RHINEBECK – Northern Dutchess Hospital has received the largest philanthropic gift ever – $3 million. The contribution, made by Gayle Bontecou, a resident of Clinton Corners, and Tequesta, Fla., is dedicated to the renovation and expansion of the hospital’s emergency department. In recognition of the gift, the space will be named “The Jesse and Gayle Bontecou Emergency Department.”
“Northern Dutchess Hospital is profoundly grateful to Gayle Bontecou for her extraordinary generosity. Her remarkable $3 million naming gift for the renovation and expansion of our emergency department is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the well-being of our community,” hospital President Denise George said. “This remarkable donation marks the largest philanthropic gift in our hospital’s history, a legacy that will forever be etched in the heart of our institution. Together, we are ensuring Northern Dutchess Hospital continues to provide top-notch healthcare for generations to come.”
Bontecou’s decision to support Northern Dutchess is deeply rooted in a personal connection to the hospital, she says. In 2016, after her late husband, Jesse, required emergency medical attention, she said they experienced the compassionate and dedicated care provided by hospital staff firsthand.
She said the staff went above and beyond to ensure Mr. Bontecou’s comfort and well-being, leaving an indelible mark on the couple. That gesture of kindness led to the gift.
“When my husband needed the best care, he got it through the Northern Dutchess Hospital Emergency Department. The night I drove Jesse to the emergency entrance, Dr. John Sabia came out to help us — we had no idea who he was, but his kindness and concern set the tone for the way my husband and I were treated throughout that frightening time,” Gayle Bontecou said. “He became our friend, and we had complete trust in the entire emergency department. I wanted to ensure that everyone can receive this kind of compassionate, generous care and in the best facility.”
The Bontecous, who were married for 46 years before Jesse’s death in 2020, shared a deep love for the community and were enthusiastic about nature and wildlife conservation. In 2022, Gayle Bontecou donated over 1,250 acres of open land in Dutchess County to establish the Jesse and Gayle Bontecou Wildlife Conservation Preserve.
The couple were also avid birders, animal lovers, and dog enthusiasts. Mrs. Bontecou is a renowned judge in American Kennel Club dog events and serves on the Board of the AKC Museum of the Dog in New York City.
