40 Under Forty Virtual Event

Fairfield County

VIRTUAL EVENT | FEBRUARY 25 | 5 PM

PRESENTED BY THE FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL

The UConn School of Business congratulates all the honorees of Fairfield County Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty Class of 2021!

Want to advance your career, improve your job prospects, make a difference in the world, or gain new business knowledge?

UConn’s graduate business programs will get you there.

MBA PROGRAMS Part-Time Full-Time Executive

SPECIALIZED MASTERS Accounting (Online) Business Analytics & Project Management Financial Risk Management Human Resource Management

Learn more at grad.business.uconn.edu S2

Fairfield County

PARTNERS: Bridgeport Regional Business Council •Darien Chamber of Commerce Fairfield Chamber of Commerce • Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce Greater Norwalk Chamber of Commerce • Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce Greenwich Chamber of Commerce • Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce • Stamford Chamber of Commerce Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce • Wilton Chamber of Commerce SILVER SPONSOR

PRESENTED BY

SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS To the entire BUSINESS JOURNAL team: DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING, 40UNDER40 COORDINATOR: Barbara Stewart Hanlon VIDEO PRODUCTION, EVENTS DIRECTOR: Fatime Muriqi ADVERTISING SALES: Anne Jordan Duffy, Associate Publisher Marcia Pflug PRODUCTION: Sarafina Pavlak Design and Art Direction

BRONZE SPONSORS

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40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | JUDGES

NELSON MERCHAN

DR. NIKKI WINGATE

BUSINESS ADVISOR CONNECTICUT SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF MARKETING UNIVERSITY OF BRIDGEPORT

A business advisor with the Small Business Development Center, Nelson Merchan services prospective and business owners in Connecticut. In 2019, he was the business advisor with the highest-lending impact in the state of Connecticut. A board member of Housatonic Habitat for Humanity, Housatonic Industrial Corporation Inc. and United Way of Western Connecticut, Merchan advises several businesses in Costa Rica and has been invited as keynote speaker to Chile and El Salvador. He earned his MBA from Georgia State University and BBA from Universidad del Rosario in Bogota, Colombia.

Associate Professor and Department Chair of Marketing at Ernest C. Trefz School of Business the University of Bridgeport, Nikki Wingate earned her Ph.D. in marketing from the Leonard N. Stern School of Business, New York University. She has published her research in the U.S. top 30 marketing journals. In addition to teaching and developing numerous marketing courses at New York University, Rutgers University, Fairfield University, and the University of Bridgeport, Wingate consults several companies on branding and marketing research projects.

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2021 WINNERS, A GLIMPSE Our winners’ answers, chosen from a set of questions posed to them, reveal much about their interests, sense of humor and downright good, smart sense.

That’s why they have made it to the 2021 40UnderForty.

Read and enjoy!

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40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

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PAUL AMADO

ZAHYA BEALL

PETER BELBITA

GREGORY BENNICI

BUSINESS BANKING RELATIONSHIP MANAGER M&T BANK Norwalk

FINANCIAL ADVISOR EDWARD JONES Fairfield

CEO NOBLE HOUSE MEDIA GROUP Darien

ATTORNEY ROBINSON & COLE LLP Stamford

A Connecticut native, Paul Amado was raised in Trumbull and is a graduate of Western Connecticut State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. As business banking relationship manager at M&T Bank he focuses on helping small businesses with lending and cash-management services. Paul resides in Milford and in his free time enjoys playing golf, skiing and hiking with the two rescue dogs he adopted from “Thank Dog Rescue.”

Before building her own small business in 2018, Zahya Beall served as a public speaker for Legg Mason Asset Management. During her tenure she hosted 300 investment workshops around the nation. With experience spanning 16 years working in investments and insurance, Zahya’s purpose is to help people make sense of investing and financial planning.

In addition to financial advising she serves as the chair of Fairfield Emerging Leaders Organization, board member of Stanwich Congregational Church Missions Board and committee member for Bridgeport Rescue Mission. She resides in Stamford with her husband, Joel, and chihuahua rescue Bruiser.

At the forefront of digital innovation for more than two decades, Peter Belbita has successfully guided companies as a venture marketer, technology consultant and digital services expert. His approach combines technology and creativity to expand new business models and reimagine existing ones. Peter’s venture marketing vision has blossomed at United Alliance, a concierge digital services company in the Northeast that serves high-profile top 100 companies. Currently growing, with multiple new major clients and hires in 2020, United Alliance is pushing for international expansion and growth in 2021. Under the umbrella of United Alliance, Peter’s Noble House Media Group assists clients by creating, branding and marketing their products and services through trendsetting digital promotions. His influence at Noble House goes far beyond traditional marketing strategies where the search for new avenues for e-commerce expansion are consistently explored and the next “big-thing” in digital innovation is just a thought away from implementation.

Frequently handling cases related to group welfare benefits, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), health insurance, disability insurance and life insurance coverage as a member of Robinson+Cole’s Managed Care + Employee Benefit Group, Greg Bennici regularly defends claims brought against plan fiduciaries and represents plan administrators and insurers in enforcing plan and policy terms and recovering plan assets. He contributes to his group’s ERISA Claim Defense Blog, a platform that offers commentary and insight on administration, evaluation and litigation of group benefits claims as well as other issues involving ERISA. Greg also has substantial experience representing clients involved in complex commercial litigations before trial courts at the federal and state level. In addition, he handles a variety of pro bono matters.

He was selected as a Rising Star in the Connecticut Super Lawyers lists from 2017 to 2020 and was named to the inaugural edition of Best Lawyers: “Ones to Watch” in 2020.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Focused, determined, earnest, tenacious, grateful.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

There are two: (1) Understand your client's business to understand its problems and (2) Treat your colleagues like they're your clients.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Driven, considerate, genuine, reliable, adventurous.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Treat everyone with respect and courtesy.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"Play by the rules, but be ferocious."

– Phil Knight

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Curious, determined, enterprising, conscientious, genuine.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Being a servant leader and focusing on team and clients – success follows.

What quote do you find most motivating?

Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Elon Musk’s advice to ‘pick the right team’ has guided me from day one. The right team will get you across the finish line to your goals.

What series are you most addicted to and why? ’Life Below Zero’ fascinates me because of the grit and determination people have in making the choice to live daily life under extreme circumstances.

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How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

The same way Maya Angelou would describe it, ‘Success is liking yourself, liking what you do and liking how you do it.

40 UNDER

40 AWARD

CONGRATULATIONS TO

JASMIN MORREALE Our Branch Operations Manager, for being selected as a Fairfield County’s 40 Under 40 Award recipient.

Your dedication, professionalism and willingness to help others makes you an exceptional USB team member and community leader. Thank you for all that you do! unionsavings.com

Our community rises when leaders step up Your vision and commitment to lead the way is an inspiration to all. We salute the time and talent you bring to making our community a better place to live, work, and prosper.

Let’s join together in honoring Kim Chamberlain and all of the 40 Under Forty honorees.

wellsfargo.com © 2021 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

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40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

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VALERIA G. BISCEGLIA

RAZUL BRANCH

CANIO CARLUCCI

EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAMS ADVISER CONNECTICUT SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER Bridgeport

KRISTINA LAUREN CAPRETTI

EVENT MANAGER AND PUBLIC ART STRATEGIST MAGNACON 7 ENTERPRISES Bridgeport

ONCOLOGY CLINICAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR GREENWICH HOSPITAL Greenwich

PRINCIPAL CARLUCCI WELDING & FABRICATION Norwalk

Razul Branch is an artistic, cultural and social innovator and lightning rod for some of the creative movement in Bridgeport. Born in Stamford and raised in Bridgeport, Razul somehow always knew he was going to help change the world, including his own. Since 2009, Razul has been incessantly barraging the arts, business and community scenes with strong influences from his travels around the country as well as his own brand of seeing the world through his eyes. His greatest expertise revolves in the worlds of community development and outreach, social media, brand identity design, creative consulting, content creation, print collateral and executive production.

Providing leadership in the development and implementation of a strategic agenda to support the continuous growth and strengthening of cancer services keeps Kristina L. Capretti, clinical program director for Yale New Haven Health (YNHH) Smilow Cancer Hospital Care Center at Greenwich Hospital very busy. In addition, her strong leadership extends to all health care professionals and administrative staff within the oncology service line.

