As a first-generation college graduate, Samantha majored in Creative Writing at Hamilton College in Clinton, NY. After graduating from Hamilton, Samantha attended The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, where she received her degree in Culinary Arts. After her time in the culinary field, Samantha spent more than a decade in Human Resources consulting, working with Fortune 100 and 500 companies. 

Her many years of volunteering for Hamilton College led her to a career change, moving into the Development and Alumni Relations field. Prior to joining Central, Samantha worked at Hebrew Union College, Pace University, and independent schools here in New York City. She has focused on frontline fundraising, alumni engagement, campaign management, and working with lay leadership. 

Born in Utica, NY, Samantha now lives in Darien, CT, with her husband David. Besides her love of cooking, she enjoys spending time in her favorite cities (NYC, LA, and London are at the top of the list), reading more than 500 cookbooks, and trying out new restaurants.