Rockland Women Leaders Hall of Fame

Carolyn FIsh

Carolyn Fish

Carolyn Fish was a founding member of Center for Safety & Change and served as its executive director for 35 years. A feminist activist since the early 1970s, she was a nationally and internationally known leader in the fight against violence against women, a sought-after educator and has received numerous honors for her work and passionate leadership.

Babcock

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Caroline Lexow Babcock*

Born in 1882 and raised in Nyack, Caroline Lexow Babcock (February 5, 1882 – March 8, 1980) was a leader in the suffrage movement. She was a pacifist, suffragist, feminist, co-founder of the Women’s Political Union and Executive Secretary of the National Women’s Party. Caroline lived until the age of 98, still wearing her Equal Rights Amendment button.

Chamberlin

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Beth Chamberlin

Beth Chamberlin is the founder of Act In Service, Inc., where she uses her Emmy-nominated acting background to help healthcare workers enhance emotional intelligence and patient-staff interactions. Dedicated to improving caregiver satisfaction and the overall patient experience, Beth brings performance skills into healthcare training. She also owns Nyack Boot Camp in Nyack, NY, a fitness community aimed at empowering individuals to improve physical and mental health. Through both ventures, Beth fosters connection, resilience and well-being in healthcare and wellness spaces.

Chazen

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Simona Chazen

Simona Chazen is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Madison and earned her master’s in social work at Fordham University. She is a founder of the Rockland Family Shelter, VCS, the Rockland Community Foundation and Rockland County Pride Center. A visionary and feminist, she sits on the board of directors of the Museum of Arts and Design in NYC and the Chazen Museum of Art at the University of Wisconsin. She is an activist in the fight against domestic violence.

Clink

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Dr. Arlene Clinkscale

Arlene W. Clinkscale earned her M.A. and professional certificate from Columbia University Teacher’s College. In 1960, she became the first black teacher in the Pearl River School District. She also carries the distinctions of being the first black principal in Rockland County and the first black woman Superintendent of Schools for the Nyack Union Free School District, a position she held until retiring in 1987.

Cornell

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

The Honorable Harriet Cornell

Harriet Cornell has been a Legislator since 1984, the only woman to chair the Rockland County Legislature. Her long record of accomplishments including establishing the Rockland Housing Action Coalition, led The Journal News naming her as one of 25 people who made the greatest impact on Rockland County during the 20th Century.

Davies

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Dr. Lucy Virginia Meriwether Davies*

Dr. Lucy Virginia Meriwether Davies (April 18, 1862 – April 17, 1949) was one of New York State’s first female physicians. She was also a botanist, civil libertarian, suffragist, philosopher and lover of music and art. ‘Dockie,’ as she was fondly known, saved many lives and delivered more than 6,000 babies, showcasing her deep commitment to her practice and community.

Fox

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Muriel Fox

In 1966, Muriel Fox co-founded the National Organization for Women (NOW) and headed the communications that introduced the modern women’s movement to the media of the world. As Executive Vice President of Carl Byoir & Associates, she was dubbed America’s “Number One PR Woman” by Businessweek Magazine. She currently serves as board chair of Veteran Feminists of America.

Frank

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Phyllis B. Frank

Phyllis B. Frank, on staff at VCS since the 1970s, works tirelessly to end violence against women, racial injustice, heterosexism and other forms of oppression. She developed the first batterer program in New York in 1978, which continues to impact programs throughout the country. She is a founding board member of Rockland Family Shelter and the NYS Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Rockland County Pride Center.

Gordon

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Susan G. Gordon, MD*

Susan G. Gordon, MD (October 15, 1947 – May 17, 2016), has devoted her life to advancing the health and wellbeing of children in and beyond Rockland County. A pediatrician for over 50 years, her influence extends to multiple establishments, including the Harriet Tubman Child Health and Guidance Clinic in Harlem which she founded with her husband, Dr. Edmund W. Gordon.

Hayes

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Helen Hayes MacArthur*

Helen Hayes MacArthur (October 10, 1900 – March 17, 1993) was an American actress known as ‘The First Lady of The American Theater’ and was one of 15 people to have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Award. In the 1940s, she became involved with Helen Hayes Hospital, a medical rehabilitation facility in Haverstraw, which was ultimately renamed in her honor in 1974 due to her steadfast commitment to transform the hospital into a state-of-the-art facility.

Hoffman

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Mimi Hoffman

Mimi Hoffman, a Founder of Rockland Family Shelter, moved to Rockland in 1969 and has 40+ years of experience in social justice. She became a probation officer, interviewing women seeking relief in Family Court from domestic violence. Mimi treasures her years with Rockland Family Shelter along with many other accomplishments. She resides in Nyack and her passion for social justice presses on.

Hyde

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Georgine Hyde*

Georgine Hyde (January 20, 1925 – August 28, 2015), born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, endured the horror of Nazi concentration camps where she lost her parents. She immigrated to the U.S. in 1952 and from 1957 called Pomona, NY her home until her passing in 2015. She dedicated her life as a volunteer public servant and co-founded the Rockland Center for Holocaust Studies.

Jaffee

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

The Honorable Ellen Jaffee

Ellen Jaffee has been a county resident since 1978. She was elected to the Rockland County Legislator in 1998 and elected to the NYS Assembly in 2007. She represents the 97th Assembly District. Her bills include New York’s Breast Density Inform Law, the most comprehensive in the nation that helps increase early detection in breast cancer screenings.

Jebb

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Brigadier General Cindy Glazier Jebb

Brigadier General Cindy Glazier Jebb, a New City native, became the first woman from Rockland County to gain admission to the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1978. She served in the US Army’s 1st Armored Division. Fast forward to today, Jebb is the first woman to serve as a dean at West Point in the 200 plus year history of the school.

Johnson

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Regent Judith Johnson

Judith Johnson is a career educator and respected thought leader with an unwavering commitment to ensuring all children acquire essential skills, knowledge and competencies. Her career has taken her from the guidance office to the administrator’s office to the U.S. Department of Education to the Superintendent’s seat. She currently sits on the New York State Board of Regents.

Joyce

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Sister Ursula Joyce, OP

Sister Ursula Joyce is the Executive Director of Thorpe Village and Dowling Gardens, the Dominican Sisters Senior Housing ministry in Sparkill, NY. A licensed psychologist, she has a PhD from Fordham University, and served as Chair of the Psychology Department at St. Thomas Aquinas College. She was among the founders of the Rockland Family Shelter and United Hospice of Rockland.

Kaul

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Dr. Raman Kaul

Dr. Raman Kaul is a passionate advocate for community wellness, inspired by her mother’s tireless work empowering women in India. Growing up amid a national movement of non-violence and social change, she was shaped by values of equity and resilience. Her mission centers on supporting clients until they feel safe and stable, promoting emotional and physical well-being through cultural events and outreach. Collaborating with organizations like the Center for Safety & Change, Dr. Kaul continues to champion healthy relationships and lasting community transformation.

Kurz

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Edythe Eleanor Levin Kurz*

Edythe Eleanor Levin Kurz (March 31, 1925 – January 29, 2011) was a psychological therapist who dedicated her life to helping others, social justice and advocating for civil and human rights. She was founding director of the Kurz Family Foundation, which supports causes in social justice, the arts and health care. She also established The Edythe Kurz Research Center with the Annual Edythe Kurz Conference that was later endowed at Westchester Jewish Community Services.

Leahy

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Mary P. Leahy, MD

Mary P. Leahy, MD, is the first female physician named CEO of Bon Secours Charity Health System, a member of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network, in 2013. Her service to its employees, physicians, patients and the community has deep roots. In addition to being a longtime resident of Rockland County, she is a board-certified internist who has practiced medicine for over 25 years.

Leavey

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Megan Leavey

Megan Leavey is a former Marine Corporal and a Purple Heart recipient. She and her canine partner, Sgt. Rex, worked more than 100 missions over two tours in Iraq searching for explosives. Injured with Rex in a roadside blast, Megan fought and overcame military red tape to keep Rex after their tour of duty. The canine areas at Congers Lake Memorial Park are dedicated in part to Leavey and Rex.

