From left are Wendy Burns, 2024 Zontian of the Year, presenting the plaque to 2025 winner, Debbie Piotrowski.

The Zonta Club of Jamestown has named Debbie Piotrowski as its 2025 Zontian of the Year, recognizing her dedication to improving the lives of women and girls both locally and globally.

The announcement was made during the club’s October program meeting at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, where members reflected on the ways Piotrowski has embodied Zonta’s mission through her professional achievements, volunteer service, and compassionate leadership.

“Choosing our Zontian of the Year is never easy because so many members work tirelessly to make our world a better place for women and girls,” said speaker Laura Corey as she revealed the winner. “Debbie’s lifelong commitment to healthcare, education, and community service makes her a truly deserving honoree.”

A long-time member of the Jamestown club, Piotrowski’s impact reaches far beyond Zonta. With a distinguished career in nursing, she has served in cardiac care, trauma, and as a nurse practitioner. Her passion for helping others led her to establish and direct Jamestown High School’s first school-based health center, where she provided medical, dental, and mental health services to more than 700 students. Under her care, the teen pregnancy rate dropped from over a dozen cases a year to nearly zero, a testament to her dedication and advocacy for accessible health care and education.

A native of Pennsylvania, Piotrowski earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in nursing. Her career has also included work with Hospice and leadership roles in hospital settings, including collaborations with physicians pioneering artificial heart technology.

Beyond her professional life, Piotrowski is known for her love of nature, gardening, and family. She and her husband, a U.S. Navy veteran, have raised three children and now enjoy time with their grandchildren. A passionate traveler, she recently achieved her goal of visiting all 50 states, with Alaska being the final destination on her list.

During the award presentation, Piotrowski’s granddaughter, Mae, shared touching remarks about her grandmother’s influence and inspiration, making the evening even more special.

For more information about the Zonta Club of Jamestown, whose mission is to build a better world for women and girls, visit www.zontajamestown.org.