CTpulse vol. 7 (Oct - Dec 2025)

JOY IN EVERY JOURNEY: Stories that connect us, people who define us

Welcome to Volume 7 of CTpulse. When we launched this magazine, we did so with a shared vision: to tell the stories that connect us and to honor the people who make CTtransit more than a workplace. That vision continues to guide us, as reflected in this volume’s theme, Joy in Every Journey.

The theme speaks of the many paths taken across our agency — paths of growth, service, and resilience. Each journey is unique, yet together they form the fabric of CTtransit. In these pages, we celebrate milestones and everyday moments that remind us that joy is not reserved for destinations but found along the way.

Safety and Training Director Laura Williams balanced leadership while raising a family and still achieved her goal of graduating from college. Her accomplishment reflects the joy found in resilience and determination.

That same spirit is reflected in General Manager Thomas E. Stringer Jr., whose career journey and recognition highlight the values of service and vision that continue to guide our organization forward.

In this issue of Transit On the Move, we spotlight Lisa Rivers, Transit Administrator for the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Her journey reflects how joy can be found in shaping systems that connect communities and improve lives.

Honoring “the Queen,” her career culminates in retirement after decades of commitment and strength, leaving a legacy for colleagues and customers alike. Carrying that thread of resilience, Tracy Risby reminds us that teamwork and grit are essential to success.

This season, we celebrated National Customer Service Appreciation Week, honoring our quiet heroes — customer service representatives who embody joy in every interaction.

Together, the stories and photos reflect the spirit of CTtransit: joy in every challenge met, every goal achieved, and every mile traveled.

Stay joyful,

Vanessa P. Brooks, MA Viber-in-Chief

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TOYS IN TRANSIT: Because Happiness Deserves a Lift

DECEMBER 5 - 17, 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6

Terrina Louis: A Queen Crowned in Kindness

8

Battery Electric Bus: Fire Story

12

Celebrating Albanian Heritage Month with Alma Cylaku

14

CTtransit Brings Fun, Frights, and Friendship to Track or Treat

18

Balancing Books, Motherhood, and Transit Safety: Laura Williams’ Journey

22

Arokiadass “Harry” Sarathy: Power in the Passenger Seat

24

Leading with Grit and Grace: A Conversation with Tracy Risby

26

Thomas E. Stringer Jr. From Routes to Recognition: A Career in Transit

30

CTtransit Stands Strong for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

32

Disability Resource Fair

34

Toys in Transit: Because Happiness Deserves a Lift

36

Conn-Etiquette Campaign

38

Transit on the Move: Lisa Rivers

40

Holiday Rewind

54

Next Stop: Happy Retirement

56

October Safety Winners

58

Vibe Team Members

Community helpers participating in the annual Stuff-A-Bus event aboard a CTfastrak articulated bus.

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TOM TALKS:

From saving a $1M bus to opening a new customer service center, CTtransit finds meaning in milestones and everyday moments of resilience, service, and connection At CTtransit, our work is about more than buses moving through city streets. It is about people, challenges and the joy we discover along the way. This quarter’s theme, Joy in Every Journey, reminds us that meaning is found not only in milestones but in everyday moments of connection and service.

One recent story captures this spirit. When one of our battery electric buses faced a potential loss, an employee’s quick action triggered a team response. Colleagues rallied, and the Hamden Fire Department guided us through the crisis. Together, we saved a vehicle worth $1 million. That moment revealed the strength of our people and the importance of community partnership. There is joy in knowing we do not face challenges alone.

That same spirit is present in the everyday work of our employees. Operators, mechanics, dispatchers, bus cleaners, administrative staff, and support teams bring dedication and heart to all they do. Their stories reflect professional growth, personal resilience, and community involvement. CTtransit is more than a workplace. It is a place where every role matters and where commitment and care are recognized and respected.

This fall, we also stood together with power — honoring those we lost to breast cancer and encouraging those still in the fight. Across our locations, employees showed up with compassion and courage, reminding us that joy can be an act of solidarity.

For our customers, the bus is often more than transportation. It is a lifeline to work, school, health care, and family. Each time a person steps aboard, we have the chance to make their day brighter. That responsibility is one we carry with pride.

As we are opening our new customer service building in New Haven, we see this theme come to life. Joy is found not only on the road but also in the spaces where we welcome and support our communities. This new building reflects our commitment to making every interaction brighter and every customer feel valued.

Thank you for standing with CTtransit. May we continue to carry joy forward in all we do together for our communities.

With gratitude,

Thomas E. Stringer Jr. General Manager

TERRINA LOUIS: A QUEEN CROWNED IN KINDNESS Around the Hartford division, one woman is responsible for a lot of hugs, countless laughs, and enough overtime to earn herself a royal title. Terrina “the Queen” Louis began her career at CTtransit in July 1999, and has created an incredible legacy over her 26 years moving Connecticut forward.

After two years of night school, Louis graduated with honors, a proud moment that marked the beginning of a new chapter. She left her graduation on Friday, and by the following Monday, she had submitted her application to CTtransit. “I always wanted to be a bus driver,” she said.

If you think being royalty is easy, you might not know Louis’ story. Before joining CTtransit, Louis was balancing taking night classes to earn her diploma, working at Bank of America, and driving a school bus.

She always worked to build the life she wanted. Lewis knew it would take perseverance and positivity, even in the face of doubt.

Just a week later, and only three days after her 40th birthday, Louis was officially hired. “It was a beautiful birthday gift.” CTtransit had no clue it would soon crown a queen.

