NYS LEGISLATIVE WOMEN’S CAUCUS HONORS ‘ESSENTIAL WOMEN’

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – Each year, the New York State Legislative Women’s Caucus creates a unique ‘Women’s History Month’ Display in the Capitol’s Legislative Office Building to celebrate trailblazing New York women. This year, with the Capitol still closed to visitors, the Caucus took their celebration virtual to honor ‘Essential Women’ for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the initiative, Senator Sue Serino honored essential worker, and Poughkeepsie City School District Food Service Employee, Brenda McKinney for her efforts to help keep local students safe and healthy during this time. Senator Serino stopped by Clinton Elementary School in Poughkeepsie on Monday, April 19^th, to present Brenda with the distinguished honor. 

“Brenda McKinney truly exemplifies what it means to be essential,” said Senator Serino. “When our student’s lives were completely transformed due to the pandemic, Brenda stepped up to ensure that each student had a balanced meal every day, even during remote learning. Known for her kindness and compassion, Brenda consistently puts the needs of the students and school community above her own, and has worked to build strong relationships with students, school officials, and families. I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Brenda for her essential work and to thank her for all she does for the Poughkeepsie City School District community.”

Dr. Eric Rosser, Poughkeepsie City School District Superintendent said, “The Poughkeepsie City School District is excited to learn of Ms. McKinney’s recognition for Women’s History month. As a long-standing champion for Poughkeepsie City School District (PCSD) students, Ms. McKinney continues to go above and beyond to ensure that PCSD students nutritional needs are met. I am honored to have Ms. McKinney as an essential member of the PCSD team, who are all steadfast in our commitment to strengthen the district’s impact on student success.”

“We are so happy that the efforts of Brenda McKinney are being recognized by the New York State Legislature,” said Anthony Adamo, CSEA Southern Region President. “Brenda has been a dedicated employee for over twenty years, as well as a true force in the labor movement within the Poughkeepsie City School District. She is a prime example of the many unsung heroes who have helped families get through this tragic pandemic.”

Brenda McKinney has been employed by the Poughkeepsie City School District for 23 years and currently serves as a Lead in the Food Service Department. Through her position, Brenda enjoys being able to connect with the students about their food choices and maintains an open line of communication. Brenda is a lifelong resident of the City of Poughkeepsie.

Members of the Legislative Women’s Caucus were invited to recognize one woman throughout their district, deemed an ‘essential worker,’ who has gone above and beyond to support their community during the COVID-19 pandemic. A video presentation was created to recognize women from all across the State. To view the complete video, please click here.

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