Lowey

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

The Honorable Nita Lowey

Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey is currently serving her 15th term in Congress, representing parts of Westchester and Rockland Counties. Lauded as “one of the most influential members of Congress” by The Journal News, she was the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee and has taken leadership roles in vital public policy issues ranging from national security to education.

Lukens

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Kathleen Lukens*

Kathleen Lukens (January 5, 1931 – October 18, 1998) was a wife, mother, author and education activist whose life’s work centered on creating viable community-based alternatives to institutional care. She founded Camp Venture summer camp, a free day camp for children with disabilities. In 1976 the organization became a 24/7 service provider with the opening of the Venture Inn Community Residence.

Macguff

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Martha MacGuffie, MD*

Martha “Bobby” MacGuffie, MD (January 22, 1924– March 7, 2011), was a pioneering surgeon and activist who touched lives near and far. A mother of eight, Dr. MacGuffie notably founded SHARE (the Society for Hospital and Resources Exchange) in 1987 after losing her two sons to a mysterious blood-borne illness. SHARE provides medicine, medical supplies and care to orphans affected by the AIDS epidemic in Kenya.

Perotte

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Kathy Perrotte

Kathy Perrotte is CEO and co-founder of ActiveViam, a global data analytics firm serving financial institutions. A trailblazer in financial technology, she has led major innovations, including the first automated settlement platform for syndicated bank debt. Named to the 2023 Forbes 50 Over 50 list, Kathy also received the Woman in Technology Award. A longtime advocate for women’s rights, she mentors women in tech and serves as co-treasurer and past chair of the Center for Safety & Change, supporting survivors for over 20 years.

Pratt

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Dr. Frances Pratt

Dr. Frances Pratt, a civil rights leader, nurse and health care administrator, has fostered a lifelong commitment to advancing the health and welfare of others. She is the longtime President of the Nyack NAACP, a longstanding member of the Hudson Valley NAACP and was the recipient of the New York State Harriet Tubman Spirit Award for her many decades of struggle against racism and inequality.

Robles

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Martha Robles

Martha Robles professional career began in public health administration until she took a leap of faith to follow her dream to connect with the community at the grassroots level. As executive director of Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland, she put her energy and love to work helping Rockland’s neediest. She retired in 2017 after 12 years of service.

Sheinkin

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Lynn Sheinkin*

Lynn Sheinkin (1943–2012) was a feminist, psychotherapist and human rights advocate devoted to social justice and care. She served as Deputy Executive Director at Center for Safety & Change, where she created the acclaimed DELTA and SAEDA programs. A former teacher and organizer with Amnesty International and NOW, Lynn also taught at Fordham and co-authored works on gender equity. After losing her husband, she raised four children with strength and love. Her legacy endures in her advocacy, publications and five cherished grandchildren.

Sussman

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Diane Sussman

A lifelong feminist, Diane Sussman is a founding member of Center for Safety & Change where she has served on the board of directors for 40 years, including her tenure as board president. Among Diane’s notable achievements are co-facilitating the first support group for domestic violence survivors in Rockland County and creating the first Rockland Women’s Conference.

Vargas

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Sabrina E. Vargas-Greco

Sabrina E. Vargas-Greco is the Commissioner of Jurors for Rockland County, appointed in 2022 after 30 years of government service. A lifelong Rockland resident, she is the daughter of Dominican immigrants and a proud graduate of STAC. Deeply committed to community service, Sabrina has served on numerous boards, including the Hispanic Coalition of Rockland and 100 Hispanic Women. Her leadership and mentorship have earned her many honors, including the STAC Alumni Hall of Fame and the Rockland County Bar Association’s Liberty Bell Award.

Viant

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Gerri Viant

Australia native Gerri Viant was one-half of the winningest team ever in the history of women’s platform tennis, earning eight titles over 13 years. Credited for helping grow the game, she started the platform tennis program for the Nyack Field Club and pioneered platform tennis traveling camps. She was inducted into the Platform Tennis Hall of Fame in 2006.

