Former First Lady Of NY To Deliver Kingsborough Commencement Address

Matilda Raffa Cuomo, wife of former Governor Mario Cuomo, will deliver the address at Kingsborough Community College’s 47th commencement ceremony, the school has announced.

Matilda and Mario Cuomo will also be honored with the President’s Medal at the ceremony, which takes place June 12 on the school grounds at 2001 Oriental Boulevard.

From the school’s press release:

As first lady of New York, Mrs. Cuomo was dedicated to service. She diligently worked full time as a volunteer with state and elected officials, as well as community leaders, to establish programs to prevent child abuse, strengthen families, promote adoption for foster care children and prevent school dropout. She is the founder of “Mentoring USA,” an organization that has provided supportive mentors to more than 5,000 children. Mrs. Cuomo has been described as the most active first lady in New York’s history.

“We are honored that Mrs. Cuomo will deliver Kingsborough’s commencement address,” said [Dr. Regina Peruggi, president of Kingsborough Community College]. “She is an inspirational and dynamic leader whom I have admired for many years. She recognized the necessity for broad range support and mentorship for young people in need across the state and graciously fulfilled it. Her dedication to education and community service is unparalleled and is a model for our Kingsborough students. I am extraordinarily pleased to award her and Former Governor Cuomo the President’s Medal in recognition of their devotion and commitment to serving the people of New York State.”

The Class of 2012 valedictorian is Nelli Sidorova. Ms. Sidorova, 27, is a native of Russia, a business major and has a perfect GPA of 4.00. She has been actively involved in the Honors Program, served as an Honors representative and has been a leader in a number of Business Clubs and activities.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/06/06/4542958/matilda-raffa-cuomo-former-first.html#storylink=cpy