HUNTINGTON, NY | October 28, 2026
Six women whose leadership, service, and dedication have made a difference across the Town of Huntington were honored at the Women of Distinction celebration on Wednesday, October 28, at the Harbor Club at Prime.
Presented by Huntington Human Services Institute Inc. and the Town of Huntington Division of Women’s Services, the high tea luncheon recognized women whose work spans community advocacy, education, business, public health, charitable service, and local government.
Meet the 2026 Women of Distinction
Councilwoman Theresa Mari has focused on community health, wellness, education, accessibility, and public safety since joining the Huntington Town Board in 2024. Her initiatives include Pink in the Park and the All-Abilities Expo, along with her work supporting the Town’s Opioid and Addiction Task Force and the Wellness Walk for Hope.
Diana Washington, owner of Salon 727, has built a business centered on client care and community relationships. Since July 2025, she has provided complimentary hair services to seniors attending the Huntington Senior Center, donating more than 850 appointments.
Jennifer Cassidy, Vice President and Branch Banking Area Leader at Flagstar Bank, has dedicated 25 years to financial services and more than 15 years to leadership within the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce. She is also Co-Founder and Treasurer of the MaryJayne Casillo Foundation for Cancer Research and Awareness.
Randi Shubin Dresner, President and CEO of Island Harvest Food Bank, has led the organization since 2001, expanding its work in food security, nutrition education, workforce development, and community health. Island Harvest now supports the distribution of more than 17 million meals annually.
Ruthanne Cooley, President of the NAACP Huntington Branch, has devoted more than four decades to community service and leadership. Her work includes mentoring young women, supporting Huntington’s Juneteenth celebrations, and serving on educational and community advisory committees.
Sue Broderick, Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Keith Brown, has advocated for students, families, and community organizations through her work in special education and on the Harborfields Board of Education. As an Executive Board member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, she has organized food drives and fundraisers supporting local families.
Recognizing Women Who Strengthen Huntington
The celebration reflected the mission of the Town of Huntington Division of Women’s Services and its Women’s Advisory Council, which brings together more than 60 nonprofit agencies and community organizations to support women and families through education, advocacy, collaboration, and access to resources.
Together, the six honorees represent the many ways women contribute to Huntington’s businesses, schools, nonprofits, public institutions, and neighborhoods.
Watch the full Women of Distinction presentation, featuring the recognition of this year’s six honorees.
Photography by Dana E. Richter. Presentation Videography and Editing by June Margolin. Reel Video by Dana E. Richter.
