Lena Cymbrowitz
Lena Cymbrowitz 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.
Early life, family, and education
Cymbrowitz was born in Egypt and came to the United States with her parents, Albert Azizo and Lilianne Tawil Tawil Azizo. She had a Bachelor's degree in English Literature. Prior to her election, she worked in fundraising and marketing.
Career
In November 1998, following a New York Times endorsement in a September primary, Cymbrowitz was elected in the 45th District's general election to the New York State Assembly. She received over 70% of the votes cast and replaced former Assemblyman Daniel Feldman. This made her the first Sephardic Jew ever elected to state office. She died in 2000, serving less than one term in office. The Lena Cymbrowitz Distinguished Legislator Award was named in her memory. While in office, she had advocated for increasing monies allocated for mammographs.
Personal life
Cymbrowitz had two children with her husband, Steven Cymbrowitz. She died on August 21, 2000, after a long battle with cancer.