2019 NEWSLETTER
Leadership Dutchess celebrates 30 years
By Erin Cafarelli Leadership Dutchess Class of 2010
O
n March 14, over 150 Leadership Dutchess graduates, session speakers, and program sponsors gathered to celebrate the 30th reunion
of the program’s inception at Mill Creek Caterers. Alumni from 1989-2019 enjoyed networking, appetizers, games, and a photo booth. Guests shared stories about their own experiences, including inaugural class members Patrick Moore and
Leadership Dutchess 30th Anniversary Celebration sponsored by
Robert Doyle, who both spoke highly of the program’s growth over the last 30 years. “As a graduate from the inaugural class of Leadership Dutchess, I am fortunate to have benefited from the education and training,” said Doyle. “Over the past thirty years of my volunteer leadership in local, regional, and national organizations, these communities have benefited from the teaching I received at Leadership Dutchess.” “This fantastic leadership program has not only survived the test of time, it has blossomed into a program that teaches enthusiastic future leaders how to extend their time, talent and treasure to the
benefit of us all,” he added. The evening’s program culminated with a keynote speech from Robert R. Dyson, Chair and Chief Executive Officer, The DysonKissner-Moran Corporation and Chairman of the Board for The Dyson Foundation. Dyson spoke about the importance of leadership and philanthropy in one’s life, and shared anecdotes from his personal journey. The event was sponsored by the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie, Fortress Financial, and Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union-Insurance Services. Event co-chairs were Erin Cafarelli (class of 2010) and Terry Williams (class of 2015).
kangaroo, “a baby T-rex,” and even a Madagascar “kissing cockroach.” Our fabulous KidCrew eagerly shared every moment with fellow KidVentureers and really helped to spread the buzz on social. The new venue at the college allowed for all areas to be
stroller and wheelchair accessible with plenty of room for restroom facilities and large crowds. A shuttle for people with disabilities was available for transport from the parking lot to the events.
Growing KidVenture a venture for success
T
he 3rd Annual KidVenture was bigger and better than ever before! Hosted for the first time at Dutchess County Community College (DCC), more than 80 exhibitors and business sponsors had a blast while offering hands-on activities for kids of all abilities ages 3-12. Performances in the Dutchess Theater delighted kids Presenting Sponsor
with magic, music, clowning, and reptile visitors. Local teen talents “Spackapella” a capella group from Spackenkill High School and “Hello Dolly Highlights” from students from Arlington High School dazzled with their performances. The entire campus of DCC was full of glowing faces meeting their favorite princesses, super heroes, and taking turns to ride the Lucky Orphan Horse Rescue pony! Touch-ATruck fulfilled the dreams of each KidVentureers, allowing them to climb, experience, and learn about working vehicles. Kids met exotic animals, including an alligator, a
A signature program of The Chamber Foundation, Leadership Dutchess is dedicated to educating and motivating citizens to serve in leadership roles within our community. This program is designed to foster the development of a group of professionals who learn and grow together over a nine-month period. Visit ChamberFDN.org for all the details and how to apply.