Kristina is a Miller Scholar in the DNP Nurse Executive Track, Case Western Reserve University. She received a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science degree in nursing from New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing.

Working tirelessly with a welder in a pickup truck since 2013, Canio Carlucci has grown his business, Carlucci Welding & Fabrication, into one of the most capable, dependable and renowned structural steel and miscellaneous metal shops in Fairfield County. He has built a powerful team of more than 25 passionate and experienced people who deliver some of the best and most creative work in the industry. Canio has had an insatiable desire to build and create things since childhood and to this day considers metalwork his top hobby.

Passionate about helping organizations achieve their goals through thoughtful discussions that engage all partners and stakeholders, Valeria Bisceglia believes success today relies on organizations being able to make meaningful connections with whom they serve. As a strategist, Valeria sees herself as a longterm partner working from the inside out to help organizations build their capacity for sustainable growth. An entrepreneur, nonprofit founder, adviser and professor, she believes in sharing knowledge and creating community.

Valeria holds two undergraduate degrees in chemistry and business management studies and a master's degree in business administration with a focus on social innovation and impact.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

A portion of achieving personal success for me is to see the progress others make in their organization and know I played a role, however small, in encouraging and supporting them in their journey. It is incredibly rewarding.

What series are you most addicted to and why?

I am a fan of historical fiction and have recently finished watching the latest season of ‘The Crown.’ I don't find myself addicted to any series, but most well-done historical fiction series will capture my attention.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure."

– Colin Powell

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Write down everything, doesn’t matter if the meeting lasted five minutes, you always write down who, why, what and when you talked. That came from my dad.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I hope to still be right here at Greenwich Hospital, serving my community, which is like family.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”

– Thomas A. Edison

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Nothing about this trip through success has been linear. It’s been a journey of process by elimination, peaks and valleys. There’s been plenty of realtime lessons to be learned with each endeavor and step forward in my progress as an entrepreneur.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Compassionate, kind, loyal, dedicated, determined.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Tenacious, steady, observant, focused, good-hearted.

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How would you describe yourself in five words?

Visionary, charismatic, driven, impatient, independent.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

I am a very hardworking and passionate person. Dedication and making a lot of sacrifices has been instrumental in working toward achieving my goals.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“Would you give up the craft of your hands, and the passion of your heart and the hunger of your mind, to buy safety?”

– Ursula K. Le Guin

Congratulations to Savings Bank of Danbury’s own Delia Espinal, Community Development Manager.

SBDanbury.com

We congratulate our friend and partner

Adam M. Swanson on being named one of the Fairfield County Business Journal’s 2021 40 under 40 honorees.

One Canterbury Green, 201 Broad St., Stamford, CT 06901 203.399.5900 www.mccarter.com

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40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

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KIMBERLY CHAMBERLAIN

SABRINA CHURCH

LISA MARIE COLANGELO

ALLIE COSTANZO

DISTRICT MANAGER WELLS FARGO Trumbull

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM CITY OF NORWALK Norwalk

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT THE PALACE THEATRE Stamford

SENIOR FINANCIAL ANALYST JOHN J. BRENNAN CONSTRUCTION CO. Shelton

A proven leader with a strong track record of mentoring teams and team members to achieve excellence, Kimberly Chamberlain, joined Wells Fargo in 2007, under Wachovia, as a financial specialist.

She was promoted to branch manager in 2009 and in 2012 became community bank district manager for the Fairfield region overseeing the operations at 10 branches and managing 115 team members. Prior to Wells Fargo, Kimberly was an account executive at Accredited Home Lenders. Presently she co-chairs the Wells Fargo PRIDE Team Member Network Connecticut chapter, which fosters inclusion and acceptance for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ) team members, customers and allies, and the Latin Team Member Network. In 2015, she was appointed to the company’s Northeast Diversity and Inclusion Council and was a recipient of the 40 under 40 award for Meriden/ Hartford. Active with community matters, Kimberly organizes team member volunteerism frequently with Habitat for Humanity, and raises awareness for local causes, including Colin’s Crew, which helps support the families of children fighting cancer. A former college athlete, she graduated from Hofstra University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in international business.

A resident of Norwalk for 26 years and a holder of multiple positions within the city during her five-year professional career there, Sabrina Church was ready for her appointment in August 2019 as director of the newly formed Norwalk Department of Business Development and Tourism.

In this role, Sabrina assists businesses from interest to expansion and has been a resource for companies throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and recovery.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from the University of New Haven and a master’s degree in urban planning from the University of Southern California.

Responsible for planning and managing all donor cultivation and fundraising events, including The Palace Theatre’s annual gala, which raises between $250,000 and $300,000 annually, Lisa Marie Colangelo is up to the challenges of The Palace Theatre as its director of development. She serves as the primary liaison to donors, board members, sponsors and prospects, coordinating all donor stewardship and recognition efforts.

Prior to The Palace, Lisa Marie worked in the development department at Queens Theatre in the Park. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in communication arts from St. John’s University.

With more than 10 years of experience in the construction industry, combined with a finance, accounting and human resources background, Allie Costanzo is valued for her thirst for knowledge, ability to multitask, can-do attitude and willingness to think outside of the box as senior financial analyst for John J. Brennan Construction Co. since 2015.

While working full time, Allie earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut and a master’s degree in business administration from Southern Connecticut State University.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Passionate, optimistic, caring, driven, motivator.

What series are you most addicted to and why?

I am most addicted to true crime series (both podcasts and shows). It has the ability to transport me into a different profession even if just for a short period of time. I find it both relaxing and fascinating.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Actively seek out those who inspire you to do better, to set and reach ambitious goals and to grow. Don't be afraid to be uncomfortable, it's part of the journey.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Hardworking, personable, outgoing, helpful, motivated.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Conscientious, organized, professional, respectful, responsible.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Through education, dedication, teamwork and my background in urban planning, I was able to connect with and network with a multitude of people from different professions and circumstances. This led to becoming a well-rounded professional with the ability to assist all who request my assistance.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

I would describe achieving my personal success by paying attention to detail, my well-developed people and communication skills and being knowledgeable regarding my professional duties and responsibilities.

What quote do you find most motivating?

Your reputation is your most valuable asset.

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How would you describe yourself in five words?

Hardworking, ambitious, enthusiastic, friendly, loyal.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Success is a combination of hard work, determination, learning from mistakes along the way, having an end goal and figuring out the steps to get there. If you aren't happy with something in your life, figure out a way to change or improve it.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"If you really want to do something, you'll find a way. If you don't, you'll find an excuse."

– Jim Rohn

, S N O I T A L U T A R CONG

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R E U A N A KE H ITY

E U N E V E R CHIEF

UR C E S R E B Y UT C O K S , R E C FFI

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Innovating Logistics One Route at a Time Congratulations to Lindsey Shellman, Chief Commercial Officer of WIN™ (Web Integrated Network) on being named to Westfield Communications “40 Under 40” list. We are proud of the work Lindsey and her team do every day to ensure WIN clients have total control of their shipping operations.

Great work Lindsey, and congratulations to all the “40 Under 40” recipients!

© 2021 Odyssey Logistics & Technology Corporation

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40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

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JENNIFER DASILVA

JOHN DEMPSEY

PATRICK DUNLEAVEY

DELIA ESPINAL

CLINIC DIRECTOR AMERICARES FREE CLINIC Stamford

PHOTOJOURNALIST NEWS12 CONNECTICUT Stamford

PRINCIPAL CIRONEFRIEDBERG LLP Shelton

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER SAVINGS BANK OF DANBURY Danbury

A photojournalist recognized locally and nationally for his storytelling abilities, John Dempsey works for News 12 Connecticut covering a plethora of news events in Fairfield County. Some of his notable awards include a National Edward R. Murrow for Excellence in Journalism and three Emmy Awards from The New York Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. John owns Zack’s Frozen Yogurt in Stratford, which helps propel his philanthropic efforts through various fundraisers. Currently, he is teaming with area production companies to produce a docuseries on sustainable living. He also creates content for Yale University and his hometown.

Overseeing staff accountants during engagements, providing audit services and supervising fieldwork, are part of Patrick Dunleavey‘s responsibilities as a principal in the accounting and auditing department of CironeFriedberg, where he specializes in supporting clients that are part of a private equity portfolio.

