Leslie Zemsky nominated by Grisanti for Women of Distinction honor

City of Buffalo resident lauded by state legislator for her professional work and community involvement

State Sen. Mark Grisanti, R-I-60, today announced Leslie Zemsky of the City of Buffalo is his nominee for the New York State Senate's 16th annual Women of Distinction celebration.

Zemsky will be honored in Albany later this week as part of a ceremony that recognizes female residents of New York who were recognized as part of the state's celebration of Women's History Month.

Zemsky is employed as the director of special events and projects for the Larkin Development Group in the City of Buffalo. Also knows as the company's "director of fun," she plays an integral role in the success of the Larkin Development Group, one of the most prestigious companies based in Buffalo's central business district.

"I am proud to nominate Leslie for this honor because of the many contributions she has made and continues to make in our community," Grisanti said. "Her efforts at the Larkin Development Group and her various interests outside of work are to be commended, which is why I am glad to acknowledge the work of her and all women during Women's History Month here in New York state."

Zemsky owns Rockspring Designs LLC. She produces artwork in the mediums of watercolor, gouache and oil, and provides services for custom illustrating and design and layout features for cards, invitations and other special print products.

An active member of her community, she currently serves as the president of the board for the Buffalo Fine Arts Academy. She is also a member of the advisory board for the Buffalo Arts and Technology Center and a member of the board for Visit Buffalo Niagara.

"It is an honor to receive this special award from Sen. Grisanti," Zemsky said. "Buffalo is a great place to raise a family, live and work. It is a pleasure to volunteer for many great causes, including helping to strengthen the arts in our community. I thank Sen. Grisanti for all he does to improve the quality of life in Western New York."

Zemsky's past community involvement includes serving as the founding chair of Advancing Arts and Culture Buffalo Niagara, past trustee for the Erie County Cultural Resource Advisory Board, past trustee for The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, past trustee of Elmwood Franklin School, past trustee of Temple Beth Zion, past trustee of Nichols School, and past member of the Maria Love Convalescent Fund board.

She also served as past chair of many community fundraisers in Western New York, including the Junior League Show House, the Philharmonic Ball and the Nichols and Elmwood Franklin school annual auctions. She is also a past member of the Junior Group at Albright-Knox Art Gallery and a sustaining member of the Junior League of Buffalo.

Zemsky resides in Buffalo with her husband, Howard. She is the parent of three children, Kayla, Harry and David.