It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Norma Gonsalves, a phenomenal public advocate, spirited leader, and cherished friend of the Sands New York project. Her unwavering commitment to community service and her passion for making a difference will leave a lasting imprint on Nassau County and beyond.
Norma’s legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and tireless advocacy. As an educator, she worked to strengthen the ties between families and schools, ensuring that every child had a voice in their education. Her efforts as PTA Council President led to critical infrastructure improvements, including securing funding for playgrounds and advocating for traffic safety measures that benefited generations of East Meadow residents.
Gonsalvas was instrumental in connecting Sands with the East Meadow Little League.
Her leadership extended beyond education. Norma was a driving force in civic engagement, founding the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations (CEMCO) and actively participating in the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club. Her work earned her the trust of the community, leading to her election to the Nassau County Legislature in 1998, where she served for nearly two decades—ultimately rising to Presiding Officer in 2011.
Throughout her tenure, Norma championed initiatives that prioritized public safety, healthcare, and cultural inclusion. She played a pivotal role in reducing crime, expanding the NARCAN program, launching Hispanic Heritage Month outreach, and establishing a Veterans Clinic to serve those who served our nation. Her impact was recognized through numerous accolades, including the Town of Hempstead Pathfinder Award and the Marvin Bernstein Humanitarian Award.
Norma’s dedication to her community also played a key role in strengthening local partnerships. She was instrumental in connecting Sands with the East Meadow Little League, a relationship that resulted in Sands’ donation of new mowing equipment, including a ride-on lawn mower, two weed whackers, a backpack blower, and a push mower—all to help maintain the community fields for young athletes.
Former New York State Governor and Senior Vice President of Sands, David Paterson, reflected on Norma’s passing, stating:
“Norma Gonsalves embodied the very essence of public service. Her tireless dedication to her community and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those around her was truly inspiring. She was a great friend, a force for good, and an irreplaceable leader whose legacy will continue to guide us for years to come.”
Norma Gonsalves was more than a public servant—she was a pillar of strength, an advocate for progress, and a friend to all who knew her. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her work and the impact she made will endure.