Honoree Bios

Dan is the Chief Relationship Officer at Arnoff Moving & Storage, a driving force in the Hudson Valley's business community.

As a fifth-generation leader in his family's business, Dan aims to foster strong client and community connections, contributing significantly to the firm's growth and success.

His focus on relationship building and strategic partnerships has expanded Arnoff's reach locally and internationally.

Dan is actively involved in regional initiatives, championing economic development and community engagement, while demonstrating a commitment to the region's prosperity.

His focus on building lasting connections continues to leave a significant mark on the community.

 

Tiffany grew up on a farm where she was homeschooled. She completed her homework in the chicken coops, mucked stalls, and helped at farmer’s markets. These experiences instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep compassion for all living creatures from an early age.

Driven by her passion for animals, Tiffany founded Dreaming of a Chance, a 501(c)(3) bird sanctuary. The sanctuary has rescued over 150 birds and works to educate the public about how to care for abandoned domestic pigeons.

This success would not have been possible without the incredible support from the community, including volunteers and board members.

Tiffany's dedication to animal care continues to grow, leading her to pursue her dream of becoming an ambulatory farm animal veterinarian with a focus on backyard birds.

 

 

Megan is a dedicated educator and community advocate within the Poughkeepsie City School District. As an elementary reading teacher and coach for high school volleyball and softball, she inspires young minds and supports the development of student-athletes.

In addition to teaching and coaching, Megan volunteers with the Beekman Fire Department, actively responding to emergencies and assisting with department operations.

She is a certified New York State firefighter and EMT and she has been recognized as her department's top responder, receiving the prestigious Chief’s Award. Megan also organizes blood drives for the New York Blood Center, encouraging community members to donate. She holds a bachelor's and master's degree in education from SUNY New Paltz, as well as an associate degree from SUNY Dutchess.

While at Dutchess, she excelled as a three-point shooter for the Lady Falcons basketball team and as a standout catcher for the nationally ranked softball team that competed in the NJCAA National Championship.

Megan’s dedication and service continue to make a lasting impact in her community.

 

Jen is the Director of Advocacy and Communications at the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the Hudson through education, advocacy, sailing, and music.

A passionate advocate for the Hudson River and its watershed, Jen works to educate and engage communities in appreciating and protecting their river.

She actively seeks new small businesses and corporate partners to support Clearwater’s Youth Empowerment, Community Sail, and environmental education programs.

Jen graduated in May 2022 from Bard College with a Master of Science in Environmental Policy and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Literature from SUNY Geneseo. Outside of her work at Clearwater, Jen is a regular blood and platelet donor.

 

 

 

As a two-time Marist graduate, April has created community connections and roots here.

April was a Resident Director at Marist for 7 years, helping to support Freshman students and encourage their success.

April then worked for Family Services as their Sexual Violence Prevention Coordinator, transitioning into the inaugural role of Employee Engagement and Benefits Manager.

April has also taken on an instructor role at Marist, teaching a domestic violence prevention class focused on healthy relationship culture.

Within this past year, she returned to Marist full-time working in the Advancement Office, supporting alumni engagement efforts and event planning.

April serves as a Board Member at the Marist Brothers Center at Esopus, is a member of the Eastern Dutchess Road Runners Club, and is an enthusiastic fan of the Hudson Valley Renegades.

 

 

Brent collaborates with local businesses and community service organizations to spread awareness, raise money, and foster a stronger sense of community and shared purpose.

Beyond his directorship, Brent’s lifelong dedication to service began in Putnam County 4-H, where he participated in clean-ups, Earth Day events, and food drives.

This passion led him to serve as a volunteer and professional EMT, a mental health worker, and an advocate for children with autism, offering compassion and care in critical moments.

His ability to balance artistic excellence with meaningful community service reflects his boundless energy, deep dedication, and enduring love for the Hudson Valley.

His passion for the arts continues to leave a lasting impact.

 

James is the CEO and Financial Planner at FSC Wealth Advisors, and is a driven thought leader and passionate advocate for financial literacy and community empowerment.

