FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, June 1, 2026
Contact: Soojin Choi |347-556-6335| press@johnliusenate.com 

Flushing, NY - Senator John Liu recognized longtime community leader, educator, and public servant, Barbara Baruch, as his 2026 New York State Senate Women of Distinction Honoree. 

A lifelong New Yorker, longtime Queens resident, retired public school teacher, and a familiar face in Flushing civic life, Barbara has dedicated her life to education, community service, and civic engagement. 

Born in the Bronx, Barbara attended New York City public schools before attending Brooklyn College. With dreams of becoming a school librarian, Barbara became a public school teacher, spending 33 years instructing students in NYC public schools. In the final years of her career, she fulfilled her dream of becoming a librarian and retired five years later. For 13 years, Barbara proudly served as an active delegate of the United Federation of Teachers General Assembly, acting as a link between school staff and citywide UFT leadership.

Outside of her professional achievements, Barbara has remained deeply involved in civic life, community engagement, and public service. She fondly recalls becoming involved in politics and public service after a young man knocked on her door in Flushing asking for the privilege of her support for his run for City Council. The pair spent the bulk of the afternoon chatting about politics, government, and their vision for their community. The candidate ultimately won her vote, and she even agreed to volunteer for his campaign. That candidate for City Council was John Liu. Over the next couple of decades, Barbara worked with Liu in various public offices, from the New York City Council to City Comptroller, and State Senator. 

In her civic life, Barbara supported organizations like the Bowne Park Civic Association, the 109th Police Precinct Community Council, and the Queens Pride Committee. Barbara also served on her co-op board, which she presided over for several years. 

Barbara takes great pride in the success of her former students. Seeing them thrive and achieve their dreams are among the most rewarding aspects of her career. She is the proud mother of two daughters, Dina and Caryn.

State Senator John Liu stated, “If you’re involved in community matters in Flushing, you probably already know Barbara for her steadfast involvement in community issues, her sharp wit, and her no-nonsense brand of civic engagement. If there’s a problem that needs solving, Barbara won’t mince words and is always the first to call a spade a spade. Her fierce independence and strength of character have made her a lasting and unmistakable presence in our community, and her instinctual compassion and her lifetime of dedicating her time and energy to helping others makes her a true daughter of Queens and a woman of distinction.” 

I have always tried to practice the Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam; to repair and improve the world. Whether through teaching or working with my community to improve the world around us, I’ve always believed that we have a responsibility to leave the world in a better place. 

Barbara Baruch stated, “I’m incredibly honored to be named the New York State Senate’s Woman of Distinction. I have always tried to practice the Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam; to repair and improve the world. Whether through teaching or working with my community to improve the world around us, I’ve always believed that we have a responsibility to leave the world in a better place. I’m deeply grateful for this recognition, and honored to be recognized among so many extraordinary women.”

Danny Dromm, former City Council Member, stated, “I’ve known Barbara for years as a good friend, a dedicated educator, and a community advocate who leaves a lasting mark on everyone she works with. Her decades as a teacher and her commitment to the well-being of her students, both in and outside the classroom, show real compassion and a desire to make a difference. I don’t know anyone more deserving of being named as a Woman of Distinction, and I’m thrilled to see her honored by the State of New York with this recognition.”

Therese Korhais, President of Bowne Park Civic Association, stated, “Barbara has been such a devoted person in helping the community for so many years and in so many ways. Bowne Park Civic Association has been blessed to have her on our team and extremely pleased to see her recognized for her achievements by Senator Liu.”