Ostroff Associates

Black history is deeply intertwined with the fight for justice, representation, and public service. This month, we recognize the contributions of Black New Yorkers whose leadership helped strengthen our institutions and expand opportunity across our state and nation. In celebration of Black History Month, we invite you to learn more about four trailblazers whose legacies continue to shape civic life:

· Jane Bolin was the first African American woman to graduate from Yale Law School in 1931. in 1939, she became the first Black woman to become a judge in the United States, serving on New York City’s Domestic Relations Court.
· David Dinkins broke barriers when he became New York City’s first Black mayor in 1990. Mayor Dinkins served from 1990 to 1993 and led the city during a pivotal era.
· Shirley Chisholm made history in 1968 when she became the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. Rep. Chisholm represented Brooklyn for 14 years in the House of Representatives where she championed expanded representation in government.
· H. Carl McCall was the first African American elected to statewide office in New York State when he was elected in 1994 to serve as State Comptroller, a role he had been appointed to by the State Legislature a year prior.

Congratulations to Rick and Diana Ostroff on once again being recognized on City and State NY’s Albany Power 100 list. Their leadership is matched by a deep, shared commitment to their hometown and by showing up for Albany’s people, institutions, and future every day.

Through their work, Rick and Diana deliver consistent, and strategic counsel that helps clients to navigate New York’s legislative, budget, and regulatory landscape. Their guidance and expertise provide organizations facing complex challenges with a clear path forward to confidently advance their priorities.

Congratulations to all of this year’s incredible honorees. The full list can be viewed here – https://www.cityandstateny.com/power-lists/2026/01/2026-albany-power-100/410706/?oref=csny-category-lander-top-story -ostroff-diana-ostroff

Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled the FY 2027 Executive Budget.

Our team is analyzing each section of the budget to identify key client impacts, funding opportunities, and policy changes.

We’ll be sharing timely, actionable updates this afternoon and additional updates as negotiations unfold and the Legislature develops its one-house budgets.

Now is the time for your organization to engage on the State budget. Discover the Ostroff Associates approach to budget advocacy to ensure you have the right details and that your priorities are heard early and often.