Danielle Orlando, President
Danielle brings a diverse range of expertise to GWCT, blending experience in education, mental health, program development, and the arts. With five years of elementary school teaching in inner-city schools, including Waterbury, Bridgeport, and New Haven, she is deeply attuned to the challenges faced by underserved youth and the critical need for arts programming in these communities. Her 10 years of experience in psychological and clinical research, along with being a licensed mental health counselor, provide a strong foundation for understanding and addressing the emotional and developmental needs of children. Additionally, Danielle has significant experience in program and curriculum development, ensuring that GWCT’s programs are effective and tailored to the needs of the community. Beyond her work in education and mental health, Danielle has experience both on and off the stage, bringing a unique perspective to the integration of performing arts into youth development. Her well-rounded background makes her uniquely equipped to lead and grow GWCT’s mission of using theater to foster emotional well-being, confidence, and social-emotional learning in local youth.
Thomas Van Stone, Treasurer
Tom has over 15 years of global technology management experience. He has been involved in local Waterbury theatre for over 30 years as a performer, parent volunteer and administrator. Tom’s budgetary management experience in the private sector combined with his fundraising experience for various volunteer organizations allows GWCT to establish sound accounting practices and expand their fundraising operations. Tom’s decade of infrastructure, professional services and support experience in the retail software industry affords GWCT the ability to make wise investments in software and services that support the organization’s mission and operations.
Benjamin Orlando, Marketing and Development
Ben has over 20 years of life experience in the performing arts. Working in Children’s Theatre, and managing multiple social media platforms as well as creating content for theater groups for promotional and marketing purposes. He is an actor, a producer, a director, and an influencer. When working with theater groups, he is an asset to the increase in profit and ticket sales due to his focused Marketing and fundraising style. He has experience with working with large brands including Netflix, Google, Microsoft, and Disney. He has experience negotiating large contracts and projects and has an extensive network of contacts in the media world.
Kathryn Van Stone, Secretary
Kathryn brings a multifaceted perspective to her role as Secretary, rooted in nearly four decades of involvement in the performing arts, with over 25 years in Waterbury theater as a violinist, actor, and most recently, as a parent. Kathryn is currently a Cytogenetic Technologist, demonstrating her attention to detail and analytical skills, qualities that are invaluable in her administrative role. Prior to this, she shared her passion for knowledge as a Science Teacher and Admissions Director at Sacred Heart High School, and a Financial Aid Specialist at Post University, both of which honed her organizational and communication abilities. Her blend of artistic passion and administrative expertise makes her a valuable asset to GWCT, and she is dedicated to helping foster a nurturing and creative environment for young performers to thrive.