Senator Seward Pays Tribute To Woman Of Distinction

ALBANY, 05/07/13 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today honored Rosalie Burgher of Olive as the 2013  Senate “Woman of Distinction” from the 51^st senate district at the 16^th annual senate Women of Distinction ceremony at the Capitol.

“Over the years, I have been fortunate to highlight a number of inspirational, trailblazing leaders through the senate’s Women of Distinction program, and this year is no different,” said Senator Seward.  “Rosalie Burgher has been a driving force in the Olive community for the past six decades and shows no signs of slowing down.”

Rosalie has been a fixture with a number of community organizations.  Her greatest contribution was helping found the Olive Free Library.  From the time of its inception to present day, Mrs. Burgher has been vital in the library’s operation and growth.  She has helped collect book donations to fill the shelves at the original library, raise funds for construction of a new building, and held virtually every library position including director.  Even today, after stepping down as library director, she has stayed on in a staff position at the age of 86.

“When I called to congratulate Rosalie on her selection as a ‘Woman of Distinction’ she wasn’t home.  Instead, she was at the library hard at work – a typical day for her,” added Seward. 

Rosalie devotes a great deal of her time and energy to community service organizations.   She has held leading roles with the local school PTA, the American Legion Auxiliary, Girl Scouts, Cub Scout, and many more.

“Rosalie is a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother to her own family and a counselor, teacher and advisor to everyone else she comes in contact with in the Town of Olive.  She embodies the meaning of a true ‘Woman of Distinction’ for all of her inspiring and continuing achievements,” Seward concluded. 

The senate's "Woman of Distinction" program was created in 1998 to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence, or whose professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New Yorkers. 

Previous winners in the annual event have included leading women from the worlds of business, academics and civic life, as well as those who have performed heroic or selfless acts, made significant discoveries or provided examples of personal excellence against difficult odds.

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Photo: Senator James L. Seward with 2013 New York State Senate Women of Distinction honoree Rosalie Burgher of Olive and her family.