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Brooklyn Resident Gets State 'Woman of Distinction' Award

Marietta Small is a former civil servant that worked in the New York State Court System, and helped families sort through their estates.
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Marietta Small, left, with State Senator Kevin Parker.

State Senator Kevin Parker named Marietta Small a Woman of Distinction for her groundbreaking work in the New York State Court System. 

Small was the first African American and female employee to serve in the Kings County Public Administrator's Office, where she managed the estates of Brooklyn community members who died intestate (not having a will), according to a press release.

Her responsibilities included overseeing estate sales, auctions and property transactions to resolve the affairs of the deceased for their surviving family members.

In retirement, Small acts as the co-founder and chairperson of the Husain Institute. Recently, she secured grant funding and obtained Microsoft certification enabling her to educate community members in word processing and other software functions. She also conducted job-readiness classes teaching resume writing, interviewing techniques and professional attire.

Small's contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Divinity from the Community Bible Institute and Seminary; citations from both the NYC Council and the Brooklyn Borough President; the Spirit of Leadership Award from the NY City Council; and the Wesley McDonald Democratic Club Community Service Award.

A pioneering figure in the New York State Court System, Small was recognized as a Woman of Distinction by the New York State Senate, which honors local women who have significantly contributed to their communities.