Women’s Hall of Fame Tribute to Tao

Teresa Kay-Aba Kennedy with Special Tribute Honorees 96-year-old Tao Porchon-Lynch and 95-year-old Nancy E. Fitch at the 31st Annual Women’s Hall of Fame in Tarrytown, NY – 03/27/15

On Friday, March 27, 2015, I joined 96-year-old Yoga Master Tao Porchon-Lynch at the 31st Annual Women’s Hall of Fame Awards and Scholarship Luncheon at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Tarrytown. Tao received a Special Tribute from the Women’s Research and Education Fund (WREF). The Mistress of Ceremonies was Elise Finch, meteorologist for WCBS-TV. Camille Failla Murphy, Executive Director of WREF, did so much to make this event happen. She couldn’t be in attendance and we hope she feels better.

The Hall of Fame acknowledgments are made to women who have made an outstanding contribution to Westchester County in any one or more of the following fields: the arts, athletics, business, education, government, human services, humanitarianism/philanthropy and sciences. This year’s inductee was attorney Barbara Finkelstein. She is the first female CEO of Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, the largest provider of free legal services to low-income and underserved people in Westchester and the Hudson Valley. Marlene Furick, Former Director of the Westchester County Youth Bureau, presented the Special Tribute to Nancy E. Fitch, the first African-American, and the first woman, to hold the post of City Clerk of Mt. Vernon.

Carolyn Glickstein – who nominated Tao – presented the Special Tribute to Tao who was spoken of as “master Yoga teacher, author, businesswoman and social activist.” Tao received the beautiful blue Tribute plaque, as well as TWO framed Proclamations. Westchester County Legislator Michael B. Kaplowitz declared Saturday, March 28, 2015 “Tao Porchon-Lynch Day.” Tao’s name will be displayed on the Westchester County Center’s outdoor message marquee so be sure to check that out! (If you do, please take a picture and send it to info@thetaoexperience.com). Tao delighted the audience with her remarks – including a short story from her World War II days. Check back here for a video of her remarks.

The Women’s Research and Education Fund was established in late 1989 because of the anticipated effect on programs and services that social chances and downsizing would have on women and children in Westchester County. Women comprise 53% of the population of the county and by the year 2000 comprised 50% of the workforce. WREF accumulates studies, analyzes and distributes information concerning the present and future status of women. It promotes the interest of women nationally with particular emphasis on the women and children of Westchester County. It encourages, and assists women to develop their skills and talents through education and training.

The event was sponsored by Avon Products, Inc., College of New Rochelle, Merrill Lynch Global Private Client Group, Stock Family LLC, Stop & Shop, Visiting Nurse Services of Westchester, Inc., Where There’s a Woman, There’s A Way, and an anonymous sponsor.

Check out some of the pictures…

Special Tribute Honorees 96-year-old Tao Porchon-Lynch and 95-year-old Nancy E. Fitch at the 31st Annual Women’s Hall of Fame in Tarrytown, NY – 03/27/15