THANK YOU, Ledyard!
In 2023, Ledyard's Democratic candidates
flipped the Town Council and Board of
Education Blue for the first time in decades!
In 2025, let's return our
PRO-PEOPLE
PRO-SCHOOLS
PRO-LEDYARD
team to office!
In 2023, Ledyard's Democratic candidates
flipped the Town Council and Board of
Education Blue for the first time in decades!
In 2025, let's return our
PRO-PEOPLE
PRO-SCHOOLS
PRO-LEDYARD
team to office!
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Meet Your 2025 Democratic Slate!
Town Council
April Brunelle
April Brunelle is a local Real Estate Agent and owner of April’s Balloon Creations LLC and April Kneads Dough. She is an artist, children’s book illustrator, professional voice talent, entrepreneur, community volunteer, and local neighbor who inspires others to see the beauty in and around our town.
April volunteered for many years as a member of the Ledyard Farmer’s Market Committee. She sewed and distributed hundreds of masks for locals and medical professionals/hospitals during the COVID pandemic. She is always willing to share her talents and smiles whenever she can and cares deeply for our town.
April has a Bachelor of Science Degree from URI and worked for many years at Pfizer in Quality Assurance before she started her businesses. She is well versed in business and local culture and she truly wants to help our town shine bright.
Accomplishments:
April is a Certified Connecticut Municipal Official! She completed this rigorous certification in half the usual time! She Chairs the Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. During the past term, April began a yearly poetry night in concert with Lucille’s Café to celebrate Women’s History Month. April also began a yearly Pride Pizza in the Park Event for Pride Month, working with the Ledyard Congregational Church to make 2025's event even more successful than the first. On the Administration Committee, she helped draft an Ordinance for an Ethics Committee, and recommended numerous qualified candidates of both parties for seats on Ledyard's many Boards, Commissions, and Committees.
April volunteered for many years as a member of the Ledyard Farmer’s Market Committee. She sewed and distributed hundreds of masks for locals and medical professionals/hospitals during the COVID pandemic. She is always willing to share her talents and smiles whenever she can and cares deeply for our town.
April has a Bachelor of Science Degree from URI and worked for many years at Pfizer in Quality Assurance before she started her businesses. She is well versed in business and local culture and she truly wants to help our town shine bright.
Accomplishments:
April is a Certified Connecticut Municipal Official! She completed this rigorous certification in half the usual time! She Chairs the Community Relations Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. During the past term, April began a yearly poetry night in concert with Lucille’s Café to celebrate Women’s History Month. April also began a yearly Pride Pizza in the Park Event for Pride Month, working with the Ledyard Congregational Church to make 2025's event even more successful than the first. On the Administration Committee, she helped draft an Ordinance for an Ethics Committee, and recommended numerous qualified candidates of both parties for seats on Ledyard's many Boards, Commissions, and Committees.
Jessica Buhle
Jessica chairs the Council's Administration Committee and serves on the Finance Committee. There, she has recommended numerous highly-qualified residents of both parties for seats on Ledyard's many Boards, Commissions, and Committees, and helped secure over $1 million in federal and state grants to upgrade 4 playgrounds and the town's first responder communications system!
Jessica and her family have lived in Ledyard for over eight years. On top of holding office, Jessica still organizes the highly-popular Harvard-Yale Regatta Festival, runs her own photography business, and works at a business right here in town.
Before running for Town Council, Jessica got her BS in Accounting from Hawaii Pacific University, worked in Town Hall as an Assistant to the Tax Collector, and served as an Ombudsman for two commands on the Submarine Base (one at sea and one ashore). She also served on the Beautification and Parks and Recreation Committees before moving to the Economic Development and Conservation Commission. She has also been a LEAF Trustee since 2022.
Her commitment to collaboration, unparalleled grant advocacy, and her efforts to stand up for our schools make her the embodiment of the PRO-People, PRO-Schools, and PRO-Ledyard effort to make this town succeed!
Jessica and her family have lived in Ledyard for over eight years. On top of holding office, Jessica still organizes the highly-popular Harvard-Yale Regatta Festival, runs her own photography business, and works at a business right here in town.
