Senator Flanagan Announces Suffolk County Legislator Kennedy As 2018 Woman Of Distinction

Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan (2nd Senate District) recently honored Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy of Nesconset as his 2018 Woman of Distinction.  To celebrate the event, Senator Flanagan welcomed Legislator Kennedy and her husband John, the Suffolk County Comptroller, to Albany to take part in a special Senate Women of Distinction ceremony.

Senator Flanagan recognized Legislator Kennedy for her selfless dedication to the community and her efforts on behalf of all the residents of Suffolk County.  A lifelong Long Islander who was born and raised in Commack, she has committed her life to making a difference for all she has served throughout her years in public service, in the healthcare field and in the private sector.

Leslie worked for over 13 years as a legislative aide in the Suffolk County Legislature before joining the body as a member in 2015.  A dedicated public servant, Legislator Kennedy is a constant presence throughout the Towns of Smithtown and Brookhaven by always working to protect the way of life of all of her constituents.  While in office, Legislator Kennedy has focused on protecting taxpayers, preserving the Long Island environment and ensuring the safety of students in her community.

To that end, Leslie is continuing her education at Suffolk County Community College’s Credential in Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counseling (CASAC) program in an effort to better serve the residents of Long Island.

Prior to her service in government, she attended nursing school at Suffolk County Community College and worked at Mather Hospital in a variety of capacities for over 30 years.  She has also worked in the private sector and at a rehabilitation facility working with individuals with substance abuse issues.

Legislator Kennedy and her husband John are the proud parents of John, Kristen, Brian and Gillian.

“Legislator Kennedy is a devoted public servant who is a great role model for all of the young women in our region.  She is a tireless advocate for her constituents who overcame her health crisis to continue her efforts to make life better for all who live in Suffolk County.  Her dedication, in partnership with her husband John, has truly made a difference and I am proud to have the opportunity to name her our 2018 Woman of Distinction,” stated Senator Flanagan.

“It is an immense privilege to be recognized by the New York State Senate as the 2018 Woman of Distinction for the work I have done in my community. I am humbled by the opportunity to hold this title and I intend to continue my work to better the lives of the people of Suffolk County,” said Legislator Kennedy.

The Senate’s Women of Distinction program was created in 1998 to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence, or whose professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New York residents.