2016 Women of Distinction Nominees

Women of
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H O N O R I N G W O M E N I N N E W YO R K
MAY 2016
Sponsored by the
New York State Senate
Printed on Recycled Paper
Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins
Senator John J. Flanagan
Senator Jeffrey D. Klein
Women of
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H O N O R I N G WO M E N I N N E W YO R K
May 10, 2016

Dear Friends,
It is our pleasure to welcome you to this years Women of Distinction celebration. Sponsored
by the New York State Senate, this event showcases outstanding women living and working
in New York State whose contributions have greatly enriched the quality of life in their
communities and beyond.
From the womens suffrage movement 150 years ago to the present day, women have played a
crucial role in New York States political, social and economic development. Today we recognize
a select group of women who represent the qualities of leadership, compassion, and diligence.
Let us celebrate their hard work and subsequent success individually, but also be mindful that
todays honor spotlights the groups they are involved in and the causes they fight for.
These New York State women of outstanding accomplishment and importance are welldeserving of todays recognition. Many of the honorees have overcome battles, given countless
hours of service to their community, and achieved extraordinary milestones.
On behalf of the New York State Senate, we would like to send our warmest regards to all of
you attending the Women of Distinction celebration, and we offer our sincerest congratulations
to all of the women being honored in todays celebration. Your dedication, commitment and
success are an inspiration for all New Yorkers.

Democratic
Conference Leader

Temporary President
Majority Leader
Coalition Leader

Independent Democratic
Conference Leader
Coalition Leader
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N E W YO R K S TAT E S E N AT E
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Program
Inspirational Reading by:

Abbigale Rossman, Castleton Girl Scouts Troop 1238
Kim Rossman
Welcoming Remarks
Senator Elizabeth Little
Presentation of Awards
Julia Lilkendey
Closing Remarks
Senator Diane Savino
Musical Performance by:

Albany High School Albanettes
Women Women
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The New York State Senate

is taking special note of the enormous
contributions that women have
made throughout the state and nation.
The women honored in this program
have enriched the quality of life in the
Empire State and beyond.
Their achievements should be
a source of pride and inspiration
to all New Yorkers.
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Jill Alford-Hammitt
ill Alford-Hammitt is manager of the Student Assistance Program and the Alcohol & Drug
Education Prevention Team at Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital. Ms. Alford-Hammitt
began working in substance abuse prevention in 2002 and received the Broome County
Chemical Dependency Professional of the Year award in 2005. Clearly, she is committed to
educating youth and the community on substance use and the disease of addiction.
In 2014, Ms. Alford-Hammitt began coordinating heroin awareness forums after she was
contacted by a local high school principal to provide community education on heroin use.
Believing that it would be beneficial to hear from not only experts but also family members
affected by addiction, Ms. Alford-Hammitt worked to highlight these perspectives in her
presentation. Since then, she has worked with community and school groups in four counties
to host panels that raise awareness about opiate abuse and help reduce the stigma of
addiction.
Currently a member of the Broome Opioid Abuse Council and Chairperson of the Community
Education Workgroup of BOAC, Ms. Alford-Hammitt has worked in human services since 1990.
In addition to holding positions at the Broome County Child Development Council and Area IV
Agency on Aging in Indiana, she began work as a case manager for teen parents in the Young
Parent Support Program at Lourdes in 1998.
Truly dedicated to her community, Ms. Alford-Hammitt has volunteered her time to RISE, the
local domestic violence shelter, serving on their Board of Directors from 2010 to 2013. In her
tenure on their board, she served as the Vice President and President.
Jill Alford-Hammitt was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Frederick J. Akshar, II.
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Sherlita Amler
MD,MS,FAAP
herlita Amler, MD, MS, FAAP, has devoted her life to public service for over three decades.
In 2011, was appointed Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Health. While
leading the Department, she served as acting commissioner in the Department of Community
Mental Health. Dr. Amler was Putnam Countys first Commissioner of Health from 2004-2011. She
served with diligence and honor, working hard for the citizens of her community.
Dr. Amler has led and supported many successful public health initiatives and has played a
significant role in the campaign to reverse the rising death toll from opiate abuse. She manages
many services that are in place to protect and ensure the health of more than one million
residents, workers and visitors.
Dr. Amler is President of the New York State Association of County Health Officers (NYSACHO).
A certified emergency manager, she established a comprehensive response network across
Westchester in response to the Ebola threat. In Putnam, she took the initiative and established
alternate-care sites, and later served on a statewide task force on medical management
guidelines for such sites.
Dr. Amler is a mentor to rising young professionals, steering them into schools of medicine,
nursing, and public health so that they may enhance their careers and reach their full potential.
Always appreciative of the importance of education, she encourages staff members to complete
their education and seek higher level jobs.
Dr. Amler has been recognized for her many accomplishments, receiving the Putnam Community
Service Networks Distinguished Service Award, and the Westchester Magazines Healthcare
Heroes and 914Incs Women in Business and Government awards. She was recognized with the
Richard G. Spolzino Access to Care Humanitarian Award by the Ninth District Dental Association,
a tribute to Dr. Amlers vigorous advocacy for fluoridation of public water systems.
Dr. Amlers accomplishments in both her professional and civic endeavors make her, without a
doubt, a woman of distinction.
Sherlita Amler, MD, MS, FAAP, was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Terrence P. Murphy.
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Yvonne P. Armstrong
vonne P. Armstrong is Secretary for the New York Branch NAACP. A member of the
Executive Committee since 1987, she worked under the late President Dr. Annie B. Martin,
and currently performs all branch administrative duties for current President, Mr. Anthony
Harmon.
Part of Ms. Armstrongs duties include coordinating the presidents schedule and keeping
all executive committee members informed as to the many events they participate in.
She is the ex-officio of all committees, as well as the membership chair. Ms. Armstrongs
responsibilities include coordinating the registrations and convention travel for the branch
and executive committee members. She is a subscribing Diamond Life member.
In addition to her duties with the NAACP, Ms. Armstrong is employed at Consolidated Edison
Company, Inc. of New York, where she has worked for more than 40 years. She is currently
employed as a Senior Customer Service Representative in the Corporate Customer Group,
responsible for financial payments and transactions for industrial customers. During her
tenure at Con Edison, Ms. Armstrong was on leave to the Utility Workers Union of America
Local 1-2 for 10 years, and was the first woman and second black out of 22,000 members,
to hold a full-time officer position as a business agent. She represented more than 2,500
men and women, handling grievances and arbitrations, and was a member of the contract
negotiating team. She served on the National UWUA Union for four years as their EEOC Officer
and Womens Committee Chair.
Ms. Armstrong has given selflessly of her time, volunteering for many organizations,
including with Con Edison as a mentor to children at the public library. She was elected to
Community School Board 19 in Brooklyn, where she served as 1st Vice President for three
years. Ms. Armstrong has attended Bethlehem Baptist Church in Brooklyn for more than 40
years; there, she serves on the Culinary Committee and on the
First Ladies Committee as Financial Secretary.
Ms. Armstrong is the proud mother of one son, Danie, who
graduated from Hampton University in Virginia, where he
resides and teaches elementary school children.
Yvonne P. Armstrong was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Bill Perkins.
Women of
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Cora D. Austin
ora D. Austin is President of Lindsay Park Housing Corporation in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

She was elected President after joining the corporations Board of Directors in 2002, quickly
becoming an avid voice for the group. She has since led the boroughs largest Mitchell-Lama
co-opthe most ethnically diverse apartment complex in the United Statesthrough
unprecedented transformation and preservation, despite the growing challenges to
maintaining affordable housing in New York City.
Ms. Austins tenure as President of the Lindsay Park Housing Corporation has been marked by
numerous improvements to the entire seven-unit complex. She has helped to secure funding
to modernize the 51-year-old complex, including the installation of energy efficient windows,
lighting, utilities and appliances, all at no cost to co-op shareholders. Ms. Austin has also
strongly advocated for the development of new programs and opportunities for Mitchell-Lama
cooperatives at the city and state levels, and she does so in the best interests of the co-ops
middle- and lower-income families.
Her work has earned Ms. Austin the respect and recognition of fellow residents, community
and city leaders and the New York Association of Realty Managers, who in 2012 presented Ms.
Austin with an Environmental Stewardship Award for her tireless efforts.
Ms. Austin has been a resident of Lindsay Park Housing Corporation since 1970, when she
relocated from Philadelphia to work at Chase Manhattan Bank. After earning her Master of
Science in Education from Baruch College, Ms. Austin began teaching at I.S. 195 in Harlem.
There, she used her financial background to develop magnet programs, and her experience as
a human resource professional to foster a lifetime of professional and student relationships.
An exemplary educator, Ms. Austin received many awards of distinction, among them Teacher
of the Year in 1995 from ABENY, Educator of the Year in 2002 from
Junior Achievement of NY, and Teacher of the Year, District 5 in
2004. Ms. Austin continues to touch the lives of children and
residents to this day, always working to make their lives happier
and easier.
Cora D. Austin was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Martin Malave Dilan.
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Vikki Barbero
ikki Barbero presently serves as the Chair of Community Board 5, Manhattan (CB5). She has
spent virtually her entire professional career as an administrator at the Fashion Institute of Technology
(FIT) of the State University of New York. In her many roles at FIT, she has closely communicated
with both City and State government officials, served as a member of various Business Improvement
Districts, coordinated the Space Planning and Facilities Management Program and chaired the
Aesthetics Committee. In 1993, Ms. Barbero was appointed to serve as FITs representative on CB5, and
has remained an active member of CB5 since her retirement in 1998.
In her 23 years on the Board, Ms. Barbero served 12 years as the Parliamentarian, 15 years as the Chair
of the Public Safety/Quality of Life Committee and nine years as Vice Chair of the Board. In June 2009,
Ms. Barbero was elected Chair of CB5.
During her tenure as Chair, Ms. Barbero has led CB5 as it grappled with high priority city issues and
countless matters with substantial community impact. She has served as a composed and dedicated
ambassador between CB5, local government and community members to improve the quality of life
for CB5 and its residents. As chair of the board, she is devoted to proactive community engagement and
making sure that every voice is heard.
In 2007, Ms. Barbero was appointed to the Board of the Ali Forney Center, the largest organization
dedicated to LGBTQ homeless youth in the country, providing emergency housing and supportive
services to homeless LGBTQ youth in New York City. She served on the Board of the Ali Forney Center for
eight years, the last several as Secretary and a vital member of the Fundraising Committee.
Ms. Barbero has traveled extensively in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America over many years.
She enjoys cooking food that is inspired by countries that she has
visited, and has a large collection of international cookbooks. She is
also an avid gardener and supporter of animal rights.
Vikki Barbero was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Brad Hoylman.
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Cheryl Lynn Brannan
heryl Lynn Brannan has been an advocate for women and girls globally for more than 30 years,
driven by a passion for promoting womens empowerment. President of the Brannan Solutions Group, a multifaceted consulting firm, Ms. Brannan specializes in eliminating health disparities in communities of color. She
also works on womens empowerment, STEM education, strategic management and social responsibility.
Ms. Brannan serves a broad clientele, facilitating the award-winning Yonkers Healthy Connections for L-Y-F-E
Coalition, which includes more than 100 diverse stakeholders. Its mission is to create health equity and the
adoption of healthy lifestyles, while fighting obesity among underserved populations.
A former executive at Xerox Corporation with a career spanning more than 20 years, Ms. Brannan founded
the Xerox Black Womens Caucus Group, N.Y. Chapter, one of the first of its kind in corporate America. She
is also founder of Sister to Sister International, Inc. (STSI), an organization that recently celebrated 20 years
linking women of African descent to resources that connect, advance and strengthen them. Ms. Brannan led
the organizations efforts to earn Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council, and
also helped create an award-winning Science Technology Engineering & Math (STEM) Camp, now in its sixth
year, that has grown into a year-round academy for Black and Latina girls. Ms. Brannan spearheaded the
creation of a Black Women Girl-Child Coalition in Westchester County that includes more than 25 womens
organizations.
Ms. Brannan was the youngest woman to be elected county-wide president of the Westchester Black Womens
Political Caucus, an organization that encourages black women to seek elected and appointed positions. She
also started the Yonkers chapter and serves as a mentor to many women who have sought and won political
positions.
Most recently, Ms. Brannan served as Chairperson of Westchester County Women of Color for Hillary. She is an
award-winning toastmaster and has attended conferences in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean as a delegate and
keynote speaker. She shares her expertise on various boards, and has received many accolades for her global
work on behalf of women and families and social justice causes.
Ms. Brannan is a lifelong resident of the City of Yonkers. She and Lloyd
Douglas are the proud parents of Sayidana Lynn Brannan Douglas,
a freshman college student enrolled in the Women in Science and
Engineering Program at Stony Brook University.
Cheryl Lynn Brannan, was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins.
Women of
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Sister Margaret Carney,

O.S.F., S.T.D.
ister Margaret Carney is the 20th President of St. Bonaventure University a position she has
held since 2004.
Prior to being inaugurated, Sr. Margaret served as the dean and director of the Franciscan Institute
of St. Bonaventure. The Institute operates a center for research and textual scholarship in the field of
Franciscan/medieval theology, history and philosophy and a school that educates leaders for the various
branches of the Franciscan religious orders in the Catholic Church.
She holds masters degrees from Duquesne University (theology) and St. Bonaventure University
(Franciscan Studies) and her doctorate (theology) was awarded by the Franciscan university of Rome
the Pontifical University Antonianum.
Sr. Margaret has two successful campaigns to her credit: The 150th Anniversary Campaign for St.
Bonaventure, which closed at $95 million ($5 million over goal), and the $15 million campaign for
the new School of Business. Her presidency has focused on improving mission integration, increasing
diversity in all sectors of campus life, and promoting a cycle of curriculum assessment that is sustainable
and an effective strategic planning modality.
Sr. Margaret is a member of the Atlantic 10 Council of Presidents and the Commission on Independent
Colleges and Universities.
She previously served as the chair of the Board of Directors of the Association of Catholic Colleges and
Universities and the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities. She also was a member of the
Committee on Education of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Sr. Margarets honors include the Lifetime Achievement Award from Business First of Buffalo for Women
of Influence and the Citation Award from the National Federation of Just CommunitiesBuffalo.
Her own teaching and lecturing is now limited but has encompassed
service in the U.S., Europe and Asia. She holds nine honorary doctorates
and is a member of the prestigious Century Club of Duquesne
University.
Sister Margaret Carney, O.S.F., S.T.D. was selected