Before running for Town Council, Jessica got her BS in Accounting from Hawaii Pacific University, worked in Town Hall as an Assistant to the Tax Collector, and served as an Ombudsman for two commands on the Submarine Base (one at sea and one ashore). She also served on the Beautification and Parks and Recreation Committees before moving to the Economic Development and Conservation Commission. She has also been a LEAF Trustee since 2022.
Her commitment to collaboration, unparalleled grant advocacy, and her efforts to stand up for our schools make her the embodiment of the PRO-People, PRO-Schools, and PRO-Ledyard effort to make this town succeed!
Carmen Garcia-Irizarry
Carmen is a Senior Scientist at Pfizer and a past President of Ledyard Educational Advancement Foundation (LEAF) running for her second term.
She chaired the Administration Committee, and began the ongoing effort to create a Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission for the Town. She also began a food waste program for residents to participate in. Her involvement in the community runs deep, as a small business owner, LEAF past president and current trustee, and her 4-year membership on the Conservation Commission.
She has lived in Gales Ferry with her family for over 18 years. Her oldest recently graduated from LHS and is a student at Yale. Her two younger children are Ledyard School students.
"I am running for re-election to Town Council because I believe that it is very important that the community is involved in all the decisions made by our town government. My focus is to ensure that all voices are heard and respected. I will work towards improving communication between the Town Council and the public so all residents are properly informed of the budget process, town events, and services available. I will work to help the town explore new opportunities for a community center in Ledyard, economic development, land conservation, and senior citizens services. I love Ledyard and I am committed to our community."
She chaired the Administration Committee, and began the ongoing effort to create a Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission for the Town. She also began a food waste program for residents to participate in. Her involvement in the community runs deep, as a small business owner, LEAF past president and current trustee, and her 4-year membership on the Conservation Commission.
She has lived in Gales Ferry with her family for over 18 years. Her oldest recently graduated from LHS and is a student at Yale. Her two younger children are Ledyard School students.
"I am running for re-election to Town Council because I believe that it is very important that the community is involved in all the decisions made by our town government. My focus is to ensure that all voices are heard and respected. I will work towards improving communication between the Town Council and the public so all residents are properly informed of the budget process, town events, and services available. I will work to help the town explore new opportunities for a community center in Ledyard, economic development, land conservation, and senior citizens services. I love Ledyard and I am committed to our community."
Adrienne Parad
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Adrienne and her family have lived in Ledyard for over 12 years. She is a Family Physician, a Veteran of the US Navy, and is currently employed at Optum as a Medical Director. She has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Rhode Island and a Medical Doctorate from Boston University School of Medicine. She completed her Family Medicine residency at the Naval Hospital Pensacola.
In 2014, Adrienne was honorably discharged from active-duty status and began her employment in Mystic, CT as a Primary Care Physician, then practiced in New Zealand for 6 months during the height of the pandemic, and now works in Utilization Management.
Adrienne is a past Chair of the Ledyard Nursing Board. Your children may have met her at a career day presentation at either the middle school or high school. Adrienne continues to be an active community supporter of Ledyard Public Schools, with all three of her school-age children attending the STARS program, Ledyard Center School, Gallup Hill School, Ledyard Middle School, and Ledyard High School.
She is the President of LEAF (Ledyard Education Advancement Foundation), and truly values the importance of quality education. Her kids have benefitted from many of the LEAF grants all the way from the iPads in kindergarten to the book vending machine in middle school. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys running, Peloton, healthy cooking, volunteering and spending time with her family.
“I am running for Town Council because I believe that our school system is foundational for our town and community. Without investment into our youth and education, we will be on a downward trajectory for the next generation. We need to prioritize mental health, physical health, and education. My mission is to find ways to improve the health of our whole population through preventative care, addressing health inequities, ensuring all residents have adequate healthy food supplies, and continue to work on sustainability through green initiatives. Our town will thrive with investments into our people."
In 2014, Adrienne was honorably discharged from active-duty status and began her employment in Mystic, CT as a Primary Care Physician, then practiced in New Zealand for 6 months during the height of the pandemic, and now works in Utilization Management.
