Senator Bonacic Announces Orange County Resident Dr. Joyce Willetts as His 2015 NY Senate Woman of Distinction

 (Albany, NY)- Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt.Hope) is pleased to announce that Dr. Joyce Willetts, PhD. of Florida, NY has been chosen as his 2015 NY Senate Woman of Distinction. The annual program honors women who have made exceptional contributions to their respective communities. Dr. Willets accomplishments were celebrated, along with those of the other honorees, at a ceremony in Albany on May 5^th.

Dr. Joyce Willetts, PhD. was born and raised in England.  After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology from the University of Hertfordshire, Dr. Willetts immigrated to the United States.  Over the next ten years, she continued to pursue her education, culminating in a PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology. In 1996 Dr. Willetts formed her own company, Palanquin Corporation in Florida New York, providing pharmaceutical consulting and medical writing services.

In 2004, Dr. Willetts helped to bring the PTA-sponsored Science Fair at the Florida Union Free School District to a new level.  Under her guidance, student participation grew from 10% to over 40%, and inspired students to experiment and explore science.  While serving on the districts Wellness Committee in 2006, Dr. Willetts was instrumental in obtaining a grant to purchase a cafeteria salad bar and construct and on-site outdoor multipurpose trail.  This trail is used not only as a classroom, but also as an approved course for the cross country teams.

Working with the Chamber of Commerce in 2006, Dr. Willetts began editing and publishing a local newspaper.  “The Florida Focus” became a vital way for important community and school district information to be shared with its residents.  As a charter member of the Seward Homestead Restoration Committee, the preservation of the Mapes House was a priority.  Dr. Willetts helped to secure a $400,000 grant from the New York State Historical Preservation Office to help with the cost of restoration. 

“As a result of Dr. Willetts efforts helping students, and her other actions to make her community a better place to live, she has touched and enriched the lives of everyone in her town,” said Senator Bonacic.

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