Wyandanch, NY – Suffolk County Legislator Jason A. Richberg recently announced his pick for the 15th Legislative District’s 2021 Woman of Distinction, Belmont Lake Civic Association President Denise Leary.
In celebration of Women’s History Month each March, the Legislature’s Woman of Distinction award recognizes women who demonstrate leadership, involvement and commitment to their community. Each of Suffolk County’s 18 legislators are asked to name one woman from his/her district as a “Woman of Distinction” and the Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission then chose a county-wide winner from the 18 honorees. The top honor this year went to Water Mill resident Marit Molin for her work helping feed the hungry on the East End during the coronavirus pandemic.
Denise Leary is a proud North Babylon High School Graduate. She credits her father and mother for instilling the importance of education, hard work and volunteerism in her from an early age. Her membership in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, her travels to Ghana, West Africa and her son Derrick inspired her to develop her African, Indigenous and Latino History Workshops titled “Africa For You”. She has conducted workshops for schools, churches, youth groups, her neighborhood civic association, Legislators and libraries. As the current President of the Belmont Lake Civic Association, Denise helps maintain open communication with local elected officials, North Babylon educators and law enforcement officers that leads to a better quality of life. She works for town beautification, upkeep of roads, awareness of real estate trends and public works.
“Suffolk County is proud to acknowledge all of the extraordinary women who contribute to our community,” said Legislator Richberg. “Denise is well known throughout the Town of Babylon and is regarded as a reliable and dedicated resident. Her tireless volunteerism is a valuable asset to the 15th district.”
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