Sylke is a third-generation resident of Rockland County and grew up and raised her children in the Nyack area. A Yale graduate, 30-year union member, scenic artist, writer, and editor, Sylke chairs the Wellness Committee of local 829 and led the national union to create a new position to aid members in accessing services and benefits. She helped get public transportation and the pedestrian path on the Tappan Zee Bridge, halted the spraying of toxic chemicals in Central Nyack, organized the establishment and maintenance of a community native plants pollinator garden, and served on the board of Rockland’s Helping Hands for Homeless (10 years) and Creative Response to Conflict (8 years).

In addition to lobbying congressional leaders for clean energy and cheaper utility costs, peace in the Middle East, and immigration reform, Sylke worked with a coalition of faith communities to achieve the divestment of $500 million from fossil fuels.