During its first 25 years, Nancy watched the Parade become Central New York’s grandest one-day event… “The largest St. Patrick’s Parade, per capita, in the world.” Up to 10,000 marchers and 125,000 spectators gather along South Salina Street each year on the Saturday closest to St. Patrick’s Day. From the start, it has been a “People’s Parade,” an inclusive affair that welcomes everyone.
Nancy was a mentor and role model for many. As a journalist and storyteller, she listened with her heart. She received many honors, both local and national, during her distinguished career… including the Syracuse Press Club’s Lifetime Achievement Award and one of the first plaques on the SPC Wall of Distinction in the Mulroy Civic Center.
After she died in 2006, Syracuse Mayor Matt Driscoll declared that the traditional parade route along South Salina Street would annually be renamed “Nancy Duffy Way” during Parade Week, to honor her many contributions to the community.
