Class of 2020

Class of ’20

Natalie Allen serves as the Director of Social Services at The Edgewood Centre in Portsmouth, NH where she has been happily employed in various roles over the past twenty years. Passionate about the healthcare industry and inspired by person-centered care, Allen focuses on creating exceptional customer experiences. She fosters a solution oriented and inclusive culture with a multi-disciplinary team. Allen’s broad industry knowledge includes healthcare, hospitality, and tourism.

Although Allen does not hold a degree in higher education, she is multilingual and has pursued many ever-evolving interests through her somewhat transient lifestyle. She focuses on global perspective and is committed to creating positive social change. Allen has had the great fortune of being part of innumerable end-of-life journeys through her work in palliative care, soaking up the words of wisdom, and listening to people from many walks of life, in all corners of the world. She is grateful for the school of life.

Realizing that we are all in need of some editing, Allen spends her free time seeking out personal enrichment opportunities and ways to give back to the community. She often relies on her creativity to quench her wanderlust by traveling off the beaten path, most happily accompanied by her daughter and friends. Her extracurricular interests range from ballroom dancing to bobsledding.

Class of ’20

I was born in Brattleboro, VT, where my mom, Sally grew up. She and my father, Ernie, and I moved to Maine once we left the hospital. I have a younger brother, Sam. I graduated from Cape Elizabeth High School, did a post-graduate year at Choate Rosemary Hall, and graduated from Colby College. I‘ve worked in the service and resort industry, spent 10 years selling TV and radio advertising, and did 5 years of voiceover work from home. I’m on the board for Catapult Seacoast, a Portsmouth Rotarian, and member of Sustainable Seacoast and Surfrider Foundation, NH Chapter. In my spare time I love to see live music, ski at Sugarloaf, cheer for the Patriots, and enjoy the great outdoors. I am also an aspiring children’s book author. But, the very best thing in my life is my 6 year old daughter, Fawn. I feel incredibly lucky to be her father. Her mom, Lisa, and I are divorced and both moved to Newmarket in August of 2018 to parent Fawn in relative proximity and split time with her 50/50. Everything I do is to provide for Fawn and give her the very best life I possibly can. I hope, through my Leadership Seacoast experience, that I will find ways to make the world a better place for Fawn and the people in her community.

Class of ’20

A Portsmouth resident for the past 12 years, Marcia is excited to begin the Leadership Seacoast experience and explore ways to get more connected with the seacoast.  Marcia, a New Hampshire CPA, is a Principal with Caron & Bletzer, PLLC a firm specializing in employee benefit plan audits based in Kingston.  In addition to managing these audits, Marcia oversees the firm’s staff development program looking to both internal and external resources to enhance the knowledge of the team.  At the end of 2018, Marcia joined the board for Girls on the Run New Hampshire.  In January 2019 she joined the finance committee.  This has been a great experience to learn more about board operations as well as seeing the impact the program can have on the lives of all participants (coaches and girls alike).  When not auditing benefit plans you can likely find Marcia on her bicycle or skiing in the White Mountains and always looking for ways to get outside.  Over the past summer Marcia was a ride leader for a no-drop ride for She Rides Seacoast and organized a fundraising ride for the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement through their Move for Minds program – “Moving for Minds and Riding for Dough”. 

Class of ’20

I started at Merrill to help myself become more stable and secure financially – to fix my lumpy wagon wheel if you recognize the life coaching exercise.  I never thought I would be sharing with anyone the why or the what that led me to knock on Merrill’s door.  The unexpected beneficial impact of the people I’ve met, become friends with, and worked with over the last 3 years has drawn out the over-sharer in me – all as a result of being encouraged by my firm to “be me”. I am on a mission to recreate that balance and financial peace of mind for anyone who is interested.  

I thrive on helping people start saving, do-over, grow or preserve everything they’ve worked for, so that they can be their best selves for the families and communities that they love. I believe that if you know you are on track to achieve your financial goals, then you can take the day off – whether to clean up the beach, help the homeless, assist veterans, or staff a food-pantry.  Basically, to manage the balance between self-care and family.  I came to Merrill to empower myself, and then found a great deal of satisfaction encouraging and strategizing with others by being open, loyal, and showing up.  I prefer working with other involved, heart-centered, proactive, engaged, giving people and businesses.

