Ohio State Rep. Nickie Antonio Named the Gertrude W. Donahey Award Winner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 27, 2011
Contact: Press Office

State Rep. Nickie Antonio Named the Gertrude W. Donahey Award Winner
Award Presented at 2011 Ohio Democratic Party State Dinner

COLUMBUS – On Saturday, June 25, State Representative Nickie Antonio was presented the Gertrude W. Donahey Award at the Ohio Democratic Party’s 2011 State Dinner. The award was presented to Antonio by Congresswoman Betty Sutton.

As the first woman ever elected to statewide office in Ohio, Gertrude Walton Donahey opened the door to greater opportunity for all women. Her decades of leadership, activism, courage and dedication to the people of Ohio earned her three terms as Ohio Treasurer, and an honored place in Ohio history. The leadership she exhibited as a member of a wide range of professional and political organizations has made her name forever synonymous with the highest ideals of public service. The Gertrude W. Donahey Award recognizes Ohio women who serve our state and the Democratic Party with unparalleled spirit and dedication.

“This award winner has a proven track record as an effective, cooperative and transparent legislator who is a champion for Ohio's children and families,” said Sutton as she presented the award. “Since making history in 2010 as the first openly gay or lesbian legislator elected to serve in the Ohio General Assembly, she has tackled one of the most pressing issues affecting children today—bullying in our schools. As a trailblazer for women and the LGBT community, she has made a name for herself by fighting back forcefully against Republican attacks on women's rights. Her spirit and dedication to her state, her constituents and her Party have exemplified her as a trusted and passionate leader.”