Skelos Honors Howell Road School Library Specialist Nada Tannen As A 2005 "woman Of Distinction"

On Tuesday, June 14th, New York State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Dean G. Skelos (R-Rockville Centre) honored Nada Tannen as his 2005 "Woman of Distinction" at the State Senate’s 8th Annual "Women of Distinction" ceremony in Albany.

"The ‘Women of Distinction’ program is a celebration of New York State’s women, their accomplishments and the difference they’ve made in the lives of others," said Senator Skelos. "Nada’s hard work has benefited thousands of children, created a more enjoyable and productive learning environment and opened a new world of opportunity for her students. I’m very appreciative of all the great work that she has done and her contribution to our community."

In 1969, Nada Tannen began her career as the Library Media Specialist at the Howell Road School in North Valley Stream. The library first opened in 1970 and, at that time, integrating filmstrips, audiocassettes, transparencies and film into the Library Media Center was cutting edge. Soon thereafter, she was assigned the responsibility of adding computers and a computer lab to the Center.

During her tenure at the Center, Nada has introduced three important programs: Reading is Fundamental--providing free books to students; the Author Lecture Series--bringing authors to schools to allow students to learn first-hand about writing; and Early Childhood Library Time--enabling mothers and their children to read, socialize and learn together. In addition, she had the vision to bring state-of-the-art technology to the community library and open a new world for her students through use of the Internet. Nada Tannen is a devoted educator who believes that reading is the key to knowledge and it gives her great joy to see the children of the community grow and learn.

"As a first generation American, I am proud to be able to give back to children what this Country has so freely given to me," said Ms. Tannen upon receiving her award. "I would like to thank Senator Skelos for this honor."

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