Robach Honors Nancy Robbins With Nys Senate Woman Of Distinction Award

Annual Program Honors Women's Contributions to Our Community

Senator Robach today recognized Nancy Robbins of Rochester with the New York State Senate's 2008 Woman of Distinction Award.

“There are remarkable women in our midst whose lives, work or special accomplishments contribute to making our communities better, making our families stronger and serve as a special example to others,” said Senator Robach.  “The Senate’s ‘Woman of Distinction’ program provides a special opportunity to honor these women for their achievements and to thank them for the special pride they bring to our communities.”   

Nancy has worked closely with the Woman's Educational & Industrial Union, the Rochester Museum and Science Center, Woman's Coalition for Downtown, Rochester Downtown Development Corporation, WXXI Broadcasting Council, the Rochester Philharmonic League, Historic Brighton and United Way.  However, she is probably most recognized for her work in founding the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester. 

Her quest to bring the Ronald McDonald House to Rochester began in 1985 when a friend told her of a new organization starting up in a few cities across the country - a not for profit created to serve as a home away from home for families with critically ill children being treated in the hospital.  Nancy quickly joined a task force and started to research and develop plans to bring the Ronald McDonald House to Rochester.  She managed to lead the charge to raise over $1.7 million and, after much hard work and dedication, the House opened its doors to the first families in 1990.  To this day, she remains one of the most active and cherished volunteers.

While she is often recognized for founding Rochester's Ronald McDonald House, her other accomplishments to the community should not go unnoticed.  She and her husband donated one million dollars to build the new Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Golisano Children's Hospital.   She has also volunteered for many other organizations where she has served as a cornerstone for fundraising and leadership.

“I am so proud to present Nancy Robbins with the 2008 Senate Woman of Distinction Award.  She is a highly respected community activist and possesses the true spirit of volunteerism” stated Senator Robach.

Nancy was recognized in a special ceremony today at the State Capitol in Albany where her photograph and biography were displayed in a special public exhibit proclaiming the special contributions of exemplary New York women.

The Senate’s “Woman of Distinction” program was created in 1998 as part of the Senate’s celebration of Women’s History Month and is purposed to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence, or whose professional achievements or act of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New Yorkers.