Assemblymember Barrett to Highlight the Life and Contributions of Susan Peltz Hochhauser

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — FEB. 28, 2024 — Assemblymember Didi Barrett announced that her annual Women’s History Month Celebration will take place on Sunday, March 3 from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. in Bowne Hall on the campus of Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie.

This year's celebration will highlight the life and contributions of Susan Peltz Hochhauser, a champion of many local organizations in Dutchess County. Susan’s story is included in the 2024 edition of Assemblymember Barrett’s “Women’s History in the Hudson Valley - Ten Stories from Columbia and Dutchess Counties” which will be available at the March 3 event and at local libraries and high schools in the 106th Assembly District.

The 2024 volume of “Women’s History in the Hudson Valley: Ten Stories from Columbia and Dutchess Counties” features the stories of Alida Schuyler Livingston, who acted as a business partner and advisor to her husband despite restrictions under the English Crown’s rule; Mabel Mercer, a world renowned cabaret singer; Susan Elizabeth Frazier, a civil rights activist and the first person of color to teach white students in an integrated public school in New York; Kate Millett, groundbreaking feminist author, activist, and artist; and many more.

Dutchess Community College President Dr. Peter Grant Jordan said, “We look forward to welcoming Assemblymember Didi Barrett back to Dutchess Community College as she kicks off another Women’s History Month celebration here in our Assembly District. An influential leader herself, Assemblymember Barrett brings the stories of other exceptional women to light through her annual women’s history publication. We are especially proud to be celebrating one of DCC’s own former leaders in the 2024 edition—Susan Peltz Hochhauser—whose contributions to education and our community continue to guide and inspire us.”

We hope you can join us for this very special event.