Every year around this time the Town of Hempstead prepares for a special awards program that we hold in March, which has been designated as Women's History Month. Our Pathfinder Awards are presented to women who live or work in the Town of Hempstead and have excelled in designated areas.

Women continue to shape the character of Hempstead Town in a progressive and meaningful way. Our Pathfinder Awards pay tribute to truly outstanding women who represent the thousands of women whose daily activities strengthen the community and encourage its positive development.

We are currently seeking nominations of women who live or work in the town in categories designated for this year's awards ceremony. The nominees should meet the following criteria for the designated categories:

-Outstanding individual who has contributed to the cultural life of the community through theatre, dance, music, art or literature. -Professional woman in a position as owner, CEO or high-level manager of a successful business. -A professional leader, supervisor, administrator or manager who has made a superior contribution to the community. -A professional educator, administrator or director of a public or private institution of learning who has been outstanding in the field. -Individual who has made an outstanding contribution in the health services field. -A young woman who has shown exemplary leadership qualities and serves as an inspiration to others. -An individual in a commercial, professional or non-profit agency or group who has made a significant contribution to the community. -A layperson or para-professional who has made an outstanding contribution to the community.

-Dedicated, dependable achiever whose attitude Employee and performance have been superlative.

To nominate a woman, please contact the Town of Hempstead Office of Communications and Public Affairs at 812-3303 to obtain a nomination form. You may also download an application by visiting the town's website at www.townofhempstead.org and clicking on the special events link. Nominations must be submitted by Feb. 15 and mailed to: Supervisor Kate Murray, Hempstead Town Hall, One Washington Street, Hempstead, NY 11550. The Pathfinder Award Ceremony will be held Tuesday, March 4 at 3 p.m. in the Town Hall Pavilion.