Assemblywoman Woerner nominated Dr. Parker as her district honoree during Governor Kathy Hochul’s New York State Legislative Women's Caucus luncheon celebrating Women's History Month on March 20, 2024. The theme for Women’s History Month 2024 was “Women who Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion,” which recognizes women who understand that, for a positive future, we need to eliminate bias and discrimination from our lives and institutions.
At the May 8 board meeting, Assemblywoman Woerner followed up by presenting Dr. Parker with a poster and a photo of Dr. Parker, her husband, and Governor Hochul at the luncheon in March, signed by the governor. She also gave Dr. Parker a commemorative poster.
The assemblywoman spoke about the award, Dr. Parker’s knowledge and ability to bring people together. She said she was asked to select one word to describe Dr. Parker - she landed on insightful. That is the word on the poster.
Board President Lin King said, “our board is extremely proud of the commitment and vision Dr. Parker has brought to our organization. She faces each day with respect, kindness and focus, whether it be joining in with a student activity or dealing with the myriad of work issues that come to her as the leader of our organization. It is not a surprise to our board that Dr. Parker would be recognized as such an impactful woman.”
Dr. Parker said, “I was truly honored to have been selected by Assemblywoman Woerner for this recognition. I admire the assemblywoman immensely for her leadership and partnership, so to be recognized by her is truly humbling. I am grateful for being in a position to provide leadership and support to an amazing group of people who recognize the importance of working collaboratively to solve problems and innovate. At WSWHE BOCES, we achieve excellence together, and I strive for that sense of togetherness to be reflected in my leadership.”