Rachel’s Journey: Empowering Education and Community Leadership
Rachel’s professional journey reflects her unwavering commitment to leadership, innovation, and community. As a former school teacher and now an EdTech executive, Rachel has worked with esteemed organizations such as SMART, Discovery Education, and Amplify Education. One of her proudest accomplishments was co-founding a Women’s Leadership Summit, bringing together female K-12 Chief Technology Officers from across the nation to collaborate, address challenges, and drive meaningful change in education. This summit exemplifies Rachel’s dedication to fostering connections and empowering women leaders to shape the future.
Beyond her career, Rachel is deeply rooted in her role as a sister, daughter, wife and mother to three teenagers attending Westport Public Schools. Her passion for building connections and nurturing relationships drives her personal and professional endeavors, aligning seamlessly with her commitment to the Westport Young Woman’s League (WYWL).
Finding Purpose in the WYWL
When Rachel moved to Westport in 2022, after serving as Vice President of the Board of Education in her New Jersey town, she sought an opportunity to continue her dedication to community service. She discovered the WYWL, an organization that perfectly aligned with her values of fostering female leadership, building meaningful friendships, and giving back to the community. WYWL’s mission to support local nonprofits and enhance community well-being deeply resonated with her vision for service and connection.
Leading the Minute Man Race and raising $70,000
As the Chair of the Minute Man Race, one of WYWL’s most significant fundraising events, Rachel has brought her leadership and organizational expertise to the forefront and raised $70,000 at the helm of the event. Held annually at Compo Beach, the race includes a certified USA Track and Field 10K Run, 5K Run, 5K Walk, and a Kids Fun Run. Under Rachel’s leadership, the event has successfully raised over $70,000 for WYWL’s Grants Program, providing critical support to local charities throughout Fairfield County. Her ability to rally volunteers and engage the community ensures the race continues to be a cornerstone of the League’s fundraising efforts. * Please note that the race will take place on April 24, 2025!
Reflections on 2024 and Aspirations for 2025
Reflecting on 2024, Rachel highlights the importance of adaptability and collaboration in addressing evolving community needs. Her experience in EdTech has taught her the value of user-centered design, and she is passionate about applying these principles to enhance WYWL’s initiatives. In 2025, she aims to deepen the League’s impact by driving innovative, inclusive approaches to fundraising and outreach, ensuring that the organization continues to serve the Fairfield County community effectively.
Through her work with WYWL, Rachel seamlessly integrates her professional expertise with her passion for community service. Her vision, leadership, and dedication to creating meaningful connections exemplify the transformative power of women coming together to uplift their communities.
Learn more about Westport Young Woman's League (WYWL) https://www.wywl.com/