He also has been involved in numerous purchase and sale transactions. Patrick provides services to a variety of industries, including manufacturing and distribution; and nonprofit organizations such as independent schools, arts, cultural organizations and human service agencies. In addition, he is a member of the grant committee responsible for the Blum Foundation.

With a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry, strong sales and customer service background, fluency in Spanish and more than 11 years of finance experience, Delia Espinal is more than qualified for her position as community development manager at Savings Bank of Danbury.

She is responsible for providing solutions and support to solve complex customer needs. Delia is passionate about her role and is a contributing member of her community.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

The only thing worse than being the smartest person in the room is believing you’re the smartest person in the room.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

My personal success was best illustrated over the last six to eight months as I helped guide my clients through extremely uncertain times, while navigating a constantly changing landscape of regulation. We faced each new challenge as a team, to help get them through the darkest days of the pandemic and into 2021 as stronger and better organizations.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Success is a state of mind and having a positive attitude and outlook. You can be successful in anything if you’re passionate about it and put your heart into it.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“Any hour of the day, any place, any person is a subject for narrative…”

– Cesare Zavattini (Some Ideas on Cinema, 1952).

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

In a service-related industry, if you do a great job every day the clients you already have become your best marketing tool.

With 15 years of experience as director of the Fred Weisman Americares Free Clinic of Bridgeport since 2006, Jennifer DaSilva’s prior work experience includes several years as a specialty team coordinator and registered nurse for Bridgeport Hospital. She served as an emergency travel nurse for hospitals in Connecticut and New York state as well as a public health nurse for the city of Bridgeport where she provided preventative health care, home health care and clinical services for patients.

Jennifer earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Fairfield University and holds several certifications.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Never accept anything short of what your patients need or require to maintain a just and healthy lifestyle.

Nothing is impossible – stay on course and find a way.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself diligently working to bridge the health care gap in severely underserved communities in any capacity that will bring the most awareness and change.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"Try and leave this world a little better than you found it."

– Robert Baden-Powell

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Perseverance is the key to success.

The ability to overcome negativity while working through problems and disagreements is necessary in any professional environment.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself as a leader in our nonprofit community continuing to serve clients throughout Fairfield and Westchester counties while taking on an increased leadership position in my firm.

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How would you describe yourself in five words?

Passionate, people-person, innovative, creative, dedicated.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself being a contributing member of my community and inspiring kids and future generations to believe in themselves and build confidence.

CONGRATULATIONS SEAN FLYNN Essex Financial is delighted to congratulate Sean Flynn of our Southport Group as a recipient of this years 40 Under 40 recognition.

Sean’s commitment to providing outstanding service and support to his clients and leadership in his community is notable. We also congratulate this year’s other nominees.

The Southport Group takes a client-centric approach to wealth management and planning.

Our success in growing our business is largely due to our singular focus on the unique needs of our clients and our willingness to go beyond what they would normally expect from an advisor relationship in terms of providing service.

Investment Advisory Services offered through Essex Financial Services, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA, SIPC. A subsidiary of Essex Savings Bank. The securities and insurance products obtained through Essex Financial Services, Inc. are not a deposit of, or other obligation of, or guaranteed by any bank, or an affiliate of any bank, are not insured by the FDIC or any other agency of the United States, the Bank or an affiliate of the bank and involve investment risk, including the possibility of loss of the principal amount invested.

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40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

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KRISTIN FERRARESE

SEAN FLYNN

MARIA GARCIA

SCOTT GILBERT

EXECUTIVE CHEF AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR FORTUNA’S CATERING CO. Bridgeport

FINANCIAL ADVISER ESSEX FINANCIAL - THE SOUTHPORT GROUP Southport

ATTORNEY MGQ LAW LLC Westport

LEAD DESIGNER BLACK BRIDGE MOTORS LLC Norwalk

Passion for expressing creativity and love through food started at a young age, cooking for large family gatherings alongside her grandparents and mother and led the way for Kristin Ferrarese’s success as executive chef and creative director of Fortuna’s Catering Co. in Bridgeport. Since joining Fortuna's, she has cultivated a unique ability to plan and execute a vast spectrum of occasions – from small family gatherings to grand weddings, she approaches each event with thoughtfulness, enthusiasm and artistic expression. Outside of work, Kristin enjoys spending time with her two daughters, engaging in civic action groups in the community and going on hikes.

With more than 10 years of experience in the financial industry, Sean Flynn gives his clients the unique insights necessary to bridge the gap between their overall financial plan and the design of their investment portfolio. As a financial adviser with Essex Financials’ Southport, he has an investment philosophy deeply rooted in academia providing the framework for constructing efficient and diversified portfolios based on clients’ personal and financial goals and objectives.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Always learn. You will never know everything, be constantly open to learning. Also, reach out to your icons.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Be grateful and forge your own way.

Representing individuals and employers throughout Connecticut in all aspects of employment litigation, negotiations and advising, Maria Garcia, an employment attorney, founded MGQ Law LLC based in Westport in 2018. Prior to founding her firm Maria practiced labor and employment at Mitchell & Sheahan PC, a boutique labor and employment law firm, where she handled complex employment litigation matters on behalf of individual, private business and municipal clients throughout the state. She also worked with attorney Lewis Chimes aggressively litigating discrimination, retaliation and civil rights cases on behalf of individuals.

Maria began her legal career representing diverse corporate clients in high-stakes commercial and civil litigation cases at Pullman & Comley PC. And clerking for Justice Holly B. Fitzsimmons of the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut. Maria has been recognized as a Labor & Employment Super Lawyer and a Connecticut Rising Star by Super Lawyers. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Tufts University and her Juris Doctorate from George Washington University. She lives in Westport with her sons, Oscar and Henry.

Founder of an automotive company that engineers, fabricates and develops modern technological products for classic and vintage vehicles, Scott Gilbert of Black Bridge Motors in South Norwalk is also pioneering a STEAM- based vocational initiative named Harbor Bridge Academy. It aims to provide alternative educational pathways, options and skillsets to high-school-age students as well as private classes or post-secondary education. Prior to his career in the automotive industry, Scott worked in the financial services industry for more than 10 years. The majority of his career, starting in 2006, was spent in New York City with Goldman Sachs providing institutional-level investment advice for sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, ultra-high-net-worth individuals and Fortune 100 companies. He graduated from Bucknell University in 2004 and lives in New Canaan with his wife and two children.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Passionate, perseverant, detail-oriented, hard-working, gracious.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

There comes a time when you must make the conscious decision to work on your business rather than in it.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I’d like to have higher-profile clients, to be juggling more large events again and working on a cooking/entertaining book.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

I try to learn something new every day and always take care to listen to people.

I work hard and truly enjoy what I do.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself still giving back to the community, traveling with my family and growing my thriving business in Fairfield County.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“The biggest risk is the one you don’t take.”

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Starting my own firm has been a dream come true. It comes after many years of late nights and hard work. I am so grateful for the opportunity to practice law with no strings attached, where I can work with individuals and small-business clients to find creative solutions to achieve their goals.

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How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Watching all of our employees achieve all of their professional and financial goals at our company.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“Whether you think you can or you think you can't – you're right.”

– Henry Ford

Americares congratulates our Bridgeport Clinic Director Jennifer DaSilva and all of the 40 Under 40 award winners making an impact in Fairfield County.

americaresfreeclinics.org

Congratulations Valeria Bisceglia

Education and Training Programs Advisor Connecticut Small Business Development Center Valeria has worked tirelessly to make the complicated federal legislation and guidelines of the CARES Act meaningful for so many. She has kept the CTSBDC staff of business advisors, Connecticut’s small businesses and municipalities, and our partner organizations informed throughout the pandemic.

And the entire 2021 Class of Honorees Thank you for making a difference in our communities.

CTSBDC is a no-cost resource for small business owners needing access to emergency financing and assistance with recovering after the pandemic.

Let’s start working together today: ctsbdc@uconn.edu

www.ctsbdc.com Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, and UConn.

