PROVIDENCE, R.I. - First Gentleman Andy Moffit today met with former Rhode Island First Ladies- Marilyn Almond, Suzanne Carcieri, Margherite Garrahy, Dorothy Licht and Marjorie Sundlun to recognize their important roles.
"Together, these remarkable women have a combined 32 years of experience in the role of First Lady and they all made a significant mark on Rhode Island," said Moffit. "I am very pleased that I was able to have the opportunity to learn from them each of them and hear about the distinct opportunities and challenges they faced."
After a conversation with the former First Ladies where they shared their experiences with Moffit, he presented citations in the Governor's State Room to acknowledge their contributions to Rhode Island.
Mrs. Dorothy (Dottie) Licht, First Lady of Rhode Island 1969 - 1973
Mrs. Licht is a strong supporter of education, the arts, and less fortunate Rhode Islanders. She established a lecture series intended to bring newsmakers and prominent public affairs speakers to Brown University. Mrs. Licht served as an Honorary Board Member of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, and is a former member of the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and the New England Foundation for the Arts.
Mrs. Margherite Garrahy, First Lady of Rhode Island 1977 - 1985
Mrs. Garrahy recognizes the importance of supporting the organizations in our community that we all depend on. Her contributions to the St. Patrick Parish school attended by her late husband and brother in law led to the development of St. Patrick Academy and have encouraged students to continue a faith-based legacy of service.
Mrs. Marjorie Sundlun, First Lady of Rhode Island 1991 - 1995
Mrs. Sundlun is dedicated to improving the lives of all Rhode Islanders. Her resolve in overcoming personal challenges and firm commitment to others has inspired those around her to engage in meaningful public works. Mrs. Sundlun was recognized with the Robert "Cy" Killian Humanitarian Award by the Big Brothers of America.
Mrs. Marilyn Almond, First Lady of Rhode Island 1995 - 2003
Mrs. Almond is a strong advocate for improving the quality of life in Rhode Island. She took an active role in public health policy during her tenure as First Lady. Her commitments to the State were recognized with the creation of a scholarship fund in her name at the University of Rhode Island . Mrs. Almond has also been awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters by the University of Rhode Island.
Mrs. Suzanne (Sue) Carcieri, First Lady of Rhode Island 2003 - 2011
A former teacher, Mrs. Carcieri has worked to inspire students and expand access to quality education opportunities, especially in scientific fields. She has also worked to promote healthy living in Rhode Island. Mrs. Carcieri has served as a member of the National Leadership to Keep Children Alcohol Free initiative, an honorary co-chair of the Worksite Wellness Council of Rhode Island, and an honorary member of Rhode Island Women in Higher Education.
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