YWCA Ulster County Gala – 2022

Wednesday, July 20th – 6 p.m.

Through a new twist on our famous “Tribute to Women,” the Women Who Roar for the Y Gala celebrated selfless service and contribution. The Senate Garage quickly filled up with over 100 supportive members of the community, and we toasted the women whose commitment to service and super-human strength motivates our efforts in launching a successful Century Strong Campaign for the YWCA Ulster County.

Naimah Muhammed
MC of the night
Committed to grassroots community action, having served on the board of The Center For Creative Education, and participated in the Governor Cuomo Initiated Police Taskforce of Kingston, NY.
Radio Kingston
Dedicated to community storytelling, artistic and musical expression, conversation, and connection from production, tech, and community engagement to journalism and Crucial operations tasks.
Senator Michelle Hinchey
Had 34 bills signed into law that championed issues spanning healthcare and broadband expansion, reproductive rights, climate protection, and food justice since her election to the State Senate in 2020.

Guests enjoyed entertainment from Grammy Nominated Artist Tracy Bonham, The Rock Academy, Kitani, Marlene Merritt, and more. Mary Giuliani Catering & Events donated their catering services to supply guests with hors d’oeuvres & signature cocktails, and guests also took part in the chance to take home items such as wellness packages, tickets to live shows, classes, and more from our silent auction

Singer/songwriter and two-time Grammy™ nominee, Tracy Bonham, is a classically trained violinist, pianist, and self-taught guitarist.
Singer/songwriter Kevin West, aka Kitani, creates music infused with classic Reggae, R&B, and Afrobeats.
Singer, songwriter, actress, and playwright Marlene Merritt captivates audiences with her soulful gospel music.
Timely Signs, sponsor and frequent collaborator with YWCA Ulster County, donated a custom YWCA Step and Repeat for guests to use as a backdrop in photos.
Mary Giuliani Catering & Events and Honorland Development Partners provided hors d’oeuvres and beverages, along with friendly service.

We honored the following women who are committed to their steadfast advocacy for our mission of eliminating racism and empowering women in Ulster County and beyond:

  • Isis Benitez
  • Elena Brower
  • Jess Davis
  • Senator Michelle Hinchey
  • Ann Lewis
  • Lindsey Wolkowicz
  • Women of Radio Kingston
  • Women of YWCA Ulster County, Board of Directors – Andi Aldin, Tamika Dunkley,  Mary Ann Hildebrandt

The YWCA thanks our generous production sponsors: Co-Work Kingston, Honorland Development Partners, Hudsy TV, MGCE, Planned Parenthood of Greater NY, Radio Kingston, Rondout Savings Bank, and Senate Garage.