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40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

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JERALYN HABER

MIKE HANAUER

CHELSEA KORDIAK

PATRIK KOVAC

PARTNER DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP Stamford

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER SKOUT CYBERSECURITY Fairfield

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR STRATFORD YMCA, A BRANCH OF THE CENTRAL CONNECTICUT COAST YMCA Stratford

DIRECTOR CLIFTONLARSONALLEN (CLA) Shelton

Having served public and private clients of all sizes during her career in various industries, including investment management, diversified asset managers, hedge funds, private equity and credit funds, banking and securities, consumer and industrial products, technology and media, Jeralyn Haber is now a partner with Deloitte & Touche LLP for 16 years. Throughout her various roles, she has assisted companies with their accounting, financial reporting and control matters. Previously, she served in Deloitte’s national office, focusing on assurance services and risk matters for its national client base. Jeralyn is a certified public accountant licensed in Connecticut and New York state and is an active member of the AICPA. She holds a Master of Science degree in accounting and Bachelor of Science degree, with a concentration in accounting, from the University of Connecticut.

Previously, as part of the team that achieved becoming Connecticut’s first $1 billion privately held company, Mike Hanauer is a process-focused and datadriven sales leader. As chief revenue officer at Skout Cybersecurity, Mike oversees sales, marketing and customer success. In his previous role as vice president of U.S. sales at Datto, which when he joined the company had 25 employees, he led multiple teams and assisted growth to reach nearly 1,700 employees. In addition to sales, Mike has a background in military nuclear engineering. He is a creative thinker and is always striving to improve and optimize sales processes through automation and creativity.

Before becoming the executive director of the Stratford YMCA, Chelsea Kordiak served as the operations director.

Previously she spent six years at the Greater Waterbury YMCA, as the member engagement and communications director and the outdoor center program director. A graduate of the University of Connecticut, Chelsea has been with the Y movement for more than 10 years. She also serves as the co-chair of the Greater Bridgeport Healthy Lifestyles Taskforce, is a member of the Stratford Chamber and the Stratford Partnership for Youth and Families. She and her husband live in Milford and enjoy spending time outside with friends and family, running, hiking and sailing.

Providing audit services, supervising fieldwork and overseeing staff accountants during engagements are part of Patrik Kovac’s responsibilities as a director at CliftonLarsonAllen in addition to the completion of financial statements and presentations to the audit and finance committees. He is also a multiunit franchise owner of Robeks Juice, a chain that offers smoothies, acai bowls and fresh squeezed juices. A graduate of Sacred Heart University with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting, Patrik holds an MBA with a focus in finance.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Driven, creative, optimistic, empathetic, gregarious.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Determined, honest, reliable, innovative, dedicated.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Assume everyone's actions are done with good intentions.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

My personal success has only been possible because of the people around me. My family and friends keep me motivated. I have great mentors within the Y and the community and none of what I do would be possible without my team.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Invest in people you believe in, embrace and be open to ideas different than your own. Followed closely by my mantra to leave things better than I found it.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will."

– Suzy Kassem

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Always meet people where they are.

People come to the Y for all different reasons and it's our job to make them feel welcome and engaged in their community.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you."

– Fred Devito

What quote do you find most motivating?

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

– Maya Angelou

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31

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Persistent, motivated, determined, hardworking, ambitious.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Be fearless.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"Persistence is very important. You should not give up unless you are forced to give up.”

– Elon Musk

Create Opportunities Achieve more than you believed possible.

We’re proud to see CLA’s Patrik Kovac among the Fairfield County 40 Under 40.

WEALTH ADVISORY | OUTSOURCING AUDIT, TAX, AND CONSULTING

CLAconnect.com Shelton, CT | 203-944-2100

Investment advisory services are offered through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor. ©2021 CliftonLarsonAllen LLP | GEN-201615-ADVER

Congratulations to Ari Yasgur and all the 40 under 40 honorees.

We thank you for your dedication and for making a positive impact on the real estate community.

Adding Value and Building Relationships 470 West Avenue Suite 2007, Stamford, CT 06902 • 203-813-5800 • neiprealestate.com

S18

40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

34

31

35

35

INNA LAZAR

TINA MAZZULLO

COURTNEY MCSHERRY

ROBERT MOORE

DOCTOR OF OPTOMETRY GREENWICH EYE CARE Greenwich

DUAL DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING COURTYARD AND RESIDENCE INN STAMFORD DOWNTOWN Stamford

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING BLUE BUFFALO Wilton

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY IMPACT GREENWICH UNITED WAY Greenwich

Having trained with some of the top hospitals in the United States, including the Albert Einstein Medical Center and The Eye Institute, both in Philadelphia, Inna Lazar has done a significant amount of clinical work covering everything from diagnosing and managing ocular diseases to pediatric and geriatric exams. She loves working with her patients throughout Connecticut, particularly children at Greenwich Eye Care. She has also volunteered with the Head Start program, where eye exams and initial screenings are provided to children throughout Philadelphia. Inna received her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and minored in biology. She received her Doctor of Optometry degree from Salus University. Passionate about eye care she continues to stay up on the latest trends.

She’s married and loves spending time with her family. She plays tennis and loves to cook.

Beginning her career as a customerservice agent in the hotel industry and quickly growing into operations and sales management roles, Tina Mazzullo brings a decade of hospitality experience to her role as dual director of sales and marketing at Courtyard and Residence Inn Stamford Downtown. Previously, she served as general manager and director of sales in the Raleigh-Durham market in North Carolina, where she helped drive revenue across various brands, including Hilton, Starwood and Marriott. Tina is very passionate about community outreach and spends time volunteering at Boys and Girls Club of America, Inspirica and the Stamford Chamber of Commerce.

Working at digital agencies, which supported such companies as Unilever, Coca-Cola and Procter & Gamble, Courtney McSherry brings 10 years of experience in a variety of marketing roles to her position as director of digital marketing at Blue Buffalo, which she assumed in 2019. She has helped drive digital transformation and improve consumer experience across Blue Buffalo’s website and social and CRM programs. Previously, Courtney was with Philips Consumer Products where she held roles in brand management, communications, e-commerce and their digital center of excellence. She graduated from Emerson College in Boston with a Bachelor of Arts degree in marketing communications and lives in Fairfield with her husband, Pete, and their two children, Madison and Peter Warren.

Responsible for developing and managing innovative programs, developing key coalitions and building relationships with a shared sense of purpose are the major quests for Director of Community Impact at Greenwich United Way Robert Moore. He attended undergraduate and graduate school at Fordham University and obtained his master’s degree from the Graduate School of Social Service and Gabelli School of Business. Robert lives in Greenwich with his wife, Natasha, and daughter, Lily.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Not easy, but absolutely worth it.

I’m a very ambitious person so my goalsetting never stops, and I learned to enjoy everything that comes my way.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Still doing what I love, helping people see and feel better. I am a strong believer in life-work balance therefore I would like to get a pilot license to allow me to travel more freely.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

– Confucius

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Versatile, passionate, supportive, motivating, energetic.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Innovative, loyal, driven, friendly, resilient.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Focus on employee morale. The most important business tip when it comes to leading a team is to create a space that is safe, encouraging, motivating and fun.

By doing this employees will feel more empowered and take pride in working together to achieve a company’s goals.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

By continuing to learn new things, putting in the hard work and being fortunate to have an amazing support system of people who have always encouraged me.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"Effective leaders are made, not born.

They learn from trial and error, and from experience."

– Colin Powell

What quote do you find most motivating?

“Don't be intimidated by what you don't know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else.”

– Sara Blakely

S19

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Ongoing reflection and building on what I have learned from taking steps toward accomplishing my goals.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

You only have so much time, so much energy and so much in the way of resources. You don't want to waste any of it.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take."

– Wayne Gretzky

Ad deadline: 2/15 - Virtual Event: 2/25

Congratulations Tiffani Valentin Portfolio Manager, First County Bank Fairfield County 40 Under 40 Award Winner

S TA M F O R D I N O RWA L K I D A R I E N I FA I R F I E L D G R E E N W I C H I N E W C A N A A N I W E S T P O RT Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

The City of Norwalk congratulates Sabrina for her recognition as a 2021 Fairfield County 40 Under 40 award winner. We are very proud of her contributions to the community, as well as her work with the City, as the Director of Business Development and Tourism.

Keep up the great work!

Lead and Inspire Leaders forge the way—for themselves and for others. Deloitte is proud to recognize all 40 Under 40 recipients, including our own, Jeralyn Haber, Partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP.

www.deloitte.com

STAY CONNECTED WITH YOUR CITY @CityofNorwalk @Norwalk_CT

Copyright © 2021 Deloitte Development LLC. All rights reserved.

