Two Years In: A Reflection on Gratitude, Optimism and a Deep Sense of Purpose

November 3, 2026, marked two years since my first day as President and CEO at The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven.

The time has flown by, and I believe that is because of the Foundation's remarkable team, the extraordinary community we serve, and the importance of our mission.

These two years have not been without challenges, and I am grateful for those as well. The most meaningful growth often comes from moments that stretch us, and I believe every achievement and every obstacle has offered an opportunity to learn and move forward together.

Two years ago, I joined the Foundation on the eve of a presidential election. Two years later, my work anniversary fell on Election Day. That coincidence reminds me of something important: elections are one way community voices are heard, but they are only one way. Every day, people raise their voices by sharing their stories, supporting their neighbors, advocating for change, volunteering, giving and working together to strengthen their communities.

Those reflections connect deeply to two of the Foundation's priority impact areas: civic engagement and economic mobility. I am continually inspired by what happens when people refuse to accept that the challenges they face are fixed or inevitable. When individuals come together with courage, hope and a willingness to act, they create the possibility for meaningful change – not only for themselves, but for others as well.

As we continue building on this Foundation's strong legacy, I am excited about what lies ahead. I remain committed to our unique role as a convener, connector and catalyst: bringing people together across differences, investing in opportunity, and helping create pathways to success for everyone, especially those who face the greatest barriers.

The work ahead is important, and the Foundation cannot do it alone. We need our community partners. We need the next generation of leaders. And we need each member of our staff, whose dedication, talent and belief in this mission are what make our impact possible.

As I begin year three, I do so with gratitude, optimism and a deep sense of purpose.

Onward.

In community,