When it comes to elected officials, both the nation and New York state have made strides in finding more women in leadership positions. In New York, Kathy Hochul and Letitia James became the first women to win the race for governor and attorney general, respectively.

But there's still progress to be made.

What You Need To Know

  • Out of New York’s 62 counties, only 16 currently have women serving as district attorney

  • Both Wayne and Livingston counties elected the first woman as district attorney in 2025

  • Both women are excited to continue to make history by helping their communities and hope it doesn’t take another 200 years for a woman to be in the office

Out of the state's 62 counties, only 16, or about 26%, currently have women serving as district attorneys.  

In Wayne County’s almost 200-year history, Christine Callanan is the first woman elected as district attorney. 

It's a position she doesn’t take lightly.

“This is a true passion and a love of mine," said Callanan. “I made sure to include when addressing the community that I am the first female, but it’s because I come from a line of strong females."

One of those women, Callanan’s mother, was a practicing attorney herself. Callanan remembers the advice her mother gave her. 

"She taught me how to do this the right way," Callanan said. "She always encouraged me even though most would say, 'Why do you need another attorney in the family?' She always said there was room for the good ones."

In her 14-year career as a prosecutor, Callanan spent seven of those working in Monroe County under District Attorney Sandra Doorley. She credits Doorley for encouraging her interest in working in violent crimes and homicides. 

"Sandra said, 'If you want to move forward, if you think you’re ready, apply for it and we’ll have a conversation,'" said Callanan. 

In Livingston County, Ashley Williams is also the first woman in this position. It's something Williams highlighted when she was sworn in by the first female judge in the county. 

“She’s been a mentor of mine and I know a role model for all females in Livingston County," Williams said. "That day was very special."

Before coming to Livingston County, Williams worked as an assistant district attorney for Oneida and Rensselaer counties. She gained experience as a prosecutor in both criminal and family court, a background she plans to use when deciding cases.  

“Every defendant has a family," Williams said. "A lot of times the root of the problem starts in the home; whether that’s substance abuse, mental health or domestic violence."

Both women are excited to continue to make history by helping their communities and hope it doesn’t take another 200 years for a woman to be in the office.