RVNAhealth Celebrates 25 Years of Visionary Leadership by Honoring CEO Theresa Santoro at 2024 Autumn Dinner
Last week, over 250 attendees gathered at the picturesque Le Chateau in South Salem to honor Theresa Santoro, RVNAhealth's CEO and President, for her extraordinary 25 years of leadership. The atmosphere was one of joy and heartfelt gratitude as the community came together to celebrate Santoro’s unwavering dedication and the impact RVNAhealth has had on so many lives.
The evening began with a lively cocktail hour, where guests mingled while enjoying passed hors d’oeuvres and the stunning surroundings of Le Chateau. Providing the perfect musical backdrop were three talented musicians from Ridgefield High School—Whyall Clifton, Tomas Groot, and Jackson Dell—who added to the cheerful ambiance.
As attendees transitioned into the grand ballroom, Ward Mazzucco, RVNAhealth Board Chair, welcomed the room with a warm message of appreciation for Theresa Santoro. He praised her leadership, describing it as nothing short of visionary, and expressed gratitude for the impact she has had in shaping RVNAhealth into the esteemed healthcare provider it is today.
The evening was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the organizing committee, led by MJ Heller, RVNAhealth's Director of Philanthropy, and Debbie Campbell, Development Manager.
Honoring Theresa Santoro: A Legacy of Care
Theresa Santoro's journey with RVNAhealth began 25 years ago when she joined the organization as a visiting nurse. Her dedication, skill, and leadership propelled her to the role of CEO, where she has overseen the growth of RVNAhealth into a regional healthcare leader, serving more than 5,000 patients and clients annually across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. Under her guidance, RVNAhealth offers a full spectrum of healthcare services, addressing lifelong health and wellness needs with unmatched compassion and expertise.
The heart of the evening's celebration was a series of moving tributes from those closest to Theresa, representing the "4 C's" that define her character:
- Character – Theresa's sister, Maria Bartiromo, spoke fondly of their childhood, sharing stories of Theresa’s nurturing spirit and role as the "big sister". She reminisced about their parents, who owned a restaurant in New York City, and how Theresa developed the strong work ethic and compassion that define her today.
- Theresa's children, Nick Santoro and Samantha Santoro Keller, also shared personal stories about their mother’s ability to juggle their busy schedules while earning her nursing degree and later, growing RVNAhealth. Their heartfelt words painted a picture of a true "supermom," balancing family and career with grace and dedication.
- Confidence – Longtime RVNAhealth Board member Dan O'Brien reflected on Theresa's confidence and assuredness as a leader, qualities that have inspired trust and loyalty throughout her 25-year tenure.
- Competence – Former RVNAhealth Board Chair Mary Jones spoke to Theresa’s incredible competence and how her nursing background has informed her decisions, ensuring that RVNAhealth continues to deliver the highest quality of care.
- Conductor – Eileen Walker brought the tributes full circle, comparing Theresa to a skilled conductor, expertly guiding the many facets of RVNAhealth to harmonize in their mission to provide outstanding healthcare to the community.
A Night of Giving, Auctions, and Joy
- A private tour of the Walker Library of the History of Human Imagination
- A one-week getaway in Taos, New Mexico
- A Genoa Wood Fired Pizza Party
- A pickleball party at Silver Spring Country Club
- A ski week at Loon Mountain, New Hampshire
Guests also admired beautiful hydrangea and rose centerpieces by Rodier Flowers, owned by Mary Jones, and eagerly participated in the Date Night for a Year raffle, offering gift certificates to local restaurants, unique experiences, and an overnight stay at the West Lane Inn.
The night was a true celebration of RVNAhealth’s mission and Theresa’s incredible leadership, reminding everyone of the power of community and the profound difference RVNAhealth makes in the lives of those it serves.
To learn more about RVNAhealth’s services and support its ongoing mission, visit rvnahealth.org.
*Image by Deborah O'Brien Photography.