Hannaford Supermarkets and B95.5 are partnering to identify and celebrate women in the Capital Region its the

20 Outstanding Women!

We found the women who go above and beyond to make their communities a better place to live. Those unsung heroes in our neighborhoods – the ones who are already busy, yet find the time to give back in big ways to help others.

 Thursday, March 26, 2026

Today's Outstanding Woman is,

Professor Melinda Larson of Albany

Dr. Mindy Larsen is the kind of leader who does not measure her impact by titles or accolades, but by the curiosity she ignites, the confidence she builds, and the lives she quietly transforms. As a Full Professor and Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences at the University at Albany, her academic credentials are distinguished, but it is what she does beyond the campus that truly defines her character.

Mindy's commitment to education spans generations. From grade-school classrooms in the Guilderland district to university graduate programs, she brings the wonders of biology to life with a rare gift for translating complex science into moments of genuine awe. She visits local schools personally, planting the seeds of scientific curiosity in young minds and investing in the next generation of doctors and researchers right in her own community.

That investment became especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. When children were isolated and families were struggling, Mindy opened her home and transformed her personal garden into a living outdoor classroom welcoming neighborhood children to learn biology through direct observation of plants, insects, and ecosystems. At a time of widespread uncertainty, she created a space of stability, wonder, and connection.

Her service extends further still. As a dedicated assistant Scoutmaster for her son's Boy Scout troop, Mindy models the values of responsibility, teamwork, and civic stewardship, demonstrating to young people what purposeful, modern leadership truly looks like.

Through mentorship, volunteerism, and an extraordinary commitment to her community, Mindy Larsen enriches every environment she enters. She does not seek the spotlight. She simply shows up brilliant, generous, and deeply devoted to making her community a smarter, kinder, and more connected place to live.

Nominated by Drs. Marlene Belfort and Elga Wulfert 

Listen to her interview below!

See all of this year's 20 Outstanding Women announced so far!

Congratulations to all of the 20 Outstanding Women with Hannaford Supermarkets and B95.5!

Check out the Outstanding Women from years past!

Class of 2025!

Class of 2024!