WSB in the Media

For almost three decades, Vision Hudson Valley (formerly the Orange County Citizens Foundation) has selected an annual recipient who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to leadership and service in the Hudson Valley. Ruth and James Ottaway, prominent philanthropists, and quality-of-life advocates for whom the award was named, introduced institutions and programs that continue to have a broad local influence through VHV's efforts.

Honorees demonstrate a similarly prolific impact, and this year's recipient is well-deserving. Derrik Wynkoop will receive the prestigious honor at the Ottaway Medal dinner, to be held Thursday, May 2nd, 2024, at The Barn at Villa Venezia.

Mr. Wynkoop is the President and CEO of Walden Savings Bank which just celebrated its 150th anniversary in April 2022 as the 11th oldest mutual savings bank in the country. Walden Savings Bank is often recognized for their extensive involvement within the community, an example set under Mr. Wynkoop’s leadership. Derrik can be found supporting countless organizations and events throughout the community. His level of enthusiasm, engagement, and commitment to each of the causes he is involved with is truly representative of everything that Ruth and James Ottaway stood for.

Beyond leading the charge for community involvement within Walden Savings Bank, Mr. Wynkoop is a Past Chairman for the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan County, (and continues on the board since 2001) along with Past Chairman for the SUNY Orange Foundation (and continues on their board since 2010).  He became a Board Member of the Orange County Partnership in 2016 and joined the Hudson Valley Patterns for Progress Board of Directors in 2020. Mr. Wynkoop is currently honorary co-chair for the fundraising campaign for the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley.

Mr. Wynkoop is also one of the founding Directors for the Wallkill Valley Health Center (now an affiliate of Sun River Health of Peekskill) and currently serves as Vice President. He is also a founding member of the Walden Community Council which still thrives today.

“Vision Hudson Valley is beyond excited to award the 2024 Ottaway Medal to Derrik. Besides his extensive body of work within the community, we were most impressed that Derrik continues to have a close relationship with and is an active supporter of each and every organization that he has been involved with,” said Kaitlynn Lancellotti, Executive Director. “We are very fortunate that Vision Hudson Valley will have the benefit of Derrik’s passion for giving back for years to come.”

Professionally, Mr. Wynkoop has been appointed to a number of industry-related groups recognizing his expertise and leadership in his field. He currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the New York Bankers Association and in 2021 was appointed to the American Bankers Association’s Government Relations Council where he represents all banks in New York State on crafting national legislative banking priorities. He was also recently selected for Board of Directors for COCC, an industry leader providing banking technology solutions for over 600 banks and credit unions.

Vision Hudson Valley is honored to join so many others who have recognized Derrik’s lifetime of selfless service. He has earned many notable honors, including the Lifetime Achievement Award / Pillars of the Community Award from Cornerstone Family Healthcare, the Joseph A. Bonura Leadership Award by Mount Saint Mary College, and the “Friend of the Extension” award by Cornell Cooperative of Orange County. Most recently, Mr. Wynkoop and Walden Savings Bank were recognized by the Orange County Land Trust and Inspire for outstanding achievements within the community.  Derrik’s level of passion to his community and professional endeavors is truly remarkable and it is our privilege to award him the 2024 Ruth and James Ottaway Medal.

About Vision Hudson Valley (formerly the Orange County Citizens Foundation):

Vision Hudson Valley, founded in 1971, is a membership-based, non-governmental organization that improves quality of life for Hudson Valley residents through public policy and advocacy in land use and transportation planning, water conservation, waste management, cultural affairs, education, agriculture, recreation, and healthcare. Vision Hudson Valley is housed on 50 acres of bucolic farmland, formerly the home of Surrealist artist Kurt Seligmann. On these Sugar Loaf grounds, known as the Seligmann Center, the organization brings people together to create and share new ideas, artistic performances, and thought-provoking programming. For more information, visit our website at visionhudsonvalley.org or contact us at 845.469.9459 or [email protected].