Class of ’20

I grew up in Michigan and graduated from Michigan State with a BA in Materials and Logistics Management. After college I moved to Chicago and happily lived and worked for 10 years. I met my husband and relocated to New Hampshire.

I have worked a variety of jobs since college including: Manager at Marshall Fields, Software Designer, QC, help desk and lead trainer for a distribution company, Marketing at GreenPages and Project Manager for a web design group at Prexar (formerly Rocket Science).  

23 years ago my husband and I began Lighthouse Physical Therapy. I helped start up the business and then passed off my responsibilities after we started building our family. Seventeen years ago I was able to leave my job and work exclusively with my husband and our staff at Lighthouse PT.

We have grown Lighthouse from a one-man operation to two locations and 11 Physical Therapists. We are very proud to provide holistic, alternative healthcare to the Seacoast area. It has been our vision to be a beacon of light to those suffering and in pain.

Dave and I have two children (Alec 21, Alicia 18). We have enjoyed living in Madbury, NH for 23 years.

Class of ’20

Eric Childs is the Department Head of Special Projects at Submarine Engineering Maintenance Planning and Procurement (SUBMEPP). SUBMEPP is a NAVSEA command located at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard as a tenant activity.  Eric has been a federal civilian employee with SUBMEPP since his graduation from Maine Maritime Academy in 2008, where he received an undergraduate degree in Marine Systems Engineering Design (Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.)  Eric also attended the University of New Hampshire’s Whittemore School of Business earning a Masters degree in Business Administration in 2011.  Prior to his current position, Eric has worked for SUBMEPP as an Engineer in the Air Systems Division and as a Project Manager for the implementation of a new IT application.

Eric is a third generation resident of Kittery, growing up there with a large extended family. Going through the school system, working on a lobster boat as a deck hand in the summer, and now living there raising his family in the same part of town.  Eric and his wife Amy have three young children, ages six, four, and two.  When Eric isn’t busy with work or his young family, he enjoys outdoor recreation such as canoeing, hiking, fishing, etc. He is also interested in locally sourced foods, and enjoys growing large vegetable gardens in the summer and making his own maple syrup in the winter. Eric is proud to be living and raising a family in Kittery and is committed to maintaining the quality and character of the seacoast community.

Class of ’20

My name is Erica Crosbie and over 25 years ago I fell into corporate training, after earning my BA in Sociology at UNH and my MAT at Simmons College. I was working in a call center at night while substituting during the day (and looking for a teaching job) when someone at my company asked if I would be willing to train a new hire class, and the rest is history. I have held positions from Trainer to Director of Training & QA, but a few years ago I made the decision to move away from management and back to training. For the past 7 years I have been the Corporate Learning & Development Specialist for LTC Partners. I am a certified Gallup Strengths Coach so strengths are integrated into my training and coaching. I find the most rewarding aspect of my job is working with employees on a particular skill and watching them apply it and see the positive impact on their work. I am fortunate enough to work with employees as they explore new careers within the company, which has inspired me to pursue a Certified Career Services Provider credential.  I grew up in LA but have spent the last 20 years on the NH Seacoast (currently in Stratham). I love the 10 minute drive to the beach in the summer and 2 hour drive to the mountains in the winter. I have two boys, Connor (18) and Shea (6) and we are all adjusting to Connor starting at Suffolk this past fall. In my free time I love travelling and spending time with family, friends, and my dog, and I am really excited to be a part of the 2020 Leadership Seacoast class!

Class of ’20

Jonathan is the owner/managing partner at Centrus Digital, a digital marketing agency in Portsmouth, NH. Centrus serves small to medium sized businesses and are experts with Google, YouTube, Facebook/Instagram, email, and marketing automation platforms. Centrus was founded in 2015 and employs 6 people in downtown Portsmouth. Jonathan currently serves as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserves where he is an Operations Officer for the 42nd Aerial Port Squadron at the largest Air Reserve Base in the world. He is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and has been in the Air Force since 2001. A self-proclaimed “nonprofit addict” Jonathan also serves on 4 nonprofit boards. Currently he is the Secretary of the Board of Trustees at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre, Vice President of the Craniocervical Foundation, the volunteer executive director at the Digital Marketing Center, and a member of the Coven which wrangles the Portsmouth Halloween Parade. A winner of Catapult Seacoast’s “10 to Watch” in 2017, the Chamber Collaborative of Greater Portsmouth’s “Collaborator of the Year” in 2019, and a graduate of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, Jonathan is thrilled to be joining Leadership Seacoast to build a greater understanding of the community where he lives, works, and serves.