Adrienne is a past Chair of the Ledyard Nursing Board. Your children may have met her at a career day presentation at either the middle school or high school. Adrienne continues to be an active community supporter of Ledyard Public Schools, with all three of her school-age children attending the STARS program, Ledyard Center School, Gallup Hill School, Ledyard Middle School, and Ledyard High School.
She is the President of LEAF (Ledyard Education Advancement Foundation), and truly values the importance of quality education. Her kids have benefitted from many of the LEAF grants all the way from the iPads in kindergarten to the book vending machine in middle school. In her spare time, Adrienne enjoys running, Peloton, healthy cooking, volunteering and spending time with her family.
“I am running for Town Council because I believe that our school system is foundational for our town and community. Without investment into our youth and education, we will be on a downward trajectory for the next generation. We need to prioritize mental health, physical health, and education. My mission is to find ways to improve the health of our whole population through preventative care, addressing health inequities, ensuring all residents have adequate healthy food supplies, and continue to work on sustainability through green initiatives. Our town will thrive with investments into our people."
Gary St. Vil
Gary A. St. Vil: A Dedicated Advocate for Ledyard's Future
🏡 Rooted in Community 🏡
For nearly two decades, my wife, Katrina, and I have proudly called Ledyard home. I work as an engineer for a prominent aerospace manufacturer, while my wife contributes her talents to a local not-for-profit. As devoted parents, we've raised three exceptional children – Justin, Imani, and Gary – two of whom are Ledyard High School graduates. Our family is eagerly giving back to the community that has enriched our lives, all while cherishing moments with our first grandson, Enzo.
🌳 Nurturing Our Hometown 🌳
My passion for Ledyard fuels my efforts as a Town Councilor. Amidst the inevitable growth and changes in Southeastern Connecticut, I am committed to safeguarding Ledyard's unique identity for future generations. My key objectives include upholding the excellence of our education system, enhancing essential water and sewer infrastructure, and preserving accessible open spaces.
During my first term, I have served on the Community Relations Committee for DEI, and am the liaison for the Planning and Zoning and Inlands, Wetlands, and Watercourse Commissions. I became Chair of the Town Council in August 2025.
🤝 A Record of Service 🤝
My commitment to our community runs deep, evident through my volunteer roles and service:
🗳️ Your Choice for a Resilient Ledyard 🗳️
As a candidate for Town Council, I am committed to preserving the essence of Ledyard while embracing positive change. Let's work together to ensure that our community thrives, offering a promising future for every resident. Join me on November 4th in shaping a brighter Ledyard for all.
🏡 Rooted in Community 🏡
For nearly two decades, my wife, Katrina, and I have proudly called Ledyard home. I work as an engineer for a prominent aerospace manufacturer, while my wife contributes her talents to a local not-for-profit. As devoted parents, we've raised three exceptional children – Justin, Imani, and Gary – two of whom are Ledyard High School graduates. Our family is eagerly giving back to the community that has enriched our lives, all while cherishing moments with our first grandson, Enzo.
🌳 Nurturing Our Hometown 🌳
My passion for Ledyard fuels my efforts as a Town Councilor. Amidst the inevitable growth and changes in Southeastern Connecticut, I am committed to safeguarding Ledyard's unique identity for future generations. My key objectives include upholding the excellence of our education system, enhancing essential water and sewer infrastructure, and preserving accessible open spaces.
During my first term, I have served on the Community Relations Committee for DEI, and am the liaison for the Planning and Zoning and Inlands, Wetlands, and Watercourse Commissions. I became Chair of the Town Council in August 2025.
🤝 A Record of Service 🤝
My commitment to our community runs deep, evident through my volunteer roles and service:
- Planning and Zoning Commission (until 2023): Guiding responsible development to ensure Ledyard's charm endures
- Inland Wetlands and Watercourse Commission (until 2023): Protecting our precious natural resources for generations to come
- St. John’s Teen Ministry, Youth Counselor (2019-Present): Mentoring and shaping the lives of our youth
- SECT Chamber of Commerce, Installation of Outdoor Storage for the ARC, Team Member (2018): Collaborating for practical solutions that benefit the community
- Early College Opportunity Program, Mentor (2015-2016): Investing in the educational and professional aspirations of our local student
- Ledyard Youth Football, Assistant Coach (2008-2011): Instilling values and teamwork in our youngest citizens
🗳️ Your Choice for a Resilient Ledyard 🗳️
As a candidate for Town Council, I am committed to preserving the essence of Ledyard while embracing positive change. Let's work together to ensure that our community thrives, offering a promising future for every resident. Join me on November 4th in shaping a brighter Ledyard for all.
