Friday, October 2, 2026
Merrick resident Allison Sussman has spent years giving back through education, the PTA and the local Jewish community — work she says was inspired by the example set by her parents and the future she wants for her children.
That commitment was recognized Sept. 17, when Sussman was among 14 women honored at State Sen. Steve Rhoads’ fourth annual Women of Distinction ceremony at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Library.
Sussman, a wife and mother of two, spent 15 years as a reading specialist and currently serves as co-president of the PTA at Norman J. Levy Lakeside School.
She is also a longtime leader at the Merrick Jewish Centre. Her involvement has included efforts to strengthen the Jewish community, combat antisemitism and ensure that the stories of survivors of the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel are heard.
For Sussman, community service is something she learned early in life.
“My parents have always inspired me through the example they set and taught me the importance of giving back and making a difference,” she said. “I’ve always believed that every person has the ability to make an impact, whether big or small, and that strong communities are built when people choose to get involved.”
Her work has taken different forms, from supporting children and families through the Lakeside PTA to her involvement with the Merrick Jewish Centre and advocacy against antisemitism.
Sussman said her children have also influenced her desire to remain involved in the community.
“So much of it is also inspired by my own children and my desire to leave the world a little better for them,” she said.
The annual Women of Distinction ceremony recognizes women from across the 5th Senate District for their professional accomplishments, volunteerism, advocacy and community service. Honorees this year came from communities including Merrick, Bellmore, East Meadow, Wantagh, Seaford, Levittown, Hicksville and Farmingdale.
“Every year, this ceremony reminds me of the incredible people who make our communities so special,” Rhoads said. “These 14 women have each made a lasting impact in their own unique way, and it was a privilege to recognize them and thank them for all they have done.”
The evening included a keynote address by Shashi Malik, president of the Seva Center for Humanity and a 2025 New York State Senate Woman of Distinction. Members of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County also took part in the program, which featured several musical performances.
Rhoads presented Sussman and the other honorees with Women of Distinction awards recognizing their contributions.
For Sussman, however, the honor was about more than recognition of her own work. She said she hopes it encourages others to consider how they, too, can contribute to their communities.
“Being recognized by Senator Rhoads as a Woman of Distinction was truly an incredible honor,” Sussman said. “To be recognized for work that means so much to me personally was incredibly meaningful, and I hope it encourages others to see the impact they can have in their own communities.”
