Senator Golden Honors Community Activist Mary Clavin as “Woman of Distinction”

Brooklyn- State Senator Marty Golden this week honored community activist Mary Clavin, for her outstanding work on behalf of our community, with special recognition from the State Senate as a 2010 New York “Woman of Distinction.” Senator Golden presented the award to Mary Clavin, who was joined by her husband Peter, at a ceremony held in the State Capitol in Albany.

“Mary is a remarkable woman that has led a stellar life. Her work and special accomplishments contribute to making our community a better place to live, work and raise a family. Mary’s service should be an example to others and it was most fitting that I honored her, as a representative of our community, with this award,” said Senator Golden. “The Senate’s Women of Distinction program provides a special opportunity to honor women from across of New York State for their achievements.”

Mary Carroll Clavin of Brooklyn is a wife and mother devoted to improving her community and mentoring young people. Educated at Bishop Kearney High School and St. John’s University, Mary’s career began at John Blair Company, where she served as a commercial television liaison and, later, as manager of professional training and development.

Mary left the business world in the mid-1980s to start a family and is now the mother of four children. She is actively involved in the parish of St. Anselm Roman Catholic Church as a lector, folk group member and founding member of a maternal support group. She is a member of the Bishop’s Coat of Arms Club and is active in Brooklyn Diocesan Charities, serving as chair of the annual Pastor’s golf tournament to raise funds for children’s activities.

In the community, Mary devotes her times as a Girl Scout Leader, a member of the executive boards of St. Anselm Youth Activities (having served three previous years as president), a member of Bay Ridge’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee and donates her time and talent to community events sponsored by the community board and council.

For her efforts, Mary has been honored as designee for the Bay Ridge Hidden Treasure, for exceptional contributions to civic life, and has served as Deputy Grand Marshall for the Bay Ridge St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

As an only child, Mary had sole responsibility caring for her parents, both of whom suffered debilitating strokes and required long-term care. She is recognized by others as an inspiration to young women and is living proof that duty to family, God and community can be accomplished with dignity and grace.

Photo- Senator Marty Golden presents a proclamation to Mary Clavin in Albany, naming her the 2010 Woman of Distinction for Senate District 22.