Lena Cymbrowitz
American politician
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Lena Cymbrowitz (January 1, 1957[3][4] – August 21, 2000)[3] was an American politician who served as a Democratic member of the New York State Assembly. She represented Assembly District 45, which included the Brooklyn communities of Flatbush, Midwood, Sheepshead Bay, Manhattan Beach, Gerritsen Beach, and a portion of Brighton Beach.
Lena Cymbrowitz | |
|---|---|
| Member of the New York State Assembly from the 45th district | |
| In office January 1, 1999 – August 21, 2000 | |
| Preceded by | Daniel L. Feldman |
| Succeeded by | Steven Cymbrowitz |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Lena Azizo[1] January 1, 1957 |
| Died | August 21, 2000 (aged 43) |
| Party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Steven Cymbrowitz[2] |
| Children | Jay, Jennifer[3] |
| Profession | Politician |
Early life, family, and education
Cymbrowitz (née Azizo)[1] was born in Egypt and came to the United States with her parents,[2] Albert Azizo and Lilianne Tawil Tawil Azizo.[1] She had a Bachelor's degree in English Literature. Prior to her election, she worked in fundraising and marketing.[1]
Career
In November 1998, following a New York Times endorsement in a September primary,[5] Cymbrowitz was elected in the 45th District's general election to the New York State Assembly. She received over 70% of the votes cast[1] and replaced former Assemblyman Daniel Feldman.[6] This made her the first Sephardic Jew ever elected to state office.[2] She died in 2000, serving less than one term in office. The Lena Cymbrowitz Distinguished Legislator Award was named in her memory.[7] While in office, she had advocated for increasing monies allocated for mammographs.[3]
Personal life
Cymbrowitz had two children (Jay and Jennifer)[3] with her husband, Steven Cymbrowitz.[1] She died on August 21, 2000, after a long battle with cancer.[2]