“Every night I went to school,” she shared, “My father would always say something negative like, ‘You should have gone when you were supposed to.’ That was just his way of pushing me. My mom would smile and tell me, ‘Just keep going.’”

“On my first day, we were told, ‘You are here because you’re the cream of the crop.’ I never forgot that, and ever since then, I’ve worn my uniform proudly,” Louis said.

The uniform means a great deal to Louis, and it is evident in how she takes care of it. The uniform is even a part of an extremely important family memory. “I used to go to my parents’ house and show them my uniform.

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“My dad once said, ‘I’m proud of you.’ That was the first time he ever said that to me.”

This pride and respect for her career pushed Louis to become the queen she is today. Her journey has been one of well-earned success, and a testament to the life she has led with kindness, commitment, and joy.

“When people look back on my career, I want them to remember my work ethic. To say, ‘If she can do it, I can do it too.’ I wasn’t the Queen for nothing. Kindness and work ethic, that’s what I hope people remember.”

As she approaches retirement in early 2026, Lewis’ decision to step away carries special significance.

“My mom just passed about seven weeks ago,” Louis said. “We always talked, and she’d say, ‘Finish what you started. Don’t stop.’ Her birthday is on Valentine’s Day, and that’s when I’m putting my retirement papers in, to let her know I finished it.”

“I used to go to my parents’ house and show them my uniform. My dad once said, ‘I’m proud of you.’ That was the first time he ever said that to me.”

After decades behind the wheel, the Queen’s next chapter promises peace and fulfillment. “I’m going to the gym, Pilates, yoga, and for walks. I’ll get that fresh morning air. I’m going back to church. I’m focusing on No. 1: the church and God. Because without Him, there’s no me, and I couldn’t have done any of this without Him.”

WHERE TEAMWORK MATTERS THE MOST: The Battery Electric Bus Fire

Something smelled funny to Elizabeth Russell.

It was late on September 12. Russell, a CTtransit bus cleaner at the New Haven division, had just finished parking a battery electric bus (BEB) outside for the night when a sharp smell of burning plastic caught her attention. She turned her head and froze. The BEB she had parked earlier was filling with thick, gray smoke.

“It was just full of smoke everywhere,” said Russell. Instinct kicked in. Russell secured the bus she was on and sprinted inside to warn everyone.

“There was definitely a lot of adrenaline. I’ve never run so fast in my life.”

After Russell alerted other employees, an evacuation order went out over the building’s loudspeaker, but that can sometimes be difficult to hear in all areas of the building, Russell said, so she went running through the facility to warn New Haven Bus Cleaner, Elizabeth Russell. people about the smoking bus.

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In the back of her mind was a frightening thought: if that bus caught fire, everything nearby, including the propane tanks, could go up with it.

“If we didn’t catch it when we did, the whole bus would have been up in flames.

It was trees above it. That whole area would have burned.”

While employees evacuated, Frank DiGristina, CTtransit Superintendent of Maintenance, Safety, Training and Technical Services, got the midnight call no one wants. A former FDNY firefighter, DiGristina jumped in his truck and headed straight to the scene.

Hamden Fire Chief Jason Blyth was there with his crew, looking through the literature provided by CTtransit six months earlier. That preparation mattered. They followed the steps to isolate the overheating battery cells and cool them down before the situation could escalate.

“We talked it over with the chief, and the best thing to do was keep it cool,” DiGristina explained. Once a battery reaches a certain temperature, he said, “it’s too late. You can’t put it out. Lithiumion fires have been known to burn underwater.”

CTtransit leaders and the New Haven team gathered with Hamden firefighters.

Firefighters worked continuously to keep the battery temperature down, but every time they paused to take a reading, the heat climbed again. They needed another approach.

DiGristina, relying on his firefighting instincts, offered to climb onto the bus roof to help open the battery compartment. But Chief Blyth and Capt. Dave Wood stepped forward themselves.

“We knew it was not completely safe, but it was the calculated risk that we could take and feel confident with,” said Blyth. But he said he knew he could trust Wood on a potentially dangerous assignment. “I looked at him, I said, ‘I’ll go up there with ya. You know, we’re not going to put anybody else in the position, let’s go do it, we can do it.’”

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After they opened the battery compartment, though, the increased oxygen caused the cells to heat up quickly. The crew ran a 2.5-inch hose up to the top of the bus to fill the tub with water, soaking the cells and bringing the temperature back down.

After the hose was connected to a hydrant for a constant water supply, the maintenance team monitored the battery box all night, and by Monday morning was able to shut the water off.

DiGristina praised the fire crew’s response.

“Those are a great group of guys. They’ve come here twice for training, so they were trained by me, and I was an ex-firefighter, so we get along really well,” he said.

“And because we got along so well, as soon as they saw me, they’re like, ‘Oh, thank God, Frank’s here!’ And I was like, ‘Don’t worry, we’re going to take care of it.’”

Blyth said DiGristina’s expertise was exactly what the responders on the scene needed.

“The amount of experience he brings over from probably the largest fire department on the planet, you know, he understands what we’re looking for,” he said.

“His training from between the last incident and this incident was instrumental in helping us.”

Chief Blyth agreed that the partnership between CTtransit and the fire department is stronger than ever.

“What is important is you’re open to our ideas and we’re open to your ideas, and this is one of those situations where it’s truly been a collaborative effort between two organizations, and we’re just improving,” Blyth said.

