McDonough named 'Woman of Distinction'

MAHOPAC, N.Y.—As Carmel Town Councilwoman Suzy McDonough’s political career winds down, the lifelong Mahopac resident has been honored as a Woman of Distinction.

The awards were bestowed by state Assemblyman Matt Slater (R, C-Yorktown) at a ceremony at Town Hall last week. Slater honored seven women from each town within his 94th Assembly District, including McDonough, saying they all “serve as an example of the values of their communities.”

“It’s truly an honor to stand alongside these remarkable women who represent the very best of our communities,” said Slater. “They go above and beyond, both personally and professionally, and remind us of the power of compassion and real leadership. In a time when selflessness is increasingly rare, these women set a shining example.”

McDonough has served 16 years—four terms—on the Town Board but has decided not to seek another term and will retire from government service.

A mother of five with 10 grandchildren, McDonough has a long record of community service and activism. She was a coach for the Special Olympics, renovated veteran homes with the charity Purple Heart Homes, organized the annual veterans Thanksgiving dinner held at Putnam County Golf Course that has served more than 2,000 meals. She also served as director of St. John’s CYO basketball, was MSA secretary and basketball coach, and founded the Jimmy McDonough Foundation which helps families affected by cancer. She was a volunteer for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, served as a Cub Scout den mother, and traveled to Washington, DC with WWII veterans.

“She is an unwavering advocate for her constituents, has enhanced the town’s fiscal health, and has been instrumental in the advancement of important initiatives such as expanding town services and working to increase community development” Slater said in a statement. “In addition to her public service, Suzy has made a lasting impact as a community advocate, through her leadership of the Jimmy McDonough Foundation, and her work with local military veterans. This year will be Suzy’s final term on the Town Board; however, her leadership, integrity, work ethic, and unwavering dedication to public service will be her legacy that will continue to inspire future leaders in Carmel.”

McDonough said the recognition was “very unexpected.”

“For them to nominate me was pretty cool,” she said. “But I do what I do because I love it and don’t expect pats on the back. For them to show me the love was pretty incredible.

“The day after I found out, I told the Town Board that I was honored that I get so serve in such a beautiful community,” she added. “To go out now like this is the icing on the cake.”

Supervisor Mike Cazzari, who serves alongside McDonough on the Town Board, praised her years of commitment to the people of Carmel.

“Suzy McDonough has spent years working hard for the people of Carmel,” he said. “Her dedication, care, and love for this community have made a real difference, and we’re proud to honor her as a true Woman of Distinction.”