A proud husband and girl dad to his three daughters, James is inspired by his family to help others build lasting financial legacies.

For the past decade, he has led a dedicated team delivering all aspects of holistic financial planning, including investment strategy, advanced tax planning, and business succession design.

James actively mentors young professionals, hosts volunteer workshops, and created HER Wealth, a program that empowers young women through financial education.

His leadership has earned recognition from Crain’s New York Leaders in Finance, AdvisorHub’s “Advisors to Watch – Top 100,” and ETF.com’s “Top 100 Advisors.”

With creativity and contagious enthusiasm, James is always seeking new ways to educate, connect, and uplift the individuals and communities FSC Wealth Advisors proudly supports.

 

Taylor is the Assistant Vice President, and Regional Manager at Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, and is a dynamic leader and passionate community advocate.

She oversees seven branches across three counties, driving member engagement, business development, and leadership coaching.

Taylor is deeply committed to fostering professional growth and economic development throughout the Hudson Valley.

Beyond her professional role, Taylor actively serves on the HVYP advisory council, co-chairs the Education & Professional Development Committee, and sits on the Ulster County Chamber of Commerce Membership Committee.

A dedicated volunteer, she has led impactful fundraising efforts, including taking it to new heights—literally—by standing on a rooftop to raise awareness and thousands of dollars for People’s Place.

Taylor holds a bachelor’s degree in business economics from SUNY Oneonta and a master’s degree in accounting from SUNY Polytechnic Institute.

With high energy and enthusiasm, Taylor is always looking for impactful ways to cultivate community engagement and leadership development for individuals and businesses.

Through her leadership and service, Taylor continues to be a catalyst for positive change.

 

Breanna works as a Human Resources Personnel Associate at the Wappingers Central School District and has taken on the role of the District’s Employee Campaign Manager for the United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region.

Bre finds great joy in volunteering as the Hudson Valley Honor Flight’s Meet and Greet Event Coordinator.

She also volunteers for organizations, including Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine, Wreaths Across America, local school events, and serves at Grace Community Church.

She is currently a part of Emerging Leaders United. Bre also helps with various grassroots business initiatives and is a bookkeeper.

Bre is the mom to three amazing teenagers, Thomas, Layla, and Charley.

When not on the sidelines at their many sports events, you can find her on the dance floor with the group Shut Up and Dance, fulfilling her passion of teaching line dancing to the West Point Cadets and at other local venues.

 

Andrea Cucci is the Coalition Coordinator at the Council on Addiction Prevention and Education (CAPE), a dedicated partner, compassionate leader, and mother of two.

As Program Project Director, she spearheads initiatives in youth mentoring, mental health awareness, and substance misuse prevention, serving all of Dutchess County with unwavering commitment.

Known for her strategic vision and collaborative approach, Andrea excels in partnership development, strategic planning, and community engagement, employing creativity and innovation to drive impactful change.

Her accolades include being a finalist for Best Do-Gooder 2024 for Best of the Hudson Valley, receiving the College of Professional Studies Award—Outstanding Student of Health and Wellness Management, and nominations for the Shooting Star Awards and the Clayton Scanlan Byrne Planetree Award, which honor employees who enhance patient or co-worker experiences through exceptional service.

Andrea holds a Master’s in Mental Health and Wellness from Grand Canyon University (GCU) and a postgraduate certification in Health Management and Promotion from the University of Wisconsin.

Passionate about community well-being, she actively volunteers with the United Way and participates in a Well-Being Think Tank, demonstrating her dedication to fostering resilience, wellness, and connection throughout her community.

 

Derek Decerbo has more than 15 years of experience in tax, accounting, auditing and business advisory services.

He has worked with clients in a wide variety of industries, including wholesale and retail distribution, manufacturing, construction, real estate holding and management companies, professional services and not-for-profit entities.

His client base is comprised of privately held companies of various sizes and complexities as well as high-net-worth individuals.

 

Derek’s financial background is comprised of assignments in tax planning and compliance, accounting and auditing engagements including review of financial controls and special assignments requested by clients.

