April 1, 1985, the Villanova Men's Basketball team in one of the most shocking upsets in college basketball history, beat the heavily favored Patrick Ewing -led Georgetown. It was a Cinderella story that captured the nation.   As a senior at Villanova, nearing graduation, I too had a most memorable April 1985. I was surprised at the Women’s Annual Sports Luncheon to be named the first recipient Female Athlete of the Year Award. The plaque reads:  The female athlete of the year…one who unselfishly sacrifices time, effort, body, and soul to lead and motivate her teammates in excelling for Villanova athletics through “INSPIRATION.”   Six months later I would begin my career at Merrill and continue to draw on those same principles and characteristics for the next 39 years. I am a very loyal person. For thirty -nine years I have had my priorities in order. I would never leave the most exceptional firm in the industry because clients come first.

I have greatly enjoyed building relationships with wonderful families where respect and admiration for one another is mutual.  It has been my privilege to work with multi-generations.   My colleague Rosaline Austrie is also a lifer. Roseline will be with the firm twenty-five years in 2025.

Roseline is a fierce worker. Roseline is efficient, professional and always performs at a high level.  The client testimonials for Roseline sing her praises!   On a personal level, I would describe myself as the quintessential tom boy.

I especially love endurance events where I am competing only against myself. Long distance running can be very humbling. 3x NYC Marathon runner, 15 consecutive years of triathlons and half marathons, Black belt in Shotokan karate, golf enthusiast, weight resistance workouts all define me.   It has been an honor to work at Merrill and to have the friendships of clients and co-workers and I look forward to continuing to have a positive impact of people’s lives.