A previous fire that resulted in the loss of a bus, as well as some smoke inhalation and minor burns to the response team, provided lessons that helped resolve September’s fire more successfully.

“We’ve just become better and better and better in the partnerships that we’re making throughout the community, whether it be trainings or just events that we’re doing,” Zanni said. “It’s a sense of pride. It’s a sense of, what can we do better?”

For Russell, whose quick action is being credited with preventing much more damage from being done, she hopes her future shifts are less eventful.

“Every night I go outside and I look around and make sure there’s no smoke or no funny smells outside,” she said, laughing.

For New Haven Division Manager Tara Zanni, the collaboration between the firefighters and the CTtransit crew was textbook.

“It was like watching a training. Everything just fell into place,” she said. “It went so smoothly, so professionally.

I was very proud to be part of Hamden Fire Department together for the firefighter brunch celebration. it.”

DiGristina’s offer to get on the smoking bus himself embodies his leadership, according to Zanni.

“Frank is an amazing leader.

He’s very knowledgeable, obviously very brave,” she said. “He puts himself out there before his team. He won’t ask his team to do anything he won’t do himself, Hamden Fire Chief Jason Blyth (left) pictured with CTtransit General and he’ll go over and above.” Manager Thomas E. Stringer Jr.

Aerial view of Lekuresi Castle in Sarande, Albania

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CELEBRATING ALBANIAN HERITAGE MONTH WITH ALMA CYLAKU While Albania is no bigger than Massachusetts, it has an enormous heart — and no one knows that better than Hartford Human Resources Generalist Alma Cylaku.

November marks Albanian Heritage Month, and Cylaku beautifully captures the heart of her heritage, graciously sharing the values and traditions that make her home country in southeast Europe so special to her.

Among the many special stories that Cylaku holds dear when she reflects on Albania, the country’s history and culture stand out. “Albanians are very proud and accepting people,” Cylaku said.

is proud to have several Albanian Americans across our Administration, Operations, and Maintenance departments.

What makes her fellow Albanian Americans such incredible teammates at CTtransit?

“We have an excellent work ethic. We are very mindful of being on time, performing well, being good to others, and treating people with kindness.”

This November, you might find Alma Cylaku spending time with her family, enjoying byrek, a traditional Albanian pastry dish.

As we celebrate Albanian Heritage Month, we honor teammates like Alma, whose pride, kindness, and dedication reflect the very heart of what makes CTtransit and Connecticut so strong and diverse.

Albania was under Ottoman rule for about five centuries before gaining independence in November 1912.

After being freed from German occupation in 1945 and following the fall of communism in 1990, Albania regained its independence. However, even through hardship, Albania has maintained its language and traditions, something Cylaku is very proud of. For her, Albanian Heritage Month means celebrating that resilience and pride.

Cylaku is also proud of Albania’s religious diversity and harmony, noting that the country’s three traditional faiths are Islam, Catholicism, and Eastern Orthodoxy.

Notably, Albania regained its reputation for welcoming and protecting Jewish refugees during World War II. As a result, to this day, Albania is home to remnants of ancient synagogues.

View from the castle toward the center of Gjirokaster, Albania, in summer.

What else would Cylaku like people to know about Albania?

“I wish people knew that we existed. It is one of the oldest countries in Europe. We have our own unique language. It is one of the few languages in the world that is unique to a nation.”

Here in Connecticut, that heritage continues to thrive.

The state is home to one of the largest Albanian American populations in the United States, and CTtransit

Picturesque view of neighborhoods in Shkodra, Albania, on the background of mountains.

CTtransit BRINGS FUN, FRIGHTS, AND FRIENDSHIP TO TRACK OR TREAT Is that a chill in the air, or the Halloween spirit gusting through CTtransit? On October 25, our team traded in timetables for trick-or-treat bags and attended the very fun (and very spooky) Track or Treat event at Hartford Union Station!

The public was invited to ride between Springfield and Hartford to enjoy tricks, treats, and transit!

The CTtransit team greeted Track or Treaters in our spooktacular best. Planning and Scheduling leadership duo Barry Diggs and Brian McLaughlin suited up as Mario and Luigi, a fitting pair for two leaders familiar with navigating complex routes.

Also in attendance from the CTtransit team were Planning and Scheduling Manager Lorena Mesa, and Transportation Planner Leanore McBride. Mesa brought a dose of divine humor as a nun, while McBride completed the Mario universe as the mischievous Waluigi.

“It was the perfect chance to spend time with my coworkers in a totally different way,” Mesa said.

“It was so refreshing to see everyone outside the usual work mode — lots of laughs, good vibes, and maybe even a few hidden dance moves!”

Track or Treat was “a lovely event,” McBride said.

“I even brought my Shichonpoo, which everyone loved. He was dressed as Toothless [from How to Train Your Dragon] as his name is also Toothless.”

Moments like these are a reminder of how leadership and camaraderie go hand in hand, McBride added. “I really appreciate Brian for extending the invitation. Barry and Brian truly made it a successful and happy event.”

Greater Hartford Transit District (GHTD) Executive Director Doug Holcomb shared his appreciation for the day as well: “The entire GHTD staff was delighted to host this wonderful event at the historic Hartford Station.

It was a pleasure to be a part of bringing so many smiles to the faces of the children and their families.

We are all looking forward to next year’s event, and planning is underway!”

From start to finish, Track or Treat proved that when the CTtransit team comes together to celebrate our community and share in the joy of public transit, it’s always more treat than trick.