 

 

 

Wesley Eugene Dixon serves as the Deputy to the President and Secretary of the Board of Trustees at Vassar College, where he also serves as the Program Director for the Vassar Institute for the Liberal Arts and the host and Executive Producer of the Vassar podcast, Conversations at the Salt Line.

Wesley has served at Vassar College for a little over seven years and has been a resident of the Hudson Valley for the same length of time.

Wesley is described by his peers as a creative and compassionate connector of people, organizations, and ideas.

Wesley excitedly works to cultivate deep and dynamic relationships between myriad community organizations and Vassar College in the spirit of supporting Vassar’s mission (and its students) and the residents of the greater Hudson Valley.

Wesley actively leads and collaborates with groups of colleagues to ensure that the programming of Vassar (especially that of the Vassar Institute for the Liberal Arts) is accessible and inclusive of all community members.

Wesley has served on the boards of the Vassar Brothers Medical Center, the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum, and the Poughkeepsie Alliance.

Wesley holds a degree in Environmental Engineering and African Studies from Yale University.

 

Colleen Dorney is the Senior Director of Outreach & Operations at Destination Dutchess and joined the organization in 2016.

She is responsible for strengthening tourism partnerships and supporting the over 1,000 tourism-related businesses in Dutchess.

Colleen also oversees Film Dutchess, program development, the Finder passport program, and special events.

She is passionate about advancing tourism in Dutchess County, as it is a significant economic driver that improves residents’ quality of life and strengthens our community.

Colleen was recognized in 2021 by Destinations International as a 30 Under 30 in the tourism industry, and she is a proud graduate of Leadership Dutchess, class of 2023.

She completed her Master of Public Administration in May 2019 from Marist University and holds her B.A. in History from Loyola University Maryland.

Colleen is on the Advisory Council for Hudson Valley Young Professionals and is part of Emerging Leaders through United Way of Dutchess-Orange Region.

 

Courtney Doyle is an Assistant Executive Director of Community-Based Services at the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie.

Courtney has over 12 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, specializing in community-based programs that empower youth and families.

Throughout her career, Courtney has successfully led a dedicated team of employees, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

With a deep commitment to improving the lives of underserved individuals, Courtney has played a pivotal role in program development, resource management, and strategic planning.

Courtney’s ability to engage with diverse stakeholders has been instrumental in expanding the organization's impact and reach.

When she is not working, Courtney enjoys spending time with her family, consisting of her husband and three girls.

Courtney strives to be a strong role model for her girls by balancing a full-time career with a focus on family and personal growth.

Courtney holds a degree in Mental Health Counseling from Marist University.

With Courtney’s strong background working directly with youth and families to address challenges, she is passionate about creating opportunities for individuals to thrive and develop the skills needed to succeed.

Courtney’s advocacy for both her team and the community underscores her leadership style—focused on building lasting, positive change while ensuring every family has the resources and support they need to build a brighter future.

 

Melissa Dvozenja-Thomas, Executive Director at Arts Mid-Hudson for two years, is an energetic nonprofit leader, arts advocate, wife, mother, and community collaborator.

Melissa passionately engages with multiple organizations throughout the Hudson Valley.

She serves as a board member for Dutchess Tourism, Arts NYS, and the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Hudson Valley Chapter, is an Advisory Board Member for the Dutchess Community College Academy of Music, and a project advisory committee member for the Ulster County Arts & Culture Plan, as well as a nonprofit committee member for the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Melissa holds degrees in Acting for Theatre and Music Performance from Greensboro College, a master’s Certificate from the International Institute of Event Management, and a master’s in public administration from Marist University.

Known for her curiosity and enthusiasm, Melissa fosters positive, lasting community relationships, creating a ripple effect of dedication and compassion in the arts.

 

Sheena Fitzpatrick is a dynamic leader and innovator, earning a well-deserved spot on the 40 Under 40 list for her exceptional work as a Command Center Manager at the New York State Bridge Authority, overseeing daily operations and emergency management preparedness efforts.

