WOMAN OF THE SECTION 2018 CAROLE BENSON

Born in London during WWII, Carole grew up in a family environment that advocated for and understood the importance of social justice and community involvement. Rallying with fellow students and activists to “Ban the Bomb” in Trafalgar Square in the 1950’s, speaking out for women’s equality in the 1960’s, home-making and raising a family while volunteering in the community and several decades later joining the powerful Women’s March on Washington on January 21, 2017, volunteerism and activism has been a huge part of her life.

After moving to New York in 1980 with husband Gerry and two sons, Carole owned and ran a furniture showroom in Manhattan. Years later, she worked in the computer industry during the “dot.com” era. On retirement, she moved to Bergen County and happily discovered NCJW BCS, a perfect fit, offering a myriad of opportunities for her to volunteer, apply her computer skills to launch and maintain the section’s website, join the board and get involved.

In 2006, Carole received NCJW BCS’s Emerging Leader Award, and went on to become Vice-President of Community Services and Co-President in 2011-2013. She has chaired and worked on multiple committees, and is currently Chair of Communications, overseeing the section’s print and technology publicity outreach. She continues to maintain the section’s website and design publications including flyers, brochures and newsletters and volunteers at several community services programs and advocacy events.

At NCJW Inc.’s national level, Carole was a member of the Section Advisory Council (SAC), and a Field Action Network Advisor (FAN.) She has enjoyed participating in several of NCJW’s empowering triennial events at Washington Institute, Leaders’ Retreat, and Convention, and an NCJW Mission to Israel.

Carole is honored to be receiving this year’s Woman of The Section award and is happy to be joining the ranks of the amazing, talented and committed Women of the Section who precede her. She dedicates this honor to her family who provide support, love and encouragement in all her endeavors.