The Guilford Foundation (TGF) welcomes Stephen Hegedus and Kristin Vander Wiede to its Board of Directors. These exceptional leaders bring diverse skillsets and experiences that will inform our priorities and advance our philanthropic initiatives

“Our Board is charged with executing our strategic plan and growing the endowment that allows us to enrich the quality of life in Guilford through grantmaking, scholarships, sponsorship awards, and community leadership. Our staggard three–year terms ensure continuity and effectiveness while advancing perspective and innovation,” explained Liza Janssen Petra, Executive Director.  “We welcome Stephen and Kristin and look forward to their spreading the word about the good work we do and supporting our mission as they engage in their committee roles.” 

Stephen Hegedus is the Dean of the Southern Connecticut State University College of Education. In his role at SCSU, he serves on the Connecticut Legislative Taskforce for Early Childhood Workforce Development and the Lieutenant Governor’s Commission on Closing the Achievement Gap. He’s secured funding for programming that benefits minorities and those with intellectual disabilities and autism. Throughout his career, Stephen has shown a passion for community engagement and social justice, as evidenced by his countless connections with schools and school districts in the Greater New Haven area. Stephen moved to Guilford with his wife and three children in 2014.

Kristin Vander Wiede owns a Guilford-based business called Livable Solutions Professional Organizing, helping individuals, families, and small businesses become more efficient and thrive through office organization, bookkeeping, and business consulting services. Previously, she lived in Washington, D.C., and worked on Capitol Hill as a congressional staffer specializing in judiciary, labor, and education issues. She served on the board of the Chamber of Commerce and currently volunteers at her two children’s schools.

“As a new board member, I am in awe of The Guilford Foundation’s scope and impact. Growing up in Guilford and owning two businesses in town, I know firsthand how the Foundation has strengthened our incredible community over the past 45+ years,” said Vander Wiede. “Stephen and I are excited to be a part of this trusted organization and look forward to having a lasting impact.” 

Petra added, “We are thrilled to have Stephen and Kristin join the Board and thank them for generously sharing their expertise and time to help us tackle the important and evolving issues, grow our endowment, and support the organizations and programs that enrich the quality of life for our community.”

The Guilford Foundation Board’s full list of Officers and Directors includes Linda Weber (Chair), Alex Sulpasso (Vice Chair), John Hyman (Treasurer), Ashley Fernandez (Secretary), Sarah Blanton, Stacy Errante Votto, Linda Fan, Betsy Gribble, Stephen Hegedus, Chris Hodgson, Stephanie Little Brown, Judith Meyers, Maggie Moffett, Jeffrey Rice, and Kristin Vander Wiede.

Click here to read the Board’s biographies on The Guilford Foundation’s website.