Voigt

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Elisabeth Voigt*

Elisabeth Voigt was a native of Germany with a desire to help others. Inspired by her husband’s community activism, she was introduced to a group of women and men who were creating a movement to end domestic violence. She embraced the mission and became an original founder of Rockland Family Shelter. She served on the board of directors for 37 years, including two terms as president.

Wein

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Randi Weingarten

Randi Weingarten is president of the 1.7 million-member American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO, which represents teachers, paraprofessionals and school-related personnel, higher education faculty and staff, nurses and other healthcare professionals, local, state and federal government employees, and early childhood educators with a mission to help Americans secure a better life, a voice at work and a stronger democracy.

Whittingham

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Maria Luisa Whittingham

Maria Luisa Whittingham is a community mainstay in retail – and responsibility. She has been the force behind – and the face of – the Maria Luisa brand in Nyack since 1987, a women’s clothing and accessories business. By integrating her fashion training with her commitment to community and civic organizations, she supports causes including the arts, racial equality, women’s issues and education.

Williams

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Barbara S. Williams

Barbara S. Williams is a lifelong advocate for social justice with a rich background in community outreach and adult education. A Civil Rights activist from age 14 in Alabama, she witnessed the 1961 Freedom Riders bus burning and soon after moved to New York. She holds degrees in Business Management and Social Work and is a certified Financial Education Counselor. Barbara has served on the Rockland County Criminal Justice Committee, led workplace diversity efforts and continues to provide counseling, support groups and volunteer service in her retirement.

Winikow

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

The Honorable Linda Winikow*

A fierce advocate for the rights of women and victims of domestic violence, Linda Winikow (May 9, 1940 – August 24, 2008) spent her professional career and raised her children in Rockland County. In 1971, she became the first woman to serve on the Ramapo Town Council. She served in the Rockland County Legislature and in the New York State Senate from 1975 until her retirement from politics in 1984.

Zeck

ROCKLAND WOMEN LEADERS HALL OF FAME

Belle Mayer Zeck*

Belle Mayer Zeck (February 22, 1919 – March 18, 2006) was a graduate of Fordham University Law School and served as a prosecutor at the Nuremberg trials. In 1970, she was elected president of the Rockland County Bar Association and served as a trustee of the Bank of New York and an original member of the Board of Trustees at Rockland Community College.

Center for Safety & Change is proud to have established the Rockland Women Leaders Hall of Fame, which was curated by and is hosted at the Center’s Headquarters in New City, NY in 2019 during the Center’s 40th Anniversary. We honor these women who have not only helped advance Center for Safety & Change’s mission to end gender-based violence and empower survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, but who have also effected meaningful positive change in our community.

Ful List of Current Rockland Women Leaders Hall of Fame Members:

Caroline Lexow Babcock, Mary Barbera, Ellen Burstyn, Beth Chamberlin, Simona Chazen, Dr. Arlene Clinkscale, Honorable Harriet Cornell, Dr. Lucy Virginia Meriwether Davies, Carolyn Fish, Muriel Fox, Phyllis B. Frank, Dr. Susan Gordon, Mimi Hoffman, Ellen Holtzman, Esq., Georgine Hyde, Honorable Ellen Jaffee, Brigadier General Cindy Glazier Jebb, Regent Judith Johnson, Sister Ursula Joyce, Dr. Raman Kaul, Edythe Eleanor Levin Kurz, Dr. Mary Leahy, Corporal Megan Leavey, Honorable Nita Lowey, Kathleen Lukens, Helen Hayes MacArthur, Dr. Martha MacGuffie, Dr. Stella Marrs, Kathy Perrotte, Dr. Frances Pratt, Marsha Rand, Martha Robles, Lee Sennish, Lynn Sheinkin, Diane Sussman, Sabrina E. Vargas-Greco, Gerri Viant, Elisabeth Voigt, Randi Weingarten, Maria Luisa Whittingham, Barbara Williams, Honorable Linda Winikow, Belle Mayer Zeck

Click here or below to hear the stories of our current Rockland Women Leaders Hall of Fame Recipients in their own words.

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Rockland Women Leaders Hall of Fame

Carolyn Fish

Ful List of Current Rockland Women Leaders Hall of Fame Members:

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