Poughkeepsie...  County Executive William R. Steinhaus will present awards to four youth workers and two professional teachers for their outstanding commitment to youth at the annual Youth Board Luncheon on June 4th at Dutchess Community College. According to the County Executive, “The Youth Board is pleased to honor adults who provide our young people with guidance, opportunities and support beyond their job requirements. They are excellent role models and are very committed to helping our youth participants and students succeed.”

The youth workers to be honored represent over 80 years of professional service for thousands of children: Dennis Dean, Family Services; Adrianne Elting, Poughkeepsie Middle School, Shannon Kishel, Cornell Cooperative Extension; and Christopher Marx, Youth Resource Development Corporation. Professional Teachers Janet Ionescu, Arlington Middle School and Fonda Muhammad, Beacon’s Rombout Middle School have exhibited leadership and commitment by organizing many enriching experiences for their students above traditional classroom lessons. Both teachers work in partnership with parents to enhance educational activities and offer support to their students.

The County Executive will also recognize 52 young people nominated by local schools and organizations for the YEA’s or Youth Excellence Awards for successfully overcoming personal challenges, exhibiting positive behavior, caring for others as volunteers, or as role models for their peers. Of these, seven students will be receiving a total of $9,000 in scholarships to Dutchess Community College provided in part by the Gap Foundation, Town of Poughkeepsie Police Benevolent Association and Hudson United Bank. Five students will receive savings bonds donated by the Bank of New York.

One of last year’s scholarship recipients and a recent college graduate, Florisca LeBlanc will be offering remarks at the Luncheon. “This annual event is very empowering for the youth and uplifting for their families,” states Youth Board Chair Nina Doyle. “It truly represents our community’s commitment to helping all youth succeed and the appreciation for the many caring adults who make it happen.”