as a 2016 Woman of Distinction by Senator
Catharine M. Young.
Women of
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Elizabeth Shell Carr
lizabeth Shell Carr began her successful and fulfilling career in social services as a social work
assistant. She quickly became a senior social worker, who dedicated more than 23 years to providing
comprehensive, compassionate and confidential social services to patients and their families.
During her tenure at St. Lukes, Ms. Carr graduated the first group of parenting women in substance abuse
recovery through their Comprehensive Care Program. Ms. Carr also sought and received an annual grant of
$1,000 to benefit St. Lukes Youth and Family Program. This grant was used to provide cultural enrichment
to the local community. Ms. Carrs desire to continue providing social services did not stop when she retired
from St. Lukes. She joined the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, where she coordinated an
Employee Assistance Program.
During her tenure with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Ms. Carr received a Salute & Coin of Appreciation
from the Colonel of Ft. Hamilton and a tribute from the United States House of Representatives for
outstanding work with veterans. She was also entered into the 110th Congressional Record with the first
female Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, and had the opportunity to meet President Bill Clinton. Ms.
Carr worked for the Harlem Vet Center as a Readjustment and Military Sexual Trauma Counselor, where she
provided individual, couple and group therapy.
Ms. Carrs love, compassion and desire to help others was not limited to her successful professional
career. For the last 30 years, she has been an active member of her Brooklyn community and her beloved
Emmanuel Baptist Church, where she serves in various ministries and on committees. She has even
published a few pieces of writing in the New York Writers Coalition for EBCs Prime Time Writers Group, Dig
Deep online magazine, and (SEIU) Service Employees International Union Local 1199 Nationwide Magazine.
Although challenged by cancer in 2014, Ms. Carr remains strong in her commitment to continue her
community work, offering her expertise and time to those around her. She believes that God still has work
for her to do.
Elizabeth Shell Carr was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Velmanette Montgomery.
Women of
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Claudia Coger
audia Coger was born in Sumter County, Florida. In 1955, she relocated to Astoria,
New York, to start what would be a tremendous life of public service. A resident of Astoria
Houses for more than 60 years, Ms. Coger raised six children, and is affectionately known as
Mama Coger, a name given to her by local residents as a tribute to her nurturing spirit and
caring nature.
For more than 25 years, Ms. Coger worked as an assistant train dispatcher with the New
York City Transit Authority before retiring in 1993. After retirement, she decided that she
could best serve her community and advocate for quality of life improvements in Astoria by
working with local leadership. She was elected and continues to serve as President of the
Astoria Houses Residents Association.
Ms. Coger also serves on the Executive Board of the Citywide Council of Tenant Association
Presidents. This vital position has given Ms. Coger a powerful voice in her community; she is
an integral proponent for social welfare, education, and tenants rights. Ms. Coger is a tireless
advocate for residents, and has effectively worked in partnership with elected officials in all
levels of government.
Ms. Cogers inspiration comes from her spirituality, which has served as a vehicle for her life
in public service. Its principles have served as a guiding light to improve the lives of others.
Highlighting her leadership role in her community, Ms. Coger was appointed as an Elder
of the New Covenant Life Christian Center in New York City,
undoubtedly one of the proudest moments in a career driven by
selflessness.
Claudia Coger was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Michael N.Gianaris.
Women of
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Ruth Johnson Colvin
uth Johnson Colvin is a literacy pioneer. A native of Chicago, Illinois, she moved to Syracuse
in 1940 and earned her Bachelor of Science in Business from Syracuse University in 1959.
In 1961, after learning that more than 11,000 people in the Syracuse community were functionally
illiterate, Ms. Colvin took a proactive approach and began working with professional reading
specialists to develop tutor training and instructional materials. In 1962, Ms. Colvin founded Literacy
Volunteers. Now known as LiteracyCNY, this non-profit organization provides adults in the Central New
York community with the literacy tools and instruction they need to learn English.
With Ms. Colvins guidance, the literacy volunteer movement quickly spread across the United States;
the national organization, Literacy Volunteers of America, Inc., was incorporated in 1972. Over the
course of 50 years, Ms. Colvin and her husband, Robert, traveled the world to provide literacy training
in more than 60 different countries. Today, Literacy Volunteers of America, Inc. offers more than 330
programs in 42 states, with more than 100,000 volunteers and students.
In 1987, Ms. Colvin was recognized with the highest volunteerism award in the United States, the
Presidents Volunteer Action Award. In 1993, she was inducted into the National Womens Hall of Fame,
and in 2006, she received the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. Ms. Colvin has also received
nine honorary degrees and more than 20 other local and national awards, and has published several
works, including Off the Beaten Path: Stories of People Around the World (2011).
In 2002, ProLiteracy was formed when Literacy Volunteers of America, Inc. merged with Laubach
Literacy International. Ms. Colvin continues as an active volunteer tutor and life member of the
ProLiteracy and LiteracyCNY board of directors and has started literacy programs in Madagascar and
Papua, New Guinea. In 2010, the Ruth J. Colvin Center was created and named after her, aimed at
increasing the abilities of Central New Yorkers with limited literacy skills.
Ms. Colvin enjoys spending time with her two adult children, six
grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She reads and exercises
every day, and still enjoys playing 18 holes of golf when she can at
almost 100 years young!
Ruth Johnson Colvin was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator John A.
DeFrancisco.
Women of
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Sister Mary Doris
ister Mary Doris was born in Scotland and grew up in the Bronx, where she completed
her elementary and high school education. Shortly after, she received her Bachelor of
Science in Education from Dominican College, and a Master of Science in Mathematics from
Manhattan College, along with a Master in Pastoral Ministry from St. Josephs College in
Connecticut. Her dedication to higher education is to be admired.
Having entered the Convent of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt, New York, at age 18,
Sister Mary taught elementary and secondary education for 18 years before coming to the
Highbridge area of the Bronx. There, she took initiative and founded an Adult Education
program in collaboration with Highbridge Community Life Center.
During her nine years of teaching GED, Sister Mary learned of the struggle of young pregnant
and parenting women in her classes, many of whom were living in unsafe situations. Sister
Mary and a group of her Dominican Sisters began work on acquiring a building that would
serve as a shelter for homeless women and children. With the help of her Dominican Sisters
in particular Sister Margaret McDermott, Executive Director of Tolentine Zeiser Community
Life Center Siena House Shelter for 27 women and their children was born.
Funded by the New York City Department of Homeless Services, Siena House opened its
doors on January 23, 1990. For the past 26 years, Siena House has assisted more than 2,000
women and children, providing temporary housing, social services, workshops in life skills,
parenting, nutrition, child care and housing assistance, referrals to mental health services,
educational and job training programs, and many other support services.
Without the courage, dedication, and caring initiative of Sister
Mary Doris, these women and children would be living their
lives in poverty and in fear. Thanks to her, they can feel safe
when they close their eyes at night.
Sister Mary Doris was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Jose M. Serrano.
Women of
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Eva M. Doyle
va M. Doyle was a Buffalo Public School teacher who molded the minds of Americas
youth for 30 years, prior to her retirement in 2004. Ms. Doyle currently lectures extensively
across the Western New York area on topics in African and African American history. She is a
writer for the oldest African American newspaper in Western New York The Criterion with
her column, Eye on History, appearing weekly. Ms. Doyles column first appeared in The
Challenger newspaper in 1979, and in other newspapers as well.
Ms. Doyle is an avid linguist, churning the English language not only into a famous column
and the curriculum for her students, but also into 11 novels. Her inspiring work in education
and her service to the community has led her to receive many awards, including the Legend
Award from the 1490 Black Achievers in Industry and The Ruby Dee on Fire to Inspire Award
from Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In 2010, Ms. Doyle was a candidate for Lt. Governor
of New York State, and she was honored by the WNY Minority Bar Association in 2015 for
Community Service.
Ms. Doyle has created more than 100 essay contests with the goal of challenging our youth to
think creatively and enhance their writing skills. In 2012, the Buffalo News selected her as the
Citizen of the Year. She is the host of her own radio show called Eye on History, which has
aired on WUFO for the last 10 years.
Founder of the Annual Roses for Outstanding Women Awards Program, Ms. Doyle has
created a special scholarship award for high school seniors in tribute to her late husband. This
scholarship has been presented to students for the past seven years, providing assistance to
deserving youth who may not have had the resources otherwise.
Ms. Doyles immeasurable dedication to children and to
education can, in part, be attributed to the fact that she is a
doting mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Eva M. Doyle was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Timothy M. Kennedy.
Women of
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Rosemary Durso
osemary Durso currently serves as Director at Regional Aide Interim Needs

(RAIN) Senior Center, Boston Road, a non-profit social service agency serving Northeast
Bronxs senior population. She was appointed to this position in 1998, and has worked
diligently to enhance crucial programs that protect the health and safety of elderly New
Yorkers.
Ms. Dursos advocacy on behalf of senior citizens preceded her directorship and remains
a cornerstone of the initiatives she implements. She has demonstrated her steadfast
commitment to public service and her extensive experience in community development.
Prior to her position at R.A.I.N., Ms. Durso spent 18 years in Con Edisons community
affairs department and also worked at Fordham University and The Bronx Chamber of
Commerce. Her experience, expertise and thorough strong knowledge of the Bronx are
instrumental in helping to improve the quality of life for the senior population.
As a lifelong resident of the Northeast Bronx, Ms. Durso remains active in her community.
She has served on numerous boards, including Community Board 11, Rotary Club
and Visions. She is also a founding member of the Networking Organization of Bronx
Women, which was founded in 1978. Throughout her career, Ms. Durso has received
many honors, including the YMCAs prestigious Woman of the Year award, Visions
Community Service Award, The Bronx Chamber of Commerces Service Award and
Centerlight Healthcares Community Dedication Award.
The wife of the late Michael Durso, Rosemary Durso continues to inspire her two
children, Judi and Michael, her granddaughter, Michelle Dolgow Cristofaro, and greatgranddaughter Michelle Londyn Cristofaro. She maintains
an unwavering commitment to the senior citizens she
serves.
Rosemary Durso was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Jeffrey D. Klein.
Women of
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Audrey Sparks Fussa
udrey Sparks Fussa was born in Hollis, Queens, and attended the New York City
School of Performing Arts. After graduating from high school, she received a Certificate in
Paralegal Studies from the School of Business Career and Training, and moved to Dallas, Texas,
to accept a job. While in Texas, Ms. Fussa began volunteering as an advocate for women
victims of domestic violence. She found her calling here, assisting women who felt helpless
and hopeless find safety and security once more.
After living in Texas for more than 10 years, Ms. Fussa moved back to New York City and
began work as a counselor for Women in Need. She continued to advocate for women and
their children who suffered through domestic violence, helping them set goals and develop
parenting skills, all while encouraging them to continue their education, obtain employment
and find stable and affordable living accommodations.
Ms. Fussa served as former President of Urban Women Retreat for Domestic Violence, Inc.,
and has remained active as a board member for more than 20 years. A lifelong advocate for
victims of domestic violence, Ms. Fussa collects toys from private donors each year so that
children and their mothers can have safe and enjoyable holidays.
Ms. Fussa is involved in a number of community organizations, including Urban Women
Retreat Domestic Violence, Mothers & Lost Children, the NAACP and the Guy R. Brewer United
Democratic Club. Her tireless work on behalf of women and children is truly admirable and
worthy of praise.
Ms. Fussa resides with her husband, Anthony R. Fussa, and their three dogs. She enjoys
spending time with her sisters, nieces, nephews, volunteering,
traveling, cooking, and most of all, helping others who have a
need.
Audrey Sparks Fussa was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Leroy G. Comrie.
Women of
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Gail Goodson
ail Goodson served her country in the United States Marine Corps from 1978 until 1984.
She calls serving her country the honor of a lifetime, and her experience in the military helped inspire
her to become more involved in her community and honoring our veterans.
Following her service in the Marine Corps, Ms. Goodson volunteered with the YMCA as a swimming
instructor. This experience brought with it opportunities to give back and provide free lessons to those
who otherwise could not afford it. Ms. Goodson always did her best to work with children and families
in need, and she began volunteering with Little League baseball and softball, continuing to enjoy her
experiences there for the past 11 years. In that time, Ms. Goodson has also enjoyed volunteering with
the Chester Youth Football League for the past years.
Ms. Goodson has volunteered her time as an Adult Leader with the Boy Scouts of America, Hudson
Valley Council, for 15 years, and she had the distinct honor of receiving the Silver Beaver Award. In
addition, she is also a James E. West Fellowship holder. Always humble, Ms. Goodson states that,
I never got involved as a volunteer to receive recognition; I simply love giving back.
Currently a member of the Marine Corps League, Ms. Goodson serves as the Adjutant/Paymaster of
the Bear Mountain Detachment #1135, and also as Adjutant of American Legion Post #1168. As a
female veteran, it has been important for Ms. Goodson to serve as a member of the Women Marines
Association.
Most recently, Ms. Goodson has had the honor of helping establish the Hudson Valley Honor Flight, and
as a founding board member, she finds that it has been the most rewarding experience of her life. The
organization has successfully flown more than 750 World War II and Korean War Veterans to Washington
D.C. on all-expense paid flights to visit their memorials and give them a day of honor that they so
rightfully deserve. Playing a leadership role and being a founding member has been a life-changing
experience for Ms. Goodson, which has brought her lifetime of service and volunteerism full circle.
Throughout all of Ms. Goodsons hard work and tireless dedication, she
has been supported by her husband, Mark, and her children, Angel &
James.
Gail Goodson was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator William J. Larkin, Jr.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Debora M. Hayes
ebora M. Hayes was born in Buffalo and grew up in the Citys Riverside section, the
oldest of the six children of Paul and Joan Banyi. She graduated from Holy Angels Academy
in 1975, and after realizing her lifelong calling to nursing, received her Bachelor of Science in
Nursing from DYouville College in 1979.
Ms. Hayes healthcare career included time as a nurses aide and LPN at the Niagara Lutheran
Nursing Home and as an LPN and RN at Buffalo General Hospital. During her tenure at Buffalo
General, she served as a staff nurse on B3N (Surgical Teaching), an Assistant Head Nurse
on B3N and as a staff nurse in the operating room. Her diligent work ethic and comforting
bedside manner were influential in her career path.
In 1982, Ms. Hayes was instrumental in founding Nurses United CWA Local 1168, a Local of
750 nurses at Buffalo General Hospital. She was elected the first President of the Local in
November of that year, and led the Local during the 1983 strike for a first contact, demanding
recognition and acknowledgement from the hospital.
During Ms. Hayes 18 years as President, Nurses United grew to more than 4,500 members,
adding 15 new bargaining units at nine employers. Her bargaining skills and leadership have
resulted in contracts not only considered to be the standard of excellence in the Buffalo area,
but throughout the northeastern United States.
In 2012, Ms. Hayes was promoted to Area Director with responsibilities in Upstate New York,
Connecticut and New England. In addition to her responsibilities in the labor movement, she
tirelessly dedicated herself to a number of community organizations, including the Coalition
for Economic Justice, Coalition of Labor Union Women, Health Sciences Charter School,
Statewide Senior Action and the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County.
Ms. Hayes is a loving mother of four amazing daughters, and
the grandmother to Owen and Maeve.
Debora M. Hayes was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Marc C. Panepinto.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Karen A. Heggen
aren A. Heggen heads the Office of the Saratoga County District Attorney, which
is responsible for prosecuting nearly 10,000 crimes in Saratoga County each year. Ms.
Heggen appears as the peoples counsel in 44 justice courts, County Court and before the
Grand Jury, and is the Chief Law Enforcement Officer for the 14 police agencies in Saratoga
County. The Saratoga County District Attorneys Office has one of the highest conviction
rates in New York State, with a population of over 215,000 people.
DA Heggen is a graduate of Ballston Spa High School, earned her undergraduate degree
at Middlebury College and graduated from Vermont Law School. She was admitted to
practice law in New York State in 1992. DA Heggen has served as President of the Saratoga
County Bar Association and as a Delegate to the New York State Bar Association House of
Delegates. Additionally, she has been appointed by the Supreme Court, Appellate Division
Third Judicial Department to the Committee on Character and Fitness for new attorneys.
She has worked with the Saratoga County Youth Court and the Shenendehowa Community
Coalition, and is a graduate of the Leadership Saratoga program, serving on its Alumni
Association Board. DA Heggen also served as the Town of Malta Planning Board attorney.
DA Heggen has served on the boards of several area not-for-profit organizations, including
Saratoga Bridges, The Charlton School, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga
County and the Dunning Street Rural Cemetery Association. She is also a member of the
GLOBALFOUNDRIES/Town of Malta Foundation, an organization that was developed to fund
organizations, programs and projects that provide tangible benefits of a public nature to
diverse groups serving the citizens of the Town of Malta.
DA Heggens office works in specialized domestic violence prosecution
courts to provide efficient prosecution of batterers and
extra services for victims of domestic violence. Her office also
has specialized units to focus on cases involving vehicular
assaults and homicides, sexually based crimes and major
felony offenses.
Karen A. Heggen was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Hugh T. Farley.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Cindy Doring Hollowood
indy Doring Hollowoods theory of success is to blend family, friends and community. It is this
combination that has helped Cindy thrive in her personal and professional lives.
Ms. Hollowood is a self-paid graduate of Hudson Valley Community College and the University of
Albany, earning an AAS degree in Criminal Justice and a BA in Sociology. She began working for the
Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs in 1981 as Director of Sales. In 1985, at the age of 28, she was named
General Manager. Ms. Hollowood has worked tirelessly to re-establish the hotels original role as the
Citys community hotel. Through her efforts, the Holiday Inn has become synonymous with many of
Saratogas premiere events from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and the Bartenders Ball to
weddings, reunions, conferences and corporate trainings.
Ms. Hollowood is a 20-year board member of the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association and
has served as chairwoman. A founding member of the Saratoga Convention Bureau, she also served
as the boards chairwoman. In addition, Ms. Hollowood has been on the board of directors and chaired
the Saratoga American Red Cross and Saratoga Next Step Downtown Redevelopment Committee. She
served on the Saratoga Springs Zoning Board, Special Assessment Board, All American Celebration
Committee, the Saratoga Chamber and Saratoga Chapter DAR, is the current Vice Chair of Saratoga
Economic Development Corporation, and was recently named to the HVCC Foundation Board.
Ms. Hollowood has been a leader in fundraising for Saratoga Hospital, Yaddo, YMCA and St. Clements
School. She co-founded the Upstate New York Women in Lodging group. For over a decade she has
been involved with Saratoga BOCES School to Work programs, giving special needs and non-college
bound students the opportunity to improve their job skills. In addition, Ms. Hollowood serves on the
Saratoga Race Course Community Advisory Committee and the Concerned Citizens for Saratoga Racing.
The recipient of many special recognitions, Ms. Hollowood was named Leadership Saratogas
Distinguished Alum in 1990, and in 2015, was awarded the NYS Hospitality and Tourisms Tourism
Executive of the Year and the American Hotel and Lodgings Women in Lodging Connect Leader of the
Year.
Ms. Hollowoods passion and commitment have made a profound
difference for her profession, her family and her community.
Cindy Doring Hollowood was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Kathy Marchione.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Ellen Holmes
llen Holmes of Lake Grove is the loving wife of Glenn Holmes and mother of Andrew,
Thomas and Christine. To better assist her two sons who are diagnosed with autism, and
other individuals with developmental disabilities, Ms. Holmes has dedicated herself to
ensuring that all children have the highest quality of life and access to the services they
deserve.
Throughout the past two decades, Ms. Holmes has devoted countless hours providing
guidance to families with children diagnosed on the autism spectrum. Her efforts have been
essential in helping countless families across the region navigate the often confusing process
of accessing and securing the services their children deserve.
To best help those she is dedicated to, Ms. Holmes has served in the role as an Executive
Assistant for the Developmental Disabilities Institute and the DDI Foundation. In this
position, she works tirelessly and selflessly to help the foundation raise significant funds to
support its mission of providing more than 1,200 families the services they need.
In addition to her work at DDI, Ms. Holmes has been an active member of Sachem SEPTA
from 1995 to 2015. She served as Corresponding Secretary for the Sachem SEPTA board from
1999-2000.
Ms. Holmes commitment and dedication to services has inspired her daughter, Christine, to
become certified as a special education teacher. In that capacity, she specializes in working
with children who are diagnosed with developmental disabilities.
Most of all, Ms. Holmes enjoys spending her spare time with
her family and working with Andrew and Thomas so they can
meet their goals and achieve a lifetime of happiness. She is
also the proud sister of John, Vincent and Daniel Toomey.
Ellen Holmes was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator John J. Flanagan.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Mary Iapalucci
ary Iapalucci is Coordinator of Outreach at St. Judes Parish, Mastic Beach.

