Hon. Dr. Dorcey Applyrs
Albany First Ward Common Councilwoman; Faculty Program Director, School of Health Sciences, Excelsior College

Hon. Dr. Dorcey Applyrs is helping change the face of politics in Albany, giving women a louder voice and encouraging them to participate. As a councilwoman, she focuses on bringing families and communities together and dedicates her expertise in public health and advocacy to tackling health disparity and environmental safety issues affecting her constituents.

Carmen “Coach Carmen” Duncan
Chief Coach and Founder, Mission Accomplished Transition Services

As founder of Mission Accomplished, Carmen “Coach Carmen” Duncan is “a voice for those who do not have one, who have not found theirs, or who need someone to join them in raising challenging issues that improve our region.” She has been recognized by numerous Capital Region organizations for her leadership role and as a driving force who will help shape the future in a positive way.

Hon. Karen B. Johnson
Vice Chair, Schenectady County Legislature; Planned Giving Manager, Proctors

Hon. Karen B. Johnson has served in elective office for 32 years, though that was not a long-time ambition. Her dedication to the community and intelligent, calm and considered approach helped her make great strides in changing Schenectady for the better. She is known for living and leading as a role model for giving back to the community in which she lives.

(Photo credit: Daily Gazette 11/5/2013)