Health

Dignitaries Gather to Honor Women in Healthcare

Apr 6, 2022

New York State Senator James Sanders was proud to stand with the honorees and recognize them for their achievements.

QUEENS – Senator James Sanders Jr., joined by U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, honored dozens of women in healthcare as part of his Women’s History Month event held on Friday, March 25, 2022 at the Rochdale Village Ballroom.

“I am proud to be here with you, during this National Women’s Month at this event that James has done such a great job putting together, and I am proud to say that we are so proud here in New York of our women who really make this country and this city a great place,” said Senator Schumer.

All of the nominees received a certificate of recognition, the entries came from hospitals, healthcare facilities and providers from all over the district including Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, Queens Health + Hospitals, and The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center.

Sherry Algredo receives the 2021 Woman of Distinction award, since last year’s ceremony in Albany was not held due to COVID precautions.

“Women in healthcare save lives everyday, especially as frontline workers during the pandemic, so it is only fitting that we honor them during Women’s History Month,” Senator Sanders said. “Women are an important part of history and of our lives. They are often the backbone of the family unit and globally provide strength in times of peril.”’

The three top winners received a framed proclamation and an acrylic block with commemorative coin called the Senate Commendation Award, an honor which is given to recognize exceptional people who have made a lasting contribution to their community.
The top honorees were: Phara Carolei, Program Director at Rochdale Village NORC, Radica Rampersaud, a Respiratory Therapist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, and Jennifer A. Henry, Assistant Head Nurse at Health + Hospitals Queens.

The most nominees came from St. John’s Episcopal Hospital with 22 entries.

The Mistress of Ceremonies was the Rev. Dr. Brenda Archer and entertainment was provided by singer Jaden Gabb, International Dancer Za-man and his fusion dance troupe, and DJ Warren.

Also honored at the ceremony was Sherry Algredo, the Senator Sanders’ 2021 Woman of Distinction. Since the annual ceremony which is usually held in Albany was cancelled, she was presented with her award plaque at the Women’s History Event.

The event was conducted in partnership with Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Congressman Gregory Meeks, Assembly Member Vivian Cook, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and the Rochdale Village Community Relations Committee.