Seward Announces 'woman Of Distinction'

Senator James L. Seward today announced that Catherine T. Andrews of Mount Vision has been selected as a 2005 New York State "Woman of Distinction".

"I am proud to honor Catherine T. Andrews as a woman of Distinction and prouder still of the recognition she has earned from her neighbors, colleagues and friends for her achievements on behalf of our community," said Senator Seward.

Catherine Andrews has devoted much of her life toward the concerns of others. Catherine has taken care of cancer patients and others in need, to improve their quality of life. Most notably, Catherine recently graduated from Leadership Otsego, a program at SUNY Oneonta and planned a fund-raiser concert entitled "In the Key of Life" for a kindergartner from Laurens Central School, who was diagnosed with Leukemia and would undergo chemotherapy treatments for three years.

Catherine is director of the Caring Neighbors-Faith in Action Program at Catholic Charities of Delaware and Otsego Counties. Family, faith and friends are influences in Catherine’s drive to help others and selflessly volunteers for several programs: Oneonta Kiwanis Club, Saturday’s Bread, Bereavement Team Coordinator at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, Alzheimer’s Association and Literacy of America, as well as other church and local youth programs.

Catherine is the recipient of numerous appreciation and community service awards for her dedication to helping those in need.

"Catherine is one of those success stories that we can proudly share with our daughters, sisters and neighbors and who will serve as an example for achievement and excellence for our entire community," said Senator Seward.

"Her name now joins that of other women whose accomplishments, sacrifices and deeds on behalf of others are deserving of special honor," Senator Seward said.

Ms. Andrews is to be honored June 14 at an Albany reception, where her photograph and biography will be displayed in a special public exhibit at the Legislative Office Building.

The Senate’s "Woman of Distinction" program was created in 1998 to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence, or whose professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New Yorkers.

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