When Hurricane Sandy hit the Mastic Beach area hard in October 2012, Ms. Iapalucci
selflessly volunteered her time and energy at Outreach to help her neighbors in need.
In March 2013, upon the retirement of the former coordinator, Ms. Iapalucci took on
the leadership role eager to help her community recover from situations like the
tragic destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy.
St. Judes Parish Outreach is one of the busiest parish social ministry offices on
Long Island, serving more than 300 families monthly with food, clothing and other
basic needs, ranging from diapers and cleaning supplies to friendly smiles and
sympathetic ears. Outreachs goal is to provide direct help, referrals and advocacy for
people with a variety of needs, always with compassion and respect.
As Coordinator, Ms. Iapalucci tirelessly leads a team of volunteers and donors from
the parish and the community, keeping an emergency food closet stocked year
round. Thanksgiving dinners are provided for more than 300 families, as well as
dinners and childrens gifts for Christmas. Ms. Iapalucci understands the importance
and the difference that having a hot meal can make, especially during the holidays
when people may not have the means to do so.
A native of Queens, Ms. Iapalucci has been a parishioner at St. Judes since 1990,
where she is also a catechist. A long-time Catholic journalist on the local and
national levels, she continues to work part time for the Diocese of Rockville Center as
Web Strategies Manager.
Ms. Iapalucci has been married to her husband, Ken, for
28 years, and together they have two adult children.
Mary Iapalucci was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Thomas D. Croci.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Ellen R. Imbimbo
llen R. Imbimbo was born and raised in the northeast Bronx. Always interested in
bettering her education, she studied at Hunter College, where she majored in Philosophy,
with minors in English and Psychology.
During summer breaks, many of Ms. Imbimbos classmates worked as monitors at summer
camps. Because she wanted to stay in the City, the Hunter Employment Office sent her to
Standard Oil (N.J.) in Rockefeller Center for the summer where she ended up staying for
almost 30 years. Standard Oils generous employee tuition reimbursement policy enabled Ms.
Imbimbo to pursue a Master of Business Administration, which she completed at NYUs Stern
School of Business. Ms. Imbimbo faced many odds in pursuing this degree, as the percentage
of women pursuing M.B.A.s at night was only about 5 to10% of the student class.
After graduating from Hunter, Ms. Imbimbo moved to Manhattan. It was there that she
began her involvement in community affairs, working with the Murray Hill Neighborhood
Association. Inspired by then-Mayor Ed Koch talking about giving back to the City, Ms.
Imbimbo decided to attend community board meetings first as an onlooker, and then as a
member of Community Board 6 in Manhattan. Inspired by the needs facing her community,
and the importance of helping, she remains a member to this day.
Ms. Imbimbo has given unwaveringly and selflessly to Community Board, serving as
Secretary of the Board, Vice Chair of the Board, chair of several committees, and currently as
Vice-Chair of the Land Use and Waterfront Committee. Ms. Imbimbo has dedicated her life to
the betterment of her community, and to the City as a whole. Giving freely of her time and
efforts, Ms. Imbimbo always serves with the goal of making
New York City great.
Ellen R. Imbimbo was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Liz Krueger.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Doryne Isley
oryne Isley is currently the Portfolio Manager for Urban American, where she
manages a real estate portfolio of rental properties spanning New York City and Mount
Vernon. Always taking pride in her work, Ms. Isley goes above and beyond her duties
and responsibilities. She has demonstrated a strong commitment to community
service for over 40 years through fortitude and relentless hard work.
Ms. Isley is a selfless volunteer, serving as Treasurer for the Salvation Army Harlem
Corps, as Chairperson of Phase Piggy Back, Commissioner of the Mount Vernon
Housing Authority, President of the Mount Vernon Lions Club and Co-Chair of Mount
Vernons Centennial Committee. In addition, she plays a very active role as a member
of Mount Vernons Small Business and Minority Loan Committee. Ms. Isley is most
proud of her commitment and dedication to the residents she serves.
As Ms. Isley oversees 5,000 housing units, she touches the lives of thousands on a daily
basis. She has dedicated much time and energy to improving the quality of housing
for both her residents and the community, privatizing the public housing units in
Mount Vernon, paving the way for much-needed renovations and playing a key role in
10 Mitchell Lama buyouts.
Having attended Iona College for Facility Management, Ms. Isley contributes her
success to growing up in the South Bronx, and understanding the need for housing
that is not only affordable but full of quality. She has turned her career into her
passion, a passion for helping those in need to find homes that are suitable and
affordable.
Ms. Isley has the dedicated support of her loving husband,
Clyde Isley, and is the proud mother of four and Nana to
five grandchildren.
Doryne Isley was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Mary Frances Jeffrey
ary Frances Jeffrey is a true believer in Gandhis famous saying, The best way
to find yourself is to lose yourself in service to others.
Ms. Jeffreys passion for helping others took root early in life. She earned a nursing
degree from Adelphi University and spent nearly a decade working as a caregiver for
others before leaving work to raise her family.
Since that time, Ms. Jeffrey has traveled across the United States and throughout
the world to care for those in need. Most recently, she and her daughter, also a
nurse, spent four weeks in Zambia providing medical services and literacy training.
As a leader with her local churchs youth group, she has traveled with students to
impoverished areas to help others in need by collecting and distributing supplies,
providing educational opportunities and helping build up local infrastructure.
Ms. Jeffrey has also immersed herself in giving back to her home community of
Manhasset. She was SCA President at Shelter Rock, board member and coach for
Manhasset Softball, board member of Friends of the Manhasset Library, Adventures
in Learning and St. Ignatius Retreat House. She is also deeply involved in her church,
St. Marys, serving as a lector, eucharistic minister, Rosary Society President and
consolation minister.
In recognition of her many philanthropic endeavors, Ms. Jeffrey was named to the
Town of North Hempsteads Womens Roll of Honor and, together with her husband,
John, was honored by St. Ignatius Retreat House and Adventures in Learning.
Ms. Jeffrey and her husband have lived in Manhasset for
the last 25 years and are the proud parents of six children.
Mary Frances Jeffrey was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Jack M. Martins.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Nicole Johnson
icole Johnson is an Emmy-Award winning journalist for PIX11 News. She has made it her lifes
work to report the news local or worldwide to the people, and her work has not gone unnoticed.
Ms. Johnson began her journalism career as an editorial writer for The Orlando Sentinel in Florida,
where she attended Rollins College. She returned to her native New York, reporting for Bronx Net and
News 12 throughout the tri-state area.
Ms. Johnson has covered many high-profile stories, including a notable account of Shannon Tavares,
an 11-year-old Broadway star battling leukemia. The story gained national attention, shedding light
on bone marrow donation and its importance in the African American community. More than 10,000
people registered to become donors after seeing her report.
In 2010, Ms. Johnsons story on domestic violence - A Bronx Womans Nightmare, forced New York
State to improve its laws to protect victims. She was also a critical resource during 9/11, and was sent
to Ground Zero for several days to provide coverage on the attacks.
Ms. Johnson is an active member of the National Association of Black Journalists and was honored
by The Professional Network for Excellence in Journalism. She has received two New York Association
of Black Journalists Awards and an Associated Press Award for Breaking News. The Network Journal
recognized her as a 40 Under 40 in 2011, and she is a McDonalds Media Legend, a very high honor for
someone her age.
An adjunct professor at Lehman College for the past three years, Ms. Johnson has been teaching
Journalism to students, while assisting them in getting internships and jobs in the business. A resident
of New York City, she is an integral part of her community as well, volunteering at local schools and
with the Sickle Cell Foundation.
With the love and support of her beloved son, Parker, Ms. Johnson is
still actively reporting on and to her community and the world.
Nicole Johnson was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Jos R. Peralta.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Candace S. Johnson, Ph.D.
andace S. Johnson, Ph.D. is an extraordinary woman with a fascinating and groundbreaking

career. Having joined the faculty of Roswell Park Cancer Institute in February 2002, Dr. Johnson
is currently the Institutes 15th President and CEO, the first female leader for this 117-year-old
comprehensive cancer center. She holds the Wallace Family Chair in Translational Research and is a
Professor of Oncology.
Prior to her appointment as RPCI President & CEO, Dr. Johnson worked tirelessly as Deputy Director
of the Institute and Chair of the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, facilitating the
seamless bench-to-bedside development and delivery of promising new cancer therapies.
Driven by her passion for learning and a desire to share her knowledge, Dr. Johnson earned her
Doctorate in Immunology from Ohio State University, Columbus. She completed research and
postdoctoral fellowships in Immunology/Cell Biology at the Michigan Cancer Foundation, Detroit.
Dr. Johnson has done translational research to facilitate the efficient application of promising
laboratory findings in clinical studies, and preclinical design and development of more effective
therapeutic approaches to cancer. This amazing work and Dr. Johnsons dedication to her craft has
been an inspiration to many others.
Active in her community, Dr. Johnson is a member of the National Institutes of Health Reviewers
Reserve, the National Cancer Institute Review Group Subcommittee and the Experimental
Therapeutics Study Section. She has authored or coauthored nearly 200 journal publications, book
chapters and abstracts, and has been issued patents on the Use of Pretreatment Chemicals to
Enhance Efficacy of Cytotoxic Agents and Endothelial Specific Targeting.
Motivating and inspiring with her relentless dedication to research,
Dr. Johnson is a prominent and influential figure deserving of
recognition and gratitude.
Dr. Candace S. Johnson, Ph.D was selected as a

2016 Woman of Distinction by Senator
Michael H. Ranzenhofer.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Jahmila K. Joseph
ahmila K. Joseph, a native of greater Boston, is an emerging labor leader and political operative
from New York City. With an academic background in cultural studies, professional experience in labor
and politics, and a personal passion for fighting inequality, Ms. Joseph takes pride in her career and in
always doing the right thing.
Ms. Joseph earned her bachelors degree from the New School University where she studied abroad
at the Universidad de la Habana, Cuba, graduating with honors in 2005. She began working for
the City of New York in multiple capacities until moving to the private sector in 2009, when she
became a registered lobbyist and fundraising consultant. In 2012, Ms. Joseph returned to work for
the City as Public Advocate, Bill de Blasios Deputy Chief of Staff, and after seeing him through his
election to Mayor of the City of New York, was then appointed Executive Director of the Office of
Intergovernmental Affairs for the New York City Department of Education, the nations largest public
school system.
In 2015, Ms. Joseph accepted the position of Assistant Associate Director of District Council 37, New
York Citys largest municipal labor union, representing more than 121,000 city workers and 60,000
retirees. In her current role, she diligently oversees the Councils political operations, strategic
campaigns and external partnerships. Currently, her work is focused on implementing new strategies
for engaging union households; most recently, the unions inaugural student debt program was
launched, helping members to find financial relief in an age where students are often drowning in
student loans.
In addition to her busy and exciting professional career, Ms. Joseph is a volunteer mentor with the
Brotherhood Sister-Sol in Harlem, New York, and she serves on the Board of Directors for the New
School Alumni Association. There, Ms. Joseph is an active ambassador, contributing to student
enrichment through career mentorship and collaborations with
faculty and university leadership.
Although her family is split between Boston and Hawaii, Ms.
Joseph happily resides in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn.
Jahmila K. Joseph was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Kevin S. Parker.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Reverend Ann Kansfield
everend Ann Kansfield has been a devoted servant to God and to her people of
North Brooklyn ever since the Greenpoint Reformed Church called her to serve as their
pastor in 2003. Due to demographic shifts over the previous century, the once large
Dutch Reformed congregation had dwindled to fewer than a dozen people. In spite of
many obstacles, the remaining congregants believed that the church had something to
offer the community, and invited Rev. Kansfield to help revitalize their ministry.
Rev. Kansfield has been educated in the ways of spirituality, holding a Bachelor of Arts
from Columbia University and a Masters of Divination from New Brunswick Theological
Seminary, from which she graduated summa cum laude. Rev. Kansfield has built
car batteries on an assembly line for AC Delco, and punched in stock trades for TD
Waterhouse, but her heart belongs to ministry.
Much of Rev. Kansfields limited free time is spent feeding hungry people. In response
to having an increasing number of people come to the church asking for food, the
congregation began a soup kitchen and food pantry in October 2007. Always a humble
woman, she credits caring volunteers, colleagues and donors for enabling the soup
kitchen and food pantry to keep up with the unprecedented demand for emergency
food.
The first female and first openly gay chaplain of the FDNY, Rev. Kansfield is married
to Rev. Jennifer Aull, and together they are raising two children. Rev. Kansfield shows
bravery and courage in both her home life and her professional
and spiritual careers every day; in recognition of this, Rev.
Kansfield was voted New York Times New Yorker of the Year
in 2015.
Reverend Ann Kansfield was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Daniel Squadron.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Virginia M. Krebs
irginia Krebs was born on October 1, 1950, in Buffalo, New York. She attended
Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart in Amherst and received her Bachelor of Arts in Human
Development after attending Daemen College and SUNY Empire State College.
Ms. Krebs is a Coordinator at the Springville Concord Elder Network (SCENe) an organization
which grew out of a grassroots effort by elderly residents in the Springville area. Funded by
a grant from the Community Foundation of Western & Central New Yorks Neighborhood
Action Initiatives program, SCENe plays an important role in helping people age in place
within their home community. Ms. Krebs is filled with compassion for the elderly in her
community, and dedicates her life to make sure that they are not displaced.
A relentless advocate for her community, Ms. Krebs was recently voted the Springville Area
Chamber of Commerces 2016 Citizen of the Year. She was also awarded the New York State
Business and Professional Womens Association New Careerist Award.
Always active in her community, Ms. Krebs is an undeniable force for the betterment of the
people around her. She is Chairwoman of the Erie County Senior Services Advisory Board,
Town of Concord Senior Center Advisory Board, past-President of the East Concord Home
Bureau, past-President of the Monday Club of Springville, past-Treasurer of the Springville
Womans Club, past-Vice President of the Town of Concords Industrial Development Agency,
member of the Board of Governors at SUNY Empire State College, and Trustee on the Concord
Library Board.
During her free time, Ms. Krebs enjoys volunteering on the Springville Fire Auxiliary Squad,
painting, crocheting, fishing, camping, reading and interior
design. She has been married to her husband, Bill, for 47 years.
Together, they have three children and six grandchildren.
Virginia M. Krebs was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Patrick M. Gallivan.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Thomasina
Laidley-Brown
homasina Laidley-Brown has been an active resident of Ossining, New York, for well over
three decades, dedicating her time and energies to helping her community. She continues to
have a positive impact within her community to this day.
Born and raised on Long Island, Ms. Laidley-Brown moved to the community of Ossining in the
mid 1980s. In addition to caring for and managing her own children, she quickly became known
throughout the community for her willingness and availability to help other families in need. At
times, she even served as an emergency babysitter.
Ms. Laidley-Brown strengthened her ties to the community through her involvement with the
Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church of Ossining. For several years, she has been active with the
church, having served as a Pastors Aide and playing an active role in the churchs soup kitchen.
As a trustee with The Cooperative Scholarship Fund, Ms. Laidley-Brown and her colleagues work
to provide several scholarships per year to local African American high school graduates who are
pursuing college degrees. Additionally, she continues to stay tied to her community through her
direct involvement with her local, county and state political parties.
Ms. Laidley-Brown has worked to bring attention to the need for increased training and safety
measures for individuals looking to obtain boat licenses. After the loss of her grandson, Bryan
Johnson, in a tragic boating accident, she began determined advocacy to strengthen boating
safety laws in New York State. In 2013, as a result of her advocacy efforts, New York State signed
into law a bill requiring boat operators to complete training courses and meet boating safety
requirements before obtaining a boating license.
Ms. Laidley-Brown resides in New York, surrounded by her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Appropriately, during her birthday celebration in
Westchester this past fall, she was named the Grandmother of
the Doubletree Inn of Tarrytown.
Thomasina Laidley-Brown was selected

