Senate Resolution No. 1533

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING Sherly Demosthenes-Atkinson upon the
occasion of her installation as the first female
president and Chief Executive Officer of CABS Health
Network on January 31, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend distinguished individuals whose leadership, professional
excellence, and unwavering commitment to public service have
strengthened healthcare systems and improved the quality of life for
vulnerable populations across New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Sherly Demosthenes-Atkinson upon the occasion of her Presidential
Installation as the first female President and Chief Executive Officer
of CABS Health Network, recognizing her exemplary leadership, vision,
and service to the healthcare community; and

WHEREAS, Sherly Demosthenes-Atkinson was appointed Chief Executive
Officer of CABS Home Attendants Service, Inc. in 2017, bringing with her
more than two decades of healthcare experience and a steadfast
commitment to advancing high-quality, patient-centered care for elderly
and disabled New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS, A graduate of Hofstra University, Sherly
Demosthenes-Atkinson holds a Master of Health Administration, and
previously served with distinction as Executive Director and Associate
Director of Case Management at CABS, roles through which she developed a
strategic vision focused on operational excellence, care coordination,
and improved patient outcomes; and

WHEREAS, Under her dynamic leadership, CABS achieved significant
organizational milestones, including securing a contract with the New
York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), contributing to the success of the
New York State Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment (DSRIP) Program,
and launching the CABS Care Management Agency to provide more integrated
and holistic healthcare services; and

WHEREAS, During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19
pandemic, Sherly Demosthenes-Atkinson demonstrated exceptional
leadership by expanding services throughout New York City and Long
Island and guiding the organization through a strategic rebranding as
the CABS Health Network, reflecting a broader, more comprehensive
continuum of care; and

WHEREAS, In recognition of her professional accomplishments and
contributions to healthcare leadership, Sherly Demosthenes-Atkinson has
been honored by the Hofstra University Master of Health Administration
Alumni Association and, in 2021, was appointed to the Dean's Advisory
Board of Hofstra University's School of Health Professions and Human
Services; and

WHEREAS, Guided by a deep commitment to dignity, equity, and access
in healthcare, Sherly Demosthenes-Atkinson has remained steadfast in her
advocacy for aging in place and community-based care, exemplified by her
guiding principle: "Until aging in place is an option for all, the
pursuit continues"; and

WHEREAS, The Presidential Installation Ceremony of Sherly
Demosthenes-Atkinson marks a historic milestone for CABS Health Network
and stands as a fitting occasion to celebrate her trailblazing
leadership, her impact on New York's healthcare landscape, and her
continued dedication to service, innovation, and compassionate care;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
recognize and commend Sherly Demosthenes-Atkinson, first female
President and Chief Executive Officer of CABS Health Network, upon the
occasion of her Presidential Installation on January 31, 2026, and to
extend its highest esteem for her outstanding leadership, service, and
contributions to public health and community wellbeing; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Sherly Demosthenes-Atkinson and to CABS Health Network as
a lasting expression of the respect and appreciation of this Legislative
Body.