Nicole Behrens, a mother, wife and assistant vice president at Merrill Lynch who enjoys riding motorcycles and kayaking, is also a domestic violence survivor, according to Senator Kenneth P. LaValle’s office. Mr. LaValle bestowed the honor on Ms. Behrens late last month in Albany.
“Nicole is an extraordinary individual who is a genuine hero living, working and giving on Long Island’s East End,” Jeffrey Friedman, executive director of The Retreat, a domestic violence shelter and agency in East Hampton, is quoted as saying in a statement issued by Mr. LaValle’s office.
Ms. Behrens has volunteered regularly at The Retreat, where she has worked toward boosting fundraising efforts and ensuring the shelter is fiscally sound. She has also devoted time to speaking and writing to inspire other women to lift themselves and their children from domestic violence.
A native of Port Washington in Nassau County, Ms. Behrens rose through the ranks of her career in financial services, from an assistant on a municipal bond desk to assistant vice president at Merrill Lynch—all while enduring violence at home, the statement reads. “She escaped the violence and went on to help the community in ways that honored and leveraged her personal journey, her story, her professional skills and her passion for helping others,” Mr. LaValle is quoted as saying.
The Senate’s “Women of Distinction” seeks to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence or whose professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New Yorkers.
By Colleen Reynolds May 11, 2011 9:42 AM
May 11, 2011 10:18 AM