@Norwalk_CT

S20

40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

39

27

33

37

JASMIN MORREALE

TAYLOR O'BRIEN

KARA PRUNTY

VIJAY RATHNA

BRANCH OPERATIONS MANAGER UNION SAVINGS BANK OWNER | SAL’Z PIZZA Bethel & Newtown

PUBLIC RELATIONS CITY OF DANBURY Danbury

ACTING DIRECTOR OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CITY OF DANBURY Danbury

DIRECTOR OF ENTERPRISE APPLICATIONS CHATEAUX SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT INC. Norwalk

On behalf of the Office of the Mayor and city departments in Danbury, Taylor O’Brien leads their public relations as public information officer. Communicating Covid-19 information became an integral part of Taylor’s tasks. She coordinated a “Live @ 5” Facebook briefing with Mayor Mark Boughton that reached 100,000 weekly viewers and allowed for Q&As between the public and key stakeholders. Additionally, she helped wage a community fundraising campaign, which raised more than $100,000 to feed Danbury families facing food insecurity.

Taylor earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Syracuse University and is completing her Master of Science degree in communication at Purdue University.

As acting Director of Health and Human Services for Danbury Kara Prunty is leading the city in its fight against Covid-19. She provides critical services, including the operation of the city’s emergency homeless shelter, the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine, contact tracing and education and enforcement of the governor’s executive orders. Kara lives in Danbury with her husband, P.J., and their two young sons. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Hartwick College, a Master of Public Administration degree from the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy and is completing her Master of Public Health degree from the University at Albany.

A passionate programmer, Vijay Rathna has been creating solutions with cutting-edge technologies for the past 15 years. His areas of expertise are blockchain solutions, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Using his vast experience in leading global teams to deliver enterprise and consumer services, Vijay heads the technology division at Chateaux. He holds a master’s degree in technology management from Columbia University and teaches a hyperledger blockchain program at University of Texas Austin. His technology experience and entrepreneurial skills help him mentor startups and bring them to success.

As if being the mother of five children, Sam, 29; Jashira, 22; Brian, 19; and twins Lia and Lexi, 5, wasn’t enough for Jasmin Morreale who was born in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, and moved to Connecticut in 1998. She is also, one of the owners of Sal’z Pizza in Bethel as well as a branch operations manager for Union Savings Bank in Newtown. Jasmin recounts in her own words, “Since I was a little girl I have always wanted to live on the main land, which was to me the land of opportunities. At age 16, I came to Connecticut and started working to support my family. With dedication and effort, I was able to graduate high school using the adult learning program – I achieve my diploma. Throughout these years with the support of my loving husband and my hard work I was able to grow professionally into the role I am in today. I am passionate about giving back to the community and I have established these values with my children and my coworkers.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

A satisfied customer is the best business strategy of all.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“Your life is your story. Write well. Edit often.”

– Susan Statham What series are you most addicted to and why? ’Chicago Fire.’ I love how they always work together as a team to accomplish their goal of savings lives.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Ready for the next challenge.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

As obstacles are a part of life, completing each challenge sparks a new reward. In public service, my success is measured by helping others achieve their goals.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Success is a moving target. I consider reaching my goals, small measures of success. My goal each day is to make a difference in someone’s life. If I am able to accomplish that, I consider the day to be a success.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I hope to have found new ways to support my community. There should always be opportunities to lift up those around you and I am certain that my future self will not only find them – but create them.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

– Wayne Gretzky

What quote do you find most motivating?

"Leadership should be born out of the understanding of the needs of those who would be affected by it."

– Marian Anderson

S21

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Innovative, visionary, motivated, friendly, reliable.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Creating innovative solutions in the space sector and motivating futuregeneration entrepreneurs.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“If you are working on something that you really care about, you don’t have to be pushed. The vision pulls you.”

– Steve Jobs

Congratulations!

Robinson+Cole is proud to recognize Greg Bennici on being named 40 Under Forty by the Fairfield County Business Journal.

Congratulations to Greg and all of the 2021 recipients.

contact: Megan E. Baroni | mbaroni@rc.com | 203.462.7528 www.rc.com

Boston | Hartford | New York | Providence | Miami | Stamford | Los Angeles | Wilmington | Philadelphia | Albany © 2021 Robinson & Cole LLP | Attorney Advertising

FROM ALL YOUR SUPPORTERS

Congratulations

LISA COLANGELO!

& FRIENDS Rhythm & Brewz Podcast Poets Realm Never Say No Improv BPT Gen Now The Heilmann Family (Niels & Callie) Jose Kris Stacy Melanie Velazquez Kimmy Jazz E Joe Peoples Jerry Lemdon Jaci Quincy Ms Nye The Wilson Family (Yves, JB & Adara) Eli Velazquez & International Santo 161 Entertainment and More!

Shawn Rembert (Game Boy Phuzz) Shanna & the Lyrical Voices FamilyDaisy (AfroPlantanos, FL) Newfield Park Youth Baseball Kevin A. Payne, MS, LPCA (The Healing Seat) Rum & Tequila Fusion Restaurant Bootleg Greg Cocktail Co. Shawniel Chamanlal (Healing Springs Wellness Center) Uniform Proz The Urban Professionals Network (UPN)

FROM YOUR PALACE THEATRE FAMILY! AND CONGRATULATIONS

to Palace Theatre board member Tina Mazzullo THE PALACE THEATRE 61 ATLANTIC ST, STAMFORD CT, 06901 www.PalaceStamford.org

and a many, many more....

S22

40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

36

36

36

38

LONI RICHARDS

LINDSEY SHELLMAN

TRAVIS SLUSS

ADAM SWANSON

CEO AND PRESIDENT SERVICE AFTER SERVICE Shelton

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER WIN, WEB INTEGRATED NETWORK Norwalk

FOUNDER AND CEO MACINSPIRES Greenwich

PARTNER MCCARTER & ENGLISH LLP Stamford

A highly decorated Navy veteran with a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, Loni Richards’ career highlights include her assignment on the USS Monterey as the electrical officer, a tour at the Pentagon, deployment to Djibouti, Africa, and serving with Seal Team 18. Her corporate experience includes positions of increasing responsibility at Merck Pharmaceuticals, United Technologies Corp. and Lockheed Martin Corp. She is the CEO and president of the veteran-founded nonprofit Service After Service in Ansonia.

Demonstrating a history of growing and empowering successful sales, operations and development teams, Lindsey Shellman has years of logistics and supply-chain industry proficiency and strong sales experience. She is chief commercial officer of WIN Business Services leading her team of experienced professionals in delivering the industry’s premier cloud-based transportation management products. Lindsey has proven ability to lead highly successful teams in improving customers’ processes and resolving complex technical matters.

Lindsey holds degrees in business and communications from The University of Connecticut at Storrs.

His first start in the technology industry was printing labels for his local community at age 11. Following his fervor for all things tech, Travis Sluss spent several years working for Apple Inc. before launching MacInspires with the goal of empowering both people and businesses with education and technology. After graduating from Purchase College in Purchase, New York, where he was born and raised, Travis moved to Connecticut. He has traveled to more than a dozen countries and more than 30 states for various technologybased work, including as a sound engineer for rock and roll bands like the Spin Doctors.

In his practice, Adam Swanson represents major financial institutions in disputes brought by consumers, including those concerning consumer mortgage lending and servicing and consumer credit, as well as major title companies in real property, land title and title insurance litigation for the McCarter & English law firm. Passionate about giving back to the community, Adam serves on the Board of Directors of Connecticut Legal Services, Connecticut’s largest legal aid agency; the Board of Directors for the Fairfield County Bar Association; and the Quinnipiac University School of Law Alumni Association.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Honest, observant, collaborative, focused, teachable.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Motivated, creative, curious, kind, unique.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Personal success is building something greater than yourself. It's creating jobs. It's watching your team buy their dream homes. It's watching employees start families. It's knowing that you are making a difference.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Failure is a part of success.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Veteran, strong, humble, courageous, fierce.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"Whatever the problem, be part of the solution. Don't just sit around raising questions and pointing out obstacles."

– Tina Fey Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

It's not what you know, but who you know. It's all about networking.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I hope to have my own family to share STEAM with and to have many makerspace with more happy employees and more happy students.

