Resident Spotlight: Linda on Curiosity, Creativity, and Community

At Maplewood, every resident brings a unique story, rich experiences, and personal passions that help shape our community. This month, we’re pleased to introduce Linda S., whose career path took her from public relations and special events to intellectual property licensing and executive search consulting. Along the way, she traveled the world, cultivated lifelong interests, and built a career defined by curiosity and adaptability.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up?

A: I grew up on Long Island and attended Boston University before returning to New York to begin my career. My first job was working for a public relations professional who became an important mentor. That experience led me to special event planning, where I spent 18 years working on a variety of projects.

One of the highlights was serving as part of the team that organized the 1983 Brooklyn Bridge Centennial Celebration. Through that work, I learned about licensing and intellectual property, which opened the door to opportunities with organizations such as Hasbro and Broadway Video.

Later, I moved to Washington, D.C., where I became the first Director of Economic Development for a nonprofit organization. After that position ended, I was introduced to The McCormick Group, an executive search consulting firm. What I thought would be a short chapter became a 25-year career. 

During the early 2000s, I also ran a photography business while working full time. I spent my weekdays in executive search and my weekends photographing events and portrait sessions. It was incredibly rewarding, but as digital photography became more accessible, demand for traditional photography services changed, and I eventually closed the business. Then, I retired in August 2023.

Q: What did you enjoy most about your career?

A: I loved the variety. I could come into work in the morning and have no idea what I would be working on that day. Every project was different, whether it involved events, research, licensing, or consulting. That sense of constant learning kept things interesting. I enjoyed being challenged and finding solutions for different situations throughout my career.

Q: What hobbies and interests have always been important to you?

A: I’ve always been an avid knitter. Every Tuesday, I knit with a group of women at the Westport Center for Senior Activities, where we create shawls and scarves that are donated to a cancer center. I also enjoy art and recently started taking a collage class in Westport. Reading has always been one of my favorite pastimes as well. And, when I lived in Washington, D.C., I spent a lot of time visiting museums, which helped nurture my appreciation for art and history.

Q: Have you traveled anywhere memorable?

A: I’ve been fortunate to travel to many wonderful places, including South Africa, Israel, Morocco, London, and France.

One trip that stands out was a river cruise along the Seine from Paris to Honfleur. I’m a big Claude Monet fan, so visiting the places where he lived and painted later in life was especially meaningful. Seeing the landscapes that inspired his famous water lilies was something I’ll never forget.

Q: What led you to choose Maplewood?

A: Family was a big part of the decision. I wanted to be closer to my sister, and my brother lives in Newtown.

When I visited Maplewood, I was impressed by how beautiful the community was. It felt more like a hotel than what many people imagine senior living to be. The amenities, dining, housekeeping services, and overall environment all contributed to my decision.

Q: What does a typical day look like for you here?

A: One of the things I enjoy most is that every day is different, much like my career was.

On Mondays, I attend fitness classes. Tuesdays are reserved for knitting. Throughout the rest of the week, there is plenty going on, whether it’s playing Rummikub, attending a poetry program, or joining outings to nearby towns.

Many of us also enjoy shopping trips to local stores. It’s not always about making purchases, sometimes it’s simply a chance to get out, stretch our legs, and enjoy a change of scenery.

I’ve also become involved in welcoming prospective residents. It started when Christian, our Community Relations Director, asked if he could show my apartment during tours. Over time, that evolved into speaking with people who are exploring senior living options and sharing my experiences. I enjoy helping others learn more about what life here is really like.

Q: Have you made meaningful friendships here?

A: Absolutely. One thing I’ve learned throughout life is how to read a room and get to know people. I’ve enjoyed meeting residents from a variety of backgrounds and building connections along the way.

Q: What advice would you give to younger generations?

A: Be willing to take a chance and don’t put yourself in a box. Some of the most rewarding opportunities in my life happened because I was open to trying something new and following unexpected paths.

Q: If you could have dinner with anyone, living or historical, who would it be?

A: Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I would love to hear her perspective on the challenges she faced, the progress she witnessed, and the lessons she learned throughout her remarkable life.

Looking Ahead with Purpose

Linda’s story is a wonderful reminder that life rarely follows a straight line. Her willingness to embrace new opportunities, continue learning, and stay engaged with the world around her has shaped a life rich with experiences, friendships, and adventure. Today, she brings that same curiosity and energy to Maplewood, where she continues to discover new interests, support others, and make the most of each day.