Class of ’20

Liz Driscoll is an HR professional and currently works at Webster at Rye. She has many years experience in HR and Recruiting and has worked in various industries including manufacturing, marketing, high tech, and retained and contingent recruiting. She is the Membership Director for the Seacoast HR Association and a Board Member. In an effort to make friends 15 years ago when she moved to the Seacoast area she founded the Seacoast Mother’s Association. She enjoys skiing, boating, gardening, long walks with her dog and attending local sporting events – preferably when one of her 2 sons are participating. She lives in Portsmouth with her husband and 2 sons.

Class of ’20

Brian Dulin is the Fabrication Section Supervisor for aircraft maintenance at the New Hampshire Air National Guard where he’s worked full time for 14 years.  During his previous 18 years as a part time Jet Engine Mechanic in the Guard he worked as a mechanical designer at several local companies and as a consultant in his own firm.  He has a BS in Technical Management with a Minor in Organizational Leadership from SNHU, an AAS in Electro-Mechanical Drafting from NHTC and an AAS in Aircraft Maintenance Technology from the Community College of the Air Force.  Throughout these years he raised a wonderful son and daughter and volunteered as a coach and leader in youth sports and other activities in the community, later volunteering as a victim advocate at HAVEN in Portsmouth and in the Air National Guard, which he still does now that his children are grown.  When he has free time, he loves outdoor activities like skiing, camping, hiking, hunting, fly fishing clumsily, motorcycle riding and traveling to anyplace interesting especially if there is scuba diving involved.  When he’s home, you’ll likely find him building or fixing something around the house or garage.  He’s a lifelong student, avid reader and looks forward to every opportunity to grow and expand his horizon.

Class of ’20

Angela M. Ferris is a Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer at Bangor Savings Bank (BSB) where she is committed to helping her clients achieve their financial goals.  Angela believes that with the right banking products she can help owner’s purchase, renovate, and or expand their businesses. She guides and provides founders and entrepreneurs with the financial tools so they can focus on what really matters.  With over 23 years’ experience in the financial industry, the last ten at BSB, Angela takes pride in the many customers she’s helped give a peace of mind, while leading them along the path to achieve their idea of financial success.

Angela is a 2014 Graduate of Southern New Hampshire University where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting.  She is a resident of Rochester and works in Portsmouth and surrounding Seacoast communities.  She has served as a board member of the first Child Advocacy Center in New Hampshire for the past three years, a member of the Portsmouth Rotary, an original member of the Portsmouth Women’s Business League, a Portsmouth Chamber Ambassador, and volunteers for many non-profits.  Angela is a lover of nature and animals.  She enjoys tiring her recue dog Cooper on hikes in the woods, running, biking and finds great joy creating a gourmet dining experience for her boyfriend Ron (and Cooper) to enjoy.  

Class of ’20

Nicole Finitsis has held several leadership positions in the world of health care volunteerism and marketing over the past 14 years; serving the greater Seacoast area.  Previously the statewide director of the New Hampshire Senior Companion Program, she is currently Volunteer Coordinator of Beacon Hospice, an Amedisys Company, overseeing the management, recruitment and education of over 80 volunteers who specialize in end-of-life support to patients and families.  She is a 2018 recipient of the Amedisys Sprit of Excellence Award as Patient Support Services Professional of the Year.  She has had experience in grant writing, program development and training volunteers throughout her roles.   Passionate for volunteerism and giving back to her community, Nicole has been in volunteer roles herself throughout childhood and continues to be involved where she can in several different arenas of her boys local school PTA, Rochester Youth Soccer Association and charitable efforts related to her work.   She completed her education through Granite State College in a self-design program that focused on Elder Care and non-profit management. When not working, she loves being with her family outdoors, hiking, biking and playing.  She lives in Rochester, NH with her husband Jim, twin 6-year-old boys Rylan and Quinn and their three pets Mathilda, Maggie and Molly.  

Class of ’20

Evan Gaj graduated from Lehigh University’s P.C. Rossin College of Engineering in May 2016, with a Bachelor of Science and in May 2017 with a Master of Science, both in Mechanical Engineering. While at Lehigh he worked in the Biofluids lab, the advanced manufacturing lab and the tribology lab. He was involved in Engineers without Borders throughout school, and his senior year was project manager to develop a water distribution system for a rural village in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua.

As a graduate student Evan was the Teaching Assistant for the Senior Capstone course grading more than 180 students, and providing the students with feedback throughout their project. After graduation Evan was as a Fulbright Scholar for 9 months in Warsaw, Poland researching methods to increase the endurance of high altitude unmanned aircraft with collaborators around the world.  

Evan currently is a Second Lieutenant with the New Hampshire Air National Guard, in the Civil Engineering Squadron.

In addition, Evan works for Booz Allen Hamilton as a Systems Engineer. In this role Evan provides support to Air Force Contracts improving force protection measures and the systems providing regional defense to the Northeast U.S.

In the community Evan is involved with the Six03 running club and Habitat for Humanity.

Class of ’20

A recent transplant to the New Hampshire Seacoast, Lindsay Gallant is eager to deploy her knowledge and skills for the betterment of the region. Formally trained in sustainability science and architecture, her interests beyond these are broad.

As a co-owner of ReVision Energy, she designs and estimates commercial electric vehicle charging projects across New England, setting the infrastructure in place to support the renewable energy transition. She looks forward to learning more about our coastal corner of the world and where her skills and curiosity may be needed most!

Lindsay likes to spend time outdoors with her husband, two young children, and dog – surfing, skiing, hiking, exploring.

Class of ’20

Greg is privileged to be a member of the Board of Directors with 3S Artspace which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting emerging contemporary artists. Previously, Greg has a 30 year career in sales and marketing. He holds a BA in Art from the University of the Pacific, and is pursuing a MS in Art Administration from Boston University.

Class of ’20

Hello! My name is Kristen Kaiser.  I have been living in this wonderful Seacoast area of New Hampshire for 10 years and have loved every minute so far.  Originally hailing from New Jersey, I have lived up and down the East coast and have finally settled into the place that I call “home.” I am a graduate of West Virginia University and I currently work for Cognia (formerly Measured Progress) in Dover, NH as a Senior Project Manager for the Content Development & Publishing group.  My main goal for the past few years has been to grow into a leadership role both at work and in my community, and I feel that this program will set me up for success in achieving that goal. I am so excited to start this journey with the class of 2020! 

When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time being a tourist in my own backyard and visiting different local (and not-so-local) towns to see what each has to offer.  My travel also extends beyond our borders I appreciate visiting other countries and cultures whenever I have the opportunity. I have been an avid equestrian most of my life and my true passion is spending time riding and competing with my horse, Jayden, in the New Hampshire Hunter/Jumper Association show series

Class of ’20

Lisa Keslar has more than 20 years professional entrepreneurial experience in a start-up and established organizations in a variety of industries including fashion, medical, technology, communications, and insurance.  She is now Principal of Keslar Insurance Agency, a local independent insurance agency located in Newmarket, NH focusing on offering home, auto, business and life insurance throughout New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts. Prior to that, Lisa was at Wentworth Technology, Inc., a Saco, ME based start-up manufacturer of wireless communications solutions for the Quick Service restaurant industry where she was the Vice President of Marketing and HR.  In previous organizations, her roles have included marketing, HR, operations and finance which has given her a broad understanding of the needs of developing organizations. Much of her experiences have been in manufacturing and distribution organization.

Lisa received her Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Communications from Babson College. She also received her MBA with a focus in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management from Babson College.

Lisa actively volunteers in many local organizations including serving as President of the Newmarket Business Association, Board Member for the Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce, Communications committee for the New Hampshire Women’s Foundation, Board Member Oyster River High School PTO, Charter Member of the Newmarket Lions club, Member of the Exeter Hospital Cancer Cabinet, Volunteer of TedxPortsmouth (3 years), Volunteer coordinator for the Oyster River High School Swim team, and member of both the Greater Dover and Greater Barrington Chambers of Commerce. She is also an adjunct faculty at UNH’s Paul College, teaching in the entrepreneurship program both at the undergraduate and graduate level. She teaches marketing courses through SNHU and is a Faculty Team Lead in SNHU’s business program. When not working or volunteering Lisa loves spending time with her husband and three fantastic kids and two very sweet lab pups.

