How many kids do you each have and what are their ages?
I have four kids. Girls ages 15 and 10 and boys ages 8 and 3.
What are your favorite family activities in Stamford?
In normal years we love taking advantage of all Stamford as to offer. Of course we’re super fans of the Carousel at Mill River Park. In addition, we go geocacheing and walking in area parks, we bowl and play at RPM and we enjoy the farm at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center.
Why did you decide to raise your family in Stamford?
My husband and I are originally from NYC and moved here 15 years ago for our jobs. We looked at a few areas and fell in love with the diversity and vibrancy of Stamford.
Tell us about your career.
My background is in environmental and community development. I work at connecting people to environmental resources in their communities.
Tell us about what you do for Mill River Park.
I’m the Park’s Director of Visitor Experience. My team oversees Education, Volunteering, Public Programs and our attractions such at the Nissen Carousel and Cohen Skating Center. We develop programs for the public to participate in while visiting the Park.
What do you love about Mill River Park?
I love that it is an escape in the heart of the city. It’s not often that you can be in the middle of a downtown and hear the ripple of a river, but you can do that in Mill River Park.
How have you seen it change since you began working at Mill River?
I just celebrated my 10 year anniversary at Mill River Park, so I remember when there was no park. I remember creating our first festivals and outreach events and the grand opening of the park. It feels like my baby that I keep getting to watch grow up.
There are so many great things happening at Mill River, what is your goal for the park’s future?
I think the park plays a role in making Stamford a better place and giving residents a sense of pride in where they are from. I look forward to our expansion and the building of our environmental education facilities. The park is unique and allows residents of different backgrounds to come together. I want to see that work expand.
How do you juggle work with mommyhood… especially during COVID-19?
Ha ha, I don’t!! I’m gentle with myself. You can’t keep all ball in the air at all times. There is one of me, four of them and I work full time. I think it’s good for my kids to see me work and know that I have passions. I try to be fully present in the moment. If I’m working they know that is where my attention is focused. If its their time, I try to switch work off, put my phone down and focus on them.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
The days are long, but the years are short so savor the moments.
