Albany, NY – Carole Coppens, Executive Director of the YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County, was honored as part of the NYS Legislative Women’s Caucus “Women’s History Month” celebration. This year’s theme was “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations.” Carole was nominated for the recognition by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo.

The day’s activities included breakfast with Governor Hochul and a luncheon with the Legislative Women’s Caucus members. Each caucus member chose an outstanding woman from their community for the recognition. During the month of March, the honorees are also featured in a display on the Concourse. This year, a one-word description was used to describe each honoree; the word chosen for Carole Coppens was “tenacious.”

Carole holds a Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Colorado. After assuming the role of Executive Director at YWCA Binghamton and Broome in 2000, she was nominated to the YWCA World Service Council in October 2008, and served two terms on the Board of Directors for the YWCA USA from 2008 to 2013. She currently serves as Vice President for the YWCA of New York.

Carole has dedicated her career to developing comprehensive supportive housing in Broome County, receiving recognition from the NYS Homeless Housing and Assistance Corporation and serving on the Board of the Coalition for the Homeless of the Southern Tier. She was also recognized by the NYS Legislature for outstanding leadership and dedication in restoring the historic YWCA building. Carole currently serves on the Board of Directors, Nominating and Advocacy Committees for the Supportive Housing Network of New York. She is also overseeing the development of the YWCA Intergenerational Campus, which will unite the organization’s childcare and housing resources under one roof. Once completed, the project will bring in a new childcare center and an additional 68 units affordable housing, half of them reserved for survivors of domestic violence.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “I chose to honor Carole Coppens because of her lifetime commitment to the well-being of our community. I’ve worked closely with Carole for many years, seeing firsthand the growth of the YWCA under her leadership. Her efforts to provide emergency shelter, support services, child care, and more is to be commended. Carole’s dedication and passion inspires all who know her.”

Carole Coppens said, “I am honored and thrilled to be recognized by the New York State Assembly in celebrating Women’s History Month for March 2025.Being given this recognition is something I will always cherish.”