With expertise in crisis management, real-time decision-making, and public safety, she plays a crucial role in keeping Hudson Valley bridges safe and secure.

Passionate about suicide prevention, Sheena is a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness, integrating compassionate intervention strategies and strengthening employee resiliency among the first responder community into her leadership.

She has streamlined operations, enhanced efficiency, and mentored her team to excel in a high-stakes environment, always pushing for innovation and improvement.

Currently enrolled in the Leadership Dutchess Class of 2025, Sheena continues to expand her impact as a leader.

When she’s not managing bridges, she’s building memories with her daughter, Harlie, and family.

As dedicated Swifties, she and her daughter are all about performing memorable car concerts and being certified crazy cat ladies!

 

Caitlyn Germinaro, Learning and Development Training Specialist at Coordinated Care Alliance New York, is a driven human services professional and community collaborator.

She has dedicated her career to working with nonprofit entities to cultivate advocacy and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

She also passionately engages in various committees and volunteer organizations that invest in the welfare of small businesses and Dutchess County.

Caitlyn sits on the board of directors of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Hyde Park Foundation, serves as an advisory council member for Hudson Valley Young Professionals, and has been a recipient of the Leadership Dutchess Community Advocate Award and CP State Conference Staff Recognition Award.

Caitlyn holds a degree in Human and Social Services from Walden University and a degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from The College of Saint Rose.

With her enthusiasm and benevolence, she is always looking for new ways to participate in civic activities while building lasting relationships within the community.

 

Amanda Giacalone, a proud native of Dutchess County, founded Amanda's Macaron Shoppe with a passion for perfecting the French macaron.

After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, Amanda honed her skills with the Boston Red Sox and in Maine, ultimately perfecting her craft back home in the Hudson Valley.

In 2019, she started with a few flavors and a Google Form, which led to her opening a storefront in Poughkeepsie, New York, in 2020, where nearly 5,000 macarons flew out the door on opening weekend.

Today, Amanda’s Macaron Shoppe ships to all 50 states, offering innovative flavors while maintaining a personal touch with every creation.

Alongside her macarons, Amanda also opened Just a Little Pie Shop in 2023, expanding her culinary creativity.

Amanda’s journey is a testament to passion, hard work, and the power of community support.

 

Megan James, a semiconductor manufacturing equipment engineer at Onsemi since 2020, is an innovative leader who demonstrates a strong commitment to the Hudson Valley through her STEM outreach and volunteerism.

She organizes and leads volunteers to attend lunch-and-learns, career fairs, women-in-STEM events, and skilled trades fairs.

Megan connects with K-12 educators and students to share information about opportunities and careers in science, technology, and engineering.

Megan holds a B.S. and an M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering from Western New England University and Johns Hopkins, respectively.

With passion and energy, Megan strives to cultivate an interest in STEM in students’ developing minds.

Megan is excited to continue her outreach role, building relationships with local school districts, and continuously develop her professional role as an engineer.

 

Nickolas P. Karnavezos, Jr. is a Senior Accountant at RBT CPAs, LLP in the Client Advisory Department.

Nick is a certified public accountant licensed to practice public accounting in New York State.

He is a member of the construction team, led by Thomas Zupan and Robert Marchione.

On this team, Nick passionately assists clients with the preparation of tax returns, financial statements, and various analytics to help them understand their numbers from a different perspective and serve them as a trusted business advisor.

Following in the footsteps of his mentors at RBT, he is deeply committed to providing value to his clients at all times.

Nick is a graduate of the Leadership Orange Class of 2024 and currently sits on the Montefiore St. Luke’s Hospital Golf & Tennis Committee.

He is an active member of the local business community, actively engaging with various economic development agencies and nonprofits, building lasting relationships.

Prior to joining the firm, Nick graduated from Siena College in 2018 with a master’s and bachelor’s degree in accounting and gained significant experience as an assurance associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers.

 

Samantha Lowe-Durling is a distinguished leader in the Hudson Valley, serving as the Director of Marketing for United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region.

