West Islip's Nancy Donohue Named 2007 NYS Woman Of Distinction
June 7, 2007
State Senator Owen H. Johnson (4th Senate District, Babylon), Chairman of the Finance Committee, this week presented Nancy Donohue of West Islip with a 2007 New York State Senate Woman of Distinction Award at a special ceremony held at the State Legislative Office Building in Albany. Donohue joined more than 40 women from all across New York State who were recognized this year for their contributions which have greatly enriched the quality of life in their communities and beyond.
"There’s no doubt that Nancy Donohue has enriched the quality of life in her community," said Senator Johnson. "Because of Nancy Donohue, generations of Long Islanders and New Yorkers will be able to experience the history and beauty of Sagtikos Manor -- the oldest house in the Town of Islip."
Senator Johnson explained that when there was a threat of Sagtikos Manor being developed, Nancy came to the rescue and quickly formed the Committee to preserve Sagtikos Manor. The Committee accomplished its goal when the County purchased the property to preserve its 300-year history.
The earliest part of Sagtikos Manor was built in 1697 by the first native born mayor of New York City. In 1790, President George Washington spent the night at the Manor. The 42-room Manor and the remaining 10 acres are currently owned by Suffolk County. The history of this house mirrors the history of Long Island and New York State.
In addition to serving as President of the Sagtikos Manor Historical Society -- a post she’s held for more than 20 years -- Nancy’s also been President of the West Islip Symphony Orchestra since 1991, Vice President and Past Secretary of the West Islip Chamber of Commerce and founding member of the West Islip Bicentennial Committee which has sponsored the West Islip County Fair since 1976. She also sits on the Site Committee for West Islip High School and has been a Commissioner of KIC (Keep Islip Clean) for over 10 years.
Pictured, from left to right, are: Nancy Donohue's grandchildren, Natalie, Peter and Margaret; her daughter, Christine; Senator Owen H. Johnson; Nancy Donohue; Nancy’s husband, the Hon. Judge Larry Donohue; their grandchild being held by daughter-in-law, Mary, and son Peter.
Also named 2007 Women of Distinction representing the 4th Senate District were Corinne DiSomma of Babylon, Babylon Town Receiver of Taxes; and Corinne Brown of Babylon, Proprietor of the Fitness Incentive in Babylon Village.