Class of ’20

I’m a Jersey girl who came to UNH and never moved home. I love it here. After bouncing around the Seacoast, I have lived in North Hampton for twenty-two years and raised my two boys here in an old farmhouse. Max is a junior at UVM, headed for fieldwork in Patagonia in January, and Emmett is a senior at Winnacunnet headed to UVM through a travel program next fall in the South Pacific. (What did they do right that I didn’t do?) In September, I married Jim Holway, an Electrical Contractor based out of Rye. I now have two great step-daughters: Helen, a Spanish Teacher in Dedham, MA, and Louise, a junior cross-country runner at Northeastern University.

I’ve spent most of my career in the non-profit world, with a foray into public education. Outside of the traditional classroom (third and fifth grades), I have worked with at-risk kids, supported seniors with dementia and their caregivers, advocated for organ donation while facing my Dad’s double lung transplant, helped to preserve old buildings while creating cultural opportunities (White Island Lighthouse and Centennial Hall), guided eight-year-olds to become captains of their own little ships in a sailing program in NJ, and currently work to support local breast cancer patients. I recently joined the board of the Three Ponds Protective Association in Milton, NH to help preserve the water quality of the ponds.  I am excited to dive deep into local issues through Leadership Seacoast and expand my knowledge, network and impact.

Class of ’20

Mother of two daughters 12 and 15 and wife. I am a Key Accounts Sales manager for Central Garden and Pet – a world leader in Pet Supply manufacturing. I have been a valued employee since 2008. I handle the top grossing accounts in New England and have prided myself in being their #1 salesperson for 5 years in a row.  I happily incorporate community involvement and a professional career harmoniously in my life. If my full-time career wasn’t enough, I took on the undertaking to open “Friendly Pets” – a chain of pet stores. 2013 in Lee NH and then 2017 in Exeter NH. Bedford is on its way set to open April 2020. I utilized spare land to open the Friend-lee Pets community dog park in Lee NH . We wanted a place for people to always feel welcome and share the love of animals together – We know how important animals are in our life. But I knew there was still more for me – in 2016 I started my passion project -The Level 10 Life Podcast and www.katiemaggio.com. The mission is to help people go on a journey of self-discovery and transformation to reach their highest level. I want everyone to experience the unshakable confidence I have developed and to be able to achieve their wildest dreams. I proudly mentor people in juggling parenthood, community involvement and having a career.  It is imperative to have a solid support system in all these areas. It truly does take a village.

Class of ’20

My name is Don Mallett.  I started my professional career as a Military Policeman in the US Army.  This experience was exactly what I needed at age 18.  I received incredible training in tactics, Traffic accident investigation and Leadership.  Being stationed in Germany, I took advantage of the opportunity to travel around the continent learning about the different cultures while serving our nation in the Cold War era.  After my military stint, I recognized the need to educate myself.  I earned an Associates Degree and Bachelor’s Degree from NHTI and New Hampshire College (SNHU).

I started my business career in the newspaper industry which quenched my thirst for controlled chaos.  The industry was dynamic and challenged my problem solving strength.  I bridged into managing Customer Service and Sales Call Centers.  These positions utilized my skills, challenged my problem solving abilities and gave me a lot of satisfaction assisting employees into maximizing their potential and serving their customers better.  I have continued my career in Call Center Management in several industries including Recruiting, Collections, Insurance and Warranty sales & service.  Although I have been in the position for about 20 years, I love going to work every day.

Personally, I am married with 2 daughters age 29 and 21.  I have been heavily involved in my daughter’s activities during their adolescence either coaching or fund raising for their youth, High School and College teams.  My hobbies include Hiking, assisting others in resume writing, interview coaching and working in my yard in Berwick Maine.