In this capacity, she demonstrates exceptional strategic acumen and dedication to advancing community initiatives.

Her commitment extends beyond her professional role; she is a dedicated organizer of local adult volleyball leagues and a respected coach for the New York Elite Volleyball Club's junior program, fostering athletic growth and teamwork.

Samantha’s extensive volunteerism reflects a profound commitment to the region, and her fundraising efforts have significantly contributed to literacy programs.

A lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley, she balances her impactful community contributions with the responsibilities of raising three children.

 

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Kristin Mayo is the CEO of Community Nexus, leading impactful workforce development initiatives that help businesses build skilled, reliable talent pipelines.

A visionary social entrepreneur, she is dedicated to bridging workforce gaps, upskilling employees, and creating sustainable employment solutions.

Kristin specializes in strategies that reduce hiring challenges, improve retention, and connect businesses with job-ready talent, fostering economic and social transformation.

She launched Knowledge Playgrounds, Community Nexus' first incubated business, to equip kids and young adults with the skills and confidence for future careers.

By investing in early talent development and inclusive career pathways, Community Nexus strengthens workforce pipelines and fosters long-term business success.

This June, Community Nexus is hosting its Workforce Development Conference in Poughkeepsie, bringing together business owners, industry leaders, educators, and changemakers to address talent shortages, explore emerging workforce trends, and develop strategies to future-proof businesses.

 

Detective Christian John McGaw proudly serves as a detective with the Town of Hyde Park Police Department.

Born in Kazakhstan, he was adopted at age four and welcomed into a loving family in America.

Growing up in Poughkeepsie, he attended Our Lady of Lourdes High School, where he balanced academics with hands-on work at Stofas Automotive and McKee Construction to gain valuable trade skills.

While in high school, Christian founded Help from the HomeFront, an organization supporting veterans, and also traveled to the Dominican Republic to aid those in need.

Recognizing a greater calling, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as an Infantryman, rising to the role of team leader and excelling in service.

Following his military tenure, he volunteered with Hope on a Mission to assist the homeless in Poughkeepsie.

Determined to continue serving his community, Christian entered the Dutchess County Police Academy to pursue a career in law enforcement.

Now a dedicated detective, he continues to protect and serve his community with honor.

 

Tyler D. Mendelson is a dedicated firefighter and EMT with the Fairview Fire District, serving his community for the past three years.

A Marine Corps veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, he is a staunch advocate for veterans' suicide awareness.

For the past six years, he has also worked with Mental Health America of Dutchess County’s Veterans Programs, providing crucial support to fellow veterans through employment assistance and outreach.

Passionate about service, Tyler is deeply committed to helping people, both through emergency response and mental health support.

In addition to his public service, he is an award-winning independent filmmaker with a Bachelor of Arts in Film Directing from Emerson College.

His films have won international acclaim and been showcased worldwide.

 

Amanda Moody, currently serving as the vice president of Project Management for Value-Based Care at Sun River Health, is a dynamic facilitator and organizer.

Through her professional experiences and collaborative work with volunteer organizations, Amanda has dedicated more than half her life to cultivating access to comprehensive, quality, and affordable healthcare for her community.

With her enthusiasm and drive, Amanda is always seeking opportunities to uplift public health while building lasting relationships.

Amanda has previously been recognized with New York Medical College’s Excellence in Public Health Practice Award, as well as several internal awards and recognitions at Sun River Health, including the Planetree Outstanding Leadership Award.

She holds a Master of Public Health from New York Medical College and a bachelor’s degree from Vassar College.

 

Ali T. Muhammad is a social entrepreneur, community architect, and writer based in Newburgh, New York.

He is the founder and CEO of Melanin Unchained, a nonprofit organization dedicated to philanthropy, literacy development, and recreational programs.

Ali also leads Dear Summer, Inc., a for-profit business focused on educating through entertainment.

With over a decade of experience as a community advocate, he has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for his neighbors.

Ali's commitment to service extends to governmental and civic engagement.

