Thursday, October 1, 2026
Franklin Square resident Ellen Andrasick was recognized in Albany as the Nassau County Office for the Aging's 2026 Senior Woman of the Year during the New York State Office for the Aging's annual Senior of the Year luncheon at the Desmond Hotel.
Andrasick attended the luncheon last month alongside Debbie Pugliese, deputy commissioner of the Nassau County Office for the Aging, representing Nassau County among honorees from across New York. The annual event recognizes older adults who have made significant contributions to their communities through volunteerism, advocacy and public service.
Additionally, a trip up to Albany included several opportunities for Andrasick to be honored for her longstanding commitment to the Franklin Square community. She met with her assemblyman, Ed Ra, and state Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, observed both the Assembly and Senate in session and toured the state Capitol.
Ra presented her with an Assembly proclamation commemorating her selection as Nassau County's Senior Woman of the Year. During her visit, Andrasick was also recognized on the Assembly floor.
“Ellen, thank you for a lifetime of service that has strengthened our community in countless ways,” Ra wrote on Instagram.
According to Pugliese, the Nassau County Office for the Aging selected Andrasick as its 2026 honoree. The agency, established in 1968, serves Nassau County residents age 60 and older.
Following her recognition, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman met with Andrasick and praised her dedication to the community.
"Ellen is a remarkable person, and I am so proud to have her represent Nassau County as our Senior Woman of the Year," Blakeman said. "Her community spirit and dedication to helping others have greatly improved the lives of her neighbors and exemplify another reason why Nassau County is the best place to live in New York."
The honor reflects decades of service by Andrasick, a lifelong Nassau County resident. Born and raised in Garden City, she moved to Franklin Square after marrying her husband, Bob. The couple was married for nearly 60 years before his death in 2022. Together they raised two children, Richard and Robert, and have four grandchildren.
Andrasick worked at Nassau Community College for 25 years and currently works in the Town of Hempstead Town Clerk's Office.
Throughout the years, she has become a well-known advocate for the Franklin Square community. Through her involvement in various civic organizations, she has worked to maintain the quality of life for residents and has been a leader among the senior population, advocating for issues ranging from taxes to clean sidewalks and presentable storefronts.
Residents know they can count on Andrasick for help, whether driving neighbors to medical appointments, assisting with fundraising efforts or volunteering her time for community causes. She has also dedicated herself to volunteering with Police Boys Club Basketball.
Volunteerism has long been a part of Andrasick's life. Coming from a family of volunteers, she said she enjoys helping others and finds the work rewarding because it allows her to support those in need, build lifelong friendships and remain active in the community.
Her selection as Nassau County's 2026 Senior Woman of the Year recognizes not only her years of service, but also the lasting impact she continues to have on the lives of Franklin Square residents.