What quote do you find most motivating?

"Whatever expect with confidence becomes your own self-fulfilling prophecy."

– Brian Tracy

S23

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

I have not yet achieved my own personal success. I have had some small victories along the way so far and I am excited to achieve the next, even greater successes.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

(1) Give without expectation; (2) Define your brand, stay true to your brand and focus all your energy on being the best at your brand.

What quote do you find most motivating?

“There are many ways of going forward, but only one way of standing still.”

– Franklin D. Roosevelt

Congratulations to all of the 2021 Fairfield County 40 Under 40 Winners!

Congratulations To This Year's 40 Under 40 Winners!

Thank you for your contributions in support of our organization & all of Fairfield County! www.stamfordchamber.com

Advocating, Promoting, Connecting and Educating businesses and our community since 1917. greenwichchamber.com S24

40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | WINNERS

37

30

36

40

TIFFANI VALENTIN

BENEDICT VETTER

MARC WEBER

ARI YASGUR

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT, PORTFOLIO MANAGER FIRST COUNTY BANK Stamford

DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP GREATER NORWALK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Norwalk

FOUNDER ONTHEMARC CATERED EVENTS Stamford

PRINCIPAL NEW ENGLAND INVESTMENT PARTNERS Stamford

After spending the last 16½ years growing her career working from human resources to commercial banking, where she worked both in credit administration and loan operations, Tiffani Valentin, was recently promoted to assistant vice president, portfolio manager at First County Bank.

She has utilized her resources within her community and the experience and knowledge of her peers to continue to expand her career, including participating in the annual banking summer internship program for the last five years. Tiffani recently graduated from the Connecticut School of Finance and Management.

Born and raised in Norwalk, Benedict Vetter’s work at the Greater Norwalk Chamber shows how passionate he is about his business community and the local community as a whole. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from UConn and a Master of Science degree from Southern Connecticut State University. In Norwalk, Ben has worked for a few organizations, including Velo-CT and Stepping Stones Museum for Children before finding his challenge at the Greater Norwalk Chamber of Commerce where he can help to support all chamber members and the entire business community.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Balanced, resilient, transparent, encouraging, resourceful.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Only I know what I am capable of and what I deem a success in my mind.

Usually, when I am working on a task and complete – feeling good and proud about that project is an indication that it is a personal success for me.

The founder and owner of OnTheMarc, an events company that Marc Weber established in 2006 is today responsible for more than $10 million in catering sales per year with 10 exclusive venues across the tristate area. Understanding and respecting the value of employees, OnTheMarc is unique in that it is a purpose-driven, employee-first catering company, which creates memorable, well-executed events using deliberate and mindful event planning, warm and caring service and consistent menu delivery and execution. The events range from small, highly customized and creative parties to large corporate functions. Not only a leader in his industry, but also in his community, Marc has donated food and time to many local nonprofits; his company provides meals for the homeless in his hometown each Thanksgiving. He is part of a local group of entrepreneurs that raises and donates funds to a charity each year. In 2019, he established the OnTheMarc Young Caterers Scholarship at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park to help promote the catering industry to rising chefs. Marc lives in Westport with his wife and two children.

In addition to his passion for food, he is a car enthusiast, an avid gardener and enjoys skating, swimming, yoga, skiing and rock climbing.

It was 2002, when Ari Yasgur began his real estate career acquiring and managing multifamily property in New Haven County. After building an investment group, which had acquired apartments in that area, Ari partnered with co-principal Jonathan Marcus to form New England Investment Partners, a Stamford-based real estate investment company focused on buying, developing and managing quality commercial real estate in New England. Since its inception, the company has bought more than two dozen properties in the region, including several prominent locations in Fairfield County.

Ari lives in Stamford with his wife and three children.

How would you describe achieving your own personal success?

Growth equals success. Whether it’s something I’ve learned that I was able to apply in my personal life or my career, I take pride in knowing that I am growing as an individual.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Always remain marketable. A former supervisor of mine told me this during an interview and it helped lay the foundation for me as my career continues to grow.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

“Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.”

– Muhammad Ali What quote do you find most motivating?

"Just do it."

– Nike

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

Education is expensive. The road to success is paved with failure and mistakes. These can come at a significant cost. Sometimes it’s emotional, sometimes its monetary.

Either way it is comforting to consider this concept when I make mistakes. employees and more happy students.

S25

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Fair, reasonable, dealmaker, caring, dad.

Which business tip has been the most helpful to you?

You are the master of your destiny. You can influence, direct and control your own environment.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

As principal of New England Investment Partners. I love what I do and I hope to keep doing it for many more years.

40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | PREVIOUS WINNERS Due to Covid-19 and the quarantine and restrictions beginning in March last year, it was decided to postpone 40 Under Forty 2020. All the nominations received were merged with 2021 nominees and the 40 Under Forty list will appear as 2020/2021 winners.

2019 Amanda Almonte Andy Cabell Godiva Cadena Kevin Caskin Roger Chappuis Thomas Cingari Jr Michelle Coletti Sasha Collins Evan Cygler Shannon Daniels Kate Dischino Jackie Essex Katia Garcon Rachel Ginsburg Robyn Goldenberg Angelica Gorrio Brian Higgins Christian Keane Adam Kirshner Rhonda Klein Marisa MacLean Joshua Marcus Elisabeth Marrocolla Eddie Martinez Samantha Mauro Peter McSherry Amanda Meeson Erin Mercede Kelli Meyer Oliver Page Roberta Rich Suobo Richards Chloe Richland Charles Rocco Erick Russell Katherine Russian Emily Anne Scalise Josh Weinshank Angela Wong Laura Zap

2018 Karolina Alexandre Clare Bolduc John Breznen Richard C. Buturla Bryan Collins Ardonyx Day Erica DePalma Amanda Desai-Mauro Angelica Durrell Rory Farrell Lisa Feinberg Michael Ferguson Anthony Gaglio, Jr. Rachel Ginsburg Keith Hassell Lori Jones Katie Kasinskas David Kaye Laura Laboissonniere Emily Larkin Muguette Maignan Kristen Manginelli Jarrett Meiers Reese Mitchell Annie Nardi Meagan Neville Nicole Palazzo Hannah Perry Philip C. Pires Nick Rongoe Scott Santa Christina Scott Tom Simonetti Christine Stafstrom Amy Steele Melanie Strout Allison Tait-Enright Jake Tavello Steven Williams Christopher Wirth

2017 Cortney Ansel Melissa Basile Eric D. Bernheim Justin Charise Josh Cohen Christopher Cortese Kayte Cwikla-Masas Alison D. Davis Anthony DeCandido Robyn Drucker Taruna Garg Michael Gretczko Rachel Haughey Sean Hurley Ken Jacobi Rebecca Kaplan Jacqueline Olschan Kaufman Blake Leonard Brian P. Lowell Allyson Mahoney Chris Manimbo Angela Medina Jennifer Mezzapelle Alexandra Mililli Jacqueline Novotny Kelly F. O'Donnell Jeff Osta Kate Petrov Quentin W. Phipps Kate Pipa Natalie A. Pryce Brett Robinson Devon Scanlon Jagjiwan Singh Lindsay Smith Salvatore Sorce JP Sredzinski Nicole Thomas Brian Van Wagener Julie Varughese

S26

2016 Kayleigh Apicerno Hunter Arton Kris Barker Adam Blank Allison Carballo Jason Castaldi Brian A. Clarke, Jr. Marissa Donnelly Ali Farsun Dembishack Steven Ferguson James Frommert Meaghan George Andrew Herr Michelle Johnson Nick Khamarji, Jr. Jackie Kosiba Dyan Kozaczka Enoch Lenge Vladimir Mariano Derrek Metz Lauren Millar James Moffat Britta Mulderrig Stephen Napier Brandon Oldham Kristi Olds Staci Peete Tanya Popolizio Sean Rabinowitz Amy Reina Tim Rorick Ryan Santoro Michael Sciamanna Michael Sullivan Jon Thomas Kelly Trahan Daniel Trust Ken Tuccio Corinne Vanbeek MD Cecilia Zhang Stiber

