March was Women’s History Month, and in celebration, New York State Sen. Monica R. Martinez has announced the names of nine extraordinary female leaders from the Fourth Senatorial District recognized for their contributions.

“The Fourth Senatorial District has so many strong and transformative female leaders,” Sen. Martinez said.  “Their influence spans various fields, but they are unified by an unwavering commitment to our community.  I am honored to have this opportunity to celebrate just a few of them each year and the impacts they've had on our region.”

The honorees selected were:

Lydia Bernardo | FIRST RESPONDER LEADERSHIP 

Lydia Bernardo has dedicated over two decades of service to the West Babylon Rescue Squad, consistently demonstrating compassion, reliability, and commitment.  At 74, she remains an active responder and a steady, trusted presence within her department, embodying the true spirit of volunteerism.

Reverend Tyra L. Frazier | RELIGIOUS LEADER 

Reverend Tyra L. Frazier, Pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Bay Shore, Long Island, is known for her powerful preaching and compassionate leadership.  She leads outreach initiatives including food pantries, school supply drives, and holiday programs, making a lasting impact on her congregation and community.

Helen Liriano | NOT-FOR-PROFIT LEADERSHIP 

Helen Liriano serves as Vice President for Finance & Administration at Long Island Cares, where she plays a vital role in supporting the organization’s mission to combat food insecurity across Long Island.  With a strong background in finance and leadership, she oversees key operational areas and helps ensure the delivery of nutritious meals to communities in need.  Her career spans roles in banking and nonprofit leadership, and she remains actively involved in community organizations and mentorship, particularly supporting young women.  Helen’s dedication to service and strategic impact continues to strengthen both her organization and the broader community.

Marisa Marciano | COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER LEADER 

Marisa is a dedicated volunteer and Board Member of the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition, providing compassionate support to individuals facing cancer through hands-on assistance and healing work.  A former recipient of the organization’s services, she gives back with deep commitment, strengthening both the community and the coalition’s mission.

Elfrieda Parrilla | COMMUNITY LEADER 

Sister Elfrieda Parrilla is the dedicated Coordinator of the Helping Hands Food Pantry at Bethel A.M.E. Church, serving her community with compassion and commitment for over a decade.  Through her leadership, countless families receive essential support, delivered with dignity and care. Her faithful service has made a lasting and meaningful impact on the Bay Shore community.

Amber Marie Smith | VETERAN LEADER 

Amber M. Smith is a U.S. Air Force veteran, legal professional, entrepreneur, and community advocate.  She served as a missile security operator, works as a legal assistant supporting clients through challenging circumstances, and founded The Tipsy Trolley, a mobile bartending business.  Committed to service and community, Amber volunteers extensively and exemplifies leadership, resilience, and compassion in all she does.

Elizabeth Solomon | EDUCATION LEADERSHIP 

For decades, Mrs. Elizabeth Solomon has made a lasting impact on the Farmingdale school community through her engaging and purposeful teaching.  She challenges students with high expectations while providing the support they need to succeed, creating a structured, immersive classroom where meaningful learning thrives.

Nancy Tyson | LAW ENFORCEMENT LEADER 

Investigator Tyson serves in the Grievance Unit of the Suffolk County Correctional System, where she reviews and resolves inmate complaints with professionalism, fairness, and sound judgment.  Her work helps maintain order, transparency, and trust within the facility, contributing to a safer and more accountable environment.  Known for her integrity and dedication, she leads by example and reflects a strong commitment to ethical public service.

Kami Waszkiewicz | BUSINESS LEADER 

Kami Waszkiewicz is the co-founder of Kami’s Kleaners, LLC, a family-owned business built on service, compassion, and community impact.  Since 2019, she has grown the company, helping clients improve their quality of life while also creating meaningful job opportunities.  Guided by strong values of integrity and care, Kami’s leadership continues to support both individuals and the broader community.

All of the honorees were recognized during a luncheon held on Friday, March 27, 2026, in Bay Shore.  The ceremony also included a panel discussion with Dr. Camile A. Gooden, Dr. Helen Pass, and Dr. Maria Pere from the NYU Langone Health system who specialize in women’s health issues.