Nanuet, NY – Virginia “Ginny” Norfleet, a tireless advocate for preserving African American history and uplifting the Rockland community, has been named the 2025 Woman of Distinction by New York State Senator Bill Weber. The recognition highlights Norfleet’s decades of dedicated service and her commitment to educating the public about the significant contributions of African Americans in Rockland County.
Norfleet is the Founder and Executive Director of the Haverstraw African American Connection (HAAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization she established to ensure that the rich history of African Americans in Haverstraw is preserved and shared. Through HAAC, Norfleet has been instrumental in creating a lasting educational resource for local schools, libraries, and community groups, offering programs and exhibits that celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the area’s history.
Born as the youngest of nine siblings in Haverstraw, Norfleet overcame significant economic challenges to become a successful real estate entrepreneur and a leader in civil rights advocacy. Her personal story of resilience, along with her deep connection to the Haverstraw community, has inspired many.
A key part of Norfleet’s legacy includes her research into the roots of Rockland County’s pre-Revolutionary African American families. Her collaboration with institutions such as the Rockland Holocaust Museum and Center for Tolerance and Education led to the creation of an exhibit on American slavery, providing a critical perspective on history that is often overlooked.
In addition to her advocacy work, Norfleet has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her community. She was instrumental in transforming a drug-ridden area of Clinton Street into the Haverstraw African American Memorial Park, a space that preserves an important chapter of the town’s history. Her leadership and dedication to community service earned her a place in the Rockland County Civil Rights Hall of Fame in 2019.
As part of her recognition, Senator Weber praised Norfleet’s contributions, stating, “Virginia Norfleet has devoted her life to preserving African American history in Rockland County and fostering greater awareness in our community. Her passion for justice and equity has made a profound impact on all of us.”
Norfleet’s work continues to have a significant influence on both the local community and beyond. Through her advocacy, she has ensured that the history of African Americans in Rockland is no longer hidden but is instead celebrated and shared with future generations.
The recognition ceremony, which will take place later this year, will honor Norfleet’s outstanding contributions to both history and the local community.