James Thompson
James brings a passion for public service and a wide array of experience to the Pro-People, Pro-Schools, Pro-Ledyard team!
"I am originally from Dallas, TX, but have been privileged enough to have lived throughout the country, from New Orleans to New York City and many places in between.
I received my BA from Millsaps College in Jackson MS, followed by an MFA from the New School University in New York, and ultimately a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration with a concentration in Environmental Policy, Planning, and Management from Jackson State University. While at JSU I was published in the Journal of Urban and Rural Research, Jan. 2016, for a treatise on Green Cities and Clean Economies, which also received the Robert Kline Award for outstanding graduate research paper at the 2014 Southeast Conference of
Public Administrators in Atlanta, GA.
I began my professional career as an actor in New York City, having appeared on stage and in film and television, but have worked across the public, private and non-profit sectors as well. I am currently a Shelter Supervisor and Housing Specialist at the New London Homeless Hospitality Center in New London. Prior to this I was a street outreach case manager at Newport Mental Health behavioral clinic in Rhode Island. I have also been a public-school teacher in Florida, teaching Social Studies, ELA, and Theatre for grades 4-8. Additionally, I was a Research Analyst/Legislative Aide at Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality; co-founder/partner at Blue Dot Group, a Mississippi-based political and communications consulting firm; co-founder of GreenTechMS, an industrial and commercial recycling service; and partner in a biofuel development business called Miscanthus in Mississippi.
My areas of civic interest include the environment and sustainability, education, small business fosterage, and arts and culture.
I currently sit on the Ledyard Inland Waterways and Watercourses Commission and am active with the Niantic Bay Playhouse.
I am married to Karen Wickert, originally of Bridgeport, proud father to Belle (age 9) and proud step-father to Connor (age 20).
I am running because Ledyard is my home now. It has welcomed me, brought me in, and accepted me. It has been very good to me. I love the town and I love the people and I want what is best for it. I want to give back. But mostly I want to serve the people that make this such a
wonderful place to live."
"I am originally from Dallas, TX, but have been privileged enough to have lived throughout the country, from New Orleans to New York City and many places in between.
I received my BA from Millsaps College in Jackson MS, followed by an MFA from the New School University in New York, and ultimately a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration with a concentration in Environmental Policy, Planning, and Management from Jackson State University. While at JSU I was published in the Journal of Urban and Rural Research, Jan. 2016, for a treatise on Green Cities and Clean Economies, which also received the Robert Kline Award for outstanding graduate research paper at the 2014 Southeast Conference of
Public Administrators in Atlanta, GA.
I began my professional career as an actor in New York City, having appeared on stage and in film and television, but have worked across the public, private and non-profit sectors as well. I am currently a Shelter Supervisor and Housing Specialist at the New London Homeless Hospitality Center in New London. Prior to this I was a street outreach case manager at Newport Mental Health behavioral clinic in Rhode Island. I have also been a public-school teacher in Florida, teaching Social Studies, ELA, and Theatre for grades 4-8. Additionally, I was a Research Analyst/Legislative Aide at Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality; co-founder/partner at Blue Dot Group, a Mississippi-based political and communications consulting firm; co-founder of GreenTechMS, an industrial and commercial recycling service; and partner in a biofuel development business called Miscanthus in Mississippi.
My areas of civic interest include the environment and sustainability, education, small business fosterage, and arts and culture.
I currently sit on the Ledyard Inland Waterways and Watercourses Commission and am active with the Niantic Bay Playhouse.
I am married to Karen Wickert, originally of Bridgeport, proud father to Belle (age 9) and proud step-father to Connor (age 20).
