Senate Resolution No. 1131
BY: Senator WEBB
CELEBRATING the life and accomplishments of Irene
Wald Stein, humanitarian, distinguished citizen and
devoted member of her community
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and this
great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Irene Wald Stein, noting the
significance of her purposeful life and accomplishments; and
WHEREAS, Irene Wald Stein passed away on March 26, 2023, at the age
of 92; and
WHEREAS, Born on July 27, 1930, to immigrant parents in Boston,
Massachusetts, Irene Wald Stein faced societal expectations and
limitations based on her gender and ethnicity, yet she refused to live
within those confines and achieved academic and professional excellence;
and
WHEREAS, Irene Wald Stein's commitment to education and social
justice led her to graduate from Boston University, earn a master's
degree in Child Development and Family Relationships from Cornell
University, and a doctorate in the evaluation of social and educational
programs from the same institution; and
WHEREAS, Irene Wald Stein served the community through both her
employment and volunteer work, including as an evaluation consultant,
Elderly Grants Coordinator, Aging Services Planner, and Director of the
Tompkins County Office for the Aging; and
WHEREAS, In addition, Irene Wald Stein's organizing skills and
leadership roles as an engaged citizen at the local, state, and national
levels, including serving as a Chair of a Tompkins County civic
engagement organization for almost 30 years, made her an invaluable
mentor, advisor, and friend; and
WHEREAS, Irene Wald Stein's incredible commitment to ensuring
women's leadership at every level was remarkable and exemplary; and
WHEREAS, This incredible woman's passion for reading, travel, and
the arts, and her love for her family, including her three children,
Melanie, Margaret, and David, and her late husband Peter, were central
to her life and legacy; and
WHEREAS, Irene Wald Stein's dedication to social justice, democracy,
and giving voice to the marginalized and underrepresented among us, will
continue to inspire and guide us all; and
WHEREAS, Irene Wald Stein's infinite selflessness and benevolence
will shine on through her family's vivid and happy memories; her insight
and strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to
the countless lives she touched; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Irene Wald Stein leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing woman; she
will be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this
Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
celebrate the life and accomplishments of Irene Wald Stein,
humanitarian, distinguished citizen and devoted member of her community;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Irene Wald Stein.
