This weekend's annual Italian Heritage Festival in Valhalla honored White Plains’ first female Department of Public Works commissioner.

Each year, the Kensico Dam Plaza festival focuses on Italian pride, but this year in particular, the event recognized Yonkers native Stefania Mignone.

"My father came to the United States in 1960... He came here with nothing, and worked really hard and was able to achieve the American dream. I am extremely honored for this recognition," Mignone said.

Mignone began her DPW career 17 years ago as a staff engineer. She rose through the ranks and never forgot the valuable lessons she learned as a child.

"My parents always instilled in me hard work. So if you work hard, you'll become successful," Mignone said.

Last year's festival honoree, News 12's Lisa LaRocca, introduced Mignone to the appreciative crowd.