On Tuesday evening, the Town of Clarkstown held its inaugural “Women of Distinction” award
ceremony at Town Hall. It’s a program that was long overdue, and one that I am very proud to
have started here in Clarkstown. It was a tremendous honor to present the town’s first such
awards to six very deserving women who have volunteered countless hours of their time in
service to others. Each of our honorees defines what it means to be a pillar in the community.
They are givers. They are doers. They resolved to accomplish something, got involved and
worked for change. They inspired others to follow their lead and get involved to better the
communities that we live and work in. And each one gave back out of true compassion, without
expectation of thanks or recognition.
The following is a list of our first honorees:
Dr. Frances Pratt of Nyack, has been a lifelong advocate for equity, education, and community
empowerment. A visionary leader and civil rights trailblazer, Dr. Pratt has devoted decades to
public service through her work with the NAACP, social justice initiatives, and her work in the
field of healthcare.
Barbara Wallenstein, a resident of Nanuet, is a dedicated volunteer first responder whose
service has touched countless lives. With over 36 years of service as a member of the Nanuet
Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Barbara has provided compassionate care and emergency
assistance to residents in their times of greatest need.
Michelle Rusnock of West Nyack, is a passionate, dedicated, and humble community
volunteer whose efforts have greatly enhanced the lives of strays, shelter animals, and lost pets.
In founding the social media page Rockland’s Missing Pets, Ms. Rusnock helped to reunite
hundreds of lost pets with their families.
Andrea Shields of Congers, has demonstrated exceptional devotion, compassion, and
leadership through her extensive volunteer work, bettering the lives of children and supporting
our first responders. Ms. Shields volunteers at a number of not-for-profits that benefit children,
and serves as the President of the Congers Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.
Lorette Adams, of West Nyack, served for 15 years on the Clarkstown Central School District
Board of Education, including as President and as the CCSD Representative to the Rockland
County School Board Association. In addition to many other community service endeavors, Ms.
Adams is a founding member of the Heritage of West Nyack and has served as a Trustee at the
West Nyack Free Library since 1987.
Susan Ferreri of New City, has been a driving force behind the movement to preserve our
county’s rich farming history and has been an invaluable resource in building awareness and
growth to Rockland County’s agritourism industry. As the founder of the Rockland Community
Farm Network, Ms. Ferreri played a key role in Rockland County’s acquisition of 32 acres in
New City formerly known as the Depew Farm.
Please join me in thanking this group of remarkable women who have given so much of
themselves to better our town.