I am running because Ledyard is my home now. It has welcomed me, brought me in, and accepted me. It has been very good to me. I love the town and I love the people and I want what is best for it. I want to give back. But mostly I want to serve the people that make this such a
wonderful place to live."
Board of Education
Kia Baird
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Kia Baird is a Certified Employment Support Professional. Her experience is in the project management of vocational programs that help people with barriers advance their careers.
Ms. Baird is the past President of the New London County Section of the NCNW (National Council of Negro Women), an organization founded in 1935 by Mary Mcleod Bethune to work collectively for women’s rights and the rights of young people. Kia is a former Ambassador for the Eastern CT Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals and served the Chamber as a member of its Board of Trustees. Kia also serves on the Advisory Board for Avalonia Land Conservancy.
Kia received the Young Professionals Community Service Award. She was honored with her peers as one the region’s 40 Under Forty and in the following years Kia was privileged to become one the SECT Professional Women of the Year and 100 Women of Color (CT, MA, RI).
Kia served on the board of directors for 10 years and was past president of OutCT, a 501c3 organization that works to build a community through educational and social programming that promotes acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ community. She currently serves on the board of Equality CT. Kia is also the Co-Chair of the Southeastern CT Re-entry Council, serving individuals that are returning to the community after incarceration. She is also a past member of the Diversity Board for the Norwich Bulletin and has been featured several times as a guest columnist.
Kia is a classically trained soprano. She studied the business of music at the Historically Black College- Winston Salem State University (UNC) located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Kia studied both sacred and classical music and concentrated in jazz under the tutelage of D’Walla Simmons Burke, Richard Heard and Dr. David Legette. Among other memorable performances, Kia was the soprano in the
Opera Barefoot, narrated by the Late Dr. Maya Angelou and is currently the featured Soloist for RPM Voices of Rhode Island. Kia is a former Board of Directors member of the Norwich Arts Center, where she created Miss Lottie’s Café, a jazz-theater series, named for artist and community activist Lottie B Scott in Historic Norwich, CT, and is the Founder of Girls in Jazz. Kia is a new board member of the Connecticut Lyric Opera.
Kia’s dream is to connect people with passion and creativity for opportunities to develop exceptional business acumen, drive economic development, and allow her to help strengthen the community as a whole.
Ms. Baird is the past President of the New London County Section of the NCNW (National Council of Negro Women), an organization founded in 1935 by Mary Mcleod Bethune to work collectively for women’s rights and the rights of young people. Kia is a former Ambassador for the Eastern CT Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals and served the Chamber as a member of its Board of Trustees. Kia also serves on the Advisory Board for Avalonia Land Conservancy.
Kia received the Young Professionals Community Service Award. She was honored with her peers as one the region’s 40 Under Forty and in the following years Kia was privileged to become one the SECT Professional Women of the Year and 100 Women of Color (CT, MA, RI).
Kia served on the board of directors for 10 years and was past president of OutCT, a 501c3 organization that works to build a community through educational and social programming that promotes acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ community. She currently serves on the board of Equality CT. Kia is also the Co-Chair of the Southeastern CT Re-entry Council, serving individuals that are returning to the community after incarceration. She is also a past member of the Diversity Board for the Norwich Bulletin and has been featured several times as a guest columnist.
Kia is a classically trained soprano. She studied the business of music at the Historically Black College- Winston Salem State University (UNC) located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Kia studied both sacred and classical music and concentrated in jazz under the tutelage of D’Walla Simmons Burke, Richard Heard and Dr. David Legette. Among other memorable performances, Kia was the soprano in the
Opera Barefoot, narrated by the Late Dr. Maya Angelou and is currently the featured Soloist for RPM Voices of Rhode Island. Kia is a former Board of Directors member of the Norwich Arts Center, where she created Miss Lottie’s Café, a jazz-theater series, named for artist and community activist Lottie B Scott in Historic Norwich, CT, and is the Founder of Girls in Jazz. Kia is a new board member of the Connecticut Lyric Opera.
Kia’s dream is to connect people with passion and creativity for opportunities to develop exceptional business acumen, drive economic development, and allow her to help strengthen the community as a whole.
