Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages hosted the 2026 Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony and Luncheon on International Women’s Day at Syro-Malankara Catholic Cathedral in Elmont, bringing together community leaders, elected officials, and residents to celebrate ten women whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact throughout the 22nd Assembly District.

The annual event honors women who have demonstrated dedication to their communities through leadership in education, health care, faith-based service, business, and civic engagement.

Opening Ceremony

Guests arrived throughout the afternoon as music from DJ Sparxx welcomed attendees during seating. The program officially began shortly after 3 p.m., with Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Núñez and local advocate Lynette Battle serving as Mistress of Ceremonies.

The ceremony opened with a presentation of colors by the Valley Stream/Five Towns Girl Scouts Association Troop 2348, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by members of the Elmont Girl Scouts Association Brownie Troop 1002.

An interfaith invocation was delivered by Rabbi Michel Schlesinger, Imam Muhammad Waliullah, and Friar Thomas Ayyaneth, reflecting the diverse faith traditions represented throughout the district.

Opening Remarks and Keynote Address

Following the invocation, Assemblywoman Solages welcomed attendees and reflected on the importance of recognizing women who strengthen their communities through service.

“Every day, there are people within our community that I personally work with and see who contribute so much to our neighborhoods,” Solages said. “They give their heart, their soul, and it's just a pleasure to be able to recognize them and give them their flowers right here on this day.”

She also thanked past and present Women of Distinction honorees for their commitment to service.

“I know that you don't do it for the privilege, but you do it to provide purpose for our community,” Solages said. “And thank you for that.”

The keynote address was delivered by former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, who spoke about public service, women’s leadership, and the responsibility of government to support families and communities.

“I wake up every day on purpose with a purpose,” Adams said. “And that is that purpose to serve.”

Adams also emphasized the importance of investing in women and addressing affordability challenges that many long-time residents continue to face.

“The investments poured into women have set up generations for success,” Adams said. “And as the drive for greater affordability continues, government must remember the longtime residents who helped build our communities but have been left behind to still struggle. We must never forget them.”

She concluded her remarks by celebrating women’s leadership and the progress being made across New York.

“As I stand here before you on this eighth day of Women’s History Month, I am excited to make even more history with you,” Adams said. “New York will continue to create milestones, blaze trails, and be that beacon that sets the example of how women lead.”

Performances and Recognition of Elected Officials

The program also featured a performance by Sudan Belmavis, a junior at Valley Stream South High School, who delivered a powerful rendition of Whitney Houston’s “Greatest Love of All.”

Following the performance, Assemblywoman Solages acknowledged several elected officials and community leaders in attendance, including:

• Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages
• Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Núñez
• Bea Hanson, Director of the New York State Office of Victim Services, representing Governor Kathy Hochul
   

Honoring the 2026 Women of Distinction

The highlight of the afternoon was the recognition of the nine 2026 Women of Distinction honorees, each celebrated for her leadership and contributions to the community.

This year’s honorees included:

• Tameka Battle-Burkett
• Rinsi Chack
• Stacie Dee
• Jewel Dwight
• Margie Kelly
• Raina Massey
• Sheila Moiarty
• Judith Patterson
• Carlina Scaturro
• Joelina Perez de Ceri

Each honoree was recognized for her dedication to service, with supporters and community members applauding their accomplishments.

Community Partnerships and Sponsors

Assemblywoman Solages as well as partner HerSuiteSpot, a community organization, also recognized the various organizations whose support helped make the event possible.

Sponsors of the 2026 Women of Distinction Awards included:

• Resorts World
• Applebee’s - Valley Stream
• Emblem Health
• KeyFood - Valley Stream
• Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages
• R.O. Smith LLP
• The Toler Team at Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Representatives from several partner organizations shared remarks highlighting their commitment to investing in local communities and supporting opportunities for women and small businesses.

Closing Remarks

In closing remarks, Assemblywoman Solages thanked the sponsors, volunteers, and staff members who helped make the event possible and encouraged attendees to continue uplifting women throughout the year.

“It’s such an honor to be able to celebrate Women’s History Month with you,” Solages said.

She also reminded attendees that the Women of Distinction Awards serve as both a celebration of accomplishments and a reminder of the importance of empowering the next generation of women leaders.

About the Women of Distinction Awards

The Women of Distinction Awards were established to recognize women in the 22nd Assembly District who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to their communities. Honorees represent excellence across fields including education, health care, business, faith leadership, and civic engagement.