AAUW Celebrates Senator April N.M. Baskin: A Champion for Education and Equality

**Buffalo, NY** – On May 17, 2025, Senator April N.M. Baskin received the Achievement Award from the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Buffalo Branch. This honor recognizes her significant contributions to the community and her role as a trailblazer for women.

Senator Baskin’s journey began well before her time in politics. She founded the College Stimulation Experience to help young people prepare for college success. In 2019, she made history as the youngest and first freshman Chairwoman of the Erie County Legislature. Now, as a state senator, she is the first Black woman to hold that position. She is dedicated to creating opportunities for residents of Buffalo, Cheektowaga, and Lackawanna.

Lilyen Mascellino, president of AAUW Buffalo, emphasized the importance of Senator Baskin’s achievements. “Senator Baskin embodies the victories women fought for throughout history. Her position is a testament to the pioneers who paved the way for women’s rights, including voting and education,” she noted.

The impact of these historical milestones, like the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, cannot be overstated. They opened doors for women like Senator Baskin to participate fully in civic life. Today, approximately 26% of state legislators in the U.S. are women, reflecting the gradual progress made over the last century.

Both Mascellino and Senator Baskin stress the importance of women taking their places in leadership roles. Their commitment aligns perfectly with AAUW’s mission to promote equality for women and girls through various means, including education and advocacy. As society evolves, these efforts remain vital in driving changes that benefit all.

In a time where representation matters more than ever, the recognition of leaders like Senator Baskin serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality. Her story inspires the next generation to push for progress and make their own marks in history.

For more information on the AAUW’s efforts to empower women, visit [AAUW’s official website](https://www.aauw.org). You can also check out recent statistics from the [National Conference of State Legislatures](https://www.ncsl.org) on women’s representation in state legislatures.

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