My favorite thing is to connect people to the things they are passionate about in the nonprofit or philanthropic space. I am president of Women in Development of Central Mass, a corporator of Greater Worcester Community Foundation, and a board member of Habitat for Humanity of MetroWest/Greater Worcester and Central Mass Conference for Women. I am a member of Women’s Initiative and the Young Professional Women’s Association of Worcester. In my free time, I like to volunteer and give back to these and other organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club Worcester, Living in Freedom Together (LIFT), Girls on the Run Worcester County, the Shine Initiative, and more. I am also an avid reader and like to be outdoors, especially this time of year. I am a huge Harry Potter fan, and I love cheese.
Please tell us about your current career and what you love most about what you do?
Since March of 2022, I have served as the Executive Director of CASA Project Worcester County. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates, who are trained and screened volunteers who report in the juvenile courts throughout our county for the best interests of abused, neglected, and vulnerable children, and support them on their paths toward a permanent home. My previous career opportunities have been in fundraising and children’s behavioral and mental health, so this position is a perfect marriage of my experience and passions. I love waking up every day and knowing that I am making a positive impact within our community. I am energized and inspired by my hardworking team, our many volunteers, our partners and supporters, and the children and caregivers we serve.
What is your favorite restaurant in Worcester, and what is your favorite dish?
Volturno is my favorite spot for food, cocktails, ambiance, and service. The burrata pizza is my favorite dish, hands down! I also have to mention Woo Bar for their amazing patio and delicious food and drinks. The owners of both places are local, caring humans who give back to our community, which is very important to me when I choose where to do business.
Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met?
My best friend, Vanessa Roy, is one of the most interesting humans in my life for many reasons, but mostly because she has challenged me, made me laugh, and taken her own path for all of the many years I have known her. I feel fortunate to be in her circle.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
So many places! I guess I would say the Galápagos Islands, the French Polynesians, or Fiji.
What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
No shame in my Taylor Swift game. I also listen to the Hamilton soundtrack on repeat.
What is your best advice?
Leave the world a little better than you found it.
What is one of the top three items on your Bucket List?
To go on an African safari, publish a book, or visit an elephant sanctuary (sorry, that was all three!).
What current/former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Worcester?
RIP The Dive Bar (soon reopening as The Sundown, yay!). Honorable mention to Vincent’s and Coney Island for going strong and being the best.
Choosing anyone alive and a non-relative with whom would you love to have lunch? Why?
Michelle Obama. She is ambitious, resilient, gracious, compassionate, and a total badass.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I have stopped trying to predict or circumscribe the future a while back because that’s rarely how it works. I can only hope to be healthy and active, surrounded by people who I love and who support me fully, and making a positive impact on those around me.
What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you, even your friends or family.
My natural hair color (not even sure I know). LOL!
What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Community, safety, love.
If a motion picture was made of your life, what actor/actress would you choose to play you?
Kristen Wiig
What is your favorite thing or something unique about Worcester?
I love that Worcester is the second largest city in New England, but that it somehow still has a small-town vibe. There are so many people who want to help their neighbors, give back, and contribute. I also love that the smiley face was invented here by Harvey Ball back in 1973, and there have been so many other medical, scientific, technological and arts and cultural advances made right here in Worcester throughout the decades. Excited for the Worcester Tercentennial Celebration (300th anniversary of being established as a town in 1722) this year!
What is your favorite smell?
Ironically, I don’t enjoy raw tomatoes in most dishes, but the smell of fresh garden tomatoes still brings tears to my eyes many years after losing my grandfather. He had a huge garden that he tended with love and that smell brings me back to beautiful summer memories of him.
Who inspires you to be better?
My friend Liz Hamilton. She has taught me so much about thoughtful leadership, making hard choices, standing up for what is right even when it is unpopular, and much more. I aspire to emulate the way she makes all people feel valued and respected.