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Dear CTtransit, On behalf of CTrail and the Amherst Railway Society, we would like to extend our sincere thanks for your participation in our annual Track or Treat event. Your enthusiasm and support helped make this year’s celebration a great success.

We truly appreciate the time, effort and resources you contributed to this community event that helped bring it to life. It is through the dedication of participants like you that we are able to make meaningful impact in our community, promote our commuter line, and support local businesses.

Thank you for being a part of this event — we look forward to celebrating with you again next year.

Warm regards, Amanda Michaud CTrail Customer Service CTrail and Amherst Railway Society

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BALANCING BOOKS, MOTHERHOOD, AND TRANSIT SAFETY: LAURA WILLIAMS’ JOURNEY CTtransit Safety Director Laura Williams has built a career defined by resilience, faith, and determination.

She has worn many hats — mother, student, leader — and each role has shaped the way she approaches life and work.

Faith and family have been Williams’ foundation.

“First and foremost, my faith and my support system were and still are essential. Without God, nothing is possible. Whichever God you believe in. I have had a very wonderful support system at home and at work,” she said. That support system has carried her through challenges. Williams became a mother at 17 and again at 19.

“I grew up pretty fast, and I made it my mission not to be a statistic. I was raised in poverty, and I didn’t want that for my children,” she said. Her daughters, along with her parents, have been her grounding force through both hard times and good ones.

Determination pushed her through college, where she recently earned her degree and was named to the dean’s list. “I graduated with a 3.46 GPA. It was surreal because it was hard — long nights, early mornings. Completing my degree was something I always wanted to do,” she said.

Williams’ career in transportation began at 20, when she pursued a commercial driver’s license. “I couldn’t get my CDL until I was 21, so I was going to college part-time at Gateway Community College for medical administration.

I thought I wanted to be in the medical field,” she said.

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Driving school buses sparked a lifelong passion for transportation.

Her employers at the time encouraged her to keep studying, even allowing her to use the bus to attend late classes. Advancement followed step by step — first as a trainer, then as a safety and training manager overseeing multiple locations in New York and Connecticut. The journey eventually led south to Georgia for a public transit role, before she returned to CTtransit to expand that foundation and prove that determination can turn opportunity into achievement.

Reflecting on the transition, Williams said, “I realized there were a lot of similarities between public transportation and school bus transportation. But the larger network gave me the chance to make a lasting impact.”

Her experiences as both a parent and a professional shaped the way she mentors others. Watching her daughter struggle during her first year of college taught her the importance of letting people make their own mistakes. “That was the hardest thing for me, letting go of my kids to become who they are. I learned you must let people make their own mistakes. You can guide them, but you can’t live life for them,” she said.

She is especially proud of her work expanding operator training at CTtransit. With the support of General Manager Thomas E. Stringer Jr. and Assistant General Manager Chris DeGrave, she helped extend safety and training beyond operators to include maintenance staff. “It was a collective vision to recognize that safety and training were lacking in other places,” she said.

A serious illness also reshaped her outlook. The experience left her with a clear realization: do not put off what you want to accomplish, because tomorrow is not promised. That lesson now anchors the advice she gives to single parents or professionals considering school or leadership roles.

Her message is emphatic and straightforward. “Do it. Don’t stop. Just do it. Nike swoosh! Just do it.

You are capable. The biggest message is you are capable, and you deserve it,” she said.

And the lesson she hopes her daughters carry forward? “Don’t ever take no for an answer and don’t ever let somebody else tell you who you are.”

Williams’ journey is proof that resilience, faith, and determination can transform challenges into As a leader, Williams sees this lesson as vital for younger opportunities. From balancing textbooks and employees as well. “People are so afraid to fail because motherhood to leading safety initiatives in transit, there’s a lot at stake. But I don’t see it as a failure. I see she embodies the message she shares with her it as if you tried something and it didn’t work. OK, we team and her family: You are capable, and you go back to the drawing board. Let’s use the lesson to deserve the best life you can build. strengthen the individual and team, let’s use the lesson to build that back up,” she said.

When asked about role models, Williams points to her mother. “We didn’t always see eye to eye. I was a very spirited child. But I watched her go through so much in life. She gave us every opportunity and put herself aside to shape us. She is my heart. She’s a shero,” she said.

Her father provided a different kind of influence — quiet strength, steady and unwavering. That balance of grit and calm endurance shaped the resilience she carries into her work today.

Looking ahead, Williams hopes to deepen her focus on the “why” behind transit. “I think if people understand why they do something and why it’s important, it comes together better,” she said.

CT STAND DOWN

WATCH VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EVENT

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HONOR FLIGHT

WATCH VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EVENT

AROKIADASS “HARRY” SARATHY:

Power in the Passenger Seat

As a CTtransit bus operator, Arokiadass “Harry” Sarathy is used to taking people where they need to go — picking up and dropping off customers at predetermined stops along a set route.

But it wasn’t so long ago that just a word from a passenger would have required him to detour down side streets and avenues.

A clue as to why comes in the names of some of Sarathy’s previous passengers: Clinton. Bush. Obama.

Biden.

Before coming to Connecticut, Sarathy was a driver for the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, and also spent time driving for the State Department in Iraq, carrying current and former U.S. presidents and other dignitaries wherever they needed to go.

It was a challenging job, he said, both physically — armored vehicles are heavier and more difficult to drive — and mentally, as he need to be prepared to change a route at a moment’s notice under direction of a Secret Service agent.