Class of ’20

As the Development Director for Greater Seacoast Community Health (d/b/a Families First Health & Support Center and Goodwin Community Health), Joann enjoys aligning donors’ interests with the needs of the Seacoast’s community health centers. After a twenty year career as a real estate paralegal, marketing manager and web designer, Joann landed in the non-profit world as a database consultant and event planning volunteer. Now, as a development professional, she enjoys working with individual and corporate donors to help meet the goals of the organization. Joann received her BS in Economics from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She is a member of the Portsmouth Rotary Club.

With two grown children and a relocation to the Seacoast in 2014, Joann now has the opportunity to pursue interests such as golf, kayaking, skiing, and music, and is relearning the cello after a 35 year break (with apologies to her next-door neighbor). Joann craves to be on or near the water at any time of year, and aims to live on a boat with her dog, Buster ‒ a lofty goal considering she currently owns neither.

Class of ’20

Carrie is a proud New Hampshire native, deeply rooted in the Seacoast area.   Her passions and interests are eclectic and include: travel, exploring other cultures, décor and design planning, and of course education and children.  

After a few years of travel stateside and abroad, Carrie found her way back to the Northeast, where she loves to nest in her new home in the West End of Portsmouth.  

Professionally, the transition was also made from brand expansion for a global corporation to a community driven organization; Carrie accepted a role with Soul Models.  As their first Executive Director, she spreads the mission of help to empower young girls as they become strong leaders and find their authentic voices.  As the sole employee of this volunteer supported nonprofit, Carrie wears many hats, including program facilitator for their after-school programming.

Within the last few years in role, Carrie has been awarded Catapult’s Top 10 to Watch.   Soul Models was also honored at Volunteer NH’s Spirit of New Hampshire awards and receive top recognition as the Outstanding Volunteer Champion.

As an inherent connector, Carrie has utilized this skill to facilitate community collaborations with local businesses and organizations that have been an integral part of the expansion and evolution of Soul Models; also including speaking at forums such as the Seacoast Wellness series to bring awareness and education around Soul Models in our area.   They have expanded into the Portsmouth, Kittery and Oyster River school systems, with continued growth into three more districts in 2020.

Class of ’20

Matthew Piper is Manager of Education and Outreach at LTC Partners, where he oversees teams providing multichannel educational support to clients, employees, and stakeholders.  He believes in fostering a positive workplace through a customer-focused approach where employees treat each other as they would a client, with courtesy, respect, and responsiveness.  Matt enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly on the slopes and on the water.

Class of ’20

Rachel Prest grew up in central Maine, and then attended the University of New Hampshire where she graduated in 2008 with a B.A. in Theatre.  Since then, she’s spent the last 10 years working in the Seacoast nonprofit sector.  She’s currently Director of Development at United Way of the Greater Seacoast, an organization that helps families meet their basic needs, ensures that children enter kindergarten ready to succeed, and empowers youth with leadership and advocacy skills.

Previously, she served as Director of the Northern New England Combined Federal Campaign, and has also worked at New Hampshire Public Television and as a substitute teacher.  She’s passionate about the arts and early childhood education.  Past community involvements have included performing in and helping to create local theatrical productions.  She lives in Eliot, ME with her husband, two young children, and two cats.

Class of ’20

My name is Sam Rose and I currently work at Cambridge Trust in Dover as the Office Manager. I grew up in Southern NH spending time in Nashua Manchester and Merrimack. Currently I call Hooksett NH home. I graduated from UNH in 2010 with a degree in Business Administration concentrating in management. The first job I applied for was a bank teller and that is where I started my career. Since then I have held every retail bank position and in my current role as office manager I focus on community involvement and business development. I am currently involved in the Dover and Somersworth community Chambers, the Wentworth Douglas Charity Classic Golf Committee and various networking groups around the Seacoast. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, photography, golf, and I currently play in a few different sports leagues for My Social Sports. I am looking forward to starting the Leadership Seacoast program and connecting with all the participants!

