Occupation: I am the Supply Chain Project Manager for Innovations at Beiersdorf. I have worked there for going on six years in June, and I really am enjoying this role.

Family: I’ve been married to my husband Tom going on 12 years in February. Together we have a blended family: my son, Nicholas, 26; my daughter, Rachel, 21; my bonus son, Nick, 28, and my bonus daughter, Lindsey, 26.

Pets: I have two pets. Samantha “Sami” is a longhair miniature Dachshund, who is 15 years old. Cider “Monster” is a Rhodesian Ridgeback Retriever, who is 5 years old. They are my co-workers when working from home some days.

How long have you lived in Newtown? I have lived here for 31 years, specifically Sandy Hook 26 years and Newtown for five years.

What do you like to do in your free time? Free time is a rarity, but I do love to read, meditate to music, or go on nature walks/drives.

What is your favorite book? There’s been many favorites, but if I have to pick one it’d be The Five People You Meet In Heaven by Mitch Albom.

What organizations are you part of in Newtown? I am the founder of Hope on Main Street. My team of 15 hosts multiple events year-round to try and bring joy to our survivors, and we raise awareness and funds for American Cancer Society. It is a twist on Relay for Life, but we are just one solo team for all of Newtown. I’m very proud of my team. It’s an incredible feeling when we can bring hope and happiness to the survivors in our community and their caregivers.

Who or what has been the greatest influence in your life? My parents hands down. They raised six kids with barely two pennies to rub together. They provided for us, they gave us a rich life of love, courage, education, respect, and honor. I pray that I can give the same values and influence to my family.

If you could spend the day with one person, who would you choose and why? Any of my family members in heaven, the why is easy, because they’re my family, a piece of my heart.

Who is your favorite musical artist? Being the youngest of six kids, you tend to lean on what you grew up with so my heart’s music is old soul and eclectic. I love Billy Joel, Anne Murray, Eagles, Bruce Springsteen, Kathy Mattea, The Judds, Lady Antebellum, Journey, Aretha Franklin … the list goes on.

What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given? Make your bed first thing in the morning; you will feel accomplished and be inspired to do more tasks.

What is something you cannot live without? My family.

What is your proudest accomplishment? My children.

What is a meal/recipe your family has passed down to you? American Chop Suey and Portuguese Meat Pie.

What is a tradition your family does that is important to you? Always hug and kiss each other when saying hello, good night, and goodbye. No matter how stressful things may get, our love for each other is constant.

What would you like The Newtown Bee to cover in the future? Stories about real people who struggle but find ways to be strong and pay it forward somehow.