“You have a lot of responsibility. This is a very risky job. Anybody can attack any time,” he said.

“Motorcade is not a joke.”

For Sarathy, though, the prospect of an exciting career outweighed any risks to his personal safety — and he relished the idea of public service.

Sarathy, 51, began working for the U.S. Embassy in his home city of New Delhi in 1994, and soon began working for the State Department, transporting diplomats, dignitaries, and presidents: Bill Clinton, both during and after his presidency; George W. Bush in 2007, Barack Obama in 2011. Other notable passengers include former French president Nicolas Sarkozy and former U.S. secretaries of state Condoleezza Rice and Hillary Clinton. His service even included a 10-year stretch in Iraq, beginning in PAGE 22

2011, during which time he drove then Vice President Joe Biden.

He fondly recalls his time as driver for heads of state, singling out Bill Clinton “as a very interesting guy and he’s a very smart politician.” After one visit, Sarathy said, Clinton invited him onto Air Force One for a trip but he had to turn it down, because he didn’t have a passport at the time.

He came to the U.S. in 2012, moving in with his sister in Norwalk. Early on, he had three jobs at one time: at Marshall’s, ABW Auto Services in Naugatuck, and driving a school bus. Then he landed a job with Norwalk Transit, leading to his current position at CTtransit.

But whether his customer is the leader of the United States or someone trying to get to work or the grocery store, the goal is the same, he said.

Bus Operator Arokiadass “Harry” Sarathy, far (left) pictured along with former President Barack Obama (center).

“I have responsibility. I have passengers,” he said. “I want to drive carefully.”

And while he has a lot of regulars on his bus, his customers are ever-changing, making each day a new experience.

“I love it because I enjoy it. You get, every day, different people.”

Bus Operator Arokiadass “Harry” Sarathy poses with former President Joe Biden (left). Harry poses in front of the presidential limousine, known as “the Beast” (above).

LEADING WITH GRIT AND GRACE: A CONVERSATION WITH TRACY RISBY Tracy Risby’s journey to CTtransit was one of serendipity. Shortly before joining the organization, the Senior Director of finance was unhappy with her contract and decided she could do better.

“I had the wisdom to walk away, knowing that there was something different,” she told CTpulse.

That “something different” at CTtransit is being the primary person “responsible for the money,” she explained. “I’ll keep it simple: knowing where, when, why, how?”

“I say it all day long: I’m here because I enjoy the relationship I have with these folks.”

Risby is Senior Director of the department, but she is quick to credit her team and their accounting backgrounds: Annette Pettigrew, Flavio Gaudio, Roven Haxhiaj, Luz Gracia, and Lourdes Bennett.

“They each cover a different aspect of what we need to do here in finance,” she said. “They are an absolute pleasure to work with.”

For Risby, teamwork is essential. But someone must lead, and she tries to do so by example — even if the task is as mundane as counting tickets. She believes it’s crucial to know how to do anything that’s needed in the department.

Working at CTtransit has proved more rewarding, she says, thanks to the people.

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“We are short-handed right now,” she said. “I don’t have a problem stepping in that way, but it also helps keep me aware of my expectations. If I am going to assign that to you, No. 1, I can do it myself. And I have an expectation of how long it’s going to take you.”

Risby says she has been told she’s too nice — and she’s fine with that.

“I’m OK with being nice. My gut reaction is to be considerate, to be kind, to be respectful, to be understanding, to be empathetic,” she said.

Finance is demanding, and Risby wants to embody the work ethic she expects from her team. She takes pride in Tracy Risby alongside her CTtransit finance team members. developing her department’s skills.

“You need to be flanked by good people,” she said.

“In finance, it’s about your grit. It is about your determination. It’s about your commitment, it’s about your curiosity, it’s about your vision, it’s about how willing you are to be vocal,” she said. “I’m just trying to develop qualities that my team is going to need.”

One person can’t do it alone, she reasons.

“You’re only as good as the people that you’re leading.”

Away from work, Risby unwinds by reading, cheering on her favorite sports teams — the UConn men and women and the New York Yankees. But it’s another leisure activity she has enjoyed since childhood that guides her through life and work: chess, which she played with her father, and that taught her patience.

“You not only had to think, but you also had to think ahead. Sometimes you’ve got to move quick, sometimes you’ve got to move slow,” she said. “The best you have is yet to come.”

THOMAS E. STRINGER JR. From Routes to Recognition: A Career in Transit PAGE 26

Thomas E. Stringer Jr. traces his career back to the mid-1980s, when an internship with the New York City Transit Authority introduced him to the breadth of public transportation. That early role in employee development and training gave him a front-row seat to the many paths within transit — bus, rail, customer service, and maintenance.

Working alongside interns and leaders across the system, he learned not only the mechanics of transit but also the importance of people and programs that make it work.

That foundation set the stage for a pivotal move to Washington, D.C. Metro was expanding, and Stringer seized the opportunity to join the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. His work in marketing and customer service deepened his understanding of how transit connects communities, marking the beginning of a career defined by growth, adaptability, and leadership.

After more than three years as General Manager of CTtransit, Stringer points to the organization’s greatest strength: its people. “If you invest in your employees, they will invest in the community we serve,” he said. Training, development, and listening are at the heart of his approach, ensuring that every employee feels valued and empowered to contribute. He credits his leadership team with carrying that vision forward, multiplying its impact across the organization and keeping the focus squarely on customers.

