Howard Beach, New York, resident Jacqueline Gagliano, was recently named “Woman of the Year” by Zonta International, a leading global organization of professionals that empower women worldwide through service and advocacy. Mrs. Gagliano was recognized for her 30 years of humanitarian work for women’s rights, the protection and welfare of children and for promoting Italian culture. She was also honored by New York City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park).
Gagliano has served on the faculty of The City University of New York and New York University, where she taught graduate and undergraduate classes in early childhood development, family psychodynamics and treatment protocol. While on-staff for the New York State Office of Mental Health, she supervised graduate interns in social work and psychology. She is a licensed psychotherapist and board certified diplomat with more than 30 years of professional experience working with women, children and families.
For five years, Gagliano served as the Director of In-Service Training for the Department of Family and Children Services, Archdiocese of New York. She has studied and worked abroad in Madrid, Rome and Guadalajara, Mexico, and lived on a kibbutz in Israel for two months. Visiting small pueblos of Mexico City, the mountains in Cali and the city streets in Caracas, she witnessed the poverty of children and the exploitation of women and from this, organized health resources into her practice.
Gagliano has also been a strong voice promoting the richness of her Italian heritage. She is a second- generation Italian American with deep roots in the tradition and values taught by her grandparents and parents. As a Board Member of Bella Italia Mia and the Association of Italian American Educators, she was a catalyst in recognizing talent in education, music, film and Italian cuisine.
Additionally, Gagliano is a member of the American Association of the University of Women, the Italian Welfare League and Famee Furlane of North America. As a board member of the Italian American Women’s Center, she has been instrumental in awarding scholarships to high school students bound for college.
“Women and children internationally have one voice to be recognized and validated,” Gagliano said. “I’d like to thank Councilman Ulrich for this recognition. I am truly humbled.”
“Jacqueline is the epitome of a good citizen, having dedicated her life to advocacy,” Ulrich said. “I commend Jacqueline on this much-deserved honor. Your tireless commitment to our community has not gone unnoticed.”
