In honor of International Women's Day on March 8th, The Bristal at White Plains hosted an inspirational panel discussion with influential leaders from the greater Westchester region. These women set aside time to meet with residents, to share the insights, experiences, and anecdotes which motivated them to become advocates for the cause.
Residents were honored to have the opportunity to learn about women's contribution to history and hear personal stories from the distinguished female speakers, highlighting the resilience and profound impact that women have had in shaping our communities.
Senator Shelley Mayer has spent her career as an advocate for New Yorkers. During the discussion, Senator Mayer highlighted her mother as her primary inspiration, noting that despite not having a college degree, her mother motivated her to excel academically and professionally. Instilling the value of hard work, Senator Mayer's mother and grandmother encouraged her perseverance and empowered her to continue speaking out for what she believed in. Senator Mayer did just that. She was elected to the New York State Senate to represent the 37th District in an April 2018 Special Election, and was subsequently re-elected in November 2018, 2020, and 2022. Prior to her time in the State Senate, she served in the State Assembly for six years.
White Plains Council President Victoria Presser's journey is a testament to determination and breaking barriers. Raised to believe she could achieve anything, she defied expectations in high school by joining the girl's basketball team, standing at just 4'10". In her college years, in the late 1960s, Hon. Presser became involved in the campus radio station, quickly rising to become the first woman to hold the position of Program Director at Brandeis University. She followed her B.A. in English and American Literature with an M.S. in Journalism from Columbia University, immersing herself in the local Democratic political scene and working for Governor George McGovern's presidential campaign. At age 22, Hon. Presser made history by being elected as a full delegate to the 1972 Democratic National Convention in Miami - becoming both the youngest and the first female delegate. Her story breaking gender barriers in politics and media landscapes is truly inspirational.
Judith Aucar is the Co-Director of El Centro Hispano in White Plains, where she advocates for and empowers the Hispanic community through education, advocacy and social services. Judith shared a deeply personal story, how her family was torn apart by the communist regime in Cuba, an experience which became the driving force behind her commitment to making a positive impact in her community. Her advocacy work is inspired by the desire to empower and uplift those who face similar challenges, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are meet. Through her leadership, Judith continues to champion the values of unity, education and social justice for Hispanic families.
The residents of The Bristal at White Plains were moved by the inspiring stories and powerful messages shared during this International Women's Day panel. Events like this are more than just moments for reflection - they are opportunities for advocacy, connection, and empowerment.
By hosting meaningful discussions with influential leaders, The Bristal continues to champion the causes that matter most to residents, fostering a community that values engagement, learning and positive change. Through these conversations, we celebrate the past, inspire the present, and help shape a future where every story is honored.
