Name: Heather Summers

League role/ position: Gala co-chair and Financial Strategies Committee Member

Number of years in the Junior League: 7

Have you been a member of other junior leagues?

Yes, Junior League of Greenville in South Carolina

Tell us a little bit about where you work:

I’ve been a stay-at-home mom for almost 10 years but I’m rarely at home. Prior to having children I was a Sheriff’s Deputy. People that didn’t know me then have a hard time imagining me wearing a uniform and carrying a gun.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I grew up in South Carolina. I moved to Maryland in December after my husband was transferred.

Tell us a little about your educational background:

Winthrop University–a small liberal arts school. I have a BA in Psychology and a Masters of Criminal Justice from the University of South Carolina.

Favorite hobbies?

I refinish and paint furniture to sell at vintage markets. I spend a lot of time at auctions and “junking.”

What about family?

My husband was also a deputy. We met while working. We have never had a “normal” schedule. He is now a Secret Service Agent assigned to the Biden family. We have two boys, Carter and Gavin.

Tell us something unique.

I participated in an exchange program at a police academy in Russia.

Finish this sentence: Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to give back.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

I love to be with other women who are passionate about the mission of JLA and doing what they can to make an impact on the community.

{Special Announcement! Tickets for the 2014 gala event, Casino Night, are now on sale! Tell your friends and buy your tickets today!}

Name: 

League role/ position: Vice President of Communications

Number of years in the Junior League: 5

Have you been a member of other junior leagues?

Yep! I originally joined JL Stamford-Norwalk in CT

Tell us a little bit about where you work:

Right now I’m freelance writing and doing part time marketing work. My writing has been in the Bay Weekly, and various websites including The DC Ladies, Blast Bombshell (a women’s interest website), and for my blog.

My part time work is for a consulting firm here in Annapolis that does Salesforce consulting.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I grew up in Vermont, went to college in Boston and loved it. However, promptly after graduating I packed my bags for DC where a couple of months later I would meet the man who would become my husband three years later. After getting married we lived in Stamford, CT for a year before moving back to the DC area. Rather than living inside the beltway however, we picked Annapolis as our new home.

Tell us a little about your educational background:

I went to college in Boston at Northeastern University.

I studied Political Science focusing on Public Policy & Administration. I interned in the State House, on Capitol Hill and for Senator Kennedy. I worked on a presidential campaign and a senatorial race. I loved every minute of it but eventually, after a couple of jobs post-college I found my passion in communications and marketing.

Favorite hobbies?

I’m a social media geek so you’ll likely find me on my computer if I’m not attending one of many play dates with my little boy or out for a run or at a yoga class. In re: to those play dates? One of my pals once called me a play group hussy. I call it play group networking.

What about family?

My family is comprised of my husband Adam, my son Ethan and our two cats Sally and Joba (after the Yankees pitcher. Not the hut.)

Extended family: I have two older siblings (a sister and brother) and two younger step brothers – all of whom still live in VT.

Tell us something unique.

Not necessarily unique but definitely interesting: I was on stage when John Kerry accepted the presidential nomination in 2004. I was an alternate delegate to the DNC and our delegate coordinator  asked if I wanted to be on stage so I said sure! It was a pretty amazing experience. At that same convention, we had a delegate breakfast that Barack Obama spoke at.

Finish this sentence: Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to constantly do better. To love our community and constantly find ways that we can work together to improve it and to constantly be advancing myself and bettering myself professionally.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

This league has become home to me. The women in this league inspire and motivate me in so many ways. I love the community impact projects we do that help improve the lives of others. I love the friends I’ve made and the laughs we’ve shared – at league events and meetings and outside of the league as well. I love that as a league we can quantifiably say “we’ve made this difference in AA County” – it’s a pretty powerful thing and an amazing group to be a part of.

