GOLDENS BRIDGE, N.Y. - One of Lewisboro’s own has been honored as a “Changemaker” in celebration of Black History Month.
LaTeasha Stapleton, a resident of Goldens Bridge, was among 14 recipients of the award at a ceremony hosted by Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) at Dominican University in Orangeburg on Friday, Feb. 6.
Director and a past president of the Westchester Black Women’s Political Caucus – Greater Bedford Chapter, she is also a district leader on the Lewisboro Democratic Committee.
The caucus’ stated mission is to encourage greater participation of Black women “in all phases of the political process” and to support causes and issues that – or people who – “advance the socio-economic and political position of women and minorities.”
“It was an honor to recognize some of the extraordinary individuals who make our communities stronger, more compassionate, and more vibrant every single day. These are the leaders, the trailblazers, and the quiet heroes who lift up our neighbors and strengthen our communities across Dutchess, Rockland, Putnam, and Westchester Counties,” Lawler said before presenting the honorees with proclamations.
Stapleton was lauded for her ability to foster “dialogue and understanding across party lines,” something that supports “inclusive participation” in the democratic process and empowers community members “to exercise their voice and influence in local and national elections.”
It’s Stapleton’s “dedication to civic leadership, advocacy, and community engagement” that “strengthens the political voice of the community and inspires future generations of leaders,” the proclamation read.
Stapleton was nominated for the award by Nzingha Milanes, chair of the North Salem Republican Town Committee.
The other Westchester recipient was Brian Austin of Peekskill.
OTHER ‘CHANGEMAKERS’
Representing Putnam County as “Changemakers” were Alicia Briley of Carmel and Piaget Solpiaget of Mahopac.
Briley is president and curator of the Carmel Historical Society, which covers Carmel, Mahopac, Mahopac Falls, and the Lake Secor area.
Solpiaget is executive director of Putnam Northern Westchester Women's Resource Center, a nonprofit based in Mahopac.
BRILEY
Briley has deeply rooted historical ties to the community through her indigenous and Revolutionary War ancestry.
According to the proclamation presented by Lawler, the teacher of dance, history, and science is someone who fosters “educational growth and interdisciplinary learning” – with a particular focus on STEM. She “embodies leadership” by presenting and promoting local history, ensuring that the community’s heritage is celebrated and remembered.
Briley frequently makes presentations highlighting the beliefs, traditions, and history not only of her own family but of local indigenous people as well.
She is the former town historian of Carmel.
"Through her ongoing commitment to education, history, and service, she continues to make meaningful contributions that strengthen and enrich the community," the proclamation read.
“It was a great honor to receive the award. There’s still a lot of work to be done,” Briley told Halston Media.
SOLPIAGET
As the center’s executive director, Solpiaget leads “trauma-informed services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence across the region,” the proclamation said, adding that the community advocate “has dedicated his life to advancing safety, healing, and prevention through innovative programs and cross-sector collaboration.”
Furthermore, it read, his leadership “reflects a deep commitment to compassion and justice, strengthening support systems and empowering individuals and families to heal and thrive.”
“Receiving the changemaker from Congressman Mike Lawler is both a humbling honor and a powerful reminder of the responsibility we carry as leaders in our communities. This recognition is not just about me, it represents the tireless work of our staff, board, partners, and the many survivors who have trusted us with their stories and their healing,” Solpiaget told Halston Media.
He was the first man in the nonprofit’s 45-year history to be appointed as its leader.
The PNWWRC’s mission is to advocate, educate, provide, and support services to foster a safer community, eliminate violence against women and children, and promote gender equality.
Counting full-time staff and volunteers, about 50 people work for PNWWRC, which relies on donations and grants to keep its doors open. It serves approximately 1,500 women a year.
ROCKLAND RECIPIENTS
Honorees from Rockland County were Brandon K. Smith, Dr. Clement Y. Osei, Cynthia Vaughan-Williams, David Johnson, Dr. Edmund W. Gordon, Dr. Nathaniel Demosthene, Elena D. Lavalas, Jackenton Lavalasse, Pastor Keith Fray, and Rahman J. Dukes.
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