WHO
WE ARE

I am a lifelong resident of greater Springfield, MA. I graduated from Notre Dame and Purdue, then served in the United States Army in Vietnam before returning home to build the Pride chain.

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While at Notre Dame, I volunteered in an underserved community in Chicago and witnessed youth and families who wanted to improve their lives but were stuck in a cycle beyond their control. I later saw the same in Vietnam. Then for decades while running the Pride chain I saw the same struggles in our hometown.

 

Throughout my career I was a business entrepreneur, but now I’m a passionate social entrepreneur. My new team and I are using entrepreneurial thinking, innovation, and sound business techniques to create programs to help youth & families. Our approach is to utilize education, inspiration, counseling, and a holistic approach.

My professional career has spanned over three decades. I have a background in accounting for non-profits, manufacturing, and banking.  I am passionate about making a difference in the community. I have an associates degree from Holyoke Community College and a Bachelor's degree from Western New England University. 

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My role at HYF expands in many ways from finances to budgeting and everything in between. 

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Fun Facts: I used to play ice hockey. I also enjoy playing golf, cooking, reading and traveling. 

Before joining the HYF team, I taught high school for ten years in rural and urban communities in NY, MA, FL, and Costa Rica, and I worked with youth and young adults in a residential summer camp setting. Through my experience, I have become a firm believer in experiential and contextual learning. No one learns or makes decisions the same way because we all come from different walks of life. 

 

I am passionate about working with youth and families to support them in reaching their goals, creating bright futures, and helping them develop individual paths to success. Whether a student chooses to join the workforce or go to college after high school, we will work together to explore all options and make the best choice for them, specifically surrounding the college experience. 

 

I have a BA in English Literature from Le Moyne College and an MS in Education from the University of Buffalo.

 

Fun Facts: I love to be outside, exploring, and enjoying time with those close to me. On weekends, I can be found hiking, biking, swimming, gardening, and reading, accompanied by my favorite human and our dog. 

Born and raised in Holyoke, MA. 

I've spent over a decade dedicated to supporting youth from diverse backgrounds. Throughout my journey, I've been inspired to continue reaching out and helping young individuals discover their passions and set their goals. Guiding these youngsters isn't just a job; it's my lifelong passion. From providing therapeutic mentorship to offering advice on college and career paths, each success story I've witnessed has fueled my drive further.

I am an alum of Westfield State and am pursuing my graduate degree at Springfield College. Through it all my mission remains the same: to engage, educate, and empower young people, regardless of their circumstances, and inspire them to become the best version of themselves.

 

Fun Facts: Outside of work, I enjoy making music, sports (specifically basketball & football) and reading

I'm a business leader with a passion for progress and a strong background in business management. For 12 years, I've navigated the dynamic world of convenience stores, expanding company reach across the country to over 1500 locations. But while numbers and profits are important, it's the human connection that truly fuels my purpose. Working with youth and families has always been my heart's compass. I've served on the boards of The Therapeutic Equestrian Center and Holyoke Merry Go Round, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of community. This passion extends to my close work with program directors at CHD and MAK, organizations that provide opportunities to foster children. My expertise in relationship building, program expansion, and community engagement helps us make a real difference. I'm confident, collaborative, and driven by a deep belief in the power of shared success.​

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Fun Facts: Beyond the boardroom, you'll find me in Russell, cheering on my two amazing daughters, husband, and our Bernese Mountain dog, Ryder. I love exploring my creative side through floral design and interior projects. My life is a tapestry woven with family, community, and a constant thirst for growth.

With over 10 years of experience in education, I worked to foster student success, strengthen family engagement, and improve school operations in Springfield, MA. I collaborated with educators, families, and community partners to create inclusive, student-centered environments that supported learning and equity.

My expertise spanned school operations, program development, and community outreach, with a focus on bridging gaps between schools and families. Believing that strong partnerships drive student achievement, I was passionate about creating meaningful connections that empowered students and strengthened communities.

I look forward to continuing this work, using my experience to support and advocate for students, families, and educational communities.

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Fun Fact: When I am not working, I love to cook for my family and sing! 

With 15 years of experience in the medical field, I transitioned into a role with AmeriCorps following the pandemic, where I discovered a new calling in Human Services. This career shift enabled me to work with youth, a role that has been both rewarding and inspiring.

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I am deeply committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people by leading by example and actively participating in their development. My goal is to ensure that youth feel seen, heard, and understood. As I embark on this new journey, my dedication to impacting the lives of young people remains a central focus of my mission.

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Fun Fact: I enjoy going on hikes, reading, cuddling with my American bully, and eating Ice cream.