Name: 

League role/ position: Nominating and Placement co-chair

Number of years in the Junior League: 6

Tell us a little bit about where you work:

I’m a high school teacher at a school in D.C.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

Texas! I’ve lived in NC, NH and RI!

Tell us a little about your educational background:

Duke University (math and mechanical engineering.

Favorite hobbies?

I love running, climbing, and eating!

What about family?

I’m a Texan! I grew up in the panhandle and moved to the east coast for college. My family is now spread out across the country, but they live in locations that are very fun to visit (Colorado and California)!

Finish this sentence: Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to contribute to my community.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

I love meeting people in JLA and getting to know people in the League and in the community that I wouldn’t otherwise meet. Being in JLA has made me feel like a true Annapolis resident!

Name

Megan Esposito

League role/ position

Fun Run Co-Chair

Number of years in the Junior League

5

Have you been a member of other junior leagues?

No

Tell us a little bit about where you work.

After graduating from the Naval Academy, I spent seven years in the Navy, stationed in San Diego. I left the Navy to start a family and now stay at home with our two boys.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I am originally from New Jersey and have lived in Rhode Island, San Diego, and now Maryland.

Tell us a little about your educational background.

U.S. Naval Academy – Oceanography

Favorite hobbies?

Mostly chasing after our boys but love anything outdoors!

What about family?

My husband and I were classmates at USNA, but didn’t really meet until we were stationed in San Diego. We would love for our boys to follow in our footsteps and become members of the class of 2030 and 2033!

New update! Megan and her husband are expecting twin boys in early 2014 – congratulations!

Tell us something unique.

I served on two surface ships stationed in San Diego and have deployed twice—once to the Middle East and once to the Western Pacific.

Finish this sentence: Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to work harder to help others.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

It provides an excellent opportunity to meet people while also serving the community. Being a stay-at-home mom, it is easy to get wrapped up in your own little world. JLA exposes me to many aspects of the community that I would not get to see without seeking them out myself.

Name

Bernadette “Bunny” Norrington

League role/ position

Co-Chair Gala

Number of years in the Junior League

4

Have you been a member of other junior leagues?

No

Tell us a little bit about where you work.

I work at a financial consulting firm. I generally assist troubled companies restructure, enter and exit from bankruptcy. But I also assist creditors and lenders involved in distressed markets.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I’m from Chicago, but came to Annapolis by way of Manhattan.

Tell us a little about your educational background.

DePaul University, Chicago, Finance

Favorite hobbies?

I used to golf and scuba a lot. Now we tend to spend a lot of time at the pool or doing whatever else our daughter wants to do.

We all love to travel, near and far.

What about family?

My husband is British, and my daughter (and soon to be son)* will have dual citizenship.

Tell us something unique.

I have traveled to all but 4 of the 50 United States. I once had a goal to visit them all, but not anymore.

Finish this sentence: Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to be more aware of my community.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

The members are so supportive of one another!

*Congratulations to Bunny who gave birth to her son last week . We wish her and her new family well!

Name

Julie Pfanstiel

League role/ position

Empowering Women Co-Chair

Number of years in the Junior League

2

Tell us a little bit about where you work.

I am a paralegal at a downtown Annapolis law office where I have worked for 8 1/2 years. I work primarily in the areas of family law, criminal law, personal injury, and other civil matters.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I’m from Glen Burnie, MD and have lived there most of my life. I went to college in Pennsylvania and returned to the Anne Arundel County, MD area post-college.

Tell us a little about your educational background.

I attended Central Pennsylvania College in Summerdale, PA and received an Associate of Science degree in Paralegal Studies. I currently attend Stevenson University and expect to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Paralegal Studies in December 2013.

Favorite hobbies?

I like to travel, hang out with friends, work out (especially yoga, spin, and I’m always interested in trying new things a la Groupon!). I like to try new restaurants and lay out on the beach.

What about family?

I have a large blended family. I have one brother, one sister, one step-sister, one step-brother, and I am the baby of the family I have 8 nephews and I love them so much. No kids or spouse for me, and there’s no rush!