2015 Joshua Aferzon Megan Baroni Eliot Bassin Assaf Z. Ben-Atar Kelly Berwick Paul A. Bonomo Peter M. Bryniczka James Calkins Anthony A. Carpentieri Nate Checketts Joseph Cichowski Mario F. Coppola, Esq. Jessica Curtis Sergio DaSilveira Lara Devgan, MD Steven Fusco Emily Goldschmid Nicole Licata Grant Benjamin Healey Jason Jaronko Sean Keating Bryan J. Kelsey Christiane Kinseley Dr. Daniel T. Ksepka John Lim Patrick B. McKiernan Katrina V. Melei Kathryn Scheinberg Meyer, Esq. Nick Nguyen Carrie O’Connell Thomas P. O’Connor Douglas Polistena David Sansone Jr. Paul Santos Lindsay Clauss Sheehy Alison Smith Dave Stambone Laurie Stefanowicz Jamie Toole Kristen L. Zaehringer

40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | PREVIOUS WINNERS

2014 Fahad Ahmed Jeffrey Alexander Alison P. Baker Brian Bidolli Victoria F. Bolton John P. Bonora Jason Boyea Spruille S. Braden Rebecca B. Brown Brian R. Falkowski Trish Fontes Joshua Forler Robert A. Gambardella Edward Gormbley Daniel Granucci Peter Hall Alison Held Marc Hoffman Francis S. Infurchia Jr. David Kooris Ashley Krauss Vincent Lariccia Louis M. Marino Kerri Mandelker Bruce T. Moore Jr. Bryan Morris Anna Nelmes-Stoughton James N. Parker Angela Pellegrini Christopher J. Pia Kelly Pia Shaye Roscoe Courtney Rose Nicholas Ruickoldt Justin Shaw Steven J. Stafstrom Jr. Jimmy Tickey Elikem Tomety Archer Katherine Vadasdi, MD Mark A. Vitale, MD Dan Viteri

2013 Nathan M. Allen III Craig M. Baker Ramón Bentley Bill Brucker Cara Ann Ceraso Emily Chalk Manish Chowdhary Michael Church Christa Clark Michelle Cole Maria Conlon Brandon Dufour Brian R. Feidt Anne Gagnon Mary C. Grande Ella Gudwin Brandon P. Hall Theresa Hatton Doodnauth Hiraman MD Mitch Hoffman Blanca L. Kazmierczak Christian Deneb Koether Daniel L’Altrella Janeen W. Leppert Dana M. Loch Matthew R. Meier Thomas C. McCarthy Sean Morits Kristen Okesson Jodie Orzechowski Robert Rahilly Kevin Richards David B. Schaffer Megan Smith-Gill Timothy N. Simpson Jon Stellwagen Grant W. Tankoos Jesse Turley Nicholas Vazquez Desiree Wolfe Kerry Wood

2012 Julia Ambrosi Matt Briand Washington Cabezas Jr. Mark Carmody Lauren Cimino Brian Cohen David Cohen William Conron Jennifer Stewart Ellison Dawn Emmerich Benjamin Fetterman Daniel P. Fitzgerald Benjamin Henson Ari J. Hoffman Jay Inzitari Christina Kazanas Kerri Leavay Michael Lestinsky Adam Luysterborghs Jarrod Manfro Charles F. Martin III John Martinez Austin McChord Stephanie McLaughlin Sarah Mehner Michael Moore Michelle Naggar Brendan Naughton Becca Nell Joe Orlando James Palsa Georgette Pascale Chris Peck Leah M. Reeves ScottS okolowski Medha Thomas Elizabeth Torres Anthony J. Truino Melanie Varian Jennifer Wiesner

S27

2011 Michele Albano Jessica Angier James Bergers Colleen Bike Adam Birnbaum Jenn Bond Huisking Lisa Bratt James Solomon Burshtein Gina Calder Mark Calzone Jason Corsi Jackie Effren Alison Fischer Christopher Fleming Bonnie Geppert George Gerhard Christopher Given Paul Gojkovich III Taryn Harrigan Jennifer M. F. Hillgen-Santa Amy Jacabacci Lisa Lou Joaquim Jamie Jones Adam Klimek Jennifer Lynne David Marceau Penni Martin Patrick Minicus R. Patrick Morrow Eli Newsom Eric Niederer Caitlin Nurge Brian Reklaitis Maureen “Mo” Reynolds Joanna Rotonde Robert Russo Jonathan Shapiro Matthew Storch Kate Truesdell Whitney Wasserman

2010 Olga Adler Jason Andrews Ken Angier Tracy Bleier Ronald L. Brown Jr. Xiomara Chiluisa Gregory Coghlan T. Scott Cowperthwait Lamond Daniels Ronald L. Dragotta Jerrod Ferrari Justin Galletti Jessica Grosswarth Ali Haffner Rebekah Harriman Timothy Herbst Daniel Johnson Esq. William J. Kelleher III Chris Lackowski Emanuela Lima Russ Liner Virgilio Lopez Daniel Mazabras Tom McFeeley Stpehanie McMahon R. Michael Meo Jr. Sean Morris Ryan T. O’Connell Carmine Perri Michael Silvestro Marcus Sweeney Lisa V. Thygerson Sheena Tracy Tim Tracy Jr. Christopher W. Tymniak Daniel Walsh Adrienne Wallace Thomas Walsh Brian Walsh Heather Ziegler

40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 | PREVIOUS WINNERS

2009 Vincencia Adusei Erica Bartelson Michael Basile Laura . Beck Esq. Cara Brook Markie Campbell Michael Canniff Carmelo “Mel” Carrozza Mally Chakola Rebecca Christopherson Joseph I. Chu Adam J. Cohen Dave Coughlin Gregory Frisoli David Galla Natalie Holder-Winfield Brooke Hourigan-Bertholf Laura Jacob Mark Kaduboski LaTanya Langley Rikki Lawrence Nicole Lyons Christopher Major John M. McCAreins, Jr. Sean Murray Mehner Tami A. Moe Glen J. Moore Heather L. Neff Daniel Onofrio Scott Orstad Jon Paul Pirraglia Brendan Reidy Paige Ridley AIA Roberto Romano Brock Saxe Katie Scinto Landria M. S Seals Mark Sherman Jonathan Soares Kristen Sullivan

2008 Carrie L. Amos Kimberly Bankston Jeffrey A. Blanco Jodi Boldrighini Kea Chiang Alice Ferreira David Gavin Jennifer Gerwien Jared Haines Kathryn Humphrey Ryan Kaisoglus Jason Kinard Jennifer Loporchio A.J. Lucas Maxine Lum Mauricio Todd Marlin Jeffrey S. Medina Loren M. Meyer Lou Occhicone Suzanne Palazzo Devang C. Patel John Pierro Tony Polito Jeffrey Quadrato Richard A. Rosano Ryan Salvatore Jorge Santiago Michael Serrao Steve Soyland Eric Stone Melanie Szlucha Brad Tippett Matthew Tuttle Keith S. Varian Cory Visi Kevin F. Viteri Karin Vota Adam Wood Craig Wood Eli Zimmer

2007 William Bardani Jennifer K. Baringer Lisa V. Bisson Jeffrey A. Blomberg Frank Carpenteri Jr. Michael W. Coffey Peter Deane Raymond J. DiGiorgio Tom Dillon Cynthia Drexel Matthew G. Fair Brooke Feder Donald J. Garamella Scot Gladstone David J. Grant Katherine L. Knowlton Susan Kohn Marc Kosak Christopher S. Leonard Erika Liverani Joseph L. LoPresti John J. Louizos Christophr K. McKiernan Lee Milazzo Rani Newman Mathura Tracy Persson Jennifer K. Roberto Chris Russell Stanley J. Ruszkowski Thomas Sanseverino Gregory Smith Alexander Soule Naiden Stoyanov Harris Towne Kim Tuffarelli Albert Unger John Vitro Daniela M. Walsh Myrna Yannieh Dr. Robert Zembroski

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2006

2005

R. Scott Beach Matthew Lloyd Brovender Christopher G. Brown Esq. Christian Burns Zvi Cole Michael DiDonato Garry Feldman Greer Fredericks R. David Genovese Sussanah Gillette B. Scott Gioffre Lateef Habib Peter Hastings Ian Hobbs Erica Killion Fritz Knipschildt Michael Kramer Todd B. Lindvall Gregory Lodato Raj R. Mahale Allison McGahren Kevin P. McKiernan Ian Murray Shep Murray Douglas H. Olin Jason Palmer Carlos Perez Daniel M. Petrelle Gerald Pia Jr. Mark E. Pizzi Heather Porter Christy Pugh Colin Reilly Randy Salvatore Mia Schipani John Slattery William D. Starbuck Jr. Gregory Stelluti Kieran P. Theissen Scott B. Witkin