He served on the Beacon City Council from 2013 to 2017 and has contributed to community boards such as Clearwater and the Community Action Partnership.

Additionally, he served on the Dutchess County Criminal Justice Council and as a Youth and Community Engagement Specialist for Dutchess County Family Services.

He now chairs the City of Newburgh Police Community Relations and Review Board while pursuing a law degree full-time.

 

Flor Nájera-Molina is a dedicated digital marketing strategist and community leader with a passion for empowering individuals and organizations through creative solutions.

As the Digital Director at Fusion Church in New York, Flor combines her expertise in marketing with her heart for ministry, overseeing digital platforms to connect and inspire the community.

In addition to her role at Fusion church, Flor is the founder of Najera Studios, a growing digital marketing agency that partners with businesses and nonprofits to elevate their brand presence and drive impactful results.

With a proven track record of serving organizations like DAY ONE Early Learning Community, Flor is committed to delivering strategies that generate growth and engagement.

Flor is currently pursuing her pastoral ordination at Berean School of the Bible, deepening her theological knowledge to better serve others.

Flor’s mission is to combine her marketing skills, ministry experience, and entrepreneurial mindset to create meaningful connections and foster positive change.

 

Mary Paquet is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner at both Elevate Health Associates and Vassar College.

A driven, compassionate, and dedicated clinician, she finds great fulfillment in treating patients in private practice and supporting students' well-being at Vassar College.

Passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their healthiest selves, both physically and mentally, Mary also founded and leads the Obesity Medicine Program at Elevate Health Associates.

Mary holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Boston College, graduating magna cum laude, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Stony Brook University.

Committed to continuous learning, she stays at the forefront of weight management strategies to provide individualized, evidence-based care.

With her empathetic approach, she collaborates closely with patients to help them achieve positive health outcomes and long-term wellness.

 

Isabella Paquette, a dedicated communications professional with a passion for advocacy and community engagement, serves as a Senior Account Executive at Impact PR & Communications and as Director of Communications for New York State Senator Rob Rolison.

With expertise in crafting compelling narratives for nonprofits, delivering key messages from elected officials, and engaging with the press, she helps organizations and leaders connect effectively with their audiences.

Beyond her professional roles, Isabella is actively involved in the community.

She serves on the Dutchess Community College Foundation’s Annual Gala and Alumni Relations & Special Events Committees, supporting fundraising efforts to expand student opportunities.

Additionally, she volunteers with James’s Warriors, a nonprofit focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness.

A graduate of Dutchess Community College and Marist College, Isabella also participated in the Disney College Program at Walt Disney World, earning multiple leadership and efficiency commendations.

She is a U.S. Figure Skating Association Gold Medalist and a dedicated Learn to Skate coach.

Ariana R. Peterman has served as Vice President and an active Board Member at Angels of Light for the past five years.

A dedicated advocate, she is deeply committed to the organization’s mission of supporting children and families in the Hudson Valley facing life-threatening illnesses.

Each year, Ariana raises $50,000 by leading the auction at the annual Making Wishes Come True event.

In addition to managing volunteers, she oversees all social media marketing campaigns, ensuring strong engagement with donors and the community.

Her commitment to service has earned her recognition, including the Miles of Hope Volunteer Honoree Award. Ariana holds a Juris Doctor degree from the Elisabeth Haub School of Law and is currently awaiting membership to the New York State Bar Association.

She hopes to use her legal expertise to support nonprofits as an attorney.

A proud alumna of Our Lady of Lourdes High School and SUNY New Paltz, Ariana is passionate about building meaningful partnerships that strengthen Angels of Light’s impact while fostering lasting relationships within the community.

 

Adam Podpora has been with Central Hudson Gas & Electric for 12 years, serving as a Section Engineer for the last four.

He co-chaired Central Hudson’s 2024 United Way corporate campaign and is excited to lead the 2025 effort.

A 2011 graduate of Dutchess Community College (DCC), Adam has actively contributed to the college for over a decade.

