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Staff Bios

Elizabeth Gambardella, Executive Director

Extension 10

Email farnamhouse@earthlink.net

Liz combines a life-long love of Farnam (having been a member since childhood) with over 25 years of administrative experience. Born and raised in Fair Haven, Liz is a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University with a degree in Social Work. She is a "hands-on" executive and involved in all aspects of Farnam's operation. Liz is a certified member of the Greater New Haven Association of Volunteer Administrators.

 

Frank Redente, Operations Director

Extension 14

Email fredente@farnamhouse.org

Frank began his career at Farnam as a volunteer coach, and was hired on a part-time basis working in the Afterschool Program. He became Recreation Coordinator in 1977. Around the same time, the Saturday Biddy Basketball Program was started with 4 teams. Under Frank's direction, the program has grown tremendously and today is known throughout the City and State. In 1990, Frank became Camp Director and then Waterfront Director serving in these capacities for 20 years. In 2003, Frank was awarded the FNH Community Spirit Award, and he is also a proud recipient of The "Gold Ring" from the Boys and Girls Club Alumni. Frank has touched the lives of many young people during his tenure at Farnam. Many of those same youth are now parents actively involved in our programs at Farnam with their  children. 

 

Diane Church, Office Manager

Extension 16

Email dchurch@farnamhouse.org

Diane welcomes and assists all who visit or call the agency. From the mailman to the Mayor, Diane is Farnam's gracious hostess who also keeps the agency operating smoothly and efficiently. Her responsibilities relate to Budgeting, Finance, Personnel, Fundraising and a close working relationship with the Staff and Board of Directors.

 

Cathy Maddaloni, Nursery School Director

Extension 15

Email cmaddaloni@earthlink.net

Cathy has maintained a life long association with Farnam and has worked here throughout High School and College. She has a degree in Early Childhood Education and strives to create an educational climate that stimulates our young learners and their parents. Under her direction, the Farnam Nursery School has received state licensing and has been awarded national accreditation through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (N.A.E.Y.C.). Her nurturing care and child-centered philosophy is evident in our pre-school program.

 

Faith Jeter, After School Program Director

Extension 11

Email faithjeter@earthlink.net

Faith's experience in early childhood education and program coordination makes her a perfect match for our children and families. She holds an undergraduate degree in Social Work and a Master degree in Urban Studies from Southern Connecticut State University. Faith is also Head Teacher Certified by the State of Connecticut. Her responsibilities include program development, staff supervision and training as well as ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants.

 

Part-Time Staff Directory

After School Program

Marshall Cooper, After School Group Leader

Sissy Gambardella, DCF Group Leader

Santa Garcia, After School Homework Help

Anna Grasso, After School/Summer Rec Coordinator

Jane Lewin, Drama Instructor

Guadalupe Lopez, Arts & Crafts Instructor 

Edgardo Muņiz, 21st Century After School Program Teacher

Yalinette Ortega, After School Game Room Instructor

Leo Tirado, After School Program Assistant

Jaron White, After School Group Leader

Nursery School Program

Cathy Maddaloni, Pre-School Director/Head Teacher

Maria Reyna, Pre-School Teacher

Evening And Weekend Programs

Leland Boughton, Biddy Basketball Program Assistant

Michael Jackson, Biddy Basketball Program - Director of Players

Faith Jeter, Youth Leadership Coordinator

Betty Tortora, Staff/Parent Facilitator