Occupation: I am a retired dental hygiene educator, having worked in both private dental practices and as an adjunct clinic faculty member at the University of Bridgeport and the University of New Haven. My career spanned 43 years and brought so many interesting people and rewarding experiences into my life. Several of the students that I worked with throughout the years have careers in dental offices here in Newtown.

Family: My husband, Alan, and I have been married for 38 years. We have two daughters, Kim and Alex. Kim and her husband, Anthony, and our grandsons, Dylan and Aidan, live in New Hampshire. Alex and her husband, Kevin, live in Connecticut.

Pets: My male “grand-pets” live in New Hampshire and Connecticut. Bodie, a lovable, yellow Labrador retriever, lives in New Hampshire. Kanye, the East Coast version, is an adorable gray rescue cat and lives in Connecticut.

How long have you lived in Newtown? I have lived in Newtown (Sandy Hook) for 29 years. We chose Newtown for the community feel and the education system. It has been a wonderful town to raise a family.

What do you like to do in your free time? I enjoy spending as much time as possible outdoors; playing with my grandsons, exercising, and enjoying activities with the seasonal changes.

What is your favorite book? A favorite book has spanned three generations of my family. It is The Secret Three by Mildred Myrick. I read this book with my brother, my daughters, and my grandsons when each learned how to read. I’m currently reading The Little Paris Book Shop by Nina George.

What is your favorite travel destination? My favorite destination is Italy. The architecture, art, food, landscape, and ocean views are unforgettable. Closer to home, my favorite destination is Cape Cod. Family vacations began here in 1978 and continue to the present.

What is the best part about Newtown? Newtown is a giving community. People support people, programs, and organizations. Adults and children become involved in organized events or simply take time to check on a neighbor.

Who has been the greatest influence in your life? My parents were the greatest influence in my life. They coordinated career and family balance well and supported the individual goals of each family member. I learned about determination, responsibility, and the importance of family from their example.

If you could spend the day with one person, who would you choose and why? I would spend the day with retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. It would be fascinating to have a glimpse of her perspective as a lifelong innovator.

What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given? There are always two sides to every story. It’s important to actively listen to both.

What is something you cannot live without? I don’t want to live without a BLT from Bagel Delight, in Newtown, accompanied by a side of pasta salad.

What is your proudest accomplishment? My proudest professional accomplishment was the development and implementation of programs, policies, and procedures and strategies for students to successfully achieve their educational goals. On a personal note, I would say, my daughters. They are accomplished, amazing women striving daily to improve the well being of others.