What is your favorite project you worked on and why?
One of the game changers for me personally was being the Project Manager for the construction of the
U. S. Land Port of Entry in Calais, Maine. Not only was this project awarded the General Services Administration Project Management and GSA Design Excellence Award, this $84M 100,000sf LEED Gold, state-of-the-art facility was constructed to efficiently and effectively process commercial and passenger traffic given the stringent security standards imposed resulting from September 11, 2001. Working with the Department of Homeland Security Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Food and Drug Administration, this highly secure 26-acre site comprises a main administration building, a firearms certification range, office and kennels. This facility was a true testament to our nation’s security and well deserved facility for our troops.

What’s your secret talent that no one knows about?
No real secrets here, but I have a keen love of gardening. I learned the recipe for joyful gardening from my grandparents. As a child I would work the soil farming vegetables at their home in New Hampshire, learning the importance of planting from north to south so that all the veggies would get ample sunshine and air circulation. Everything I learned from my grandparents is taken into account in my vegetable gardens today. I also enjoy my flower gardens. When I am in my gardens, work becomes play and a total stress relief. I am also passionate about cooking. There’s nothing better than fresh veggies from the garden and beautiful flowers for the table from your own harvest. My Nana taught me to cook and bake and I have tried to carry on her traditional meals and goodies like her Pizzelles, although I haven’t quite perfected her recipes but I am still working on it!

What is one thing on your bucket list and will you accomplish it?
I want to travel Italy, specifically to Calabria where my grandparents emigrated from and yes our family is planning a trip.

Who or what inspires you?
My parents and grandparents have been most influential in my life and made me who I am today. Growing up I watched them handle life’s challenges remaining devoted to each other and our family and maintaining a dedicated and loyal work ethic. They were always respectful to others whether they agreed with them or not, selfless and caring. They instilled absolute honesty and trust and have always encouraged me to always do my best and to be the person I can be.