Dutchess Community College Foundation awarded Dutchess BOCES a “Bridge to the Future Award” at its 2025 Our Community’s Bridge to the Future Gala.
Established in 2015, the award recognizes organizations and individuals that “distinguish themselves in working with others to enhance education, economic vitality, community wellness or civic responsibility in the mid-Hudson Valley,” according to the foundation’s website.
Dutchess BOCES is one of three school districts honored this year (Poughkeepsie City School District and Wappingers Central School District are the others).
It serves more than 1,200 students across 60 school districts including all 13 in Dutchess County.
DCC President Dr. Peter Jordan praised the partnership between the college and BOCES.
“Dutchess BOCES has long been a valuable partner with DCC, and most recently, it has been successful in acquiring state funding that launched our first PTECH program early this year. At full capacity, this partnership will enroll nearly 200 local high school students who may complete a high school diploma and associate degree concurrently — a true bridge to a brighter future. At DCC, we’re excited about the work we’re doing with Dutchess BOCES to develop seamless Career and Technical Education articulations and pathways for students across Dutchess County School Districts. And we look forward to the possibilities of working together even more closely in the future.”
Dutchess BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Jodi DeLucia expressed gratitude for the award.
“On behalf of Dutchess BOCES, we are truly honored to be the recipients of the Bridge to the Future Award. I’d like to extend our deepest thanks to Dr. Jordan and the Dutchess Community College Foundation,” she said. “Our mission is to ensure all learners have the tools and opportunities needed to succeed in today’s world.”
DeLucia also highlighted the strong collaboration between BOCES and Dutchess Community College.
“This is a transformative time in education, and the need for partnerships and shared vision has never been more urgent. Together – from PTech to Dual Enrollment programs, and our work with the county, our component districts, and higher education institutions – we are shaping the future,” she said, adding, “The value of these partnerships, especially in Dual Enrollment programs, cannot be overstated. By allowing high school students to earn college credit, we’re giving them a head start on their paths to higher education and career success.”
