With over 60 Careers and Trades, 20 Regional Colleges, and numerous community organizations presenting, it was a high-impact  and well-attended event.  Over 500 community members, including more than 360 students, as well as a number of parents, attended this event.  Originally conceived in an effort to provide Red Hook students with a much needed opportunity to explore various career options in a hands-on manner, the Career Fair has achieved a momentum of its own.

The parking lot was full; walking up to the school one could hear and feel the vibe of engaged youth, enhanced by some great music, including an impromptu performance in the front hallway by a great local student violinist.  Delicious, healthy food was provided by one of our local food gurus, Joe Baldwin of Earth to Table.  It was great this year to see many students from the Middle School participate in the Career Fair.  It’s never too early to begin the long and important process of career exploration and choice.  A panel discussion regarding “Owning Your Own Business” was also offered.  A number of local business owners shared their perspectives on the rewards and challenges of starting a business.  County Executive Marc Molinaro also participated in this panel.

Another great dimension of this career fair is the multitude of parents who generously offered their time to share their passion for their chosen professions with students.  One presenter whose booth generated a lot of student interest was Helena Hobson, a physical therapist with a practice in Rhinebeck.  What a rich resource this community has in its parents and other adults who show their commitment to our students by offering their time and presence.   One freshman commented on the fair, “It was a great opportunity to learn more about things we are interested in, and see what careers paths we could take to fulfill our interests.”

A huge thank you goes to Tara Sullivan, who spearheaded this event, as well as all the volunteers who created a seamless experience for the attendees.

Sponsors of this event included the following:

TD Bank
Professional Computer Associates
The Palombo Group
Williams Lumber
Ruge’s Subaru
Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation Red Hook Chamber of Commerce
Bard College
Northern Dutchess Hospital
Ulster Savings Bank

Red Hook Education Foundation
Bard College

Red Hook Central School District
Red Hook Parent Teacher Student Association

RHEF looks forward to seeing you next year!  Meanwhile, if you have feedback about how we could improve this venue, we would welcome your ideas and input.  Please contact us at info@redhookeducationfoundation.org.