We were sad to learn of the passing of LWVPBC member Ellen Galkin in February. She was a long-time member, donor and supporter of the work of the League and believed in our mission. We share with her loved ones in the loss of such a kind, dedicated, compassionate person. She is missed. This obituary was published March 12 by The New York Times.
Ellen Sanders Galkin, a lifelong, passionate advocate for nursing and the personal, professional and political rights of women, died peacefully in New York City, February 29, 2024, at age 81, after undergoing treatment for lung cancer. Ellen earned her RN degree from Mt. Sinai Hospital School of Nursing in 1963, and later a BS from Marymount Manhattan College and an MBA from Columbia. After over a decade of clinical practice in Manhattan, Ellen transitioned to and excelled at collective bargaining and policy development for nursing. She managed the Economic and General Welfare Program at the New York State Nurses Association and served as President of the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools, Vice President of the American Nurses Association, Treasurer of the American Nurses Foundation, and US representative to the International Council of Nurses.
After retiring, she joined the nurse faculty at Barry University and volunteered for the Palm Beach County League of Women Voters. Ellen was born on April 20, 1942. She was married to Richard M. Galkin for 40 years before his passing in 2019. A resident of Boca Raton, FL, she also frequently visited New York City where she maintained an apartment near Central Park. She is survived by her brother, James J. Sanders, of Belmont, MA, and nephews, Justin Sanders, Robert Sanders and Zachary Galkin in whose lives she had a big and loving presence. Ellen shared her zest for travel, cultures and the arts with friends and families making their every visit with her memorable. Ellen Sanders Galkin will be sorely missed. Private services will be held in New York City and Boca Raton, FL. Memorial donations may be made to Planned Parenthood or the League of Women Voters.
