I was born and raised in Naugatuck and graduated from Naugatuck High School in 2014. As a cheerleader, I had the opportunity to perform in the 2011 Gator Bowl Halftime Show, an experience that instilled pride in representing my hometown on a national stage. Today, I serve as a college professor teaching Communication and Media Studies courses both online and in person, including Media Literacy, Persuasion, and Interpersonal Communication. Storytelling and audience awareness have always been central to my work.

Serving as Vice President has shifted my perspective from volunteer work to organizational leadership. I have come to understand that leadership in a small, all-volunteer museum is not about being the most visible or outspoken person in the room. For me, leadership means setting an example through adaptability, thoughtful communication, and respect for different working styles. I naturally prefer to work behind the scenes, and I recognize that many people engage with history in the same way. Not everyone is comfortable attending public events or speaking up in group settings. Because of this, I feel strongly that learning and access to information should not require stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Expanding our online presence and making primary sources available digitally has become one of my greatest priorities.

As someone who teaches media literacy, I am deeply aware of how language, framing, and narrative choices shape public understanding. Every presentation of history involves decisions, and every individual brings a perspective. In my work with the website, exhibits, and public communications, I strive to foreground primary sources whenever possible and allow readers to draw their own conclusions. While interpretation can never be entirely neutral, transparency matters. I believe a museum should provide context, documentation, and access rather than a single dominant voice.

Looking ahead five to ten years, I hope the Historical Society becomes a trusted repository of primary source material in an era increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence and rapidly circulating information. Establishing and maintaining credibility is essential. I am committed to expanding our digital archive and supporting efforts to make our collections accessible online. Trustworthy information should be preserved, organized, and available to anyone who seeks it, whether they live in Naugatuck or across the country.

As one of the younger members of the board, I recognize that sustainability depends on adaptation. Communication styles change. Technology changes. Audience expectations change. The skills I bring to digital engagement, website redevelopment, social media outreach, and visual design help ensure that we remain visible and relevant. Intergenerational collaboration has strengthened the organization, and I value the opportunity to learn from volunteers across decades of experience while also contributing technological and strategic insight.

Returning to serve my hometown has been especially meaningful. I grew up in Naugatuck without fully understanding its history. Now, as a homeowner raising two sons here, I see the town differently. Learning about the people who shaped this community has deepened my sense of appreciation and responsibility. History is rarely a single story. Even when four people witness the same event, each carries a different version of it. I believe it is our responsibility to preserve not only well-known names and industries, but also everyday lives and overlooked voices. When we document multiple perspectives, we create a fuller and more honest understanding of who we are.

My hope is that every person who interacts with the Historical Society, whether in person or online, feels represented, informed, and welcomed. Local history should reflect the full complexity of the community it serves.