Class of ’20

Sarah Shanahan, Director of Education & Outreach for HAVEN,  is an educator and life-long learner who has worked with public and private schools and community organizations for over 21 years. Sarah has a BFA in Theatre Studies from Emerson College in Boston, a Master of Arts in Teaching from UNH, and is an AST Certified Trainer. As a violence prevention educator she has delivered programs to over 100,000 students and parents, and has also trained hundreds of NH educators through Governor Hassan’s Youth Violence Prevention Initiative. Additionally, Sarah sits on the board of Lighthouse Kids, and serves on the Prevention Task Force for the Governor’s Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery. She is the winner of the 2011 National Sexual Violence Resource Center’s Visionary Voice Award for Violence Prevention and the 2009 NH Children’s Trust Fund Unsung Hero Award. A lifelong Seacoast resident, Sarah is also a professional actor and singer who is best known for her portrayal of Olive on the Portsmouth Underbelly Tour. She lives in Epping with her daughter Molly, (a mechanical engineer and travel enthusiast) and their cat Finn.

Class of ’20

Lindsay Sonnett has 10 years of experience in nonprofit consulting, philanthropy, and community organizing.  She has played an integral role in several nonprofit start-ups, and has expertise in program development, volunteer management, community engagement, and event planning.  Prior to her work in the nonprofit sector, Lindsay worked as a public health trainer with the Peace Corps in West Africa.  Deeply committed to workforce housing advocacy in the New Hampshire Seacoast region, she currently serves on the boards of the Town of Exeter Housing Advisory Committee, Town of Exeter Communications Committee, Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast and the Headwaters Foundation.  

Lindsay is passionate about sustainable living and thoughtfully-built communities, which has naturally led to a career in real estate.  She enjoys helping people find their dream homes while identifying ways they can incorporate efficiency improvements and renewable energy.    

 Lindsay holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Urban Planning from Virginia Tech.  An avid traveler, she has lived and worked in Togo, New Zealand, France, and Italy.  She has a working proficiency in Togolese French and still speaks some Moba (a tribal language from Togo). In her free time, you can find Lindsay and her husband traveling, hiking, and playing outside.

Class of ’20

Andrew C. Strosahl is an attorney with The Lawrence Law Firm, PA in South Berwick, ME. Strosahl resides in Dover, NH with his wife, Jessica, and dog, Betty.

Prior to joining The Lawrence Law Firm, PA, Strosahl spent more than three years in Washington, DC developing ocean-related legislation and performing government relations, including a fellowship with Senator Brian Schatz (HI). During law school, he worked on environmental issues with both the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services and the Conservation Law Foundation. Before coming ashore for law school, Strosahl spent more than six years at sea and attained his master mariners license of any gross tonnage upon the oceans. He received his law degree from the University of Maine School of Law, cum laude, and earned his bachelor’s degree from Maine Maritime Academy.

The Lawrence Law Firm, PA is a general practice firm that services both Maine and New Hampshire. Strosahl’s practice encompasses civil and criminal matters, with expertise in maritime topics and government affairs.

Class of ’20

I am excited to be embarking on Leadership Seacoast 2020! My first career was in Educational Technology and I transitioned to nursing in 2009 to work more directly with humans. For the past 6 years, I was an inpatient palliative care nurse at Portsmouth Regional Hospital where I gained a comfort in helping patients and families confront the unpleasant realities of serious illness and oftentimes death. Holding space and facilitating difficult conversations came naturally to me and eventually led me to share this topic with students at UNH, where I teach in the nursing department. I am an active member of the Hospice Help Foundation Board of Directors and believe in educating our community and making a difference for people with a compromised quality of life. My best life includes traveling, laughing, eating good food, skiing and biking with my husband, two teenage boys and our dog, Millie. I am a NH native and have lived in Portsmouth for 20 years after attending college in Maine then working and playing for a few years in the Tetons (Wyoming). 

Class of ’20

Sharon Tarleton is a 2014 graduate of the University of New Hampshire’s College of Liberal Arts, holding dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Psychology & Sociology, having minored in Classics & Political Science. Sharon has a background in education, having worked in the Somersworth School District for 2 years, first as a Substitute Teacher & then transitioning to the Title 1 program. For the past 3 years Sharon has worked for the Community Action Partnership of Strafford County; first as the liaison to the New Hampshire Employment Program’s job training program and most recently within the Housing and Homeless programs. There are no “typical” days at work for Sharon as one day she may be meeting with a client for a security deposit loan and the next helping in the fuel assistance department or food pantry. As she can often be found saying, “every day is an adventure at CAPSC!” In her free time Sharon enjoys reading, cooking, walking local trails, taking in a good movie or live performance and spending time with family & friends. Sharon is very excited to be joining Leadership Seacoast’s 2020 class as she has lived, learned & worked on the seacoast much of her life & is eager to learn more about the programs, services, businesses & other professionals in the area.

