North Country Leader

Sylvia M. Rowan embarked on her journey in public service in 1986 when she was elected as a Herkimer County legislator. She served in this capacity until June 1996, when former Governor George Pataki appointed her as the Herkimer County Clerk. Since then, she has been re-elected to this position four times.

During her tenure in the County Legislature, Ms. Rowan chaired the Properties and Judicial committees and served on the Administration, Education, and Human Resources committees. She also held the role of Majority Leader.

In recognition of her services, Ms. Rowan received several accolades including being named Revolutionary Trails Council’s 2009 Scout of the Year. She is also a past recipient of awards such as the Mohawk Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross Great Heroes Award, the Retired and Senior Volunteer program of Herkimer County’s 2007 Outstanding Contribution Award, and the 2002 Herkimer Salvation Army’s “Others” Award.

Ms. Rowan's civic engagement extends beyond her official duties. She is an active member of various organizations including the Executive Board of Revolutionary Trails Council No. 400 Diamond District of the Boy Scouts of America. She also serves on the board of several institutions like the Herkimer County Historical Society, Herkimer Salvation Army, and Mohawk Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross. In addition to these roles, she has previously served on the board of Valley United Way.

Throughout her tenure and involvement with numerous organizations, Ms. Rowan has consistently demonstrated dedication to her community and continues to inspire future leaders through her service.

Ms. Rowan holds a degree from Utica School of Commerce and is a graduate of Leadership Mohawk Valley program. Together with her husband Robert, they reside in East Herkimer and are proud parents to four children and grandparents to two grandchildren.