Kay Tomasi Recognized as Woman of Distinction

       Kay Tomasi, an historic preservationist and published author, was honored in Albany on Tuesday, May 15 as a New York State Senate Woman of Distinction.  Nominated by Senator Betty Little, Mrs. Tomasi was recognized for channeling her life-long love of history into community service that has enriched the lives of others and will benefit future generations.

       “Kay’s passion is extraordinary,” said Little.  “The work she’s done to preserve Washington County history and ensure that others will have the benefit of understanding and learning from the past is a real gift and a true legacy.  I’m privileged to have the chance to share her story and her work with my colleagues as we pause to recognize accomplished women from across New York State.”

        Kay Tomasi earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history at St. Lawrence  University and a Master of Arts degree in history from Central Michigan University.  She taught history in secondary schools for several years before settling in Salem.

       Bringing her great interest in history with her, Tomasi has served numerous organizations  devoted to the preservation of the area's heritage, including the Washington County Historical  Society, the Historic Salem Courthouse Preservation Association, Inc., and the Saratoga-Capital District Region of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

       Tomasi is the author of THE  VILLAGE OF SALEM 1761-1994, a 470-page history with 450 illustrations, and JOURNEY OF FAITH - THE OLD WHITE CHURCH, a 50-page history celebrating the bicentennial of Salem's First United  Presbyterian  Church. In 2006, she was named to the then newly-formed  Historic Saratoga-Washington County on the Hudson Partnership.

       Besides working to preserve the area's past, Kay Tomasi has served her community's present  in many ways.  She’s volunteered for many organizations including her church, the former Mary McClellan Hospital, the Meikleknox Retirement Home, Washington County Women's Club, Bancroft Library, and the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce often serving as a chair or office holder.

       Tomasi is also a longtime member of the Salem Women's  Club, and has served as Treasurer of its foundation's Scholarship Committee for over 25 years.  She also helped organize its Woman's Health Day, which in conjunction with Glens Falls Hospital, raises funds for area charities while increasing awareness of women health issues.

       The New York State Senate Women of Distinction program was created as part of the State’s celebration of Women’s History Month.  In addition to recognizing present-day women, each March, the Senate hosts a display that honors other distinguished women from New York.

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