United Way of New York State Honoring Three at Albany Event

ALBANY, NY (03/22/2010)(readMedia)-- Two long-time human services advocates and a statewide elected official will be recognized by United Way of New York State on Monday evening, March 22 in the 2nd floor War Room of the State Capitol, from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

The three honorees are:

• Carol Saginaw, Executive Director of the Early Care and Learning Council

• Karen Schimke, President, Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy

• Thomas P. DiNapoli, New York State Comptroller

B.J. Costello, Chair of the Board of Directors, and Susan Hager, President of United Way of New York State will present the awards at a reception attended by board members, local United Ways, human service advocates and state colleagues.

Mr. Costello stated that "These three individuals epitomize the highest standard of true leadership and have devoted their careers to living by that example. Our state is much the better for it."

In presenting the award to Ms. Saginaw, Susan Hager noted, "Carol possesses a single minded passion when it comes to advocating to young children. She has been a leader on many issues, including the development of New York's Quality Rating system which will help improve the quality of early care and learning programs across the state."

Of Ms. Schimke, Mrs. Hager noted her previous career in county and state government, prior to becoming one of New York's premier human services advocates. "Karen has been in the forefront of many important issues including child welfare and adult homes reform, a champion for pre-k and home visiting programs, and a recognized spokesperson on issues that need the spotlight of public scrutiny."

In presenting the award to Mr. DiNapoli, Mr. Costello said: "In Thomas DiNapoli we have an elected official who has gone about his work with the storm swirling around him, calmly determined to execute his responsibilities with the highest degree of professionalism and integrity.

Mr. DiNapoli has demonstrated his willingness to go beyond what is merely required, to set the highest standards for himself and his agency, and to champion issues with a view towards producing results."

Mr. Costello noted that Mr. DiNapoli has:

• Critiqued the state budget, state agency and school district performance objectively, providing a path to corrective action and improvement.

• Taken on consumer issues like tuition costs, gas prices, gift cards, Thruway tolls, text book prices, and leveling the playing field for minority and women owned businesses.

• Issued an important report on Childhood Obesity and Wellness demonstrating his commitment to real action and attention by schools and policymakers.

• Developed new regulations to strengthen the prompt contracting law, provided extensive training to state agencies, and has published state agency performance on prompt contracting in an effort to improve outcomes.

• Is promoting proposals to streamline oversight, improve access to credit, expedite contracts and payments, and encourage strategic alliances and shared services.

Costello concluded: " Tom and the staff at OSC have been consistent champions for New Yorkers at a time when this kind of leadership is most needed. We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation."

-30-