(GREECE, NY) - Today, Senator Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester), announced Carla Palumbo, Esq. and Sergeant Larry “Gunny” Strassner as this year’s honorees for the New York State Women of Distinction Award and the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame, respectively. Senator Cooney selected both individuals for their decades of service, leadership, and profound impact on the Greater Rochester community.

Carla M. Palumbo, Esq. worked tirelessly for over four decades to ensure the availability of competent civil legal services to all. In 2014, after 30 years of service with The Legal Aid Society of Rochester [LASROC], Carla was elevated to President and CEO. Prior to that, Carla served as the Chief Operating Officer; Director, Civil Division; Program Director; and Civil Program Staff Attorney. She was responsible for developing and managing the innovative Domestic Violence Program which was at the forefront of raising awareness and providing representation for survivors. Carla has devoted her time and talents to serving in other leadership positions, as well. Carla was a member of the Rochester City Council from 2007 to 2015 serving as Chair of the Neighborhood and Business Development Committee. She was a member of the Monroe County Legislature from 2001 to 2007 and served as Minority Leader. Carla is currently Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of Monroe Community College.

Sergeant Larry “Gunny” Strassner enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1966 where he served on active duty until 1972 and continued his service in the United States Marine Corps Reserve until 1976, ultimately achieving the rank of E-7, Gunnery Sergeant. Gunny earned numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with three devices; Vietnam Campaign Medal with device; Naval Achievement Medal with Combat “V”; Purple Heart; Navy Unit Commendation; Combat Action Medal; Presidential Unit Citation Medal; and more. A dedicated volunteer, he has served in leadership roles with American Legion Post 468, VFW Post 4658, and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 20. Since 2009, he has been a devoted Honor Flight Rochester volunteer and trip leader, reflecting his unwavering respect for fellow veterans.

The Women of Distinction Award is given out each year, honoring women who have made outstanding contributions to the community. Each State Senator annually selects one individual to honor in recognition of their fierce advocacy for change. Honorees continue to lead the path toward progress for others, and are regarded as role models in their communities. 

The New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is an annual program honoring New York veterans who have distinguished themselves in both military and civilian life. Each year, each State Senator nominates a resident from their district.

NYS Senator Jeremy Cooney

“It’s important we recognize Rochesterians who are quietly doing the work and positively impacting our community. Each year, it’s my pleasure to select a ‘Woman of Distinction’ honoree and Veterans Hall of Fame inductee - two Monroe County residents making a significant contribution to better Greater Rochester. This year, I honored two Greece residents - Legal Aid Society CEO, Carla Palumbo, and Sergeant Larry Strassner, a Vietnam veteran active with local service organizations. In each of their own ways, they have devoted themselves to helping, protecting and supporting their neighbors in Rochester.”

Carla Palumbo, Esq., Women of Distinction Award Recipient

“I am honored to receive the Women of Distinction award from Senator Cooney. To be recognized alongside so many other remarkable women is humbling and meaningful. I'm grateful for the opportunity to do the work that I do. I know how important Senator Cooney is to the community that I serve.”

Gunnery Sergeant Larry “Gunny” Strassner, Veteran Hall of Fame Inductee

"It’s an honor to be recognized here at home, at a ceremony with friends and family. I always say, it’s not work if you love it. That’s how I feel about the time I’ve spent volunteering, happy to give back to my community."

Jeff McCann, Greece Town Supervisor

"I'm honored to welcome Senator Cooney and distinguished honorees Carla Palumbo and Larry "Gunny" Strassner to Town Hall for this meaningful ceremony. This is a great opportunity to recognize residents who go 'above and beyond' in service to their community, and we're proud that Carla and Gunny call Greece home. We're grateful to Senator Cooney for taking time to recognize these special individuals."

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