Senate Resolution No. 4220

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING Tonya Boyd upon the occasion of her
designation for special recognition by Healthfirst,
on March 29, 2018, in conjunction with the
observance of Women's History Month

WHEREAS, The State of New York is home to countless women who have
contributed to the advancement of our culture through both their
traditional and non-traditional roles in society; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Tonya Boyd upon the occasion of her designation for special recognition
by Healthfirst, to be observed at its Community Award Celebration at
Maestro's Caterers, Bronx, New York, on Thursday, March 29, 2018, in
conjunction with the observance of Women's History Month; this year's
award celebration theme is "Groundbreakers and Herstory Makers of
Today"; and

WHEREAS, Tonya Boyd is being recognized for demonstrating an
unwavering commitment to being a voice in the community and is focused
on issues that are important to its residents; this exceptional woman
reflects the fabric of her city and works daily to improve conditions
for others; and

WHEREAS, A native of Brooklyn, New York, Tonya Boyd has been a vital
member of the FDNY for 21 years; she began her long and distinguished
career as an EMT, working in the Bronx, Harlem, and Brooklyn; and

WHEREAS, After seven years of service, Tonya Boyd became a Paramedic
I working in Brooklyn; upon being promoted to Lieutenant, she was
assigned to a few stations in Queens, until she found a permanent home
at Station 50 which serves the Jamaica/Hillcrest area; and

WHEREAS, In 2011, Tonya Boyd became the second African American
female to hold the rank of Captain; in this capacity, she served as the
Commanding Officer of both Station 32 (Carroll Gardens), and Station 39
(Pennsylvania/East New York); during her tenure, she successfully dealt
with numerous weather-related disasters; and

WHEREAS, On November 2, 2017, Tonya Boyd was proudly appointed
Deputy Chief, becoming the first African American female to hold the
highest rank in FDNY's history; and

WHEREAS, Throughout her esteemed career, Tonya Boyd has experienced
many challenges but has always stayed true to her mantra: But Still I
Persist; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of his Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the
recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Tonya Boyd upon the occasion of her designation for special
recognition by Healthfirst, on March 29, 2018, in conjunction with the
observance of Women's History Month; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Tonya Boyd.