Senator Pam Helming Honors Local Business Leader and Education Advocate Amy West for Women's History Month

In celebration of Women's History Month, Senator Pam Helming of the 54th Senate District proudly recognizes Amy West as an exemplary leader, education advocate, and dedicated business owner. The honor aligns with this year's National Women's History Month theme, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations."

Amy West, a lifelong resident of the Town of Mendon, has been a champion of her community through her leadership in both education and business. From 2011 to 2023, Amy served with distinction on the Honeoye Falls-Lima Central School District Board of Education, holding positions as Board President for three years and Vice President for two. Her leadership was pivotal in advancing policies that championed student achievement, nurtured innovation, and upheld fiscal responsibility. In 2023, Amy expanded her influence by joining the Monroe One BOCES Board of Education, continuing her mission to shape and strengthen public education.

Beyond her contributions to education, Amy is a respected entrepreneur and community advocate. She has owned and operated Honeoye Falls Marketplace and Mendon Meadow Marketplace for over 40 years, guiding the business from its humble beginnings in 1983 as "Bells" market to becoming a trusted community resource with quality products and brands, custom cut meats, homemade donuts, and locally sourced foods.

To commemorate the achievements of honorees like Amy West, their portraits are displayed at the New York State Capitol throughout March, accompanied by a word that encapsulates their contributions. Senator Helming chose the word "generous" to describe Amy.

Senator Helming said, “Amy’s generosity shines through in her time, talents, and unwavering commitment to education and community growth. She empowers students to embrace the future with confidence and plays a vital role in keeping our main street businesses strong and vibrant. Her two stores are celebrated for their personalized service, reflecting her dedication to fostering community connections, supporting local partnerships, and creating job opportunities for people of all ages—including offering many young people their first employment experience. Whether she’s assisting customers or inspiring the next generation of leaders, Amy is a passionate advocate, always ready to share her insights and uplift those around her.”

Amy Thomas, Executive Director of the Monroe County School Board Association, praised Amy's leadership, saying, “In addition to her board service, Amy has been a dedicated officer for the Monroe County Boards Association for the past five years. Her role has gone far beyond formal leadership responsibilities - she has been a mentor, a guide, and a source of encouragement for board members across the region.  During the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic and the ever-evolving landscape of public education, Amy provided invaluable support to fellow board members, offering wisdom, reassurance, and practical solutions to navigate difficult times.” She adds, “I cannot think of anyone more deserving than Amy West to be honored by the New York State Legislative Women’s Caucus.  Her passion, dedication and unwavering service exemplify what it means to educate and inspire for generations.”  

Amy West said, “I am very humbled and honored to receive this recognition by Senator Helming.  When I think about the theme of this award, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations", I can think of so many deserving women I know who's lives embody this theme, including Senator Helming.  I think about all the women who've inspired me and helped shape who I am.  While I don't think I've done anything exceptional to deserve this award, I do try to live my life in a way that demonstrates kindness, empathy, understanding and respect, as an example to those around me, in everything that I do.  I thank Senator Helming for the recognition and accept this award in honor of all inspiring women who strive to empower and uplift those who will shape our future.  It's important now, more than ever!”   

The New York State Legislative Women’s Caucus, a bipartisan group of Senators and Assembly members, organizes this annual celebration to honor women who exemplify leadership, dedication, and inspiration.

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