as a 2016 Woman of Distinction by
Senator David Carlucci.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Annmarie Lanesey
nnmarie Lanesey, President of Greane Tree Technology, considers technology a tool for
innovation, community development and empowerment.
Ms. Lanesey holds a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Art Media and Communication and a Master of
Fine Arts in Integrated Electronic Arts from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where her meticulous
and astounding work awarded her the RPI Founders Award of Excellence and a full scholarship to the
Electronic Arts graduate program. Her creative work has won top prizes in international festivals and
has screened at over 100 contemporary art venues worldwide.
A proud alumna of Head Start, Ms. Lanesey knows that intelligence and diligence grow in every
neighborhood, and she believes in giving people the means to create opportunity for themselves and
their families. She serves on the board of directors of the Commission on Economic Opportunity and of
the Capital Region Chamber. She is also on the advisory board for Margination, a community enterprise
incubator, and is spearheading an effort to bring software development opportunities to high-talent,
low-income people in New Yorks Capital District.
In 2008, she co-founded Greane Tree Technology, a New York State Certified Women Owned Business
Enterprise (WBE). Ms. Lanesey heads up Greane Trees business operations, project management
and strategic development, and has successfully led her teams software development projects for
publishing powerhouses, social media startups, academic institutions, national nonprofits and
government agencies.
In 2012, Ms. Lanesey was selected by Albany Business Review as one of the 40 Under 40, and as one of
the six Women Who Mean Business. In 2015, the Capital District Womens Employment and Resource
Center honored her with the Harriet Rifkin Award for her work in creating opportunities for women to
achieve personal and financial independence.
Ms. Laneseys dedication to the betterment of her community and to
making sure that women are provided with opportunities to succeed
clearly makes her a woman of distinction.
Annmarie Lanesey was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Neil D. Breslin.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Linda M. LeMura, Ph.D.
inda LeMura, Ph.D. became the 14th President of Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New
York, on July 1, 2014. Her selection as President was historic, as she is the first female layperson
to ascend to the presidency of a Jesuit institution in the entire United States.
Prior to becoming Le Moynes President, Dr. LeMura served as provost and Vice President for
Academic Affairs at Le Moyne since 2007, only the second person in that role in the Colleges
history. Between 2003 and 2007, Dr. LeMura was Le Moynes Dean of Arts and Sciences.
Before her tenure at Le Moyne, Dr. LeMura served as a professor, Graduate Program Director,
and Associate Dean at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. Her research interests include
pediatric obesity, pediatric applied physiology, lipid metabolism and energy metabolism. She
taught applied physiology, anatomy and physiology, bioethics, and the biology of aging. From
1990 to 1994, Dr. LeMura served as a research consultant for both the United States and the
Italian Olympic Committees. She is the author of numerous peer-reviewed manuscripts and
competitively funded grant proposals, a physiology laboratory manual, and a textbook that has
been translated into multiple languages. She is also a Fellow of the American College of Sports
Medicine.
A Syracuse native and graduate of Bishop Grimes High School, Dr. LeMura is a summa cum
laude graduate of Niagara University, and received both an M.S. and Ph.D. in Applied Physiology
from Syracuse University. Dr. LeMura is married to Dr. Lawrence Tanner, who is a professor of
environmental systems science at Le Moyne, and they have one loving daughter, Emily.
Dr. LeMura is firm in her beliefs that, while education is paramount, community involvement
is equally important. In keeping with these values, she has
served on the boards of the Syracuse Symphony, the Everson
Museum and the Syracuse International Film Festival.
Linda LeMura, Ph.D. was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator David J. Valesky.
Women of
DISTINCTION
April Leong
pril Leong was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and began her career in
District 79 as an English teacher and family group advisor. As a young mother raised in
poverty, Ms. Leong was determined not only to create a better life for her children, but also
believed that what was good for her boys was good for everyone elses children. While at
High School Redirection, she was responsible for creating many innovative programs in youth
development and community service, and she did so with unmatched enthusiasm and vigor.
Ms. Leong was an integral member of the team that brought the nationally recognized
Alternative H.S. Initiative, Diploma Plus, to New York City. As Assistant Principal, she
successfully transformed two underperforming suspension sites and received awards of
recognition for outstanding leadership from her staff, the principal and the superintendent.
She was recognized with the Allan Houston My Teacher is My Hero Award, in recognition of
her dedication to her students.
Ms. Leong continued with her mission, conceiving, developing and opening her own
alternative high school; she is the founding principal of Liberation Diploma Plus High School.
Here, she continues her work as a strong student advocate, educator, family and community
supporter, and fearless leader. Due to her selfless acts to fight to keep her building open and
help her community recover from Hurricane Sandy, she received the Daily News Hometown
Hero Award in 2013. She is also the recipient of the Sloan Public Service Award of 2014.
Ms. Leong credits her success as an educator, leader and mother to key people at Baruch
College and Greg Jocko Jackson (Brownsville Community Leader). She entered college as
a teenage mother who would be the first college graduate in
her family, and the support she received there was essential for
her survival and success.
April Leong was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Diane J. Savino.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Blanca P. Lpez
lanca P. Lpez was born in Peru and immigrated to the United States when she was
only eight years old. She has a special place in her heart for helping immigrants and persons
of low income; her past experiences guided her in becoming an effective and unrelenting
advocate for better housing and stronger community services for vulnerable families and
individuals.
Ms. Lpez helps to build her community through her work as Director of the Neighborhood
Preservation Company (NPC) at Human Development Services of Westchester. Recognized
by HUD, the program serves residents of Port Chester and Westchester County, and provides
housing counseling services covering home buying, renting, foreclosures and credit issues.
Ms. Lpezs experience in the social services field transcends the areas of housing,
immigration and education. She was a Fellow of the New York Immigration and Social
Justice Institutes Immigrant Advocacy Fellowship Program in 2007, and was honored by The
Business Council of Westchester as one of Forty Under Forty Rising Stars in 2011. She is the
first Latina elected to office in the Villages of Port Chester and Rye Brook, proudly serving as a
leader in her community.
Outside her professional career, Ms. Lpez serves on the boards of the Council of Community
Services of Rye Town, Rye Brook and Port Chester, and the Don Bosco Workers Center. She is
a member of the Advisory Board of the Nonprofit Management Program at Manhattanville
College, a Commissioner of the Port Chester Housing Authority and a 10-year member of the
Kiwanis Club of Port Chester/Rye Brook. Ms. Lopez chairs the Kiwanis Campership Program,
sending several children from Port Chester or Rye Brook to sleep away camp for a week each
summer.
A resident of Port Chester, Ms. Lpez is the proud mother of
Adrianna, Luis James and Daniel. She takes a pride in her
work in and in making life worth living a true woman of
distinction.
Blanca P. Lpez was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator George Latimer.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Heidi Macpherson, Ph.D.
eidi Macpherson, Ph.D. is a force in her industry, and a role model for many.
The seventh president of The College at Brockport, Dr. Macpherson is the first woman
to hold this title. Dr. Macpherson has more than 20 years of experience in higher
education as an English professor, a writer and administrator, in both the United
States and England.
Dr. Macpherson has worked overseas with a number of national education bodies
in the United Kingdom, and in a number of different capacities. Her positions
as Chair of the British Association for American Studies, Vice President of the
Research Assessment Exercise Subpanel for American Studies, Fellow of the English
Association and Member of the Higher Education Funding Council for England
(HEFCE) Research and Innovation Committee have made Dr. Macpherson uniquely
qualified in her positions within United States.
An active member of Rotary International, Dr. Macpherson has volunteered with the
YWCA and Bethany Lutheran Homes in Wisconsin. She is the Honorary Chairwoman
of the New York State Special Olympics, which will be held in Brockport in June,
and is actively involved with the United Way Womens Leadership Council Steering
Committee and the Rochester Regional Community Advisory Council for Rochester
Regional Health.
Throughout her life, Dr. Macpherson has always endeavoured to be the best and
excel at everything she tried. She has succeeded with flying colors, becoming an
inspiration and role model to young women everywhere.
Heidi Macpherson, Ph.D. was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Robert G. Ortt.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Janet McEneaney
anet McEneaney has always understood the value and importance of a strong
community. In keeping with those values, she founded and is President of Queens Quiet
Skies, an aviation-focused community advocacy group in New York City. Committed
to improving and strengthening neighborhoods and the people who make them up,
Ms. McEneaney is a force behind Queens Community Board 11, an appointed board
that advises the City of New York on land use, zoning and other community concerns in
northeast Queens. She is also the founder and past President of the Northwest Bayside
Civic Association.
Recently appointed a United States Administrative Law Judge, in large part due to her
tireless work ethic and flawless career, Ms. McEneaney served for many years as a labor,
employment and commercial dispute arbitrator and mediator. She skillfully provided
ombudsman services and taught conflict resolution, negotiation and mediation skills to
employees of corporations and non-profit organizations. Ms. McEneaney also served as
an officer and member of the Executive Board of the New York State Bar Association and
the Labor and Employment Relations Association, as well as on committees of the City
Bar Association.
Ms. McEneaney earned her Juris Doctor from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
in New York City and an LL.M. degree in EU Employment Law from the University
of Leicester in the U.K. She is currently an adjunct professor at New York University
and the City University of New York, where she teaches law and business classes in
undergraduate degree programs. Her steadfast goal is to
share her vast knowledge, helping to mold the young minds
of our future.
Janet McEneaney was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Tony Avella.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Jill Estabrook Morris
ill Estabrook Morris is a compassionate leader, skilled mentor and tireless advocate.
She has enriched the lives of clients, colleagues, partners and the community through
her mentoring, networking, employment, care giving and advocacy efforts. Raised in Old
Forge, and a graduate of Paul Smiths College, Ms. Morris still calls the Mohawk Valley her
home.
A former sales rep and stay-at-home mom who worked diligently to serve the needs of
her family and the Mohawk Valley community, Ms. Morris and her husband, Bill, realized
that they needed to take more time to care for themselves. After a successful personal
introduction to the Dr. Gs Weight Loss & Wellness program, they became proponents of
the healthy lifestyle changes, the improved self-image and elevated self-esteem which
came to those who were looking for more than a fad diet.
The Morris thorough research and belief in the wellness effects prompted them to
become franchise owners for the company, opening locations in Central New York and the
Mohawk Valley.
Ms. Morris has expanded her vision for battling obesity and promoting healthy lifestyles.
She was integral in starting the Farmers Market at Union Station in Utica, and when she
is not working at her company, she is making connections at various networking groups
and organizations throughout her community. The Stevens-Swan Humane Society, the
ARC of Oneida County, the Boys and Girls Club and the Go Red for Women Luncheon all
count on Ms. Morris as a long-time supporter and appreciate her as a lifelong friend.
Ms. Morris enjoys helping other women business owners make connections and succeed.
She loves to work with inspired business leaders who know they can do more with what
they have, and she is the first to acknowledge that any
new relationship can lead to the next great client. She
recognizes the challenge to realize that potential is not a
rare commodity but a shared trait that just needs a little
coaxing.
Jill Estabrook Morris was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Joseph A. Griffo.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Dr. Lesli C. Myers, Ed.D.
esli C. Myers, Ed. D. has dedicated her life to the pursuit of education. Currently, she is
the Superintendent of Schools in the Brockport Central School District.
Dr. Myers received her bachelors degree in Psychology and her masters degree in Counseling
and Human Development, both from the University of Rochester. She went on to earn a
masters degree in Urban Educational Administration and Doctor of Education in Executive
Leadership from St. John Fisher College. Dr. Myers has continued to emphasize the importance
of education through teaching. Impressively, she was the first African-American President of
the New York State School Counselors Association.
Dr. Myers testified before the United States Congress; it was her testimony, in part, that resulted
in a spending bill for Fiscal Year 2008 that included the largest increase ever to the Elementary
and Secondary School Counseling Program. This increase of 77.5% from 2007 was, in fact, the
largest percentage increase to any education program found in the House LHHS-Ed FY 2008
Appropriations bill.
Dr. Myers has received many prestigious honors that reflect her dedication to education and
the community, including the Rochester Business Journal 40 Under 40, Saint John Fisher
Distinguished Alumni Award, Urban League of Rochester Educator Award, and the 2016 Athena
Award Finalist.
With an unmatchable dedication and love for young people, Dr. Myers has designed and
conducted workshops and presentations to elementary and secondary students, undergraduate
and graduate students, and many others. Her style is humorous, straightforward and sincere,
and she encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to use their creative abilities and
talents to eliminate achievement gaps.
Dr. Myers is passionate about her professional work and volunteerism. She looks forward to
many more years of continued service to the teachers, students,
parents and administrators at Brockport Central School as she
dedicates herself to giving back to her community.
Lesli C. Myers, Ed. D., was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Joseph E.
Robach.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Donna Christina Oliverio
onna Christina Oliverio exemplifies excellence in service and leadership. On a daily

