Saratoga County's Women of Influence 2023

Saratoga County’s Women of Influence rough the years...

2008

Marianne Barker

Julie Bonacio

Kari Cushing

Marie Glotzbach

Susan Halstead

Terry Lee

Margie Rotchford

Dee Sarno

Linda Toohey

Dottie Nixon

2009

Elizabeth Alexander

Susan Dake

Karen Deandrea

Krystle Nowhitney

Benita Zahn

2010

Karen Dake

Francine Dingman

Sandy Foster

Barbara Glaser

Natalie Sillery

2011

Michelle Larkin

Sara Mannix

Rabbi Motzkin

Cindy Munter

Mary C. Powers

Jamie Williams

2012

Sue Commanda

Stephanie Ferradino

Mary Gavin

Valeri Muratori

Melissa Ward

Melissa Zeiker

2016

Shelly Amato

Libby Coreno

Gayle Lasalle

Jane Mastaitis

Laura Obrien

Miyo Reed

Christianne Smith

2020

Rev. Kate Forer

June MacClelland

Molly McMaster

Morgoslepov

Kathy McNeice

Lisa Moser

Shelby Schneider

2013

Joanne DiMarco

Cynthia Hollowood

Meg Kelly

Michele Riggi

Holly Schwarz-Lawton

Theresa Skaine

Robin Solomon

2014

Colleen Carlson

Karen Flewelling

Kathleen Fyfe

Jessica Patriccione

Heather Straughter

Amy Sutton

2015

Paula Fidalgo

Kim Klopstock

Tara Pleat

Amy Raimo

Patty Riggi

Nancy Trimbur

2017

Lisa Breen

Robin Dalton

Teddy Foster

Karen Heggen

Jane Kromm

Lynette Whaley

2018

Angela Amedio

Laura DiRado

Patty Laudicina

Michele Madigan

Cindy Phillips

Dora Lee Stanley

2019

Maggie Fronk

Bo Goliber

Dr. Renee Goodemote

Megan Harris-Pero

Elizabeth Sobol

2021

Lisa Avila

Catherine Hover

Dr. Katrin Ramsey

Elizabeth Schlegel

Mary Solomons

Kate Towne

2022

Heidi Owen West

Laura Emanation

Laura Perretta

Lisa Mitzen

Michele Funicello

2023

Samantha Bosshart

Stephanie Collins

Sister Charla Commins

Linda Kranick

Deneen Palmateer

Maddy Zanetti

Saman a Bosshart

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A Woman Making History By Preserving It

Each morning, Samantha Bosshart leaves her 1921 Aladdin bungalow kit home, purchased in 2020, to walk to work with Leo, her friendly, fluffy Samoyed. She arrives at the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation located at 112 Spring Street, the former Public School No. 4, where she has been Executive Director for 15 years. It is through her leadership that the historic buildings in our beautiful neighborhoods and vibrant downtown are preserved and recognized.

PASSION FOR PRESERVATION

Immediately after Samantha was born in Illinois, her parents, Don and Clara Bosshart, moved to Galveston, Texas. There, her parents restored the 1884 Jacobs Home and her father was an early advocate for the preservation of the historic East End neighborhood. When she turned five, the family relocated to Kent, Ohio, where Samantha lived until she left to attend college at Indiana University. Initially, she sought a business degree, but quickly realized that was

not a good fit. She changed course and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Criminal Justice. On a whim, Samantha returned to Galveston, where she followed in her father’s footsteps. There, Samantha was responsible for the extensive rehabilitations of four historic houses located in the East End National Historic Landmark District and later took a position at the Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF). It was during her five years with GHF that Samantha learned the importance of historic preservation advocacy; enjoyed helping historic building owners; and grew her appreciation for architecture and the stories that it tells.

PRESERVING THE PAST

Wanting to pursue her passion, Samantha attended Cornell University, completing her coursework for a Master of Arts in Historic Preservation Planning. In 2006, Samantha moved to Saratoga Springs and soon took the position of Director of Preservation Services at Historic Albany Foundation. In 2008, Samantha joined the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation.  Under her leadership, the Foundation has become a stronger advocate for preserving the architectural, cultural, and landscaped heritage of our city; undertaken several noteworthy preservation projects; and offered an increased number of diverse educational programs

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During her 15 year tenure, the Foundation completed a four-year, $750,000 restoration of the Spirit of Life and Spencer Trask Memorial in Congress Park in partnership with the City of Saratoga Springs; undertook a comprehensive cultural resource inventory of the Saratoga Race Course and successfully advocated for the Foundation to review capital improvement projects to ensure the preservation of the historic character of the oldest sports venue in the country; and helped the small congregation of the 1855 First Baptist Church raise $50,000 to complete the restoration of its most endangered stained-glass windows. Recently, Samantha secured City Landmark designation for the 1872 Smiley-Brackett Cottage at 166 Excelsior Avenue and led the effort to preserve the long-neglected historic buildings at 65 and 69 Phila Street. The Foundation purchased 65 Phila Street and is currently rehabilitating the structure with the intent to sell the property to someone who will be a good steward. The proceeds from the sale will be reinvested in another preservation project that will benefit the community. As Executive Director of the Foundation, Samantha regularly advocates for best preservation practices before the land use boards of the City of Saratoga Springs and provides technical assistance to property owners. She often gives walking tours and has written more than 150 articles to highlight the architecture and history of Saratoga Springs, the people who help to preserve it, and why preservation matters

