Joint Efforts: Dutchess Roots Blazes Trail with Dutchess Community College Scholarship

Led by locals with deep roots in the Town of Poughkeepsie, Dutchess Roots will open this spring at 2615 South Road (Route 9) within South Road Crossing. Co-founders Lisa and Scott Sweeney aim to elevate customers’ experiences through approachable products, personalized services and comprehensive education — and as part of their commitment to the community, have partnered with the Dutchess Community College Foundation to establish the Dutchess Roots Entrepreneurial Scholarship.

Dutchess Roots’ annual $5,000 contribution to the College will fund two $1,000 grants each year, with an ultimate goal of building an endowment. The award, which aims to recognize the entrepreneurial spirit of students in the College’s Cannabis Retail Management program, will be gifted to Dutchess County-based students, enabling us to not only support economic growth in our backyard, but uplift the next generation of leaders in the cannabis industry.   

“With Dutchess Roots, we’re planting something meaningful in our own backyard,” said Lisa Sweeney, who also serves as president of the woman-owned and woman-led dispensary. “Our intention is to not only to create an outstanding experience for our customers, but to grow meaningful roots right here in the Town of Poughkeepsie, where we live. We are committed to giving back and supporting our community whenever possible.”

Having an extensive background in hospitality and healthcare-related project management, Lisa Sweeney is uniquely positioned to lead the dispensary with a strong focus on fostering exceptional customer and employee experiences. She will co-lead with her husband, Scott Sweeney, chief operating officer, who brings complementary expertise and business acumen in sales and finance to their shared vision for Dutchess Roots.

According to Lisa Sweeney, whether you’re an experienced cannabis user or someone new to it and curious, Dutchess Roots will be there to offer a personalized experience. The dispensary will not just be about providing products; it will be dedicated to educating consumers every step of the way through on-site guidance and with partnerships like the one with Dutchess Community College.

More information on the Dutchess Roots Entrepreneurial Scholarship can be found at www.sunydutchess.edu/admissions/financial-aid/scholarships/ in the coming weeks. To stay up to date on Dutchess Roots, subscribe to its newsletter at www.dutchessroots.com and follow along on Facebook (@Dutchess Roots) and Instagram (@dutchess_roots).