In a short few years, Laura Curran has done what no other woman has managed to do.

Curran, a Democrat, not only beat a Republican in the race for Nassau County executive, but she also made history by becoming the first female elected to the job.

Curran's political career began at 8 years old when she gave a speech during a women's rights rally. She has worked as a newspaper reporter, served on the Baldwin School District's board and spent four years as a Nassau County legislator. She says each of those experiences prepared her for this new role.

"As a legislator, I saw firsthand what the issues are, and that is why it doesn't feel so overwhelming. I have a great team and we are all in it for the right reasons -- there is really a sense of mission," the executive says.

Curran says her no-nonsense attitude, her listening skills and her ability to make fair decisions -- sharpened as a mother of three daughters -- are serving her well as she tackles the maze of tough county issues that include a legacy of corruption and financial troubles.

And while she admits the task at hand is daunting, Curran says wants to set the tone at the top and send the message to not only women but also men -- that anything is possible with confidence.

"When I talk about breaking up the old boys club, I don't have to make a big deal about the gender," she says. "It's just kind of obvious when I show up, this is a new game."