As a director in Mystic Aquarium's education department I have created and managed many programs that benefit members of the community, Aquarium members, and local school systems. My most notable accomplishment is the creation of Sea School Preschool. In 2010, I led the effort to obtain a daycare/preschool license from the state, establishing the program as the nation’s first preschool in an aquarium. The preschool has helped to further the Aquarium’s goal of offering a cradle to the grave education and conservation experience for learners. A thrill for me has been having families, many who drive long distances, return to enroll their second or third child and share the lasting impact the program has made on their child’s education and outlook on learning. In 2012, Sea School Preschool was voted best preschool by the community through Patch.com.The preschool has become a valued resource, building a network of young and enthusiastic families who support all aspects of the organization from fundraising to board level initiatives. I led a Sea School parent fundraising committee to plan fundraisers and seek out sponsors to support the growth of the program. Funds raised resulted in two capital projects benefiting the preschool and Aquarium education department.For several years at the Aquarium my responsibilities included the management of elementary level programing including after-school programs, homeschool classes, and several grant funded programs for local school systems. I worked closely with local principals and teachers to develop and coordinate STEM based learning opportunities varying from coastal field studies on Long Island Sound to classroom based lessons.

Implemented and maintained the center's educational program in compliance with ChildrenFirst's first class educational and health & safety best practices. Created a safe, educationally stimulating environment for infant through school aged children. Traveled to new ChildrenFirst centers to train staff and plan for NAEYC accreditation process.

During the summer months between 1999- 2001, lived on the campus of Trinity College and created an engaging classroom environment in order to lead World Tour themed classes for Dream Camp campers. Formed wonderful relationships with the campers and their families which fueled my passion for creating innovative learning opportunities for young children.The ESF Dream Camp mission: "Dream Camp transforms the lives of low-income, urban youth through innovative yearlong programs that nurture the individual, educate the mind, and inspire the spirit."