Senator John Bonacic selects Donna Benson as a “Woman of Distinction”

State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/I/C - Mount Hope) today announced that Donna L. Benson is recognized by the State Senate to be a Woman of Distinction.  This annual program honors women who make an outstanding contribution to our community. 

“I am proud to announce Donna Benson as a woman of distinction from my senate district.  She has made an impact on the lives of so many through her involvement in the community” said Senator Bonacic.

Donna is a true advocate for people.  She has been involved in numerous organizations.  Presently, Donna Benson serves on a variety of boards including: Inspire Board of Directors; AHRC Botanical Gardens; United Way Executive Committee; and St. Teresa’s Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center.

She is currently a member of the following organizations: Florida Chamber of Commerce, Orange County Retired Senior Volunteer Program; Office for the Aging Advisory Council Committee; NYS Association of County Clerks; St. Joseph’s Living Rosary Society;  American Legion Auxiliary; and an Honorary Member of the Florida Fire Company.  Donna has also served as cub scout den leader; vice president of Little League in Florida, NY; Regional Chair of the Hudson Valley, NYS Association of County Clerks; and Orange County Employees Activities Committee.

Donna’s efforts have been recognized by serveral organizations throughout the years.  Awards she has received include:  the Regina G. Black Humanitarian Award (AHRC); the Women’s Bar Association of Orange/Sullivan Counties Rose Rosen Award; Hudson Valley Council-Boy Scouts of America “Distinuguished Citizen” Award; Inspire Shining Star Award; New York State Association of Court Clerks Annual Achievement Award; and the New York State Association of Court Clerks “Clerk of the Year Award.”

“Donna Benson has proven herself to be a distinguished woman and a leader in the community.  She has devoted a significant about of  time to making Orange County stronger.” said Senator Bonacic. 

Professionally, Donna has been the Orange County Clerk since 1998. She has a staff of 89 employees covering the Department of Motor Vehicles, Passports, Pistol Permits, Land Records, Clerk of the Court for filing/maintaining both Supreme and County Court Records. She will be retiring as County Clerk this year.

Donna Benson worked in the the County Clerk’s Office in the Deparment of Motor Vechicles from 1981-1997 in many departments and offices, serving in various positions including: DMV Clerk, Supervisor, Director of the 4 County DMV offices and Adminsitrative Assistant to the County Clerk.

Donna Benson and other distinguished women from each Senate District will be honored at a ceremony held on May 7th in Albany.