure all the folks follow the procedures."
Trustee Johanna Moore said volunteer work done by Bowman for other programs should also be acknowledged.
"For the town, he's been head of the recreation program and has done a lot with youth sports," she said. "He has also been a trustee down at the fairgrounds and just done a lot for the community for a long time."
Bowman served one year as Board of Education president during his term from 1980 to 1983.
Following the presentation, Bowman said the rewards of volunteer work comes from seeing youth enjoy benefits of new projects. He also provided a warning to continue vigilance during planning and construction of buildings.
"There's a lot of favorite moments that you have when you're in a school situation," he said.
"There are great moments when you see a school completed and the kids and not so great when you see some of the contracts and some of the things that are going on," Bowman said. "I think the concern that I have is that contracts come and contracts go and really what is needed (is) the dedication to pay attention to the service that you are paying for."
