LOIS TAPLIN BRONZ NAMED NEW YORK STATE SENATE CONTEMPORARY WOMAN OF DISTINCTION; Honored at Celebration Today in Albany
January 4, 2009
State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D/WF – 35th Senate District) announced today that Lois Taplin Bronz of Greenburgh, Westchester County has been chosen to be this year’s New York State Senate Contemporary Woman of Distinction. Ms. Bronz was in Albany today to accept the honor at the Senate Woman of Distinction Celebration. The Program was created as part of the Senate's Celebration of Women’s History Month.
Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins said that the State Senate’s Contemporary Woman of Distinction is a special honor bestowed upon women, whose lives, work, or special accomplishments contribute to making our communities better, making our families stronger, and serve as special examples to others. The program provides a unique opportunity to honor these women for their achievements and to thank them for the special pride they bring to our communities.
“Lois Bronz has dedicated her time and abilities to making a difference in the quality of life of all of us by being a fierce advocate for racial justice and interracial harmony, as well as her devotion to public service,” stated Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins. “She is an truly an inspiration to all.”
Lois Bronz was born in New Orleans, graduated from Xavier University and Wayne State University and raised three children in widowhood. From New Orleans to Greenburgh, New York, Lois has left a trail of excellence and concern for people. For 32 years, she was in education as a secondary school teacher, college professor, and academic consultant. In 1976,, she was elected to the Greenburgh Town Council and served there for 16 years. In 1994, Lois become the first African-American woman elected to the County Board of Legislators and in 2002, she was unanimously elected to lead the Board.
For Lois, political life is about access to influence for the community good and about helping people. She travels to schools and organizations all over the country. And at eighty years of age, she is still the elegantly eloquent and feisty negotiator in the world of politics. Lois is a hands-on volunteer, collecting clothes and serving meals. Currently, Lois serves as Chair of the Community Services Committee and is concerned with issued affecting families, health, mental health, and human services.
For many years, and to date, Lois Bronz serves as Director on the boards of Children’s Village in Dobbs Ferry, Westchester Coalition, Westchester Community Opportunity Program, United Way of Westchester, Westchester Arts Council, and the Hudson Valley Council for Senior Citizens.
“Clearly, Lois Bronz serves as a special example to us as she is someone who has devoted her life to working tirelessly for others. She deserves to be appreciated and recognized for all that she does for the communities in Westchester County. It is truly an honor for me to present this award to her,” said Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins.