DDWC Leadership
Our leadership team is composed of passionate, dedicated women who are committed to driving positive change in our community. Each member brings a unique set of skills and experiences, contributing to a diverse and dynamic team.
Together, these inspiring women lead with empathy, vision, and determination. Their collective efforts (all volunteered) are instrumental in transforming politics and creating a more equitable society for all.
Meet the Executive Committee
Kenya Gadsden
President
Fishkill, NY
Rachel Saunders
Vice President
Beacon, NY
Nedra Patterson - Thompson
Treasurer
City of Poughkeepsie, NY
Katherine Gambino
Secretary
Red Hook, NY
Anquinette Hayles
Media/Communications
City of Poughkeepsie, NY
*The Executive Committee consists of the President, the 1st Vice President, the 2nd Vice President (optional), the Secretary, the Treasurer, the immediate past President, all other past Presidents to the extent that they are willing to serve, and several Members-at-Large. The executive committee may also name ex-officio members to participate on the executive committee; typically ex-officio members are women serving in County level positions.
At-Large Members:
Jan. 2023 – Mary Benkart
Jan. 2023 – Judy Canham
Jan. 2024 – Ann Finney
Jan. 2025 – Laurette Giardino
Jan. 2023 – Joan Mandle
Jan. 2023 – Marion Mathison
Jan. 2025 – Jodi McCredo
Jan. 2024 – Polly Pitts-Garvin
Jan. 2024 – Leola Ruffin-McPhee
Jan. 2024 – Sandi Sonnenfeld
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Presidents Emerita:
Amber Grant
Karen Smythe
C. Diane Ruffin
Mary Hannon Williams
Ex-Officios:
Robin Lois, Deputy Comptroller of Local Government & School Accountability
Lisa Jessup, Elections Commissioner (D)
Dan Aymar-Blair, County Comptroller
Michael Dupree, Dutchess County Democratic Committee Chair
City/Town
Milan
Clinton Corners
City of Poughkeepsie
East Fishkill
City of Poughkeepsie
Rhinebeck
Beacon
Amenia
City of Poughkeepsie
City of Poughkeepsie
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City/Town
Beacon
Red Hook
City of Poughkeepsie
Hyde Park
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City/Town
LaGrange
Beacon
Beacon
Hyde Park​