“Leadership is about people. Keep an active mind, learn something new every day, and never stop growing.”

Looking ahead, Stringer sees the next big challenge as creating a unified transit product across Connecticut and the broader tri-state region. His vision is seamless travel — one tap, one fare, whether riding CTrail, CTtransit, or connecting to systems in New York and New Jersey.

For those just beginning their careers in transit, Stringer offers advice shaped by decades of experience: be a continuous learner. Read widely, reflect often, and never stop seeking knowledge.

Leadership, he reminds us, is about people, strategy, and self-assessment. Growth comes from introspection as much as action, and the willingness to evolve is what makes a leader effective.

“We’re not perfect, which means we’re always growing — and that’s OK,” he said.

One initiative that stands out is CTtransit’s conversion to battery electric buses. Beyond Hartford, New Haven, and Stamford, the effort now supports Waterbury, UConn services, River Valley, and agencies in Massachusetts. The lessons learned — both challenges and successes — have positioned CTtransit as a model for others navigating the shift to sustainable fleets.

Recognition of Stringer’s leadership came recently at a national conference, where he received a certificate of achievement for outstanding leadership from RATP Dev USA. The honor was unexpected but deeply meaningful. For Stringer, awards are secondary to the work itself. “I believe your work speaks for itself,” he said.

General Manager Thomas E. Stringer Jr. sitting with CTtransit team members: Planning and Scheduling Director Barry Diggs, Senior Executive Assistant Mary Wolfe, Executive Director of External Affairs Vanessa P. Brooks, and AGM of Safety, Security and Technical Training Christopher DeGrave.

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RIDE FREE

Catch the Free Downtown Hartford Shuttle Weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

CTtransit STANDS STRONG FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH CTtransit employees decked themselves out in pink in late October to support loved ones and co-workers whose lives have been touched by cancer.

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, CTtransit embraced the 2025 theme of Power in Pink, encouraging employees to wear pink for National Wear It Pink Day on October 24. From bright sweaters to bold wigs, the CTtransit family leaned in with heart, honoring those we have lost, celebrating those who have survived, and standing with those still fighting.

At CTtransit, we often say our employees are the heartbeat of the organization. That is not just a phrase; it is a truth that shows up in moments like these. Whether behind the wheel, behind the scenes, or behind the counter, or on the telephones, our people bring care, connection, and community to everything they do. And when the cause is this personal, this powerful, they show up even stronger.

This year, we focused on giving employees the tools to support local breast cancer awareness events across Connecticut, including: • Pink Pledge Strides for Strength in Bridgeport, a 5K run and walk supporting patients and programs at the Norma Pfriem Breast Center • Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Hartford, a mile walk raising funds for the American Cancer Society • School’s Out: Paint the Patch Pink Day in Stamford, a family-friendly event with pumpkin painting and crafts supporting Stamford Hospital • The 2025 Komen Connecticut More Than Pink Walk, a national fundraiser with over 100,000 participants across 40 cities, including Hartford, has raised more than $60 million since its launch in 2018 PAGE 30

To deepen engagement, CTtransit offered uniformed employees the opportunity to wear jeans on Fridays from late October through midNovember — a small but bright shift in attire with a big message of solidarity. Professional operators and others alike embraced the change, turning everyday wear into a statement of support.

“This campaign reminds us that transit isn’t just about moving people — it’s about moving causes forward,” said Thomas Stringer, CTtransit General Manager. “Our employees bring heart to the job every day, and this month, they expressed it in pink.”

As we look ahead, we are proud of the momentum this campaign has created — and grateful for the quiet power of a team that always shows up for one another and the communities we serve.

DISABILITY RESOURCE FAIR

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TOYS IN TRANSIT:

Because Happiness Deserves a Lift “This is what the holidays are all about.”

This sentiment from Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) Transportation Rail Officer Diana Palmer says it all.

The 2025 holiday season brought spirited partnerships, open hearts, and hundreds of toys donated to the third annual Stuff-A-Bus Toy Drive.

What goes into organizing a successful toy drive?

Plenty of planning, tons of teamwork, and for a little bit of festive fun — a bus-decorating committee!

The toy drive is a partnership between CTtransit, CTDOT, the Connecticut State Police Troops H and I, Planet Fitness, and other state agencies.

Through countless calls, brainstorming sessions, and logistics problem-solving, the dedicated task force relied on teamwork and holiday spirit to help make the season bright.

“We successfully filled two buses,” Palmer said.

“We are so proud to help bring joy to children this holiday season!”

Two CTtransit buses were delivered to Toys for Tots and the Hartford Urban League, stuffed to the windows with brand new toys to be given to families ahead of the holidays. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without community organizations and leaders coming together to spread the word and donate to the cause.

“Planet Fitness really hit the ball out of the park,” Palmer said. “Mayor [Bobby] Sanchez of New Britain even came by to participate.”

Leading up to the donation pickups, decorating the buses transformed the toy drive team into Santa’s helpers.

CTtransit Hartford Division Manager Peter DeOrio shared how his first Stuff-A-Bus Toy Drive has brought light and purpose to the holiday season. “It makes me happy,” he said with a proud smile. “Our mission is all about community. We help people from all walks of life.

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This initiative really speaks to the work that we do every day and how we can give back a little more.”