Tell us something unique.

I could eat eggs for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and never tire!

Finish this sentence: Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to be more involved in the community.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

The JLA is a great organization which is goal focused and organized! It’s nice to have a system in place. But more than that, I love the goal of the JLA and I feel like I can really make a difference.

Name

Hope Stewart

League role/ position

President

Number of years in the Junior League

6

Have you been a member of other junior leagues?

No

Tell us a little bit about where you work.

I work for County Executive Laura Neuman as her Community and Constituent Services Specialist for Greater Annapolis and South County. That means I represent the County Executive at community meetings and events and address citizen calls and constituent issues dealing with County departments and services.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I was born in Palm Springs, California, but since I only lived there for a few months that hardly qualifies me as a “California Girl.” Even though my father was a Marine and we moved around a lot when I was a kid, I’ve always been a Marylander at heart. 

Tell us a little about your educational background.

I received a BA in International Relations from Mary Baldwin College, and my MA in International Studies from the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom.

Favorite hobbies?

I love doing anything that gets me out of town and into the woods, especially horseback riding and exploring the walking trails in our State and County parks. I also love reading (I have a special weakness for historical fiction) though I wish I had more time these days to finish a book.

What about family?

My mom is the oldest of 7, so I have a very large extended family. I wish they lived closer but we’re all spread out around the country. My immediate family is small, just my parents and my brother. I spend A LOT of time with my family.

Tell us something unique.

I help teach ballroom dance at the Annapolis Cotillion in the Fall and Winter. It gives me a feeling of pride to know the children of Annapolis are going out into the world with a basic mastery of the box step. 

Finish this sentence: Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to believe I can make a difference.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

I love feeling like I’m a part of something bigger than myself. Not just through our work in the community, but as a part of an impressive international network of woman and an organization with an influential history of civic leadership.

Name: 

League role/ position: President-Elect

Number of years in the Junior League: 6

Tell us a little bit about where you work. 

I currently work for the county executive, Laura Neuman. I am the director of constituent services, community grants, boards & commissions and special projects.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I grew up in Michigan and went to college in Ann Arbor. I bought my first house in Birmingham, mi. After finishing my MBA at University of Michigan, I took a job with Dell in Austin, TX. I then moved to Annapolis to be with my husband. After my son was born we temporarily relocated to Dallas for 7 months and then moved back to the same house we have been in since I first moved here in November of 2004.

Tell us a little about your educational background.

University of Michigan: Honors College, BBA in Accounting 1996

University of Michigan: MBA, Finance and Corporate Strategy 2002

Favorite hobbies?

Running, reading, volunteering at my son’s schools.

What about family?

I am the oldest of two. My brother was born with multiple birth defects and is currently the oldest surviving VATER syndrome diagnosis in the country.  I’m pretty sure between him and I we know more about the medical system that most practicing physicians (that’s not necessarily a good thing

My 7-year old son is the kindest person I’ve ever met–just ask any finance council members if you don’t believe me!

Tell us something unique.

I have a Eidetic memory.

Finish this sentence: Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to do more.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

I love the research and organized approach. The partnerships with the community and the training.  I have met some of the most amazing and talented women I have ever worked with through the junior league.

Name: Sarah Jane Silverman (Dunaway)

League role/ position: External Communications Committee Co-Chair

Number of years in the Junior League: 7

Have you been a member of other junior leagues? Yes. My first four years were with Junior League of Seattle and one with the DC Junior League while living in Bethesda last year.

Tell us a little bit about where you work.

