Ortt names cancer fighter from Lockport as ‘Woman of Distinction’

Teacher has raised nearly $50K for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Buffalo

Press Release, State Sen. Rob Ortt’s Office

Photo from Rob Ortt’s Office: New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt honors Tara Pfohl as a 2026 Woman of Distinction.

ALBANY – Last night, the New York State Senate inducted Tara Pfohl into its 2026 “Woman of Distinction” class. She is the nominee for the honor by State Senator Rob Ortt.

Pfohl is an educator at Starpoint Central School District, a fighter of breast cancer, and was recognized by the American Cancer Society as the 2025 Strider of the Year for her fundraising and advocacy efforts with Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Buffalo.

Each year, one outstanding woman from each Senate District is recognized for their contributions to their communities, and this year, Tara was Senator Ortt’s nominee from the 62nd Senate District.

“It is an honor and a privilege to nominate and induct such a dedicated, inspirational, and selfless woman to this esteemed program,” Ortt said. “Despite battling Stage 4 breast cancer, Tara refuses to surrender, and is instead out educating not only her students, but women throughout the community on the importance of how screenings and early detection can save lives. Tara’s dedication and advocacy sets her apart, and I’m proud to highlight her remarkable achievements through this program.”

Described by friends as generous, loyal, fierce, brave, courageous, and a force to be reckoned with, Pfohl has been battling breast cancer since 2013, but she hasn’t let it slow her down.

Since 2021, Tara has raised more than $48,000 for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Buffalo, earning the distinction of top individual fundraiser for three consecutive years. She has used her platform to promote, educate, inspire, and remind others that research, early detection and community support is proven to save lives.

In a release from the American Cancer Society highlighting Tara’s contributions, they said:

“Even while undergoing weekly chemotherapy, Tara continues to advocate for others, share ACS resources, and ensure no one facing breast cancer feels alone. Tara Pfohl embodies what Making Strides is all about—turning her story into action and inspiring hundreds of others to join the fight to end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone.”

Tara’s battle with cancer has been a long one, and although she did go into remission following surgery and treatment early on, it did return as stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Despite the diagnosis, she is still a highly dedicated first grade teacher at the Fricano Primary School in the Starpoint Central School District, and her colleagues say that even if she has to be out for a day to receive chemotherapy or other treatments, she’s back the next day giving 110% to her students.

Throughout her battle with breast cancer, Tara’s family and friends are the support network she has relied on. Her sister Christa has been a huge partner – consoling her and taking her to many appointments and treatments.

Pfohl grew up in Pendleton, graduating from Starpoint High School and going on to attend college at the University at Buffalo then Niagara University. In her free time, Tara enjoys traveling with friends, listening to music (where her favorite quote “No dress rehearsal. This is our life” by The Tragically Hip comes from), watching the Buffalo Bills, and getting lost in a good book. She lives in Lockport with her dog, Willa.