Everyone at CTtransit has a twinkle in their eye when reflecting on what it means to help make the holidays brighter for fellow Connecticut residents — especially General Manager Thomas E. Stringer Jr. “Collecting enough toys to fill two buses captures the impact and essence of CTtransit’s mission,” Stringer said. “Public transportation is, at its core, a people-centered service. Each day, our work keeps communities connected, supported, and moving forward. Bringing this purpose into spreading holiday joy is a true honor for our organization.”

you how it’s done. He shared kind words while lending a hand to decorate one of the buses.

“We really enjoy opportunities to support the community,” Marino said. “Thank you to everyone who helped make this toy drive possible.”

Seeing people from across Connecticut come together for one shared cause brings special meaning to the close of a year that came with its share of challenges.

“I am overwhelmed by the generosity of folks, in this time where many families are struggling,” Palmer said proudly. “It is so heartwarming, and has left me filled with gratitude and hope for the future.”

Our community-driven organization takes great pride in the partnerships we have built that strengthen initiatives like this. CTtransit’s work with the Connecticut State Police is a shining example. Having the support of our state’s police makes our transit system safer for all and makes the toy drive even more meaningful.

If you have never seen a police officer hang garlands, Troop H Lt. Mike Marino can show

CTrail Transportation Supervisor Gregory Grice, and CTDOT Transportation Rail Officer Diana Palmer volunteering in this year’s Stuff-A-Bus event.

Together, we can make every ride smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

Juntos podemos hacer que cada viaje sea más cómodo, seguro y agradable.

LEARN MORE AT / MÁS INFORMACIÓN EN:

YourGuide to a BetterRide.com

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TOUCH A TRUCK

WATCH VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS EVENT

Transit on the Move is a dynamic, new interview series spotlighting transportation leaders as they share insights and innovations on the road ahead for our evolving transit landscape.

Here we have an excerpt from an interview of Lisa Rivers, Transit Administrator at the Connecticut Department of Transportation, conducted by Executive Director of External Affairs Vanessa P. Brooks.

VB:

Let’s talk about the priorities over the next three years for the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT). Can you share some of those priorities with us?

LR:

Our governor has issued some priorities for us in terms of access to opportunity, affordability, and accountability.

Those are our marching orders from our governor, but we also have our marching orders from the current federal level, from [the] Federal Transit Administration. They want us focusing on security, cleanliness, and efficiency.

At CTDOT, we are folks who pay attention to the transportation industry across the U.S. We are aware of agencies facing fiscal cliffs, such the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), where major funding challenges led to deep service cuts that directly affected customers of that system.

The CTDOT team has been very careful with how we spend money that was given to us by the federal government to support operations during COVID, and we still have maybe another year of federal funding left that we can use to help support operations. But after that, we are going to be running into issues with our budget as well, and so right now we are planning and looking at bus and rail services and how we’re going to be able to continue operating what we are operating today in the future. Where will that money come from?

To Read the Full Interview Scan This Code PAGE 38

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HARTFORD PUERTO RICAN DAY PARADE

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As we get deeper into fall, the days get shorter and colder. We designed this month’s safety card to highlight the ways we can keep ourselves and others safe on our streets and sidewalks. Fallen leaves can make roads slippery and hide hazards, and earlier sunsets make it harder to see pedestrians – like children out trick-or-treating. Our messaging emphasizes slower speeds and precautions like wearing reflective clothing and ensuring headlights are clean for maximum visibility. Making eye contact with pedestrians and avoiding distractions like earbuds help make sure everyone gets where they’re going – safely.

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TESTIMONIALS:

REAL VOICES THAT INSPIRE US Good Morning My retired friends and I took the 102 from Bristol to Hartford and back to tour the State Capitol yesterday. We were very pleased with the helpfulness of the drivers, the promptness of the schedule, and the cleanliness of the vehicles.

Thanks!

Steve Casey

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S

OCTOBER SAFETY WINNERS

NEW HAVEN

STAMFORD

Kristal Gatison #637 - 20 years accident-free Kenja Arnold #646 - 18 years accident-free Janice Ortiz #654 - 18 years accident-free Axel Rodriguez #747 - 13 years accident-free Christopher Beichner #742 - 12 years accident-free Andrea Moore #785 - 11 years accident-free Randall Torres #116 - 8 years accident-free Kimberly Marr #6001 - 5 years accident-free Chritopher Void #6031 - 5 years accident-free Tomeka Johnson #6035 - 5 years accident-free Sergio Torrez #6062 - 4 years accident-free Ritchie Fortt #6105 - 3 years accident-free Garth Barnes #6199 - 1 year accident-free

Willie Byrd #1953 - 30 years accident-free Maurice Spearman #1963 - 24 years accident-free Jerome Spearman #8013 - 5 years accident-free Lynnie Wolfe #1955 - 2 years accident-free Heraman Ganesh #8012 - 3 years accident-free Keri Watkins #8011 - 1 year accident-free Charlene Philip #8050 - 1 year accident-free Dean Blackwood #8051 - 1 year accident-free

HARTFORD

Alvin Rosemond #11520 - 26 years accident-free Alvin Waugh #11659 - 24 years accident-free Luis Mota-Linares #11624 - 23 years accident-free Vonetta Proffitt #11750 - 22 years accident-free Tony Langevin #11620 - 21 years accident-free ILam Peci #11783 - 21 years accident-free Santa Manish #11777 - 20 years accident-free Elizabeth Rivera #11795 - 19 years accident-free Julian Cenko #11798 - 19 years accident-free Terrina Louis #11653 - 19 years accident-free Ardian Koka #11792 - 19 years accident-free Obed Flores #11826 - 18 years accident-free Genti Bushi #11872 - 17 years accident-free Wanda Mulero #11779 - 17 years accident-free Kore Sezar #11895 - 16 years accident-free Terrel Kent #11848 - 14 years accident-free Tasha Taylor Charleston #13004 - 13 years accident-free Natasha Smith #11875 - 13 years accident-free Tony Langevin #11620 - 13 years accident-free Arqile Shuka #13032 - 13 years accident-free Ashley McBride #13093 - 12 years accident-free Monique Speights #13080 - 11 years accident-free

