Annual Recognition Honors Adult Advocates for Youth Who Embody Spirit of Public Service
The Westchester County Youth Bureau and Youth Board recognized three outstanding individuals with the annual Rosemarie Siragusa Award: Rosemarie Eller, City of White Plains School District Board of Education Member; Rudy Coombs, Youth Shelter of Westchester Board Member and community advocate; and Dr. Bettye Perkins, Today’s Students Tomorrow’s Teachers Founder and Chief Executive Officer. The award is presented in recognition of Westchester County residents who demonstrate exemplary dedication to children, youth and families through their volunteer work.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Rosemary Siragusa understood the value of creating a community of caring, civically engaged youth. These honorees who tirelessly dedicate their time and efforts towards the enrichment of our young people and future is what this award is all about, helping to keep the legacy of Rosemarie Siragusa alive. Being joined by 14 members of the Siragusa family today means that her legacy is still very much alive. We welcome them and congratulate each honoree for their role in uplifting Westchester’s youth.”
Westchester County Youth Bureau Executive Director Ernest McFadden said: “The Rosemarie Siragusa Memorial Youth Service Award is a cherished tradition of the Westchester County Youth Bureau and Youth Board, rooted in the belief that every act of service has the power to inspire, empower and create brighter futures for our young people. This award celebrates the compassion, commitment and generosity of individuals whose dedication makes a lasting difference in the lives of youth and helps build a stronger, more vibrant community for all.”
Westchester County Youth Board Chair Dr. Alexandria Connally said: “The Rosemarie Siragusa Awards celebrate the remarkable leaders who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to championing and uplifting the youth of Westchester County. This year, we are incredibly proud to honor Rudy Coombs, Rosemarie Eller and Dr. Bettye Perkins. Their tireless advocacy, leadership, and dedication truly embody the spirit of Rosemarie Siragusa’s legacy. By investing their hearts and expertise into our young people, they are not only changing individual lives but are building a stronger, more supportive community for generations to come.”
About the Rosemarie Siragusa Awards
The Rosemarie Siragusa Award is given in memory of Rosemarie Siragusa, the founder and first chairperson of the Westchester County Youth Board. Ms. Siragusa, who dedicated her life to helping children, served on the PTA at the local, county and state levels until she became the President of the Yonkers Council of PTAs. Desiring to serve in a greater capacity, she became a trustee and an officer of the Yonkers Board of Education.
Since 2012, this award has been presented annually to adult advocates for youth who have embodied the work of Rosemarie Siragusa and her commitment to serving youth and their families in Westchester County.