His involvement includes guest lectures and field demonstrations on electrical engineering, serving on Advisory Boards for the Perkins Grant and Engineering Technology Department, co-founding a scholarship with fellow alumni, and most recently, serving as Vice-Chair of the DCC Foundation Board.

Beyond his professional and academic commitments, Adam has been a dedicated soccer coach for the Town of Beekman for the past seven seasons, coaching each of his three daughters and their friends.

Hearing “Hi Coach Adam!” at school functions and community events never gets old.

Adam is proud to work for a company that champions volunteerism and community engagement.

He always encourages those around him to find their cause, get involved, and give back.

 

Michael Rifenburgh is a Captain at JetBlue Airways with over a decade of flying experience and serves as a Town Councilman and Deputy Supervisor for the Town of Pleasant Valley.

A dedicated leader, public servant, and community advocate, he is passionate about both aviation and civic engagement.

When he’s not in the flight deck, Michael spearheads initiatives to enhance public services, government transparency, and community development in Pleasant Valley.

He also mentors JetBlue pilots, participates in local school career fairs to inspire the next generation of aviators, and volunteers as a Pilot-to-Pilot representative for his union, ALPA, strengthening advocacy efforts for his profession.

Michael holds a degree in Aviation Science from Utah Valley University and is certified by the FAA as an Airline Transport Pilot and Flight Instructor.

Always seeking innovative ways to create opportunities that benefit both his industry and his community, he balances his many roles while being a devoted husband to Ashley and a loving father to his two daughters, Skylar and Violet.

 

Jennifer Santosuosso is an Assistant Professor and Program Chair of Early Education at Dutchess Community College, where she has been a dedicated faculty member for eight years.

A passionate advocate for early childhood education in the Hudson Valley, she actively engages in community efforts to expand access to high-quality early learning and care.

Jenn serves on the Board of Directors for DAY ONE Early Learning Community, the Childcare Coalition of the Hudson Valley, and the Childcare Council of Dutchess and Putnam Inc.

She also contributes as a Teacher Consultant for the Hudson Valley Writing Project.

At DCC, Jenn leads the Early Education program, guiding students eager to enter the field.

She also supervises the June Roush Pierson Lab Nursery School, oversees part-time faculty, and participates in various campus initiatives that support the college community.

Jenn holds a master’s degree in education from the State University of New York at New Paltz.

 

Robyn Scarchilli is the Community and Public Affairs Associate for Nuvance Health.

Before joining Nuvance a year and a half ago, she spent a decade at Townsquare Media of the Hudson Valley, where she cultivated a career rooted in her deep love for the community.

Inspired by her colleagues at Nuvance and the local groups she collaborates with, Robyn consistently strives to put her best foot forward.

Whether organizing lectures with healthcare professionals, supporting local initiatives, or writing patient stories, she is passionate about helping others live healthier, fuller lives.

Robyn is driven to uplift others and ensure everyone feels heard.

Having grown up in the Hudson Valley, Robyn has a strong connection to the people and places that make it such a special region.

She is honored to be recognized as a Forty Under 40 award recipient.

 

Michelle Semerano is a proud native of Orange County, NY, with a deep passion for community engagement and marketing.

A 2008 graduate of Florida Atlantic University with a BA in Multi-Media Studies, Michelle began her career in radio, securing an internship at Thunder 102, a local station in Sullivan County, during a challenging economic time.

Her dedication and hard work quickly earned her a full-time role, and over the next eight years, she advanced from intern to Program Director and On-Air Personality.

In 2017, Michelle transitioned into the marketing and promotions field by joining Resorts World Catskills.

Since then, she has advanced through various roles, from Advertising Specialist to Promotions & Special Events Manager, and is currently serving as the Director of Online Marketing for Genting Americas East.

In this role, she oversees multiple digital platforms across Resorts World properties in Bimini, Catskills, Hudson Valley, and New York City, as well as their mobile sports betting app, Resorts World Bet.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Michelle has been a dedicated volunteer with the Town of Wallkill Boys & Girls Club since 2009.

