POUGHKEEPSIE- State Senator Rob Rolison (R, Poughkeepsie) has named Karen Hochhauser as the 2026 Woman of Distinction for the 39th Senate District.
The annual New York State Senate program honors women whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact on their communities.
Hochhauser, a lifelong Dutchess County resident and executive director of the Jewish Federation of Dutchess County, was recognized for her work strengthening community connections, supporting families, and expanding access to resources across the Hudson Valley.
“Karen embodies the very spirit of service, leadership, and compassion that this honor represents,” Rolison said in a statement.
Hochhauser previously spent nearly 20 years living in Asia before returning to the Hudson Valley. In addition to leading the Federation, she works as a certified executive leadership coach focused on mentoring and empowering women leaders.
In accepting the honor, Hochhauser thanked Rolison and reflected on her family’s longtime roots in the region.
“I have always believed that leadership is about example, and that our collective strength is found in our individual acts of service,” she said.
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