NANUET, NY: NY State Senator Bill Weber proudly honored Virginia “Ginny” Norfleet as his 2025 New York State Senate Woman of Distinction during a special ceremony held at the State Capitol in Albany on May 13, 2025.

Ms. Norfleet, a lifelong Haverstraw resident, was recognized for her extraordinary commitment to preserving African American history and empowering the Rockland County community. As Founder and Executive Director of the Haverstraw African American Connection (HAAC), she has spent over 15 years educating the public on the vital contributions and legacy of African Americans in Haverstraw and beyond.

The youngest of nine children, Ms. Norfleet overcame economic hardship to become a successful real estate entrepreneur and civil rights leader. Her efforts have led to the creation of the Haverstraw African American Memorial Park, the restoration of community landmarks, and the establishment of local partnerships, including with the Rockland Holocaust Museum and Center for Tolerance and Education, which now features an exhibit on American slavery inspired by her research.

Ms. Norfleet’s advocacy has previously earned her a place in the Rockland County Civil Rights Hall of Fame and special recognition during Black History Month by the Town of Haverstraw.

The New York State Senate Woman of Distinction program honors women across the state who have made significant contributions in their communities and beyond. Each Senator selects one honoree to be recognized during the annual ceremony in Albany. Senator Weber’s previous Woman of Distinction honorees from Rockland County are Ileana Eckert (2023) and Dr. Mary P. Leahy (2024).

“Virginia Norfleet has dedicated her life to lifting up the stories of African American families in Rockland County and building bridges of understanding in our community,” said Senator Weber. “Her tireless leadership and advocacy continue to make a profound impact, and I was proud to recognize her in Albany as this year’s Woman of Distinction representing Rockland County.”

May is traditionally the month when nurses are recognized worldwide, in part because May 12 is the birthday of Florence Nightingale. She professionalized nursing roles for women and is known as the founder of modern nursing.

In celebration of National Nurses Month, Rockland County Legislature Vice Chair Dr. Aney Paul, a longtime nurse herself, presented the Distinguished Service Award— the Legislature’s highest honor— to three exceptional nurses: Glenn Albin, Dr. Gaelle Duvivier, and Mary Laiju Shine Kelanthara. These honorees were recognized for their professional excellence and dedicated community service.

• Glenn Albin transitioned from accounting to healthcare, serving as a paramedic and emergency room nurse for over four decades. He mentors new nurses and teaches advanced life support, while actively participating in the Knights of Columbus and South Orangetown Ambulance Corps.

• Dr. Gaelle Duvivier, a Certified Nurse Midwife and educator, works with New York Presbyterian and SUNY Rockland. She advocates for women’s health, leads health fairs, and researches ways to improve breastfeeding and reduce health disparities.

• Mary Laiju Shine Kelanthara, with 28 years of nursing experience, serves as an Infection Control Nurse at HVDDSO. She’s also a passionate volunteer, fundraiser, church educator, and South Indian TV actress.

Dr. Paul praised the honorees for making “a positive difference every day” in the lives of Rockland County residents.