Executive Board

Hi my name is Lisa Bacon and I am serving as chair for the class of 2025.  What started out as wanting to volunteer for my oldest daughters graduating class (Sophia class of 2020) has turned into an amazing and rewarding experience and I just did it this past year with my youngest daughter (Cecelia class of 2024).  I am no stranger to volunteering. I started my volunteering days when both my girls were in Ruth Chaffee where I formed Girl Scout troop #10508, My volunteering continued with both schools PTAs so it feels natural for me to be part of NHS Project Grad.  Volunteering has allowed me to meet great people in our-town and made lasting friendships in our community.  I've been in the hair industry for 30+ years and a proud military wife to Gary Bacon. My daughter Sophia (Class of 2020) just graduated from Roger Williams University studying criminal justice and my daughter Cecelia is off to college studying business.  I look forward to being a part of this amazing event.

Hello! I’m Jennifer Ahern, serving as Co-Chair for the Class of 2025’s Project Graduation. My journey with the Project Graduation committee began six years ago, and it’s been an honor to contribute to such a meaningful event.  A Newington resident since 1996 and a proud graduate of Newington High School’s Class of 2000, I am deeply rooted in our community. My family keeps me busy and fulfilled:  my oldest, Dylan, graduated in 2020, while my twins, Emma and Ethan, are members of the Class of 2024. My youngest, Tessa and Toby, are just beginning their educational journey in PreK, representing the Classes of 2038 and 2039.  Volunteering has always been a passion of mine. Over the years, I’ve been actively involved in various boards and committees, including the Chaffee, John Wallace and now Patterson’s PTA’s, the 4th & 8th Grade Picnics and Chaffee’s Family Fun Committee. Additionally, I served as the VP of Cheerleading and Coordinator for the Newington Knights for three years. My volunteering extends to roles as a Cheer Coach, Brownie Troop Leader, Cub Scout Den Mother, and participation in sports booster clubs over the years.  When I’m not volunteering, I’m a stay-at-home mom and embarking on a new business venture. I have fond memories of my own graduation party and look forward to working with the Class of 2025.

My name is Daniela James, and I am thrilled to serve as the Treasurer of Project Graduation for the Class of 2025. This marks my sixth year with this wonderful program, and I look forward to many more.  Having lived in Newington for over 18 years, my family is deeply rooted in the community. My oldest son, Domenick, graduated from Newington High School in 2020 and recently from Eastern Connecticut State University (ECSU), while my younger son, Carter, is in 6th grade at John Wallace Middle School. Volunteering is a significant part of my life. I currently serve as the Treasurer of Newington Little League and have managed the league’s concession stand for over a decade. Additionally, I helped expand our local Project Linus chapter and have been involved with numerous boards and committees, including John Paterson PTO, Newington Knights, and Newington High School Baseball and Football.  My husband, Chris, is also very involved with the community. While supporting my endeavors, he serves as the Vice President of Baseball for Newington Little League and also coaches our youngest son, Carter, alongside Domenick.  Professionally, I work as a paralegal for The Hartford, where I have been for 19 years. In my free time, I enjoy being with family and friends and watching my sons play baseball. I take pride in being organized and dedicated to keeping our children’s best interests at the forefront of our volunteering efforts. I look forward to working with everyone this year.

Hello! I’m Amy Costanzo and I am the Secretary for Project Graduation.  I’m very excited to continue in this position for the Class of 2025 after serving the last four years with Project Graduation.  I’m originally from Bristol, but Newington has been home to me & my family since 2009. I have two children Class of 2021 and Class of 2028.  We love living in Newington and have been involved in so many of the extra-curricular activities available here.  There was t-ball, soccer, wrestling, karate, theater, scouts, chorus and camps. I had been involved as the Secretary of the Newington Swim club for two years and was the president of the NHS Swimming Boosters Club.  I am currently self-employed as the owner of a dog daycare & boarding business. Being my own boss has given me the flexibility & time to be involved with my children’s passions and volunteer where help is needed.  As a Senior Mom from the Class of 2021, I had no idea the amount of work that was involved in planning this all-night event, I just knew I wanted to be involved because I believe in the Mission. Now that I know, and have seen the payoff, I can’t wait to help this years Senior Parents plan their amazing night!