2009 Woman of Distinction, Julie Dent, speaks at the June 2, 2009 event alongside Senator Dilan who nominated Ms. Dent based on her community involvement and work in early childhood and elementary education.

Julie Dent, born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, is the proud mother of New York City Police Officer Christopher Dent. She loves spending quality time with her grandchildren. Julie's father passed away when she was very young. He was a loving, strong but gentle man who loved his wife and children. Julie enjoyed growing up with her sisters and brothers, who were her best friends.

Julie received a Master of Science in Education from CUNY - City College of New York, graduating with honors. Her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood and Elementary Education was received from Empire State College at SUNY. Her Associate’s Degree was received from the Borough of Manhattan Community College in Early Childhood Education.

At the Horace E. Greene Day Care Center, Julie worked as an Early Childhood Teacher for ten (10) years. Thereafter she served as Administrative Director for seven (7) years. In 1997, Julie became the Executive Director/Educational Director of the Audrey Johnson Day Care Learning Center where she is currently employed.

As a result of Julie's resolve to get the very best for the children, the Center was chosen by New York University to participate in their Early Reading First Literacy Program, which has proven to be helpful in enhancing the children's reading skills. Julie collaborated with the Department of Education to bring additional monies to the Learning Center which was earmarked for four (4) year olds to enhance their educational, social, emotional and physical skills. In that grant there was also a provision for educational trainings for teachers and the Director.

As a leader, Julie’s vision has been to address childhood obesity in young children. She recognized a need for programming that would address a holistic approach to nutrition and sports in an educational setting. She sought funding through the NYC Department of Health SPARKS Program where children, teachers and parents are engaged in sport activities through play.

Julie's late mother Elaine King instilled in her the importance of giving back to one’s community and she has done just that. Actively involved in the community, Ms. Julie Dent serves as Chairperson of Brooklyn Community Board #4. She is the Former Vice-Chairperson of the Woodhull Hospital Advisory Board and former NYC Community School Board -District #32 Vice- Chair. Most recently, in 2007 Ms. Dent became a New York City Board of Elections Commissioner. Also during the 2007 year, Ms. Dent was the recipient of the coveted National Association of Child Care Professional Director's Award. Julie holds membership on the following National, Professional and Civic Organizations: NAACP, NAEYC ( National Association for the Education of Young Children), NAFP ( National Association of Female Professionals), Proactive Women, Day Care Council of New York, Inc., and Professional Association of Day Care Directors. In addition, Julie holds awards and citations from elected officials across the city and state and she is very appreciative for their recognition.

Julie attributes her strength and resiliency to the love and adoration she
Receives from her family. "To whom much is given, much is required" is what her late mother Elaine King taught her early in life.