basis, through her words and actions, she inspires compassion and selfless giving. In 2010,
Ms. Oliverio founded Kids Stock the House, a not-for-profit community group that creates
meaningful opportunities for young people to support the Ronald McDonald House and
address community issues with creative solutions. Ms. Oliverio devotes endless time and energy
to empowering youth volunteers from more than a dozen school districts to combine their
passion with compassion.
At any given time, there are numerous Kids Stock the House activities and initiatives, ranging
from preparing home-cooked meals for families battling serious illnesses, to presenting the
charitys progress to organizations and building relationships with communities.
Ms. Oliverio has spent countless hours fundraising alongside her student volunteers,
supervising community Softball-A-Thons, a Read-A-Thon, a volleyball tournament, dodgeball tournaments, car washes, presentations for various organizations including public and
private schools, non-profit organizations, Boy and Girl Scouts and the Congressional Education
Advisory Board. She has participated in Independence Day and the San Gennaro Feast of the
Hamptons Parades, and has managed vendors booths at various venues and dinner programs
at the Ronald McDonald House, and has participated in cheerleading events and annual Walks
of Love.
Ms. Oliverio has a huge heart for humanity, and her tireless dedication has spread the spirit
of volunteerism to hundreds of thousands, earning her group numerous community service
awards. Ms. Oliverios generous nature is inspiring individuals from all walks of life to come
together and give back to their communities. She is a model for our children, showing on a
daily basis that ordinary acts of loving kindness can make an extraordinary impact on the lives
of others.
Donna Christina Oliverios community service and civic-minded
contributions to her community make her deserving of the
prestigious honor, Woman of Distinction.
Donna Christina Oliverio was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Ken LaValle.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Meghan Ortega
eghan Ortega, only 12 years old, has been in and out of the hospital since birth,
battling countless medical challenges. She grew accustomed to going under the knife well
before she reached third grade, and was finally diagnosed with the rare genetic disorder,
Cowden Syndrome.
While Miss Ortega has endured many hardships, she has never had to face them alone.
After learning that she has Cowdens disease, Miss Ortegas mother, Lori, was also tested
and confirmed positive for the same disease. This explained multiple issues that they both
confronted. Since their diagnoses, mother and daughter have dedicated themselves to raising
awareness about Cowdens and supporting others with rare diseases like the one they share.
Miss Ortega began her advocacy work at school, where she distributed information to her
classmates and talked to them about her disease. She worked with a local jeweler to design a
necklace, sold by the Global Genes Project, which serves as a visible symbol for those struggling
with rare diseases. She also devised the slogan Jeans for Rare Genes, which is now used as a
fundraiser title. All while balancing school and weekly medical appointments, Miss Ortega has
increased awareness about Cowdens Syndrome, promoted World Rare Disease Day, organized
successful fundraisers and sent money to both the Global Genes Project and PTEN Foundation.
Despite all the physical and emotional burdens in her life, Miss Ortegas unwavering spirit has
helped her earn excellent grades in school, a passion for reading and physical activity, and
commitment to spreading awareness to others suffering from rare diseases.
Miss Ortega hopes to become a lawyer or geneticist so she can continue to advocate for people
around the world who need help. She was recently named an Inspirational Staten Islander by
the Staten Island Advance in recognition of her contributions to the borough.
In a world where people often get wrapped up in trivial frustrations,
Miss Ortega remains an inspiration and a reminder that in the
great scheme of things, people all around us are fighting very real
battles.
Meghan Ortega was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Andrew J. Lanza.
Women of
DISTINCTION
MaryAnn Pfeiffer
aryAnn Pfeiffer has been a force behind West Islips Youth Enrichment Services (YES),
which has expanded from a small agency to one that mentors, tutors, serves and empowers youth
and their families while creating a safe and healthy environment.
Born in Texas, Ms. Pfeiffer moved to New York State, graduated from Rutgers University, and
taught public school in New York and Florida before beginning her tenure as Executive Director at
YES.
In the early 1990s, YES had an annual budget of $48,000. Today, under Ms. Pfeiffers tireless
leadership, YES serves all Town of Islip communities and school districts, and more than 7,000
youth and families annually with a budget of $2 million and a staff of more than 100. In the
past year, YES expanded to open a NYS OMH Outpatient Mental Health Clinic to serve children and
youth up to age 21.
Over the years, Ms. Pfeiffer has developed close collaborations with many organizations and
businesses, successfully procuring millions of dollars from competitive federal, state and local
grants. These working relationships have enabled YES to provide programs that serve the needs of
local families and communities, many of which are high needs and uniquely diverse.
A true leader in her community, Ms. Pfeiffer has held many key positions and maintained active
memberships in local organizations, including Suffolk County Youth Services Project Directors
Association, LIGALY, the Islip Childrens Commission, Bay Shore Summit Youth Committee, Islip
Food For Hope, Islip Anti-Bias Task Force, ACLU, NAACP and Rutgers Alumni Association.
In recognition of her tireless efforts, Ms. Pfeiffer has been awarded the Islip Branch NAACP
Malcolm X Award, the SCPADD Community Innovator Award, the
Urban League of LI Point of Light Award, the Town of Islip Womens
History Award and the 2016 I AM CI Community Leader Award.
MaryAnn Pfeiffer was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Phil Boyle.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Trudy Pogue
rudy Pogue was born and raised in the historic neighborhood of Harlem. At an
early age, Ms. Pogue moved to the Bronx, where she lived in numerous Morrisania
section neighborhoods in the Borough for over 43 years.
Ms. Pogue has established herself as an active member of the community,
participating in a number of community-based organizations that focus on
addressing issues pertaining to youth empowerment and improving the safety of
Bronx neighborhoods.
When Ms. Pogue moved to Claremont Houses, where she currently resides, to care for
her ailing husband, she became very involved in tenants rights. Soon after moving
to Claremont Houses, Ms. Pogue became the developments Tenant Association
President and the supervisor of the buildings Resident Watch Group. She has
worked with elected officials and community-based organizations to help funnel
services and resources to seniors residing in the development. She also became an
active member of Police Service Area #7 to ensure that the safety concerns of her
community are being addressed.
Throughout the years, Ms. Pogue has championed a number of causes. Recently, one
of the buildings at Claremont Houses was without heat for months during the winter
season. Ms. Pogue partnered with the Office of State Senator Gustavo Rivera and the
Urban Justice Center to ensure that NYCHA, which manages the building, addressed
the heating issues plaguing the building and causing the residents hardship.
Ms. Pogue is a devout member of the Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, the
Pentecostal Baptist Church and the Franklin Avenue Baptist
Church. She hopes to continue her work as an advocate
for seniors and the residents of Claremont Houses for
years to come.
Trudy Pogue was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Gustavo Rivera.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Pia J. Raymond
ia J. Raymond, a licensed social worker, writer, artist and entrepreneur, believes that
local businesses are integral to their communities and have a responsibility to social service
and activism. A fifth generation Brooklynite, Ms. Raymond grew up in a close-knit family in
the historic Prospect Lefferts Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn, and was greatly influenced
by the Civil Rights movement.
Ms. Raymonds family opened a sporting goods and awards business in 1963, so much of her
childhood was spent learning the business. Following in her familys footsteps, and in the
spirit of entrepreneurship, Ms. Raymond became owner and president of Legacy Awards, a
Brooklyn awards and custom garment printing company a cornerstone in her community
for 47 years.
Her psychology and social work background has allowed Ms. Raymond to create meaningful
customer relationships at Legacy Awards. She has consistently incorporated her social work
skills by mentoring youth and adults about economic empowerment through business
ownership.
A licensed social worker, and motivated by her own experience as a wife and mother, Ms.
Raymond founded Creating Legacies, an organization that encourages community through
bringing families fun, while bringing families together.
Ms. Raymond is committed to Kwanzaas principle of Ujima (collective work and
responsibility) with community service initiatives in Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Crown
Heights and beyond. She recently published her first childrens book, Celebrate Smiles, an
endearing dialogue of one little girls birthday surprise. The tale teaches self-esteem, love
and thankfulness, while celebrating the power of smiles.
Inspiring and encouraging us through her activism and actions,
Ms. Raymond believes that every day that you awake with
thankfulness inside, your inner beauty can be shown, with a big
bright smile outside.
Pia J. Raymond was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Jesse E. Hamilton, III.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Inez Rodriguez
nez Rodriquez has been a community activist for more than 30 years. She currently
serves as the Tenant Association President at Boulevard Houses in New York City Housing
Authority (Brooklyn), holding the titles of Vice-President and President of Boulevard Houses
for approximately 16 years. An active and effective community leader, Ms. Rodriguez has been
a determined voice that petitions for cameras at the housing development, and for residents
safety and community initiatives. It is her goal to continue fighting alongside the people for
effective security systems and to ensure that all tenants understand their rights
and responsibilities.
Ms. Rodriguez has an ongoing relationship with the NYPD; having attended NYPD Citizens
Police Academy program, she works continuously to cultivate relationships within the
community. Ms. Rodriguez was an auxiliary officer in the 75th Precinct for more than 20
years, and has been involved in the resident watch program during that time as well.
A founding member of Grandmothers Love Over Violence, Ms. Rodriguez is committed
to getting the word out that Grandmothers got power. This group of primary caregiver
grandmothers has partnered with Police Commissioner William J. Bratton, Chief of Community
Affairs Jonanne Jaffe and members of clergy with the goal of making the community safer.
In 2015, Ms. Rodriquez was instrumental in getting the word out about the Brooklyn District
Attorneys Office Begin Again event. She brought information to the residents regarding this
initiative, which brings a courtroom to the community. Ms. Rodriguez was recognized by
District Attorney Thompson for her dedication and community involvement in the event.
Unstoppable by time, adversities or challenges, Ms. Rodriguez continues her fight for safer
and stronger communities. She believes that love will always
triumph over violence, that every person must do his or her
part and that the combination of will and hope can change the
community one person at a time.
Inez Rodriguez was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Roxanne J. Persaud.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Bonnie Ross
onnie Ross, former high school teacher and healthcare executive, joined the
executive team at Thompson Health in Canandaigua in 1998, where she guided and helped
implement the structure for the health systems strategic vision. Today, the health system she
helped design has been recognized statewide as providing excellence in health care.
A strong advocate of community service, Ms. Ross began consulting services and then
became Executive Director of the Partnership for Ontario County, Inc. after retiring from
Thompson Health. With support of the Partnerships compassionate and dedicated
professionals, she helped to strengthen its services. With stronger community and business
collaborations, the Partnership added five programs in 2015 and one in 2016, growing 80%
in two years.
Ms. Ross has a strong belief in the strength of networked nonprofits. Today, the Partnership
is creating an innovative county collaboration with more than 10 nonprofits and 200
volunteers. This collaboration demonstrates that networked nonprofits have positive results
when working together to improve the future of the youth. The Partnership has had an
immeasurable effect on youth, encouraging positive futures and reducing costs (in the
millions) from incarceration or rehabilitation.
Ms. Ross holds a Masters degree in Healthcare Administration, and in her 30-year career, has
served as an administrator in California, Texas, Kansas and New York State. She is an Athena
nominee and recently accepted two significant awards on behalf of the Partnership. These
include the Choose Health Ontario Award from the Ontario County Board of Supervisors for
the Partnerships commitment to supporting health among youth, families and community,
and the Howard J. Berman Prize (named for the former CEO of Lifetime Health Care
Companies, parent company of Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and Univera Health Care), for its
spirit of humanity.
Ms. Ross has dedicated her life to the betterment of her
community, with a key understanding of the value in assisting
our youth helping our communitys young minds helps shape
our future.
Bonnie Ross was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Richard M. Funke.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Florence Santini
lorence Santini, through her actions and involvement, is unquestionably committed to

her community. Elected Town of Deerpark Tax Collector in 1999, Ms. Santini was handpicked
by retiring Town Clerk Shirley Zeller to succeed her, and has served as Deerpark Town Clerk
since 2002.
Ms. Santinis strong sense of community and willingness to serve has propelled her to
positions with the Port Jervis School Board and with the Deerpark Republican Committee.
She is a member of the Catholic Daughters Court Madonna 114, is a New York State
Republican Committeewoman and is a member of the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 161. Ms.
Santini volunteers regularly at St. Josephs Place at Bon Secours Hospital and with Hudson
Valley Honor Flight, and the 17th Street Cancer Crusade. She is a member of the Orange/
Sullivan Town Clerks Association and the New York State Town Clerks Association, which
recognized her in 2015 with the Town Clerk of the Year for District 2 award.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and Clifton, New Jersey, Ms. Santini was married to
husband, Tar, for over 30 years until his passing last year. Together they have two sons, four
grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Always lovers of food and family, Ms. Santini
and her husband operated Santinis restaurant for many years.
Ms. Santini was instrumental in obtaining a beam from the 9/11 tragedy, which struck her
family personally. She created a beautiful memorial in front of town hall and puts together a
9/11 memorial service every year.
Ms. Santini is not only a dedicated civil servant, but also if you attend any community
event in Orange County, you will most likely run into her. She
is an incredible powerhouse of community service, and her
friendship never fails to go above and beyond.
Florence Santini was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator John J. Bonacic.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Vita Scaturro
ita Scaturro was born in Montevideo, Uruguay, to Italian parents; she lived there until
she was three years old before moving back to Italy. In 1973, at age 15, Ms. Scaturro moved to
Woodside, Queens, with her family. She attended Mary Help of Christian Academy, a private
Salesian school in New Jersey, graduating in 1977; she then enrolled at Baruch College and got
her first banking job at Manufacturers Hanover Trust. Ms. Scaturro worked through college, going
to school at night with support from the bank, and working her way up the corporate ladder,
utilizing her diligent work ethic and charisma.
Ms. Scaturro is a Financial Industry Banker with 38 years of proven contributions to the area
of new business development, sales management and staff development. She is a resultsoriented and motivational leader with a special talent for building cooperative and proactive
work environments that foster achievement of corporate goals. Her areas of strength include,
relationship management, new business development, team leadership, and sales and revenue
growth. She currently holds the position of Business Relationship Manager, Vice President at
JPMorgan Chase.
Ms. Scaturro dedicates and spends most of her free time volunteering with several not-for-profit
organizations in the Town of Huntington. Some of these organizations include, the Huntington
Chamber of Commerce, the Townwide Fund of Huntington, Inc., the Finance Committee,
Moonjumpers Charitable Foundation, Inc., Lt. Det. Joseph Petrosino Association in America, Inc.,
and Leadership Huntington Foundation, Inc.
Ms. Scaturro has been recognized in her community for her dedication and hard work. As a result,
she has received many awards and recognitions, including Honoree of the Townwide Fund of
Huntington, Inc., the Award for Leadership and Community Service in 2013, Person of the Year
recognition and first recipient of the Larry Kushnick Memorial Award for Community Leadership in
2014 by the Long Islander News, and the Long Island Ambasciatore
Award in 2016.
Ms. Scaturro lives in the Town of Huntington with her children,
Daniela and Joseph, and her granddaughter, Gabriella.
Vita Scaturro was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Carl L. Marcellino.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Anita Seefried-Brown
nita Seefried-Brown has made it her mission to stop the spread of illegal
substances, and make available vitally important resources people need to break free from
the cycle of abuse. She has dedicated her life to the pursuit of sobriety, recognizing that the
health of our young people is of vital importance to the future of our community.
A 21-year employee of Pivotan alcohol and substance abuse prevention organization in
Jefferson CountyMs. Seefried-Brown currently serves as Project Director for the Alliance for
Better Communities, a role that allows her to collaborate with local leaders and community
members to brainstorm ways to fight back against drug abuse.
Ms. Seefried-Brown was born and raised in Germany, moving to the United States in 1985
during the first expansion of Fort Drum. She holds a Master of Science, Community Health
Administration and Wellness Promotion degree from Independence University. Prior to
joining the staff at Pivot, she worked for the American Heart Association, a position which she
said taught her the importance of working with members of her community to improve the
region in which she lives.
Today, Ms. Seefried-Brown considers preventing drug and alcohol abuse among teens to
be one of the most important aspects of her job. In addition, she says one of the biggest
challengesand joysof her career is staying current on addiction research, while
bringing her knowledge to local residents. Her courageous and relentless dedication to
this important cause is one to be revered and aspired to, and without a doubt, makes her a
woman of distinction.
Anita Seefried-Brown was selected as 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Patricia A. Ritchie.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Mardie Sheiken, Ph.D.
ardie Sheiken, Ph.D. has been extremely passionate about helping others
throughout her entire life. Currently the Coordinator of School Psychologists at NYL William
OConnor Midwood Preschool a special needs preschool that provides services to children
with a variety of diagnoses Dr. Sheiken is instrumental in the admissions process and in
counseling parents, as well as advocating for them to obtain services that their children need.
Dr. Sheiken began her career at the age of 16, when she completed a college internship for
a mental health degree. At that time, she worked with adults with disabilities and soon
realized that working with those in need was her life calling. Still a teenager, Dr. Sheiken
worked full-time during the day, pursued her education alongside adults at night, and
was determined to complete the highest level of education she could. She completed her
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master of Science in Education and another in School
Psychology, ultimately earning her Doctorate in Psychology at age 30.
Since then, Dr. Sheiken has worked in the preschool, and volunteered in the Marine Park
community as PA President at P.S. 222 and I.S. 278, where she also was on the School
Leadership Team (SLT) at both schools. When her daughters moved on to high school, she
continued to be active on the SLT at Midwood High School. Dr. Sheiken was instrumental
in 2009 in keeping a charter school out of I.S. 278, working tirelessly with a small group of
dedicated community parents.
In addition to her busy and successful career, she volunteered her time at the Cort Club in
Gerritsen Beach after Hurricane Sandy, providing psychological services wherever needed.
She also provided pro bono services in her private practice for those impacted by the storm. In
her unassuming way, Dr. Sheiken has become an indispensable
asset to her community.
Mardie Sheiken, Ph. D., was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Martin J. Golden.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Chitra Singh
hitra Singh is a creative artist/songwriter who grew up in Georgetown, Guyana.