She has participated in numerous events, including the Sullivan County Celebrity Dinner, where she portrayed characters like Liza Minnelli, Betty Rubble, and Little Red Riding Hood.

In 2017, Michelle joined the steering committee for the Grown Here: Farm to Table Dinner, and in 2019, she was honored with a position on the Board of Directors, where she has held various leadership roles, including Past Chair.

In 2024, Michelle expanded her commitment by joining the National Area Council Committee with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and in November 2024, she was honored as the Area Council Liaison of the Year for the Northeast Region.

Currently residing in Middletown, NY, Michelle continues to make a meaningful impact through her professional and volunteer efforts, enriching both her career and the community.

 

Dr. Sarah Serena Sims is an Endocrine Surgeon at Optum, where she has spent the last four years specializing in thyroid disease and serving as a strong advocate for her patients in the Hudson Valley.

A passionate leader, Dr. Sims actively participates in advocacy committees to improve patient outcomes related to thyroid cancer and surgery.

She leads a dedicated team providing comprehensive patient care through difficult diagnoses, offering empathetic support from workup to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing surveillance.

Dr. Sims has been recognized with several awards, including the inaugural Optum-Caremount Medical Culture and Teamwork Award, and she has been elected Chair of the Physician Advocacy Committee.

Dr. Sims holds a degree in Anthropology from Princeton University and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Arizona.

With her deep passion and commitment to the surgical treatment of endocrine diseases, she strives to offer the highest standard of personable care to the members of the Hudson Valley community.

 

Brittany Stufano has been with M&T Bank for 15 years, currently serving as a Retail Regional Manager.

Throughout her career, Brittany has leveraged her strong leadership skills to foster growth within her team of bankers, focusing on coaching, mentoring, and professional development.

A passionate advocate for community involvement, Brittany volunteers her time and collaborates with local organizations across Dutchess County to support initiatives and promote financial literacy.

She oversees 13 branches, guiding all aspects of retail banking, including operational and risk efficiencies.

Brittany is also committed to helping small businesses thrive in the community while ensuring an exceptional customer experience.

Brittany’s accomplishments have earned her recognition, including the Presidents Council and Business Excellence awards within her organization.

She holds a degree in Business Management from Marist College.

With her collaborative management style and unwavering dedication, Brittany continually strives to cultivate an engaged team that prioritizes customer satisfaction and builds lasting relationships within the communities they serve.

 

Katelyn Tymczyszyn is a licensed CPA and Audit Supervisor at RBT CPAs, LLP, where she has been a valuable team member since 2020.

Before joining RBT, Katelyn held accounting roles with Hudson Valley-based nonprofit organizations.

She also serves as the Board Treasurer for the Orange County NY Arts Council, driven by her belief in the significant cultural and economic impact of the arts.

Katelyn holds a master’s degree in finance from SUNY Empire and is a member of the AICPA and NYSSCPA.

A proud Leadership Orange 2024 graduate, Katelyn has been recognized by the Cerebral Palsy Association of NY with a Staff Recognition Award in 2018 and 2015.

Outside of her professional and community commitments, Katelyn is a devoted wife, a dedicated dance mom, and a loyal friend and colleague with a deep love for the Hudson Valley.

She continually strives to make a positive difference through both her work and her involvement in the community.

 

Zachary Utter is a Social Studies Teacher at John Jay High School in the Wappingers Central School District, where he has taught for five years.

With prior experience teaching in Brooklyn and Albany, Zachary brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the classroom. He emphasizes the importance of historical thinking skills and civic engagement among his students.

In addition to his teaching role, Zachary serves as the advisor of the History Honor Society, which collaborates with the East Fishkill Historical Society and other local historical organizations to foster the next generation of local historians.

He is also the advisor for Amnesty International, supporting global human rights initiatives.

Zachary holds a master’s degree in teaching from Clarkson University and a bachelor’s degree in history from SUNY Oneonta.

A dedicated husband and community member, he is passionate about nurturing the next generation of engaged citizens while actively preserving local history through his involvement with the East Fishkill Historical Society.