Occupation: I have recently started a new position as secretary for Newtown Parks and Recreation Department with the Town of Newtown. I am learning the ropes in this dynamic department, which offers the town a wide array of programs, classes, and varied opportunities. I am grateful to be located on the Fairfield Hills Campus which provides a most beautiful setting to my daily work life.

Family: I have family around the country — in Israel and in the United Kingdom. We are spread out around the world.

Pets: I spend much of my free time volunteering at the Danbury Animal Welfare Society (DAWS) for the dog program. Although I don’t have my own pet, I enjoy my time with a large group of rescue dogs at the shelter. I walk dogs, help to socialize them, and also assist with photography and video of new dogs as they arrive to the shelter.

What do you like to do in your free time? I enjoy hiking the many nature preserves throughout the area. I also volunteer with rescue dogs at an animal shelter as well as with the Monroe Farmers’ Market.

What is your favorite book? My favorite read has to be Adam and Eve and Pinch Me by the prolific British mystery author Ruth Rendell. British mystery is my favorite genre.

What is your favorite travel destination? Israel is my favorite travel destination. I lived and worked there in my youth and also was employed in the travel industry helping to promote travel to the region.

What is the best part about Newtown? I love the way the town and community organizations have preserved large open spaces for recreation and exploring nature. My favorite spot for hiking in the area is the Brunot Preserve (a Newtown Forest Association property).

Who has been the greatest influence in your life? My family — my mother, father, and sister — have influenced my life in the greatest way. From them, I learned the most important human qualities of integrity and kindness.

If you could spend the day with one person, who would you choose and why? I might just choose a dog named Luther. I fostered him last summer and have had the good fortune to spend a good deal of time with him since. He recently moved with his adoptive family to Denver. He has such a sweet soul. His adoptive parents have given him the best life a dog can live, and I have endless appreciation for them.

Who is your favorite musical artist? My favorite composer is Johann Sebastian Bach. My most beloved composition is the Brandenburg Concertos. My parents instilled in me the love of classical music.

What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given? I often asked my father for advice and he always said, “Do what you think is the right thing.” This sage advice has served me well throughout my life.

What is something you cannot live without? For me, the essentials to life are my family and the natural world.

What is your proudest accomplishment? I am most at peace with being a vegan. I believe it ties in with many of my goals and values.