Women of Achievement recognized at tribute dinner

New Windsor — Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson and YWCA of Orange County welcomed the newest honorees to Orange County’s sisterhood of women of achievement at the annual tribute dinner recently. Ten Orange County women were recognized for their accomplishments, contributions, and services to business, industry, and the professions. Nearly 180 women from throughout the county have received this distinguished recognition since its introduction 16 years ago. Tribute alumni Donna Benson, Orange County Clerk, and Debbie Bogdanksi, Frontier Communications’ General Manager for NY South, emceed the dinner co-hosted by the Girl Scouts and YWCA. “It is our pleasure to honor 10 of Orange County’s outstanding women,” said Benson, “all of whom serve as role models for all people - young and old alike.” More than 250 people, including many past honorees, joined in recognizing the following 2009 Women of Achievement for making a difference in our community: Arts — Shawn Dell Joyce Business — Helen Ullrich Communications —Kristin Jensen Education — Tenise M. Wall Health Care & Human Services (profit and not-for-profit) —Nadia Allen, Barbara Gannon, MD Public Service — Rebecca Stage Woman of the Future — Stephanie Santiago Bobbie A. Lahey Memorial Award for Volunteer Services — Peggy Bennett, Barbara Perry In recognition of her accomplishments each honoree received a silver medallion custom designed for the Women of Achievement tribute. To learn more about the YWCA of Orange County and their mission to eliminate racism and empower women, visit www.ywca-orangecty.org or call 561-8050. For more information about joining or volunteering with Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson call 914-747-3080 or visit www.girlscoutshh.org.