I am an account executive/copywriter for Borcz+Dixon. It’s a small advertising agency in the Annapolis area, so I wear many hats! I am also the creator/writer of the blog Clean & Proper where I write tips for cleaning, organizing, etiquette and Southern cooking recipes. Aside from those two things I am also a brand strategist and graphic designer. It’s safe to say I love all areas of  advertising and marketing.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I was born in Seattle (and moved there after graduating from college), but my father was a naval officer (USNA) so I grew up all over the US. I’ve lived in San Diego, LA, Honolulu, Monterey, Jacksonville/Mayport, Newport, Falls Church and Boston. My mother is originally from Annapolis so in the eighth grade my family moved permanently to Annapolis. After college I moved to Seattle then returned back about four years later. I did live in Bethesda last year, but am now back in Annapolis for awhile!

Tell us a little about your educational background.

I graduated from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) with a B.A. in Communications with a focus on Advertising and Graphic Design.

Favorite hobbies?

I’ve always been an athlete and within the last several years have gotten back into ballet and dance, and have taken up long distance running and triathlons. I’m training for my first full marathon (Marine Corps Marathon) this fall and have added the Half Iron Man Vineman to my bucket list for the future. I used to be a competitive rower and tennis player, both of which I still enjoy. Other than that I love rock climbing, photography, painting and baking!

What about family?

In February (on Valentine’s Day!) I married my husband Jesse, who is originally from Southern California. We met at 49 West Cafe in Annapolis while I was visiting family and still living in Seattle. Several months later I moved back to Annapolis and we’ve been together ever since. My parents still live here in Annapolis too, and I have a younger sister who is headed off to Istanbul soon for a year.

Tell us something unique.

Now that I’m married, my name is officially Sarah Silverman (well, Sarah Jane Silverman). You’ll still see me using my maiden name though, for obvious reasons!

Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to never stop learning and never stop giving back.

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

All of the women in my family were members of Junior League, so I originally joined in Seattle because of the tradition. I quickly became a fan of the organization as a whole and its members alike. I have met so many inspirational women over the years and I love that we are all coming together for a common cause–to help others through volunteering. I also love the diversity of opportunities Junior League offers.

Name: 

League role/ position: Past President and current Financial Strategies Committee Chair

Number of years in the Junior League: 13

Have you been a member of other junior leagues? No

Tell us a little bit about where you work.

I work in human resources for Accenture, a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with approximately 266,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. I focus on leadership development, employee engagement, recognition and inclusion and diversity for employees working in our Health & Public Service and Communication, Media and Technology divisions. I job-share and work 2.5 days a week.  I have job-shared for almost seven years with the same partner who is based in Chicago and who is now one of my closest friends.

Where are you from and where have you lived?

I grew up outside Philadelphia (Plymouth Meeting) and love all Philly sporting teams. After four years in Harrisonburg, Virginia for college, I lived in Arlington for five years and then moved to Annapolis. I have lived in the Annapolis area for 17 years and believe the Chesapeake Bay area to be one of the greatest places to live!

Tell us a little about your educational background.

I attended James Madison University and received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Computer Information Systems.

Favorite hobbies?

After quitting lacrosse in college I took up running to stay in shape.  It has been my stress reliever hobby for almost 25 years now.  I also do small triathlons which help keep my knees from dying out after so many years of running. With my family I enjoy skiing, boating and sailing.

What about family?

I have two sons currently aged 11 and 9 years.  I was one of three children and the only girl so was spoiled during Christmas with girly gifts. My brothers still live near Philadelphia and my dad is still in the house I grew up in. Unfortunately my mom passed away several years ago due to a lung disease.

I met Anthony through work.  He asked me to start sailing with him and I fell in love with Annapolis as I fell in love with him.  We have been married for 17 years and currently reside in Davidsonville.

Tell us something unique.

I have worked for the same company since college (which is a long time—22 years in July)!!

Being a member of Junior League inspires me . . . to take on new challenges outside my comfort zone

Why do you love Junior League of Annapolis, Inc.?

I love the women in JLA. I also love that I’ve learned so much about Anne Arundel County and the various issues within this community. The network of resources I have made in this organization is amazing. I love that my children can see me doing hands-on-work.