She learned many notable values from her mother and her grandmother, including
the importance of always being there for those who need help, no matter the personal
inconvenience. Ms. Singh grew up visiting shelters and homes for the disabled children across
Guyana with her mother, who would read stories to them. Migrating to New York as a young
teenager, Ms. Singh made sure to take the time to explore all the opportunities in the United
States.
After years of education and hard work, Ms. Singh settled in the Richmond Hill area of
Queens, also known as Lil Guyana. There, she has reached out to the Indo Caribbean people,
creating a space to preserve the Guyanese Heritage Arts. With her guitar, she shares her love
of music and song with the young and elderly by singing folk songs as a reminder of the good
old days and of the ones still to come.
Each week, Ms. Singh donates her time to causes that enhance the quality of life for residents
in her community, including the Business Improvement District and the Sadhana Group,
which works to clean up Jamaica Bay. Ms. Singh has performed for the Caribbean Equality
Project, and she has dedicated countless hours to the Rajkumari Cultural Center Senior
Programs and the Tassa in the Park for children.
Ms. Singh can be proud of the work she has performed for the benefit of an otherwise underrepresented community. She has worked as a volunteer at numerous citizenship workshops in
Richmond Hill. She is also a proponent of womens issues and, together with other advocates,
she bravely shares her story of domestic violence, abuse and addiction she has witnessed
firsthand.
Ms. Singh believes that work never ends, and she will continue
to be there when called on to serve. When our community is
well our country will grow strong and the world will be a better
place for all of us to find peace and love.
Chitra Singh was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator James Sanders, Jr.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Tatiana Shlomovich
atiana Shlomovich was born and raised in the Carpation State located on the
Czechoslovakian and Hungarian border of the former Soviet Union.
The daughter of Holocaust survivors, Ms. Shlomovich immigrated to the United States 42
years ago. Despite the Communist regime, her family and many of her friends and relatives
kept kosher, no matter how difficult, both during the Holocaust and under Communist rule.
Ms. Shlomovich graduated from Ushgorod University in Ukraine with a bachelors degree in
economics. Arriving in the United States, she continued her higher education at New York
University in the field of accounting. Ms. Shlomovich worked in the International Center for
the Disabled for 15 years, where she gained knowledge and found a new compassion for
the disabled and needy. She continued to utilize her experience and skills as a Community
Outreach Coordinator with Maimonedes Medical Center, gaining further insight into the
multicultural and diverse community.
Ms. Shlomovichs community continues to expand as many more immigrants move to the
area. Her familiarity with their struggles and needs helps her relate to and advise new
families, assisting them as they integrate into their community.
Over the past 19 years, Ms. Shlomovich has served as President of the Shorefront Jewish
Community Council in Brighton Beach. It is a source of great pride to her that their
organizations offer to their community many different senior citizens, refugee resettlement,
food pantry and vocational programs. Ms. Shlomovich is also a devoted member of the
Avenue N Jewish Center in Brooklyn and Congregation Etz Chaim of Flatbush.
Ms. Shlomovich and her husband, David, are proud parents of two daughters, sons-in-law
and grandchildren.
Tatiana Shlomovich was selected as a 2016

Woman of Distinction by Senator Simcha Felder.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Honorable
Deborah A. Slezak
he Honorable Deborah A. Slezak is a partner at Cioffi & Slezak & Wildgrube, P.C., an
entirely women-owned and operated law firm. Ms. Slezaks practice is concentrated primarily
in the areas of elder law, guardianship, estate planning and administration. In her 20 years of
practice, she has lectured on topics of elder law and estate planning for the New York State
Bar Association, businesses and many community groups.
In addition to her private practice, Ms. Slezak was Town Attorney for the Town of Amsterdam
from 1996- 2009. She has also been Town Attorney for the Town of Florida since 2008.
Dedicating her life to the betterment of her community, Ms. Slezak has been an outstanding
trailblazer for women in the field of law.
In addition to her outstanding career, Ms. Slezak is a member of the New York State Bar
Association, and serves on the Elder Law Sections Executive Committee. She is a member
of the Schenectady County and Montgomery County Bar Associations and the Womens Bar
Association of New York State. She is the Chair of the SCBAs Trust and Estates and Elder Law
Committee, Secretary of the Board of the SCBA, and is a NY NAELA board member.
In addition to her professional involvement, Ms. Slezak makes time to be active as a
community volunteer. She served on the Board of Directors of the Amsterdam YMCA from
1997-2008, and is a past board President; she was also on Amsterdams Saint Marys Hospital
Board of Trustees, volunteers at her church and at her childrens schools, and is on the Booster
Club of the Amsterdam High School Drama Club, the AHS Marching Rams, the AHS Boys
Soccer Team and Girls Cross Country Team.
A lifelong resident of the Capital District, Ms. Slezak is a graduate of Skidmore College and
Albany Law School. She currently lives in Hagaman with her
husband and three children.
The Honorable Deborah A. Slezak was

selected as a 2016 Woman of Distinction by
Senator George A. Amedore, Jr.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Dawn R. Smith, LCSW
awn R. Smith is recognized as a true patriot across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions
because of her own military service and, throughout the past decade, for the remarkable commitment she
has devoted to the health, safety and well-being of regional veterans.
Born and raised in Hammondsport, New York, Ms. Smith served in the United States Army from 1981-84
and 1986-87 as an Electronic Warfare/Signal Intelligence Voice Interpreter. She was honorably discharged
with the rank of Specialist.
Following her discharge, Ms. Smith attended Angelo State University (BA) and New Mexico State University
(MSW) while raising two children and serving a long tour of duty as a military spouse.
She has been employed at the Bath VA Medical Center since 2005 and currently serves her fellow veterans
as Transition and Care Management (TCM) Program Manager (formerly known as OEF/OIF/OND). Among
many responsibilities, she ensures that enrolled veterans have a smooth transition into the VA health care
system and receive the care they need, along with conducting numerous outreach and Welcome Home
events for local National Guard and Reserve units deployed overseas.
Ms. Smith works closely with regional Veterans Service Officers, Veterans Counselors and local service
organizations coordinating activities and spending countless hours working within communities to
assist veterans and their families access all of the benefits they have earned and deserve. She is widely
acknowledged and admired as the go-to contact when veterans or Service Officers have questions about
a veterans VA health care.
In 2009 Ms. Smith was instrumental in founding and organizing a seven-county Veterans Recognition/
Welcome Home Event, which has become increasingly popular and for the past several years has been held
at Watkins Glen International to honor and thank local veterans and their families for their service and
sacrifices.
In 2014, Ms. Smith received a Congressional Commendation from United State Representative Tom Reed.
Dawn Smith and her husband, Brian, who is retired from the Air Force
and also works at the Bath VA, currently reside in Watkins Glen, New
York.
Dawn R. Smith, LCSW was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Thomas F. OMara.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Marjorie J. Smith
arjorie J. Smith was a prosecutor and retired as Chief of the Special

Victims Bureau of the Dutchess County District Attorneys Office in 2014. Ms. Smith
prosecuted domestic violence, child abuse, homicide and sex offense cases for over
30 years, and oversaw development of the Special Victims Bureau during her tenure
with the office. From a non-existent program, the position evolved to supervision
of a team composed of four Senior Assistant District Attorneys, a District Attorneys
Investigator charged with coordinating the law enforcement response to child abuse,
and four Domestic Violence Outreach Workers.
Along with prosecutorial responsibilities, Ms. Smith took on a leadership role in the
community, where she has selflessly participated in various organizations dedicated
to ending domestic violence and other heinous crimes involving special victims. Ms.
Smith is a true champion for victims in her local community and well beyond, and
has been recognized and honored for her heroic work by numerous organizations.
In retirement, Ms. Smith continues to serve as a member of the Citizens Advisory
Committee on Domestic Violence and as a Citizen Appointment to the Dutchess
County Criminal Justice Council. She is a member of the Board of Directors for Grace
Smith House and a member of New York Women in Law Enforcement.
Ms. Smith graduated from Dutchess Community College in 1976 and SUNY Albany in
1978, with a Bachelor of Science degree magna cum laude, and she attended Albany
Law School of Union University, where she obtained a
Juris Doctor cum laude in 1981. Ms. Smith grew up in
Pleasant Valley and graduated from Arlington High School
in 1974.
Marjorie J. Smith was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Susan Serino.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Carmen Tapia
armen Tapia is a retired teacher who was born to Puerto Rican parents in New York
City. She attended public schools straight through high school, and went on to graduate with
an education degree from The College of New Rochelle.
Ms. Tapia is a longtime activist who successfully implemented the No, In My Neighborhood
You Dont campaign, which was successful in removing drug dealers who were using the
C.S. 102 school yard as a drug den. Ms. Tapia, along with a handful of parent volunteers, led
a four-year push to have the City build a mini-school annex to C.S. 102 in order to relieve
overcrowding. She is Vice-President of the Waterfront Community Garden Association, Inc.,
and works with Clason Point Community residents to combat crime and raise quality of life
through their notable Community Pride Day activities.
As a 2001 board member, Ms. Tapia spearheaded a successful drive to have the Cornel,
Husson, Gildersleeve and Botts Avenues sanitary sewer system operational; she mediated
discussions between Con Edison and the New York City Environmental Control Board over
monies owed to Con Ed. By bringing both entities together, they were able to get their
sanitary sewers up and running, eliminating the dangerous human waste disposal health
hazards.
Ms. Carmen co-founded Discovery for Justice in 2013, an organization whose mission is
criminal discovery reform through the repeal of Criminal Procedure Law 240. A prime moving
force behind D4J, Ms. Tapia and D4J members garner support and work with the New York
State Legislature to ensure that anyone accused of a crime has a fair and just opportunity to
defend him or herself.
Ms. Tapia has been married to husband, Fernando, for more than 43 years. Together, they
have two children Caridad is a derivatives attorney for USB,
the investment bank, and Fernando Jr., is an intelligence
analyst with the United States Army 75th Ranger Regiment.
Carmen Tapia was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Rubn Diaz.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Yudelka Tapia
udelka Tapia knows that Dominican immigrants in the Bronx often face a hard
transition due to language and cultural barriers. They have a champion in that struggle,
86th Assembly District Leader Ms. Tapia, who has fought to empower the Bronxs Dominican
community for the last 25 years.
Born in Santo Domingo, Ms. Tapia comes from a family of activists. While attending O&M
University, she organized groups to prevent domestic violence, to promote education, and
to combat political corruption. In college, she was President of the Union Domocratica de
Mujeres, a national organization that organized and educated women. Growing up as an
immigrant with language and cultural barriers, Ms. Tapia knew from the beginning that she
wanted to dedicate her life to advancing the plight of her people.
Ms. Tapia says that the issues surrounding people of the Bronx were similar to those in her
native homeland. Not only did we have issues of corruption, education, and violence, but we
also want better housing and more political representation. In 1994, Ms. Tapia founded the
first Dominican-based political club in the Bronx, the Great Alliance Democratic Club.
Ms. Tapias concerns for quality childrens education and the disparities of resources for
minority communities led her to run for School Board District 10 in the Bronx in 1999. In
2001, she continued to fight for empowerment by running for City Council, District 14. It was
her belief, and still is, that every community should be represented and advocated for by
their leaders. She was elected as State Committee Woman for the 86th Assembly District, and
later was elected District Leader. In 2011, she became a panelist for the Dominican-American
National Roundtable, helping to push the campaigns to get more Hispanic judges to the court
system and a Dominican in Congress.
Ms. Tapia continues working closely with elected officials and
the political leadership of the Bronx to bring solutions to the
problems facing her community.
Yudelka Tapia was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Adriano Espaillat.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Wendy Tepfer
endy Tepfer has been Executive Director of the Community Parent Center since 2002. During
her tenure, she has developed educational programs for students, staff, parents and community
members in the Bellmore-Merrick CHSD, the Bellmore and Merrick elementary districts, and other
public and parochial schools in Nassau County.
Some of Ms. Tepfers programs have addressed teen driving, substance abuse, bullying/cyber-bullying,
Internet safety, adolescent suicide awareness prevention, school violence prevention, youth health,
nutrition and fitness. Ms. Tepfer developed the Driving in the Safe Lane program, which was designed to
help reduce teen crashes and save lives through parent/teen awareness and education. Her dedication
to the youth of our community is unmatched and should be revered and honored in every way.
Ms. Tepfer has more than 28 years of experience, both working and volunteering as an executive
member of various non-profit organizations, coalitions and community groups. She is a member of the
Long Island Youth Safety Coalition, the Nassau County Heroin Prevention Task Force, the Nassau County
Traffic Safety Board and the New York State Partnership for Teen Driver Safety.
Ms. Tepfer works with various partner groups, including the New York State Governors Traffic Safety
Committee, New York State legislators, Nassau County DAs Office, police department and youth board,
PTA and civic organizations. She travels to schools throughout the county, sharing her resources and
knowledge to better assist the young minds of our country.
Recognized for her many years of community involvement, Ms. Tepfer has received BMUSTs Friend
of Education Award and was honored with NYSUTs Special Friend of Education Award in 2008. She
received the NYS Governors Traffic Safety Committee Chairmans Award in 2011 and the Bellmore
Heralds Person of the Year Award in 2013.
Ms. Tepfer and her husband, Karl, moved to the Bellmore-Merrick community in 1979. When her
sons, Brian and Scott, were old enough to attend school, she began
volunteering, becoming an active PTA member. Ms. Tepfers devotion
is a direct reflection of her dedication and commitment to children,
family, friends, schools and communities throughout Nassau County.
Wendy Tepfer was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Michael Venditto.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Barbara Toborg
arbara Toborg has dedicated many years giving back to her community from
environmental protection work with the American Littoral Society and the Jamaica Bay Wildlife
Refuge to serving the needs of students and parents in elected educational positions. Rockaway
and Broad Channel residents, in particular, have been tremendous beneficiaries of Ms. Toborgs
time, talents and ongoing dedication to improving the world around her a commitment that
was welcome and sorely needed in the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.
Ms. Toborg serves as a member of the Broad Channel Civic Association, chairperson of the Broad
Channel Historical Society, block captain for East 6th Road and West Road, and as a caretaker
for the garden at the Broad Channel Subway Station adopted by the Civic Association. She also
edited the Civic Association newsletter, Channel News, for 17 years.
An advocate for children, parents and local schools, Ms. Toborg has served as a member
of Community School Board 24 Queens, as vice-president of United Parents Association,
president of the Parents Association of P.S. 102 Queens, and as president of the Presidents
Panel of Community School District 24. For 15 years, she worked for the New York City Board of
Education as a freelance writer and editor for language assessment tests. Earlier, she served as a
caseworker for the American Red Cross and Pennsylvania Office of Public Assistance.
From 1985 to 1991, Ms. Toborg was an aide to New York City Councilmember Joseph Lisa,
before taking a position with the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge through 2003. Continuing her
commitment to environmental issues, she worked for seven years for the American Littoral
Societys Northeast Chapter. In this capacity, Barbara managed the office, wrote grants, lobbied,
did fundraising, edited the newsletter, Littorally Speaking, publicized the annual New York Beach
Cleanup, and coordinated volunteers.
Barbara has received the Brotherhood Award from the National
Council of Christians & Jews and the Parent Leader Award from
the Council of Supervisors and Administrators.
Barbara Toborg was selected as a 2016 Woman

