Maria Imperial has been nominated by Gov. Kathy Hochul as commissioner of the Division of Human Rights.

Most recently, Imperial served as the CEO of the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester, that has the mission is eliminating racism and empowering women.

Under Imperial's leadership, the YWCA completed many multimillion-dollar projects bettering the community.

She serves on the board of directors of Nonprofit Westchester and the advisory board for the Women in the Courts Committee for the 9th Judicial District.

Imperial will serve as acting commissioner until confirmation by the Senate.