Murphy hosts 2015 Women of Distinction event

CHAPPAQUA, NY - Senator Terrence P. Murphy this week honored a dozen women from across the 40th Senate District Thursday at the Chappaqua Library. These accomplished women were nominated by their hometowns and represent a wide array of achievements which stand as a model of altruism, selflessness and bravery for all residents of the Hudson Valley.

"I'm proud to recognize and honor outstanding women who have made our community a better place through achievement in business, charitable works, education, the arts, from all walks of life," Senator Murphy said. "The Senate’s Women of Distinction Program rightfully applauds the personal achievements and career successes of outstanding women. This program is truly one of the highlights of the year serving as your Senator."

In addition to the traditional program, Senator Murphy awarded the Liberty Medal to 19 year old Riley Dejong of Lewisboro for her acts of valor at the scene of the Metro North train crash on February 3, 2015 in Valhalla.

Ms. Dejong, who was on the train, stayed on the scene to put out the fire that had engulfed the train car, rescuing one person from the flames and dragging another to safety. One man she pulled out of the fire was going to lose both his legs, but thanks to Ms. Dejon's actions, he has had successful surgery to reattach them and is now on the road to recovery.

The New York State Senate Liberty Medal is one of the highest civilian honors that a New Yorker can receive. Similar to the Congressional Gold Medal, the award is given to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic or humanitarian acts and achievements on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers.