White Plains, NY – The Westchester County Board of Legislators is pleased to announce the appointment of Chair Emeritus and Legislator Benjamin Boykin (White Plains, Scarsdale, and West Harrison) as the new President of the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC). Boykin, a distinguished public servant with over 30 years of dedicated service in Westchester County and a strong advocate for social justice and equality, was sworn in by County Executive George Latimer during a ceremony today.

County Executive George Latimer said: “I am proud to honor my colleague and friend Ben Boykin on his appointment as President of the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC). Ben brings a wealth of experience in addressing the challenges and opportunities that face Westchester County, and he will serve as a tremendous asset to the Association in this new leadership role.” 

Board of Legislators Chair Vedat Gashi (New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ben on his appointment. We are excited to see the benefits NYSAC will gain from Ben’s proven leadership and vision, which will undoubtedly bring significant value to the association and its members.”

Boykin’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as NYSAC prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2025. His extensive experience, including his notable tenure as Chair Emeritus of the Westchester County Board of Legislators, highlights his readiness to guide the association through this significant milestone.

During his tenure as Board Chairman, Boykin led the Board through transformative years, passing more progressive legislation than ever before. He oversaw the Board’s 50th anniversary celebrations and managed the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most severe health crises in over a century. His leadership also included significant investments in technology, helping to enhance the accessibility and transparency of Westchester County government.

Collaborating with the Latimer administration, Boykin’s Board stabilized the County’s finances, rebuilt reserve funds, cut property taxes, and made crucial investments in infrastructure and affordable housing. The Board also advanced public health protections, supported working families, and enacted legislation to safeguard reproductive rights and enhance public safety.

In addition to his Board service, Boykin has had a distinguished career in financial executive roles and has been a prominent figure in educational and not-for-profit organizations. His extensive contributions have earned him numerous awards, including leadership accolades from the AFL-CIO Labor Council and Northeast STEM Academy, the Ted Benjamin Award for community service from the White Plains Democratic Party, the Harvey E. Beech Outstanding Alumni Award from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the Harold Fitzpatrick Community Service Award from the African American Men of Westchester.

In his acceptance speech, Boykin expressed his gratitude and outlined his vision for NYSAC. “I am honored and humbled to serve as President of NYSAC,” he said. “This role represents the culmination of a career devoted to public service and social justice. As we embark on our centennial year, I look forward to enhancing productivity, ensuring transparency, and continuing to serve our constituents effectively.”

Boykin acknowledged the contributions of his predecessors, including Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, and expressed his appreciation for NYSAC’s Board of Directors and Executive Director Stephen Acquario for their dedication. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing upcoming challenges, including budgetary issues and legislative hurdles.

“NYSAC has been a cornerstone in fostering excellence in county government for 100 years,” Boykin noted. “As we celebrate this milestone, we will reflect on our achievements and move forward with renewed energy and commitment.”

For more information about NYSAC’s upcoming events and initiatives, please visit NYSAC’s website.