Staten Island’s “Woman Of Distinction” Awarded By Senator Scarcella-Spanton: Genealogist, Historian, Activist

Senator Scarcella-Spanton Honors Debbie-Ann Paige as 2026 Woman of Distinction for Senate District 23

Editor’s note: Last year, we covered the awards for the Women of Achievement, presented at Nicotra’s Ballroom on Staten Island.  Readers can also learn more about the importance of the Equal Rights Amendment, which would solidify women’s equality with men and penalize discrimination specifically against women, such as in healthcare.

STATEN ISLAND AND BROOKLYN, NY – On May 6, 2026, Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton recognized Debbie-Ann Paige as the New York State Senate 2026 Woman of Distinction for Senate District 23. This prestigious recognition is part of the New York State Senate’s annual “Women of Distinction” program, now in its twenty-eighth year, which honors outstanding women whose contributions have significantly enriched the quality of life in their communities.

The program celebrates women from each Senate District who have made significant contributions through their professional, personal, or volunteer work, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the positive impact they have on New York.

Debbie-Ann Paige, a local historian, genealogist, and activist, has been selected for her exceptional work and unwavering commitment to the community. Specializing in local African American history, she has been involved in local projects with different non-profits across New York City, including the Staten Island Museum, the Brooklyn Historical Society, and the Sandy Ground Historical Society.

In addition to these projects, Debbie-Ann has also appeared as a historical interpreter on “Secrets of New York,” an Emmy-winning television program which seeks to bring awareness to all aspects of the city’s history. She also brings this expertise to the future generations as an adjunct professor at the College of Staten Island, and facilitates various public history forums throughout the borough.

“Debbie-Ann Paige has made a tremendous impact in helping Staten Islanders better connect with their history,” said Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. “It is essential to have someone who takes the time and effort to preserve our borough’s history to ensure that future generations have access to it. Staten Island is often called the Forgotten Borough, and in Debbie-Ann, we have a person who has spent her entire professional life making sure that is not the case. I am extremely grateful for her efforts to enhance our understanding of our history. Debbie-Ann is committed to the growth and betterment of our community, and it is a true honor to recognize her contributions to Senate District 23 with the 2026 Woman of Distinction award.”

Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and Debbie-Ann Paige

“I am so deeply honored to have been selected as a Woman of Distinction by my State Senator, Jessica Scarcella-Spanton,” said Debbie-Ann Paige. “This recognition is so meaningful to me not as an individual achievement, but as a reflection of the communities, stories, and histories I’ve had the privilege to help carry forward. The work I do – as a public historian, genealogist, and educator – has always been rooted in making sure that people who have too often been overlooked are seen, remembered, and honored. I share this recognition with the many individuals, families, and community partners who trust me with their histories and walk alongside me in this work. There is still so much to uncover, preserve, and tell. Grateful for the opportunity – and committed, as always, to the work ahead.”

Senator Scarcella-Spanton was appointed as Chair of the New York State Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, and is a member of the Committees on Civil Service and Pensions, Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation, Disabilities, Labor, and Women’s Issues.

Banner Image:  Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and Debbie-Ann Paige. Image Credit – Sen Scarcella-Spanton