American Association of University Women (AAUW) Honor Senator April N.M. Baskin

May 21, 2025

Contact: Brenda Alesii, Communications Director; M: 716-861-7288; Balesii@NYSenate.gov

American Association of University Women (AAUW) Honor Senator April N.M. Baskin 

Baskin Named Recipient of AAUW Buffalo Achievement Award, Citing Character and Achievements

Buffalo, NY –    Since 1940, the Buffalo Branch of AAUW has annually selected an outstanding woman of the Buffalo/Western New York area whose attainments, character, and achievement merit recognition and that dignify the position of women in the community.

On May 17, 2025, Senator April N.M. Baskin was honored by the AAUW Buffalo Branch with their Achievement Award due to her accomplishments in serving the community that began even before her political career. Senator Baskin founded the College Stimulation Experience with the sole purpose of preparing our youth to be successful in college.  

In 2019, she made history as the youngest legislator and the first freshman ever to serve as Chairwoman of the Erie County Legislature, a position she held throughout her tenure. Now as a Senator, she’s made history again by being the first Black woman to win that Senate seat where she has now taken on the fight for lasting opportunities and systemic reforms that uplift the residents of Buffalo, Cheektowaga, and Lackawanna.

“Senator Baskin exemplifies the victories women have fought for and won throughout history in the U.S. She's in her position thanks to the brave pioneers who wouldn't take no for an answer when it came to suffrage, economic rights, as well as gaining greater access to an education.  The ratification of the 19th amendment in 1920, along with the Voting Rights Act of 1965 not only paved the way for Senator Baskin to vote, but to run for office,” said Lilyen Mascellino, AAUW Buffalo 2025 president.  

It's vital that we remember where we've come from, Mascellino added. “As a legislator and now as a Senator, her dedication to constituents align with the mission of AAUW; To advance equality for women and girls through research, education & advocacy.”

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