of Distinction by Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Ann Torcivia
nn Torcivia was born on March 12, 1955, and was raised in Suffolk County, Long Island.
After graduating high school in 1973, Ms. Torcivia began her career as a travel agent, working in the
field for more than 40 years, and opening Friends Travel 14 years ago.
Ms. Torcivias long and unparalleled record of community service includes work with the Levittown
Chamber of Commerce, Levittown Kiwanis, the Long Island South Central Division of Kiwanis, the
Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center, East Farmingdale Kiwanis Club and Seaford Kiwanis Club.
Most notable is Ms. Torcivias passion and commitment to helping children. Tragically, her son died
in 2000 from aplastic anemia, a rare blood disease. In his memory, Ms. Torcivia established The Joey
Foundation, Inc., which became a 501(c)(3) in 2014.
Ms. Torcivia has never forgotten the kindness, support and love shown to her during the years of
Joeys illness from meals delivered, cards and letters of encouragement, Ronald McDonald House
support during long hospital stays and special wishes granted to Joey by Marty Lyons Foundation.
Joey was a vivacious, spunky, fun child! He never complained about his illness, but instead helped
other children battle their diseases and illnesses. He was a Nurses Assistant, traveling with nurses
from bed to bed, room to room, bringing cheer to all. Through it all, Ms. Torcivia and Joey never gave
up and always kept a sense of hope, humor and humanity.
Ms. Torcivias philosophy is when life gives you lemons, you truly make lemonade. She will never
forget the smile on Joeys face when he received gifts, so the Foundations mission is to make a child
smile. In addition to helping sick and needy children in the New York community, the Foundation
has given more than 700 Easter baskets to kids in shelters and Christmas gifts to more than 500 kids,
most of whom are in shelters.
Through the Joey Foundation, Ms. Torcivia not only helps children in
the immediate community, but also globally. The Foundation raised
money to put a new roof on a school in Jamaica, and has collected
more than 2,000 used books to send to schools across that country.
Ann Torcivia was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Kemp Hannon.
Women of
DISTINCTION
Constance A. Wille
onstance A. Wille is a dedicated advocate for those who struggle with substance use
addiction. She is the Executive Director at Champlain Valley Family Center (CVFC), providing
substance use treatment and prevention in Clinton County. Ms. Willes career spans almost 30
years. She rose through the ranks, holding the positions of counselor, inpatient program director
and chief operating officer. She received a BS in Child-Family Services from Plattsburgh State
University and an MS Degree in Health Services Administration from Sage Graduate School.
Ms. Wille is active in the community, serving on the Clinton County Housing Coalition, Substance
Use Disorder Task Force and the Mental and Emotional Behavioral Health Committee. Ms. Wille
also holds membership in the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Providers of New York and the
Northern Tier Providers Coalition.
Ms. Wille has expanded the services of the CVFC outpatient clinic to include opening a first of
its kind outpatient satellite substance use treatment clinic on the campus of Plattsburgh State
University. It is staffed and supervised by CVFC and provides treatment, counseling and referral
services for Plattsburgh State students. In addition, Ms. Wille is collaborating with the University
of Vermont Medical Center at Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital to train hospital staff to
assess patients for referral to substance use treatment.
Ms. Wille is at the forefront of substance use treatment in the North Country and is working
with Senator Betty Little, Representative Janet Duprey and the NYS Office of Alcoholism and
Substance Abuse Services to open an ambulatory detox facility in Schuyler Falls. Under Ms.
Willes leadership, CVFC will take the lead in developing, staffing and servicing this facility
that will offer a vital treatment option for North Country residents who are struggling with
addiction.
Ms. Wille exemplifies those who dedicate their lives to the
mission of providing hope and compassionate treatment to
individuals and families whose lives have been impacted by
substance use addiction.
Constance A. Wille was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Distinction by Senator Elizabeth OC. Little.
Previous Honorees
1998
Belinda Alvarez-Groneman
Natsue Kobayashi
Mary Anderson
Joy Levy
Lois Andrascik
Barbara A. Manwaring
Chris Bailey Nancy Mariano
Susan Barbash
Margaret McCaughey
Geri Barish Carmen Montanez
Joan Barkley
Dianne Sackett Nannery
Sister Mairead Barrett
Sr. George Aquin OConnor
Jeanine Bondi-Steinman
Lorraine Pace
Susan K. Brustmann
Mary Jane Pauling
Marie Burghard
Mary Anne Pietrzykowski
Joan Cashon
Jeanie D. Roberts
Carol Cassell
Marie A. Russo
Sister Dolores Castellano
Theresa Santmann
Charlotte Conable
Christine Conniff Sheahan
Carol L. Constantino
Jean Sherlock
Margaret Dadd
Muriel Siebert
Jane DAmico
Beverly Sills
Aline Euler Laura Spalter
Ilene Flaum Leontina Stern
Mary Jane Fox
Maria A. Thomson
Janice W. Gay
Stephanie Edith VanAuken
Eileen Gentilcore
Mary Ann Varvaro
Gloria Richardson Griffin
Janet Walsh
Jane Hamburger Frederica Warner
Elizabeth Harvey Charlotte Watson
Patricia A. Hickey
Elaine Wick
Pamela C. Johnston
Patricia Willsea
Loretta Jones
Doris Buckley Wolf
Katherine E. Keough
Previous Honorees
1999
Nan Ackerman
Dr. Linda Leest
Eileen Tally Almquist
Joan Hope MacNaughton
Jean Argetsinger
Margaret Magnus
Juanita Lorraine Bass
Takako J. Michii
Dorothy Dot Bavaro
Deborah Naybor
Sabina Rosemary Cardali
Chloe Ann R. ONeil
Mary Ann Carey
Elizabeth Osborne
Maureen Clancy
Francis McMillan Parks
Sheila Cohen
Donna deLuca Periconi
Gayle Cratty
Irene M. Prazak
Ava Dorfman
Dorothy Reister
Nancy Duff Anne Reyen
Barbara Edwardsen
Ann Marie Rossi
Josie Fernandez
Deborah Running
Geri Fessler Carolyn Rush
Jo Ann Fiorentino
Lisa Marsh Ryerson
Carolyn Fish Sandy Scaccia
Connell Frazer
Mildred Scharf-Ehrenfeld
Betty Slavicek Gastelua
Therese Schoeneck
Regina Keller Gil
Charlotte Smallwood-Cook
Jane Golub
Shari Hall Smith
Kathleen Granchelli
Frances Sodrick
Sister Audrey Harsen, O.P.
Geraldine Spinella
Eileen McKenna Hickey
Sheila Strassburg
Roni Horowitz
Alana Sweeny
Donna DiSunno lorio
Terry Troia
Joan Johsnon
Mary Kathleen Tucker
Vicki Joshpe Betty Cooper Wallerstein
Frances Mickie Kayne Lynn Westbrook
Dr. Christine G. Khanna
Patricia Hill Williams
Naima Kradjian Joanne Wisor
Nina Larrabee Carolyn Wittreich
Previous Honorees
2000
Laura Ahearn
Melissa Lahtinen-Penfield
Joie Anderson
Thelma P. Lally
Betty Angelino
Louise Levine
Lillian Barbash
Marlene Markoe-Boyd
Sarah Jane Bernhardt-Clifford
Eleanor McDonald
Judith S. Bloch
Karen Joy Miller
Patricia Brown
Marian Mullet, R. N.
Melina Carnicelli
Anne Paolucci
Tammy Carnrike
Madeline Patterson
Jacqueline Carway
Tillie Peck
Sister Marie R. Castagnaro, S.S. J.
Elizabeth Potts
Donna Chittenden
Frances Pratt
Nellie Coakley
Captain Priscilla Chris
Dr. Mary DeRose
Ramirez-Lynch
Tamara Denysenko
Gertrude Rieur
Carol Sue Detweiler
Jean Robbins
Lynda Distler
Wilma Rogalin
Noel Donohue
Lynn Rosen
Eve Fertig Sharon Saunders
Sister M. Bethany Fitzgerald
Lisa Savyon
Angela Forte
Joan Schumaker
Florence B. Fuller
Paula Sharf
Geraldine Futrell
Linnea Shaver
Ruth Finnegan Garner
Claire Shulman
Norma Gorman
Arlene Sitterly
Barbara Hadel
Mary Jane Smith
Joy Hansen Dawn Sullivan
Lucille Helfat
Alyson Sweetser
Nikki Henkin Cathryn Thomas
Sister Elizabeth Hill, C.S. J.
Amy Torrey
Anne Humphrey
The Honorable Sandra L. Townes
Ann Irvin Ellen Tuohey
Lisa Israel Kathy Urschel
Arlene Johnston Joanne VanZandt
Barbara Kearns Georgia Verdier
Clara B. Kellner Reba White Williams
Helen Kelly
Delores Cooper Kershaw
Previous Honorees
2001
Crystal A. Abers
Dottie MacVean
A. Trudy Adell
Lucinda Sloan Mallen
Heather Ross Benedict
Susan Marino, RN
Phyllis Besch
Sister Theresa Martel
Dr. Helen Illick Breed
Rev. Colette Matthews
Margaret Mugsie Burch
Claire McIntee
Buhrmaster (Coolman)
Carol Naylor
Margaret Buzzell
Angie Miller
Elizabeth Betty Cochrane
Gertrude Hess Parker
Lucy F. Codella
Ann Petrus
Dr. Vivian Cody
Frances Pizzola
Barbara Cohen
Wendy Powers
Wendy Csoka
Annie Rabbitt
Victoria DeVantier
Chandler M. Ralph
Patricia C. Donnelly
Victoria Rosenberg
Pat Finnerty
Helene Donlan Sacco
Amy Fischetti
Irene Scheid
Miriam M. E. Garcia
Roberta C. Schofield
Sister Rose Vincent Gleason
Carol Silva
Dr. Lois Goldsmith
Bobbi Smith
Betsy Harrison
Cathy Stewart
Susan Helsinger
Vivian Street
Pat Hieronymus Dolores Thompson
Doris Hunter
Dr. Mary Ridgway Tinker
Deborah S. Johnson
Belina Venuti
Jacqueline Keller
Dr. Nora Volkow
Abby Kenigsberg Nancy Wackstein
Renee Krieger
Ethel L. Walker
Carole LaPlante Shirley Waters
Margaret A. Leahy
Jill Way
Patricia Lindi Linekin
Harriet Weber
Catherine Linfoot
Sister Martha Winum, D.W.
Hon. Gaetan B. Lozito
Previous Honorees
2002
Kathleen Barton
Debbie Basile
Nancy Bernheim, Esq.
Marilyn Bitterman
Patricia Bodnar
Andrea Clark Brown
Prudence Carabine
Margaret Carroll
Fredrika Conway
Judy Dagostino
Margaret Requa DeFrancisco
Rita DiMartino
Kathryn R. Doolittle
Anne DuPrey
Laura Elliot-Engel
Peg Ellsworth
Madeleine Fitzgibbon
Marguerite Flood
Maude Frank
Michelle Fratti
Dr. Anne DuVal Frost
Mimi Galgano
Roberta Giordano
Carol Gresser
Rosemary Gunning
Mary Pat Hancock
Dr. Debra Handel
Dr. Ruby Elinor Hare
Violet Haufsk
Dr. Evelyn Blose Holman
Donna A. Holt
Mary Ellen Jones
Patricia Knapp
Angela Koenig
Lorraine Krup
Mary Anne Krupsak
Ursula LaMotte
Gloria Lettow
Carol Mahoney
Nancy Manfredonia
Marlene Marciniak
Doreen Marks
Ligia Mendoza
Mary Holt Moore
Nancy Naples
Rosemary Nesbitt
Theresa Pagano
Eve Pawelski
Judith Peckham
Dr. Jana Pulkrabek
Dr. Greta Rainsford
Jean Raymond
Zakia Robana
Jill Rooney
Dr. Stella Pandell Russell
Janice L. Schaefer
Joanne Shenandoah
Susan Sherwood
Rachel Spivey
Dr. Susan Swain
Barbara Wilcox Thuesen
Linda Laursen Toscano
Fanny Villarreal de Canavan
Sister Vincent Marie Wilson
Elizabeth L. Young
Previous Honorees
2003
Beverly Anania
Harlene Holzschuh
Sheila Appel
Paula S. Howk
Dr. Asma Barlas
Dolores Marie Hutton
Amalia V. Betanzo
Cindy Intschert
Cynthia Bianco
Carolyn James
Maggie Brooks
Stephanie Joyce Kahn
Francine Brown
Jean Kelly
Janet Madonia Calano
Susan Lacerte
Minerva Chinea
Gay Lenhard
Francine Cieri
Elizabeth Letterese
Karen Coleman
The Hon. Carol MacKenzie
Delaine Cook-Greene
Nancy Marr
Joan Correale
Milagros Martinez
Carol Crews
Virginia E. Maurer
Melissa A. Croke
Barbara B. Melvin
Elizabeth Currier
Lynn Millane
Lucille Cuttler
Rose V. Moroney
Eva de La O
Sister Margaret Peggy Murphy
Dr. Donna Denier
May Newburger
Lee Gridley Dibble
Sister Kathleen Osbelt
Maxine Dowler
Janet Ottman
The Hon. Sandra J. Feuerstein
Raquel Pachas
The Hon. Patricia M. Filiberto
Edith Palmer
Annette S. Foley
Vivian Papson
Jane Fox Elizabeth Sanchez
Sister Monica Galligan
Gladys Serrano
Georgiana Gehret
Leslie Stolzenfels
Barbara L. Germain
Marianne Teta
Ann Marie Gianni
Cynthia Theiss
Bertha Governale Terri Thomson
Priscilla Halagao
Sister Marguerite Torre
Grace Hausmann Colleen Tyll
Nancy Henry Vivian Warren
Fran Weisberg
Previous Honorees
2004
Margaret Pataki
Maud Haggstrom Kramer
Nancy L. E. Andrews
Deborah Kueber
Sarah Anker Judith Lang
Joan Bachert
Ronnie W. Lawrence
Kathy Ballesteros
Marion Leonardo
Margaret C. Bandy
Mary E. Luckern
Frances Barbieri
Jacquelyn Maher-Brucia
Lisa Barile
Sister Regina McAuley
Marcella Beigel
Joanne Meyer-Jendras
Rochelle Berger
Joyce E. Mulleedy
Judi Bosworth
Susan Murray-Tetz
Mildred Browne
Marlene Norfolk
Sheila Burrell
RoseMarie Panio
Jaqueline P. Cady
Barbara Picard
Brigitte Castellano
The Hon. Maxine Postal
Sister Anne P. Clancy
Barbara Ernst Prey
Mary Ellen Clausen
Dawn Rafalski-VanName
Elizabeth Colon
Patti Call Riner
Desiree M. Croteau
Marcia Rocco
Edith Davey
Althea O. Roll
Dr. Tammie Lee Demler
The Hon. Lea Ruskin
Nora Detweiler
Gladys Santiago
June Douglas
Anita Saunders
The Hon. Karen A. Drago
Nancy Schwartz
Marcia Dugan
Eleanor Scott
Sherry Eaton
Carolyn Gifford Seymour
Barbara Ellenberger
Aileen Ortlip Shea
Denise Frangipane
Carolyn Short
Pearl Pi Gentile
Louise K. Sira
Roberta A. Gerold
Beth Strong
Gladys Goesch Ann Toglia
Yvonne Goodhill
Barbara N. Webber
Katherine Heaviside Gwendolyn Webber-McLeod
Previous Honorees
2005
Senator Patricia K. McGee
Henrietta Magner
Catherine T. Andrews
Donna Matteson
Mary Angerame
Dorothy M. McCloskey
Jolene Bender
Virginia M. Greene Meehan
Dr. Helen Blanchard
Helen Meittinis
Sister Elaine Bohrer
Mary Beth Murphy
Diane Brown
Maxine Neal
Angie M. Carpenter
Arlene ODell
Eleanor Charwat
Dr. Karen A. Oates
Judith J. Chin
Diana W. Petrosky
Marilyn Ciancio
Melissa Quimby
R. Carol Coltrain
Jennifer Rimmer
Alice T. Cone Helen Woodward Rivas
Phyllis Connelly
Francine Roland-King
Mary L. Cotter
Rosemary E. Rose
Elizabeth W. Cree
Susan Gordon Ryan
Angie M. Cullen
Ruth Sayer
Debrah A. DeLuke
Mary Schilb
Carol L. Dunn
Dr. Ruth H. Scott
Elizabeth Beth Fipps
Constance Wilmsen Stafford
Roseann Gentile
Patricia Standish
Sandra Gerry Nada Tannen
Roberta A. Goldenberg
Marie N. Taver
Jo Greene Deborah Tascone
Rosalyn Haber Sharen Trembath
Sara Jean Hammel
Peggy Vergis
Susan R. Holliday
Donna M. Vitagliano
Edith Hunter Gail Volk
Roberta Keller
Frances M. Walton
Kate Kelly Mary Ellen Whitney
Ruth Kempisty
Karen B. Wolfson
Marianne Laine
Previous Honorees
2006
Kathleen M. Balus
Ann Muro
Stacey Branchini
Marlene R. Papa
Gertrude A. Butera
Dr. Regina S. Peruggi
Rita Cleary
Joyce Peisker Ratushny
Shirley Connolly
Mary Holmes Reid
Andria De Lisle-Heath
Cheryl Rogowski
Benita Be Denemark
Susan C. Rounds
Leah S. Dunaief
Sister Ann Sakac
Patricia Duo Jill Salerno
Denise Ford Michele Sedor
Joanna S. Fowler, Ph.D.
Deborah F. Stanley
Janice Grieshaber
Carolyn Stiffler
Lisa M. Heath
Barbara J. Stuchinski
Audrey Jacullo
Lana J. Taylor
Carolina Minetto Lazzari
Linda G. Toohey
Judith Limpert Beverly Towers
Maureen Lodes Joan Vogt
Amy J. Maniscalco
Dorothy A. Wentland
Molly McMaster
Gale E. Wolfe
Alyse Middendorf
Previous Honorees
2007
Renee J. Abdou-Malta
Shirley Abigail Adams
Neme Alperstein
Patricia Anthony
Stephanie Bail
Barbara Bedell
Corinne Brown
Eleanor Brown
Linda L. Cellini
Mary Chapin
Maureen W. Chisholm
Katherine M. Clark
Mary Lou Cummins
Ruth Del Col
Corinne DiSomma
Sr. Diana Dolce, S.S.J.
Nancy Donohue
Nancy Duffy
Irene Farley Betti Ford
Judge Polly A. Hoye
Paula Huntsman
Rebecca P. Isseroff
Dr. Charlene Jaffie
Elise Johnson-Schmidt
Margaret Kiesel
Jessie Marvin Lazeroff
Linda Manfredi
Mary McDonald Mascott
Donna M. McGregor
Karen Dawn McGuire, Esq.
Florence Meiselbach
Colonel Tracey E. Nicholson
Angeline N. Joy Nielsen
Edna Northrup
Mary Beth Palo
Christine Pendergast
Debbie Preston
Patrice Prusmack
Jane Shaffer
Nancy Timm-Bowen
Suzanne Tingley
Gladys Walker
Previous Honorees
2008
Ladan Alomar
Mary Lou Arangio
Jamie E. Bogenshutz
Maureen Borzacchiello
Donna Boyle
Patricia Burkhart
Pamela Carroad
Pauline Chu
Lucinda Collier
Delores S. Cross
Helen Crosson
Cheryl Dinolfo
Jeanne Donalty
Audrey Edelman
Marie E. Ficano, Ed.D.
Margaret Finnerty
Linda M. Janczak
Dorothy Penny Jennings
Dr. Debra Karnasiewicz
Catherine Kelly
Dorine Kenney
Marion Blumenthal Lazan
Donna Long Susan Lucci
Maureen Torrey Marshall
Sandra Hays Mies
Lillian Vitanza Ney, M.D.
Aida Y. Nicolaou
Mary Ellen Odell
Dr. Celine R. Paquette
Kathleen M. Reilly
Sandra Rich
Nancy Robbins
Kathleen Roche
Brenda Siegal
Judy Driscoll Skillen
Marcia White
Kristina M. Young
Previous Honorees
2009
Inge Auerbacher
Susan Barry Roden
Maclain Berhaupt
Elenora P. Bernard
Betty Braton
Connie Bruno
Cindy Campbell Lucy Cecere
Janice L. Charles
Annie Chwiecko
The Hon. Una S.T. Clarke
Joanne Conrad
Betty Cooper Wallerstein Gloria DAmico
Julie Dent Joanne Dicob
Annette Esposito Elizabeth Flynn
Sister Marcella Marie Garus
Jackie Hinckley
Kathleen M. Jimino
Ann Jones
Eileen Kavanagh
Sister Dorothy Ann Kelly
Victoria Langling
Eileen La Ruffa
Flora B. Leamer
Jill Levine
Joanne M. Mahoney
Janet Malone
Maria Markovics
Charlotte Miles
Valerie Muratori
Rosalie Norton
Laurel Parker West
Roseann Pignatelli Carotenuto
Barbara A. Poldino
Mary Rodgers Guettel
Elder Vanessa Scott
Joyce E. Skinner
Lois Taplin Bronz
Jacquiline Touba, Ph.D.
Carmen R. Velasquez
Catherine Videtto
Debbie Virga
Thomasina White
Previous Honorees
2010
Muriel Allerton Diane Arneth
JoAnn T. Atlas Mary Walsh Boatfield
The Hon. Jacqueline Grace Boyce
Dolores Patterson Caldwell
Edie Carbone Linda Chiarenza
Mary Carroll Clavin
Susan M. Cohen
Ilene Corina Joy Cousminer
Rachel Lee Davis
Andrea L. DeMeo
Katherine M. Doherty
Dr. Janice Emanuel-Bunn
Alice J. Fiacco
Rena Finkelstein
Eileen Frey Lisa A. Frisch
Ada Grabowski, Ph.D.
Corinna Grant
Dedra Grant-Wade Aurelia Greene
Tricia Haggerty Wenz
Cheryl Anne Hall
Helen Ann Henkel
Catherine McVay Hughes
Dafny Joy Irizarry
Paloma Izquierdo-Hernandez
Mimi Pierre Johnson
Carrie Kahn
Lynn Kennison Peggy Liuzzi
Anna Maria Lusins-McLachlan
Kathy Marchione
Mary-Howell Martens
Kathleen (Katie) Kilcommons McGowan
Ann Chambers Meagher
Stephanie A. Miner
Margaret B. Mardy Moore
Aissatou Ndao
Peg Overdorf
Jodie A. Perry
Jean Phelps, Ph.D.
Magaly Polo
Terri Pouymari Carol Quirk
Chandler M. Ralph
Dr. Julie Ratner
Lillian Rodriguez-Lopez Olga Rovt
Carol Ruane Dr. Eileen Santiago
Victoria Schneps-Yunis Mary Silver
Carol G. Simon
Dee G. Vandenburg
Helen R. Worth
Previous Honorees
2011
Lori Bahnik Helen Baran
Nicole Behrens Carol Berry
Susan Boudreau
Wanda Jean Burris
Christa Caldwell Virginia Clark
Debbie Cuevas Bonnie Daggett
Elaine Delaney
Gloria M. Dixon
Ann E. Ellsworth
Lindsay Farrell
Dr. Susan Fox
Mathylde Frontus
Virginia Gallagher
Diane C. Ganz
Mary Herlihy Gearan
Deirdre Glenn
Karen Gordon Elizabeth Gulotta
Phyllis E. Gunther
Mary E. Holtz
Grace Johnson
Debra Markell Kleinert
Dr. Anne M. Kress
Frances-Ann Lightsy
Fredericka G. Mabon
Dr. Martha MacGuffie
Barbara Medina Elizabeth Miller
Janet Miller Kate Miller
Elissa Montanti Mary Morse
Jeanne Mullgrav Kelly Myers
Mary Nelson Judy Pepenella
Christine PSimer JoAnn Pushkin
Karen Y. Richmond Beverly Roberts
Rossana Rosado
Indi L. Shelby
Vicki Simons Mary Spink
Gretchen Hurley Sprock
Leslyn Stewart
Maria A. Thomson Millie Tomidy-Pepper
Karen Washington Judi Whittaker
Kathleen Wojtaszek-Gariano
Previous Honorees
2012
LaVonne E. Ansari
Angela Augugliaro
Erin Bentivegna
Debra Brawley
Randi Bregman
Serena Brothers-Mohamed
Jane Brown
Patricia T. Cataldi
Dr. Mary Lane Cobb
Marie Colvin
The Honorable Ann C. Crowell
Norma Cummings
Ida DAngelo
Deirdre DeAngelis-DAlessio
Mary Elizabeth Delli-Pizzi
Toni DeMeo
Colleen C. DiPirro
Elizabeth A. Einstein
Hilda Rosario Escher
Sonia Valentin Fernandez
Ivine Galarza
Marie Goldstein
Ardeane Greene-Cook
Bernell K. Grier
Colleen Hassett-Mastine
Kathleen Henderson
Virginia Ginny Houseknecht
Carol Houwaart-Diez
Sister Yliana Hernandez
Reverend Debra Jameson
Roselyn A. Johnson
Catherine Kingsley
Deborah Slaner Larkin
Sheila Lewandowski
Mary D. Lindsay
Gaye Mallet
The Honorable Patricia D. Marks
Susan K. McGiver
Zenaida Mendez
Carol Meschkow
Chandra S. Morgan
Major Jude B. Mulvey
Loraine ODonnell
Siobhan ONeill
Dilletta Pina
Jeanne S. Poindexter
Jean-Marie Posner
Jan Rebeor
Joanne Rosenberger
Ginny Salerno
Lisa Williams Schary
Reina Schiffrin
Lorraine Sciulli
Sue Susman
Victoria Thomas-Ramos
Alice Pat Thorpe
Katharine Tomasi
Marolyn Piersma Wilson
Denise Wright-Scott
Previous Honorees
2013
Karen Acompora
Hazra Joanne Ali
Wanda Beck Antosh
Kwayera Archer-Cunningham
Judy Baron
Donna L. Benson
Kate Bialo
Lea Bishop
Sister Debbie Blow
Dr. Kari W. Bovenzi
Erica Boynton
Beth A. Broadway
Rosalie M. Burgher
Evelyn Cardona
Palmira M. Cataliotti
Mary Chisholm
Honorable Bernadette T. Clark
Josephine Collins
Mildred Collins
Renate DeAngelis
Randi Shubin Dresner
Leah Dunaief
Dr. Saadia Josefina Fersobe
Meredith Festa
Jacqueline Gordon
Sara Horowitz
Julissa Juarbe
Ellie Kastel
Nancy Kronen
Ginger Lindner
Jennifer Mackie
Shannon Mancuso-Getzel
Karen OHara
Theresa Pirraglia
Francie Potter
Mary Alice Price
Vienna Profeta
Ingrid M. Richards
Rhonda Lyn Roethel
Taryn Sacramone
Jackie Schmid
Mary Jane Smith
Denise C. Soares
Sofie Somoroff
Beverly Stamp
Susan Steinberg
Elaine E. Stillwell
Emmlynn L. Taylor
Mary Jo Thorn
Grace Tillinghast
Karen Torrone
Tiphaine Tsang
Marcia B. Tuohey
Marie Valachovic
Isabel E. Villar
Dr. Elaine M. Walsh
Nozomi Hirayama Williams
Leslie Zemsky
Previous Honorees
2014
Gail Adamoschek
Seema Agnani
Patricia Aitken
Jessica Allen
Gloria Alston
Sister Marie Antoinette
Jane Backus
Mary Alice Bellardini
Marissa Bernowitz
Deanna Alterio Brennen
Susan K. Brown, PhD
Danielle Butin
Dorothy Button
Anna Cali
Fortuna Calvo-Roth
Bettye Canestaro
Andrea Curran
Lakia T. Echols
Georgina Falu, PhD
Kristine Giotto
Constance Glasgow, MD
Carin Guarasci
Adjoa Esinam Gzifa
Alyce Ingram
Indu Jaiswal
Diane Kuppermann
Sung Eun Grace Lee (posthumously)
Helene S. Leonardi
Cindy Abbott Letro
Debra Liegl
Michelle McClymont
Sheila Meegan
Julie Menin
Hazel Miura
Judith ORourke
Elizabeth R. OuYang
Filomena Piscitelli
The Honorable A. Gail Prudenti
Josephine Pucci
Marisa Redanty
Theresa M. Reichel
Lee Roberts
Beatrice Ruberto
Meghan Izzo Russo
Mary Anne Sears
Shirley Seney
Esmeralda Simmons
Pat Singer
Margaret Skinner
Luader Smith
Lauren R. Snyder
Geri Spino
Barbara Sush
Alana Sweeny
Irma Waldo, MD
Rose Marie Walker
Mary Whittier
Patricia Williams
Judy Zangwill
Previous Honorees
2015
Marisol Alcantara
Catherine A. Allain, Ph.D. Edu.
Jane Aoyama-Martin
Mary Ann Ashley
Susan Auriemma
Gail Lynch Bailey
Janice Barto
Wendy Bleier-Mervis
Jacqueline Campbell
Master Sergeant Sue Clark
Deborah Coates
Christine Colligan
Kim Condon
Marsha K. Connor
Amy Cram
Carrie Davis
Shihan Jacqueline Drayton
Lou Jean Fleron
Joan A. Furey, RN, MA
Cristina Furlong
The Honorable Victoria A. Graffeo
Kamillah M. Hanks
Shawyn Patterson Howard
Cantor Dr. Mindy Jacobsen
Joan Kaplan
Patricia E. Kennedy
Emily Kessler
Rosemarie Kluepfel
Sister Mary Ann LoGiudice, RSM
Peggy Marone
Randi Martos
Teresa McPhail
Missy Miller
Deborah Gordon Mullaney
Shirley A. Mullen Ph.D.
Mabel Muniz-Sarduy
JoAnne Luthmann Nolemi
Sister Mary Celeste OBryan
LaQuita Outlaw, Ed.D.
Sharon F. Owens
Libby Pataki
Betty Pollack
Gail Reed-Barnett, Ed.D.
Carol Ann Rinzler
Carmen G. Rivera
Jenny Rivera
Susan Salomone
Reverend Dr. Ernestine Sanders
Dream Shepherd
Elizabeth Sherwood
Barbara Stuchinski
Maria Testa
Rachel Thieme
Linda A. Thomas
Aixa Torres
Marta Moreno Vega
Joanne Donaruma Wade
Kerry W. Walsh
Ella J. Weiss
Joyce Willetts, Ph.D.
Lee Anne Xippolitos, Ph.D.
Marjorie V. Zmijewski