Alex Fritsch
"I’ve lived in Ledyard with my wife and two sons, who attend Ledyard schools, since 2019. I completed 20 years of service in the US Navy in 2023, retiring as a Chief Electricians Mate. During my service I completed tours on four submarines and three tours as an Instructor at Nuclear Power Training Units. I am currently an Electrical Engineer at Electric Boat.
I am passionate about teaching, and I made that my focus during my service. I have sought additional avenues to teach and serve our community as a coach for Ledyard Soccer Club, an Upwards Basketball Coach and as a soccer referee. I also lead the chess club at Gallup Hill Elementary School. My wife Beth served as a PTO board member at GHS for two years, which has added to my perspective of community engagement and how our schools operate.
In April 2025 I was selected by the BoE to fill a vacant seat, and I serve on the Policy Committee and as a Safety Liaison. I bring a wide and varied skill set to the table, including a questioning attitude, attention to detail, and a safety first mindset. I consider my strongest asset to be my ability to confront difficult topics head on, with honesty and integrity.
My priorities as a member of the BoE are to ensure that every child in Ledyard receives an excellent education, that our school district moves forwards, not backwards, and that our schools remain a safe environment for all."
I am passionate about teaching, and I made that my focus during my service. I have sought additional avenues to teach and serve our community as a coach for Ledyard Soccer Club, an Upwards Basketball Coach and as a soccer referee. I also lead the chess club at Gallup Hill Elementary School. My wife Beth served as a PTO board member at GHS for two years, which has added to my perspective of community engagement and how our schools operate.
In April 2025 I was selected by the BoE to fill a vacant seat, and I serve on the Policy Committee and as a Safety Liaison. I bring a wide and varied skill set to the table, including a questioning attitude, attention to detail, and a safety first mindset. I consider my strongest asset to be my ability to confront difficult topics head on, with honesty and integrity.
My priorities as a member of the BoE are to ensure that every child in Ledyard receives an excellent education, that our school district moves forwards, not backwards, and that our schools remain a safe environment for all."
Mary Harris
Mary is currently serving her second term on the Board of Education. Her background as a science teacher helps her bring a beneficial perspective and insight to the BOE.
She works towards ensuring equal opportunity for quality education for every student. She is a skilled negotiator and advocate. She works to pursue common ground with differing voices as much as possible, while also standing up for what she believes is right.
Mary is running for re-election because she believes that now, more than ever, it is important to continue to keep pursuing common goals, keep education centered on the students, and to advocate for the schools, which are one of the main reasons people move to Ledyard.
Background/Experience:
She works towards ensuring equal opportunity for quality education for every student. She is a skilled negotiator and advocate. She works to pursue common ground with differing voices as much as possible, while also standing up for what she believes is right.
Mary is running for re-election because she believes that now, more than ever, it is important to continue to keep pursuing common goals, keep education centered on the students, and to advocate for the schools, which are one of the main reasons people move to Ledyard.
Background/Experience:
- Gales Ferry resident since 1998.
- Retired from Pharmaceutical R&D and teaching. Taught chemistry and environmental science.
- Active in her church and in the Mystic Area Ecumenical Council (https://maecmystic.org). Their mission is to serve the needs of local people who need food and shelter; they organize two fundraisers a year to fight world hunger.
Jenn Reguin
Putting Students First — Strengthening Ledyard’s Schools and Community
"I’m a wife, mom of three, and proud Gales Ferry resident, living here with my wife and our son, who will start his freshman year at Ledyard High School this fall.
Serving on the Board of Education has been one of the most rewarding ways I’ve been able to give back to our community. In my current term, I’m honored to serve as Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, a member of the Facilities Committee, and one of the BOE representatives on the Permanent Municipal Building Committee. I’ve also served on the boards for Ledyard Little League, Gales Ferry School/Juliet W. Long and Ledyard Middle School PTO.
For me, the work is always about one thing: putting the needs of our students first. I’m committed to safe, inclusive, high-quality schools that prepare every child for success. I believe when our schools thrive, our whole community thrives — and I’m here to keep that vision moving forward."
