I’m originally from Swedesboro, NJ a small town on the Delaware River 30 mins from Philadelphia. I moved to MA in 1996, at 15, to live with my sister after my mom passed away. I attended Westborough High School, Bridgewater State University, and Boston University. I moved to Worcester in 2001 and my first “real” job was in construction management. I did that for 12 years before going to work at the Worcester Public Library as the inaugural pilot of “Lilly” the second bookmobile. A career change in 2015 brought me to work in the non-profit sector with disadvantaged youth, and I have been focused on that since. I have two incredible sons, Joshua and Isaiah, who are students in WPS. I am a board member of the Worcester Education Collaborative, The Greater Worcester Community Foundation, Co-Chair of the Coalition for a Healthy Greater Worcester, and an associate pastor at The Journey Community Church. I’m a visionary leader that challenges convention. I can collaboratively problem-solve complex problems under pressure. I have a “do whatever it takes” attitude to impact the lives of marginalized communities. I have a deep commitment to self-improvement and life-long learning. I am also probably one of the silliest people you have ever met.
Please tell us about your current career and what you love most about what you do?
As the executive director of Legendary Legacies Inc., what I love most about the job is the ability to witness staff and participants realize their full potential.
What is your favorite restaurant in Worcester, and what is your favorite dish?
Baba Sushi, The Volcano Roll
Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met?
Nina Dow
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Albania, I have friends who have told me its a hidden gem.
What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Kings Kaleidoscope
What is your best advice?
Ask more questions and make less assumptions. Stay Curious?
What is one of the top three items on your Bucket List?
Go to Space
What current/former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Worcester?
Executive Director
Choosing anyone alive and a non-relative with whom would you love to have lunch? Why?
Jesus Christ.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In a mirror still hopefully
What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you, even your friends or family.
I have great anxiety about public speaking.
What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfort, safety, love
If a motion picture was made of your life, what actor/actress would you choose to play you?
Michael Keegan
What is your favorite thing or something unique about Worcester?
The sledding hills
What is your favorite smell?
Petrichor
Who inspires you to be better?
Joshua Waddell & Isaiah Waddell