2016 Women of Distinction Nominees

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2016 Women of Distinction Nominees

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Women of

New York State Senate

Printed on Recycled Paper

Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins

Senator John J. Flanagan

Senator Jeffrey D. Klein

May 10, 2016

Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins

Senator John J. Flanagan

Senator Jeffrey D. Klein

Inspirational Reading by:

Musical Performance by:

The New York State Senate

Jill Alford-Hammitt was selected as a 2016 Woman

Sherlita Amler, MD, MS, FAAP, was selected as a 2016

Yvonne P. Armstrong was selected as a 2016 Woman

ora D. Austin is President of Lindsay Park Housing Corporation in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Cora D. Austin was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Vikki Barbero was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Cheryl Lynn Brannan

Cheryl Lynn Brannan, was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Sister Margaret Carney,

Sister Margaret Carney, O.S.F., S.T.D. was selected

Elizabeth Shell Carr

Elizabeth Shell Carr was selected as a 2016 Woman

Claudia Coger was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Ruth Johnson Colvin

Ruth Johnson Colvin was selected as a 2016

Sister Mary Doris

Sister Mary Doris was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Eva M. Doyle was selected as a 2016 Woman of

osemary Durso currently serves as Director at Regional Aide Interim Needs

Rosemary Durso was selected as a 2016 Woman

Audrey Sparks Fussa

Audrey Sparks Fussa was selected as a 2016

Gail Goodson was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Debora M. Hayes was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Karen A. Heggen was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Cindy Doring Hollowood

Cindy Doring Hollowood was selected as a 2016

Ellen Holmes was selected as a 2016 Woman of

ary Iapalucci is Coordinator of Outreach at St. Judes Parish, Mastic Beach.

Mary Iapalucci was selected as a 2016 Woman

Ellen R. Imbimbo was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Doryne Isley was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Mary Frances Jeffrey

Mary Frances Jeffrey was selected as a 2016

Nicole Johnson was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Candace S. Johnson, Ph.D.

andace S. Johnson, Ph.D. is an extraordinary woman with a fascinating and groundbreaking

Dr. Candace S. Johnson, Ph.D was selected as a

Jahmila K. Joseph was selected as a 2016 Woman

Reverend Ann Kansfield

Reverend Ann Kansfield was selected as a 2016

Virginia M. Krebs was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Thomasina Laidley-Brown was selected

Annmarie Lanesey was selected as a 2016 Woman

Linda M. LeMura, Ph.D.

Linda LeMura, Ph.D. was selected as a 2016

April Leong was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Blanca P. Lpez was selected as a 2016 Woman of

Heidi Macpherson, Ph.D.

Heidi Macpherson, Ph.D. was selected as a 2016