Mount Saint Mary College student Danielle Kalinowski (left) accepts the inaugural Women’s Empowerment Scholarship from United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region President and CEO Jeannie Montano (right) during a luncheon at The Grandview on February 25. Photo by Nicole Puckette Photography.
Danielle Kalinowski of Hopewell Junction, N.Y., a Nursing major at Mount Saint Mary College, was recently named the first-ever recipient of the United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region (UWDOR) Women’s Empowerment Scholarship.
The scholarship was established to support female college students who have demonstrated exceptional resilience in overcoming significant personal, social, or economic obstacles while pursuing higher education. To be eligible, recipients must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and live within Dutchess or Orange County.
Kalinowski, who is expected to graduate with her degree in May 2026, was formally presented with the award and scholarship check at the United Way’s Women’s Luncheon on February 25 at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie.
The award recognizes perseverance, character, and a steadfast commitment to personal and academic growth. At the event, Kalinowski was honored by UWDOR President and CEO Jeannie Montano for her achievement in the face of significant challenges.
“I was beyond surprised and grateful for being chosen for this scholarship,” said Kalinowski. “To have won this Woman’s Empowerment Scholarship is a great honor, since their mission aligns with my values.”
Upon graduation, Kalinowski looks forward to becoming a hospice nurse.
The partnership between Mount Saint Mary College and the United Way continues to provide vital opportunities for regional students to reach their professional goals. By highlighting stories of resilience like Kalinowski’s, the Mount reinforces its mission as an engine for social and educational mobility in the Hudson Valley.