​What I’ve Learned Along the Way

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Over the years, I've learned that many people struggle not because they lack ability, but because they have not yet developed the strategies that help them succeed.

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I've worked with children, teens, and adults who were bright, capable, and full of potential, yet felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward. I've also seen how difficult it can be to experience disappointment, rejection, or failure and find a way forward. Learning to recover from setbacks is a skill, and one that can be strengthened over time.

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I've come to believe just as strongly in the importance of helping people find and express their voice. The ability to communicate your ideas, experiences, and perspective, whether through writing, conversation, or speaking to others, is a skill that matters in school, work, relationships, and throughout life.

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At the same time, meaningful conversations have become more difficult as people spend less time listening to one another and more time communicating through screens. Taking the time to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and preserve someone's experiences can be deeply meaningful. That belief is at the heart of Northstar's Life Histories & Legacy Messages.

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I've also seen how easy it is for people to be defined by a diagnosis, a grade, or a challenge rather than recognized for their strengths, experiences, and individuality.

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Those experiences helped shape Northstar Achievement Pathways.

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My goal is to understand each person's strengths, challenges, experiences, and goals, and provide support that reflects who they are and what matters to them, whether that means developing practical skills, finding their voice, navigating a setback, or preserving a life history or legacy message.

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Every person is unique. Effective support should reflect that.

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Credentials​​

• Ph.D., Holocaust & Genocide Studies
  Gratz College

• M.Ed., Special Education
  University of Hartford

• M.Ed., Secondary Education
  University of Hartford

• B.A., History
  University of Hartford

 

Professional Experience

• Secondary-level History Instructor (13+ years)

• UConn Early College Experience Instructor of United States History and Human Rights (9+ years)

• Former Adjunct Faculty, World History and Western Civilization, University of Hartford (24 years)

• Oral History Interviewer

• State of Connecticut Teacher Certification in History, Grades 4-12

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