Hannaford Supermarkets and B95.5 are partnering to identify and celebrate women in the Capital Region its the

20 Outstanding Women!

We found the women who go above and beyond to make their communities a better place to live. Those unsung heroes in our neighborhoods – the ones who are already busy, yet find the time to give back in big ways to help others.

 Thursday, March 12, 2026

Today's Outstanding Woman is,

Mary Partridge-Brown of Feura Bush

Mary Partridge-Brown's love of reading began in childhood, just a few doors down from her local public library. Visiting every few days, she discovered early that books were far more than academic tools, they were passports to curiosity, culture, travel, the arts, and the boundless possibilities of the wider world. That childhood wonder became a lifelong mission.

After a distinguished career as Director of a small alternative school, Mary turned her focus to something deeply personal: ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to books and the transformative opportunities they offer. Since 2009, she has led that mission through Grassroot Givers' Book Project, which she built and has co-directed in close partnership with Roberta Sandler, a collaboration that has been the heartbeat of the organization from its very beginning.

Together, Mary and Roberta have created something remarkable. To date, the Book Project has distributed more than 800,000 books, free of charge, to hundreds of literacy programs across the Capital Region, including Head Start programs, the Albany City School District, HATAS Feed & Read, and prison literacy initiatives. Mary has also spearheaded 22 Little Free Libraries throughout the City of Albany, two beloved book bikes that travel to summer community events, and a Teacher Book Bank supporting educators in building diverse classroom libraries.

As Mary approaches her retirement, her legacy is immeasurably woven into the lives of countless children and adults who discovered the joy of reading because of her dedication.

In her own words: "There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a child light up when they receive a new book."

Nominated by  Roberta Sandler and Stacey Erwell

Listen to her interview below!

See all of this year's 20 Outstanding Women announced so far!

Congratulations to all of the 20 Outstanding Women with Hannaford Supermarkets and B95.5!

Check out the Outstanding Women from years past!

Class of 2025!

Class of 2024!