POUGHKEEPSIE – Dutchess County Clerk Brad Kendall held one of the largest Naturalization ceremonies in recent history on Friday in Poughkeepsie. A total of 198 immigrants from 59 other countries swore their allegiance to the United States at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House.
Jamaica was home to the largest number of immigrants with 19 taking the oath.
Dutchess County Court Judge Peter Forman presided over the ceremony held before a capacity crowd at the historic theater.
Opening remarks were given by Chris Silva, the Bardavon’s executive director.
He was joined by Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro and Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison.
Jessica Owens, founder and chief operating officer of Uncharted Power gave the keynote address. Miss Owens is a Nigerian-American entrepreneur and inventor with dual citizenship. Owens grew up in Poughkeepsie and attended Harvard. In 2011 Fortune Magazine named Owens one of the “10 Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs” and in 2012 the Harvard Foundation recognized her as “Scientist of the Year.”
In addition to Owens, several county agencies, including the Dutchess County Clerk’s Office and the Board of Elections were present to help the new citizens with paperwork and assistance.