Class of ’20

Thanks for stopping by to read my bio! My name is Joe Tarr. I am a New Hampshire native who loves to embrace NH characteristics; boarding, hiking, camping, rock climbing, and rooting for all New England sports teams. I am currently tuning my corporate skills at Bottomline Technologies as a Corporate Account Executive where I sell Financial Technology to some of the world’s largest corporations. During the winter months, I spend my weekends as a Ski Patroller at Gunstock Mountain and during the summer months, I can be found enjoying the weather down at the decks or cruising around in a Wrangler. I am a proud alum of the University of New Hampshire, earning my BS in Economics, and a recent alum of Colorado State University earning my MS in Management. I serve on the Board of Directors for the local community television access, Portsmouth Public Media. I am an avid podcast listener and would love for you to share your favorite podcasts with me! Some of my favorites are Freakonomics, Hidden Brain, Wait Don’t Tell Me, How I Built This and Cautionary Tales. My fiancée, Cece, and I love to spend time with our puppy, Summit. Ask me sometime about our houseboat! Pictures of our adventures can be found on Instagram @jtarr16. I look forward to meeting you!

Class of ’20

Christina Traurig is a Financial Planner at Cornerstone Financial Planning in Newington. Her approach to financial planning is different than what you will typically find in the financial services industry. She believes that practical and emotional factors should be taken into consideration in the financial planning process. She has been trained to ask questions that will clarify her clients’ values, priorities, circumstances, and aspirations. Once those are established, she guides her clients’ in defining and designing meaningful goals. By taking this more holistic approach to personal finance, Christina focuses on increasing her clients’ sense of financial well-being and life satisfaction.

Christina is originally from Cincinnati, Ohio and will remain a Cincinnati sports fan, no matter how painful that currently is or how often she is made fun of by New England sports fans. When she isn’t working, she spends her time playing recreational sports, hiking, traveling, and exploring the Seacoast.

Christina graduated Summa Cum Laude from Northern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. She also holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Louisville. In addition, she obtained her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Certification in 2017.

Class of ’20

Passionate about making art accessible to all in our community through the support of local organizations and businesses, Ashleigh is celebrating her seventh year at The Music Hall. When not at The Music Hall, Ashleigh is an avid reader living in Dover, NH with her husband and new puppy, Zeke.

Class of ’20

My name is Latonya Wallace, Branch Manager at the Bangor Savings Bank branch located at Bow Street in Portsmouth, NH. I bring with me over 17 years of banking experience and consider myself an energetic, resourceful and creative professional. As an employee of BSB, not only am I committed to uncovering banking solutions for clients and but also to building lasting relationships. I make it a point to immerse myself my community through numerous volunteer opportunities.

I am the founder of an organization known as Purseverance 207. Through this organization I’ve donated over 200 “gently loved” purses filled with personal items such as toiletries, snacks, feminine products, sanitary items and more. The purses are delivered to women in transition who may be living in homeless shelters, recovery facilities and even domestic violence centers.

I am also a mother of two, three if you include our furry feline friend. Being a new resident of New Hampshire as of June 2019 I am looking forward to the opportunity to further explore and immerse myself in all that the Seacoast has to offer both on a professional and personal level.

Class of ’20

Juliet Webber is currently serving as the Interim Director of Operations for UNH Professional Development & Training (PD&T). PD&T, a department under UNH Cooperative Extension and the Office of Research, Economic Engagement, and Outreach, is focused on providing high-quality professional development opportunities for professionals, educators, and natural resource specialists in New Hampshire and surrounding regions. Prior to joining the PD&T team, Juliet coordinated Executive Education programs at the John F Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. She previously held roles in communications and program support in the nonprofit association management industry. She holds a BS in Integrated Marketing Communications from Fairfield University, with a minor in Spanish language. Juliet is a driven program development and customer service professional, with a strong belief in the importance of lifelong learning. Juliet recently moved to the Seacoast area from northern Massachusetts, and resides in East Kingston with her husband and two young children.