History

Queens New York The Empire State Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction Inc., was chartered on May 22, 1977, in the city of New York and the state of New York with charter number 1030. Lady Barbara Lett Simmons was the Area II Director and Lady Bobbie Moorehead was the National President. Mrs. Claire D. Foster, chapter organizer, along with Mrs. Lucille Burney, Mrs. Cynthia Jenkins, Mrs. Esther Lee, and six other ladies became the charter members and the 30^th chapter organized in this great humanitarian organization.

On August 19, 1977, the first Top Teens of America group was formed in the state of New York with Lady Ruth Perkins as the advisor.

Queens Empire, as we are commonly known, has developed programs, participated in activities and raised funds that have served to improve and make significant differences in the lives of people in our community. Over 375 Teens, 200 Ladies, and countless Lords have participated in our programs. Our activities included March of Dimes walk-a-thons; voter registration drives, working with Toys for Tots; preparing Thanksgiving baskets; participating in community clean-up days; and sponsoring an annual Black History program and Senior Breakfast to name a few.

Queens Empire has awarded over $45,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors over the years. We have partnered with various groups and civic organizations to achieve our program goals.

Our past chapter presidents include Lady Lucille Burney, Lady Margy McCreary, Lady Esme Cendrecourt, Lady Sandra Jennings(also served as National Treasurer & National Financial Secretary), Lady Elizabeth Blackwell, Lady Belinda Johnston-Briggs, Lady Winifred Rivers, Lady Francine B. Jarvis( also served as Area II Director), and our present president, Lady Miranda L. Toler.

Currently, in this virtual environment, Queens Empire has partnered with Senator Comrie’s office to drop off non-perishable food for their Thanksgiving Turkey Drive, donated school supplies for Lena’s Library, participated in the Healthy Choice Challenge, and did a drive-by for the Senior Breakfast.

We are comprised of 20 ladies and 14 teens.