Nina Postupack, the Ulster County clerk who retired in August, died Thursday following a long illness.

“Nina Postupack was an extraordinary public servant whose dedication to the people of Ulster County was unparalleled,” said Peter Criswell, Chair of the Ulster County Legislature. “What set her apart even further was her deep commitment to honoring the residents who came before us, and her passion for preserving and celebrating our shared history. 

Postupack began her career in the Ulster County Clerk’s Office in 1979, quickly rising through the ranks. By 1982, she was appointed Deputy County Clerk, and in 1990, she became Chief Deputy County Clerk. In 2006, Postupack made history as the first woman elected as Ulster County Clerk. Over the years, she has transformed the Clerk’s Office into a beacon of public service, marked by transparency, accessibility and historical preservation.

Throughout her tenure, Postupack spearheaded numerous initiatives that brought county services closer to the community. She introduced “Passport Nights” at town halls, making it easier for residents to apply for passports. Her efforts also extended to “Mobile Government” participation with other county departments, ensuring that essential services were accessible to those unable to visit the county office in person. Recognizing the need for greater convenience, she implemented extended hours at the DMV and conducted presentations to educate seniors about the services available to them.

Postupack’s passion for history led to the creation of an archival exhibit space in the Ulster County Office Building, showcasing the county’s rich past. She also oversaw the completion of the digitization of land record indexes, a significant achievement that ensures these records are preserved and easily accessible to the public. Additionally, the archives staff under her leadership provided local history presentations to community groups, schools and heritage organizations, furthering public knowledge and appreciation of Ulster County’s rich cultural heritage.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Postupack has been an active member of the community, serving on numerous boards and committees, including the Hudson River Maritime Museum, the Ulster County Boys and Girls Club, and the Ulster County Italian American Foundation. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the Roger W. Mabie Award, the Martha Washington Woman of History Award, and the Clement I. Angstrom Distinguished Citizen Award.

Ulster County District Attorney Sajaa S. Ahmed called her an unforgettable human being and public servant. 

I saw her with my own eyes treat people on a long DMV line with dignity and respect,” Ahmed said. “That meant so much for me to see.”

“Nina touched countless lives during her many years of public service, and her generosity of spirit was unmatched,” County Executive Jen Metzger said. “She embodied everything a public servant should be – professional, fair, compassionate and responsive.”

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger has ordered flags at county buildings to be flown at half staff.

“Nina touched countless lives during her many years of public service, and her generosity of spirit was unmatched,” Metzger said.  “She embodied everything a public servant should be — professional, fair, compassionate and responsive. I deeply enjoyed every moment working with Nina, and feel fortunate to have had such a wonderful colleague.”