State Senator Jim Seward honored Susan McGiver of Schoharie as the 2012 Senate "Woman of Distinction" for the 51st Senate district at the 15th annual senate Women of Distinction ceremony at the Capitol.
"Over the years, I have been fortunate to highlight a number of inspirational, trailblazing leaders through the senate's Women of Distinction program, and this year is no different," said Senator Seward.
"Susan McGiver has accomplished a great deal and has served as a driving force in promoting the needs and priorities of the Schoharie County business community."
Ms. McGiver is an award-winning business owner who manages a third-generation family-owned manufacturer, the Harva Company.
The company is a certified woman-owned small business, a leader in manufacturing and engineering and, under her leadership, has initiated a number of innovative workplace programs for employees and their families.
"Along with meeting the day to day challenges of running a business, Susan had to deal with great adversity last year when her Schoharie business was devastated by flood waters associated with Hurricane Irene. Not only did she work around the clock to bring her business back, she also advocated tirelessly for assistance for her fellow business owners and families who suffered major damage," added Senator Seward.
Ms. McGiver also devotes much of her time and energy to community service organizations.
She has held leading roles with Bassett Hospital of Schoharie County, Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care, Schoharie County Chamber of Commerce, SUNY Cobleskill Foundation Board, and the Private Industrial Council of Schoharie, Greene and Columbia Counties.
She also has more than two decades of service with the Schoharie Fire Department Niagara Engine Company No. 6.
The Senate's "Woman of Distinction" program was created in 1998 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.