David Adamo Jon Angel F. Michael Ayles Ivy Burke Sean Carroll Robert Caruso David Colella Patrick Connors George D’Angelo Michael Daglio Paul Delano David Didato Meghan Flynn Frank Forte Marc Grenier Brian Griffin Lee Hendrick Stephanie E. Katz Matthew Kolk Donna Kuebler Thomas Lambert Brian Landi Lee Milazzo Lisa Moholt Gilbert Ohls Darren Pocsik Yvette Prybyski James Ritman Babe R. Rizzuto Peter Rosato Jr Lisa Schildwachter-Messina Jason Stewart Mark Swimm Peter James Tesei John Unger Gerald Valenti Gregory Walsh Craig Woerz Ronald Young Jr Carl Zuckerberg

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Under We congratulate all “40 Under 40” honorees, thank them for their contributions to area businesses and communities, and recognize our members and partners:

CONGRATULATIONS to all the “40 under 40” honorees for their achievements, success and stellar contributions to the business community. And a very sincere and special acknowledgement to our Fairfield Chamber member and FELO Committee Chair:

Paul Amado M&T Bank Zahya Beall Edward Jones Gregory Bennici Robinson & Cole Valeria Bisceglia Small Business Development Center Sabrina Church City of Norwalk John Dempsey News 12 Connecticut Delia Espinal Savings Bank of Danbury Scott Gilbert Black Bridge Motors Vijay Rathna Chateaux Software

Zahya Beall, CIMA®, AAMS® Financial Advisor Edward Jones

Tiffani Valentin First County Bank Benedict Vetter Greater Norwalk Chamber

Fairfield Chamber of Commerce 1597 Post Road Fairfield, CT 06824 203.255.1011 ww.FairfieldCTChamber.com

Marc Weber OnTheMarc Catered Events www.norwalkchamberofcommerce.com S30

serving Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Oxford, Seymour & Shelton

"There is more in us than we know if we can be made to see it."

Jess Ekstrom

Congratulations to all the 2021 Fairfield County 40 Under 40 especially the Valley's own

Allison Costanzo John J. Brennan Construction Co

Patrick Dunleavey CironeFriedberg LLP

The Darien Chamber of Commerce congratulates:

Patrik Kovac

Peter Belbita, co-founder and CEO of Noble House Media, and all of the 2021 40 Under Forty winners.

CliftonLarsonAllen

Loni Richards

N oble House Media has been instrumental in the digital transformation of the Darien Chamber of Commerce and supporting our members and community.

Service After Service

203-925-4981 GreaterValleyChamber.com S31

See Africa as only an insider can Bring your camera and learn how to capture some amazing moments.

10-DAY KENYA SAFARI, NOVEMBER 2021 africaphototours.com S32

40 UNDER FORTY AWARDS 2021 SPONSORS

WESTFAIR COMMUNICATIONS INC. A privately held firm based in White Plains, publishes tabloid- sized business newspapers online: the Westchester County Business Journal and the Fairfield County (Connecticut) Business Journal; WAG magazine, a glossy monthly publication judged to be the “Best Magazine in New York State” for the past five years; and industry-specific newsletters. The Business Journals are more than 60 years old and are the only weekly countywide business newspapers. They were founded by former Westchester resident David Moore, a grandson of celebrated New York publisher Joseph Pulitzer, and John Smith, a former Wall Street Journal editor. In keeping with its founders’ principles, the newspapers focus only on the local business community with news and information that are helpful to businesspeople and profiles on entrepreneurs and professionals, which are inspirational to the readers. The papers have gained credibility and respect in the region for their information, integrity, relevance and usefulness to readers. WAG, a lifestyle magazine with unique upscale content, has become a popular and successful must-read for the savvy residents of Westchester and Fairfield counties. The company also sponsors interactive programs for its readers, some of which are joint-ventured with other businesses or community organizations. These programs cover a variety of subjects and take different forms, including seminars, expos, conferences, roundtable discussions and debates. For more information, visit westfaironline.com, wagmag.com or call 914-694-3600.

UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT (UConn), founded in 1881, is a land grant public research institution and Connecticut’s flagship university. One of UConn’s 14 schools and colleges, the School of Business was established in 1941 and has evolved into an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. Primarily operating in four Connecticut locations – Storrs (main), Greater Hartford, Stamford and Waterbury, the UConn School of Business offers a comprehensive academic program portfolio, including bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, advanced certificates, as well as customized education and outreach services to the corporate community and the general public. In addition to Connecticut’s largest MBA Program (full-time, part-time and executive formats), UConn also offers specialized master’s degrees in accounting (online), business analytics and project management, financial risk management and human resource management.

UConn business faculty scholars are leaders in their fields, as well as true teaching professionals, embracing a dynamic and experience-based approach to learning. In addition to their interactions with students and research contributions, faculty work closely with state government and the business community providing insight and counsel on local, national and global issues. Among some of the innovative learning opportunities that UConn provides are the Business Connections Learning Community, Innovation Quest (iQ), and a $3.7M Student Managed Fund. Other unique programming at UConn includes xCITE – Connecticut’s Conference for Women in Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship; Experiential Learning Collaborative; Innovation Accelerator; and the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities. The UConn School of Business ranks among the nation’s top public institutions

by CEO magazine, Financial Times, Forbes, Military Times and U.S. News & World Report, and has been fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) since 1958. Learn more at www.business.uconn.edu.

GREENWICH HOSPITAL, founded in 1903, has been a member of Yale New Haven Health since 1998 and is an academic affiliate of the Yale School of Medicine.

It is a progressive, 206-bed regional medical center and teaching institution serving residents of Fairfield and Westchester counties. The hospital has garnered a national reputation for patient safety, clinical excellence and customer service, combining the latest technological advances with skilled, compassionate physicians and health care professionals who deliver the highest level of patient care. For a fifth consecutive year, Greenwich Hospital has earned Healthgrades 2019 Outstanding Patient Experience Award, placing the organization among the top 15% of hospitals nationwide for patient experience. Greenwich Hospital’s patients have access to a comprehensive range of medical, surgical, diagnostic and wellness programs. The hospital offers medical innovations from robotic surgery to sophisticated diagnostic imaging to national clinical trials. The hospital is recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Magnet Hospital, the highest honor of nursing excellence. The completely renovated emergency department now has Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital pediatric specialists to care for the smallest patients any time of day or night. Yale New Haven’s Smilow Cancer Hospital on the Greenwich Hospital campus is across from the main hospital and offers high-quality advanced cancer care close to home.

Satellite facilities include the Rye Brook walk-in clinic in New York; the outpatient surgical and primary care center at 500 West Putnam and the Helmsley Ambulatory Surgical Center, both in Greenwich; and the Long Ridge Medical Center and Greenwich Hospital Diagnostic Center, both in Stamford.

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Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to many of the world’s most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500® and more than 7,000 private companies. Our people come together for the greater good and work across the industry sectors that drive and shape today’s marketplace — delivering measurable and lasting results that help reinforce public trust in our capital markets, inspire clients to see challenges as opportunities to transform and thrive, and help lead the way toward a stronger economy and a healthier society. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Now celebrating 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte’s more than 330,000 people worldwide connect for impact at www.deloitte.com.

JOIN US IN 2021 Each year, Westfair Communications hosts events which provides a forum for industry leaders to have innovative and thought-provoking dialogues while making meaningful connections.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR SO YOU DON’T MISS OUT:

FEBRUARY 25 40 UNDER 40

Top

Wea l th Advisors

2021

MAY 27 TOP WEALTH ADVISORS

JUNE 30 COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Fairfield and Westchester Counties

DOCTORS

of DISTINCTION

2021

2021

SEPTEMBER 23 FAIRFIELD AND WESTCHESTER COUNTIES DOCTORS OF DISTINCTION

OCTOBER 14 C-SUITE PRESENTED BY

NOVEMBER 17 REMARKABLE MILLENNIALS As of this posting all events will be virtual until times return to normal.

For more information, visit https://westfaironline.com/events/