"I’m a wife, mom of three, and proud Gales Ferry resident, living here with my wife and our son, who will start his freshman year at Ledyard High School this fall.
Serving on the Board of Education has been one of the most rewarding ways I’ve been able to give back to our community. In my current term, I’m honored to serve as Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, a member of the Facilities Committee, and one of the BOE representatives on the Permanent Municipal Building Committee. I’ve also served on the boards for Ledyard Little League, Gales Ferry School/Juliet W. Long and Ledyard Middle School PTO.
For me, the work is always about one thing: putting the needs of our students first. I’m committed to safe, inclusive, high-quality schools that prepare every child for success. I believe when our schools thrive, our whole community thrives — and I’m here to keep that vision moving forward."
Felix Vajdos
Photo by Carmen Garcia-Irizarry
"I have lived in Ledyard since 2002, after moving here from San Francisco to take a job as research scientist at Pfizer. My wife, Janis, and I have raised 3 children in Ledyard, all of whom have graduated (last one will in 2026) from Ledyard schools.
During my time at Pfizer, I led multiple, diverse research teams, and supervised a multi-disciplinary group of scientists for 8 years before retiring in 2024. I now work as a pharmaceutical science research consultant through my LLC, Molecular Insights Consulting, as well as
a scientific instrument sales consultant for Biosensing Instruments.
I have been active in the Ledyard community since we moved here, serving as councilor and president of our church council (St. Luke Lutheran Church, Gales Ferry), coaching little league baseball and both boys’ and girls’ soccer, and serving as the grants chairperson for the Ledyard Education Advancement Foundation (LEAF).
My role at LEAF has given me a unique view into the quality of Ledyard Public Schools and has shaped my opinion that our public schools are the crown jewel of Ledyard. We have a public school system that is staffed by extremely talented, creative, and dedicated professionals who make our schools some of the best in the state, and I aim to be a strong advocate for them to ensure that Ledyard continues to be one of the best places in southeastern Connecticut to raise and educate our children.
Serving on the board of education is my way of giving back to this community that has given my family so much."
During my time at Pfizer, I led multiple, diverse research teams, and supervised a multi-disciplinary group of scientists for 8 years before retiring in 2024. I now work as a pharmaceutical science research consultant through my LLC, Molecular Insights Consulting, as well as
a scientific instrument sales consultant for Biosensing Instruments.
I have been active in the Ledyard community since we moved here, serving as councilor and president of our church council (St. Luke Lutheran Church, Gales Ferry), coaching little league baseball and both boys’ and girls’ soccer, and serving as the grants chairperson for the Ledyard Education Advancement Foundation (LEAF).
My role at LEAF has given me a unique view into the quality of Ledyard Public Schools and has shaped my opinion that our public schools are the crown jewel of Ledyard. We have a public school system that is staffed by extremely talented, creative, and dedicated professionals who make our schools some of the best in the state, and I aim to be a strong advocate for them to ensure that Ledyard continues to be one of the best places in southeastern Connecticut to raise and educate our children.
Serving on the board of education is my way of giving back to this community that has given my family so much."
Amanda Veneziano
Amanda is looking forward to working side by side with local leaders and parents to continue the high standards Ledyard has in place for our schools and achieve our mission of providing an excellent quality education for all of our children.
As a Board of Education member in Hebron, where she lived prior to Gales Ferry, Amanda was instrumental in helping guide the BOE during the school shutdown and return during COVID. She is proud of helping the BOE navigate how to keep everyone safe and back at school through this difficult time.
She also ran for State Representative for the 55th House District (Hebron, Andover, Glastonbury, Marlborough, Bolton), driven by a desire to serve and do her best to protect children through policy and community-building.
As a Board of Education member in Hebron, where she lived prior to Gales Ferry, Amanda was instrumental in helping guide the BOE during the school shutdown and return during COVID. She is proud of helping the BOE navigate how to keep everyone safe and back at school through this difficult time.
She also ran for State Representative for the 55th House District (Hebron, Andover, Glastonbury, Marlborough, Bolton), driven by a desire to serve and do her best to protect children through policy and community-building.