Shelia Kelly #13193 - 10 years accident-free Shanique Dent #13188 - 10 years accident-free Fatmir Breshani #13128 - 10 years accident-free Jose Moreno #13086 - 10 years accident-free Muhammad Kashif #13197 - 10 years accident-free Tieisha Easterling #13317 - 8 years accident-free Calisse Ryan #13111 - 8 years accident-free Brittney Harris #13288 - 7 years accident-free Geraldo Ramirez-Rodriguez #13345 - 7 years accident-free Tyrika Abdul-Karriem #13306 - 7 years accident-free Christine Robinson #13416 - 6 years accident-free Sofia Blanco #13249 - 6 years accident-free Brandon Santiago #13435 - 4 years accident-free Kevin Solomon #13415 - 4 years accident-free Waleska Adon #13535 - 2 years accident-free Nancy Ramos-Martinez #13536 - 2 years accident-free Bledar Bello #13538 - 2 years accident-free Jose Ferrer #13495 - 2 years accident-free Gregory Williams #13481 - 2 years accident-free Anjelica Matos #13589 - 1 year accident-free Tajahnay Powell #13600 - 1 year accident-free Javed Gafoor #13601 - 1 year accident-free PAGE 56

CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTORS THOMAS E. STRINGER JR. THOMAS E. STRINGER JR. Executive Viber / General Manager KEVIN MELENDEZ KEVIN MELENDEZ Vibe Copy Editor / Assistant General Manager

Vibe Copy Editor / Assistant General Manager

GLORIA JENVILLE

Guest Viber / Administration Executive Assistant

COUNT THE ORBS CTtransit orbs are scattered throughout this magazine — did you spot them all?

The first person to correctly ID how many orbs are hiding wins a prize. Happy searching! Hint: we do not count any orbs depicted in photos.

Send your guess to: communications@cttransit.com

VANESSA P. BROOKS, MA Viber-in-Chief / Executive Director of External Affairs

Vanessa is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in marketing, communications, and community engagement. She is dedicated to achieving measurable results and has expertise in customer experience management, public affairs, sponsorship development, and performance leadership across multiple disciplines. She is passionate about promoting sustainable transportation solutions and enhancing the overall transit experience for Hartford and surrounding communities. Vanessa spearheads innovative marketing campaigns, formulates comprehensive communication strategies, and cultivates robust relationships with key stakeholders to support CTtransit’s mission and vision. Vanessa’s academic background includes a Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

ISABELLE BROWN Head Vibes Strategist / Multimedia Manager

Isabelle is a 2020 graduate of the University of Hartford with a Bachelor’s in Communication with a double emphasis in Advertising & PR and Media Strategies. She began her professional journey working for a nonprofit organization specializing in paratransit, vanpools, and commuter benefits programs. Her career move to CTtransit shifted her focus from vans to buses. In her work as CTtransit’s Multimedia Manager, Isabelle is responsible for digital communications through our social media platforms and website. Isabelle loves writing, crocheting, exploring nature throughout Connecticut, coffee, and animals.

KENNY FACEY

Vibe Views / Videographer / Photographer

Kenny is a proud Jamaican who packed up and moved to the USA to turn his entrepreneurial dreams into reality! By day, he's a passionate cinematographer with nearly five years of experience capturing life’s most memorable moments on film. By night (or whenever the party calls), he's spinning tunes as a DJ with his own wedding company. When not behind the camera or the decks, you’ll find him outside, fishing, playing soccer, and soaking up everything nature has to offer!

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LUKA BETSEY

Designer of Vibes / Creative Services & Graphic Designer

Luka is a talented graphic designer and Hartford native who received a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design from Central Connecticut State University (CCSU). Luka has a passion for design and has worked in various work-study roles across several CCSU departments, developing skills in visual communication. Luka's expertise moved to LAZ Parking, where more impactful designs were created. Passionate about aesthetics and storytelling, Luka brings innovation and love to every project. Outside of design, Luka adores Sassy, a 15-yearold cat who has been a beloved companion through the years.

CRAIG HUNTE

Vibes Specialist / Marketing Specialist

Craig is enrolled at the University of Hartford pursuing a degree in business. He has spent a lot of time working with people, whether helping students as a teacher assistant or as a customer service representative. As vice president of his school’s business club, he helps plan events and connect members with the community. Craig is also big on baseball, hiking, and volunteering, which keep him active, adventurous, and involved with his community.

DANIEL MACEACHERN Scribe of Vibes / Copy Editor

Daniel has joined CTtransit after a nearly 30-year journalism career that took him all over his native Canada. After growing up in the Canadian North, he spent nearly two decades as a reporter and editor at newspapers in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Daniel then joined the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, producing work for the public broadcaster’s radio, television and digital platforms.

He recently moved with his wife to Stamford, where they’ve enjoyed all that Connecticut and the northeastern U.S. have to offer, from restaurants to hiking to Broadway shows and NHL games.

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