PROMOTING PRESERVATION

Samantha not only prioritizes historic preservation in Saratoga Springs, but also understands its importance to all communities throughout the United States. In addition to her work in Saratoga Springs, she currently serves on the Advisory Council for Adirondack Architectural Heritage, a nonprofit historic preservation organization for the Adirondacks. Prior to joining the Advisory Council, she served six years on the Board of Directors.  Samantha recently was elected Chair of the National Preservation Partners Network, an association of local, statewide, regional, and national non-profit organizations from across the United States that works to advance the growth and effectiveness of the organized preservation movement

PRIORITIZING RELATIONSHIPS

Samantha’s capabilities are outmatched only by her passion. To her, historic buildings are more than just a style of architecture; they represent the stories of those who built, lived, and worked in them. When buildings - whether small and simple or grand and ornate - are lost, the stories of the people are also lost.

Many may think that preservation is in direct opposition to change and development. However, Samantha understands that the communities need to evolve and grow. She often tries to strike a balance between preservation and development, which has helped her build effective relationships with city officials, architects, developers, contractors, and property owners. It is her passion and deep connection to historic preservation that endears her to many even when they may not always agree with her position

Over the years, Samantha has also built lasting relationships with donors, friends, members, and volunteers of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation as well as with her peers from Leadership Saratoga. She regularly meets with community leaders from Discover Saratoga, Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business Association, and the City Center, who she affectionately calls “the Crew.” This group of friends supports one another in their leadership roles and collaborates on ways to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of our community

Samantha’s contributions to our community are evident throughout Saratoga Springs. Next time you stroll by the Spirit of Life, 65 Phila Street, or a new building at the track or downtown, take a moment to wonder what it may look like if it were not for her efforts. Samantha has given us a fresh appreciation for our community’s special places and people

It is through her leadership that the historic buildings in our beautiful neighborhoods and vibrant downtown are preserved and recognized.

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Stephanie Co ins

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Catalyst of Change

How staying steadfast through times of change shapes a brighter future.

Attaining and then sustaining societal change takes long-term focus. Luckily, continually going above and beyond comes naturally to Stephanie Collins. Her untiring commitment to philanthropy is something that runs in the family.

“Growing up, it’s just something we always did,” she said about her family’s practice of giving back to the school classroom, being on the PTA, or helping the church when they were in need, adding, “I feel lucky to be able to continue to do that in many ways and to be even more involved in the community today.”

FORGING CONNECTIONS

Stephanie and her husband, Dave, met in third grade and dated during their time at Saratoga Springs High School. They graduated in 1999, then married in 2004.

Stephanie earned her Bachelor’s degree from Siena College and her Master’s from St. Rose while standing by Dave’s side as he found his role in the family business - DA Collins, a public and private construction company celebrating their 75th Anniversary this year. Together, the couple was introduced to the business community from the local to the state level.

“It’s about more than just business, it’s about getting to know who the families are behind the business,” she said of these connections and collaborations. After teaching in the Shenendehowa school district for three years, Stephanie stayed home to raise their two children while committing more and more of her time to charitable causes. Now, the children are ages 14 and 12, and Stephanie has taken on a job as a part-time recruiter in the private equity field.

“It’s a field I never imagined myself in but the job involves a lot of connecting with people, which is something I love to do,” she said.

VISUALIZING THE GOAL

Stephanie is such an effective change catalyst because she maintains a poise and grace that is engaging and motivating to others while facilitating the communication critical for successes along the change journey. Through Stephanie’s confidence and support, teams tackle new ways of working together in a sustainable way.

“Everyone takes their own lane to get to the goal. If you assemble a team so their strengths compliment the end goal, you’re bound to be successful,” she said.

Stephanie is the current President of Flower and Fruit Mission of Saratoga Hospital. The mission has been in place since 1904 and raises money for the hospital’s Mother/Baby unit. She serves on the Saratoga Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees and assists with other events including the annual Summer Gala. She is an honorary chair of the Wesley Foundation Gala, has contributed to Jake’s Help from Heaven, and the Incredible Teddy Foundation.

Stephanie and Dave have also served as honorary co-chairs for the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, attend the Saratoga Sponsor a Scholar Derby Day party, Cantina Cocktails for a Cause, are participating in the YMCA/Saratoga Senior Center collaboration and are supporters of the Franklin Community Center.

TAKING ACTION

Although her leadership support has a positive impact on so many, it is the people in our community affected by domestic violence and sexual assault who will be most able to see it every time they walk into Wellspring’s new building in Malta.

An idea in the making for years, the new building was constructed during the pandemic and opened in 2021.

“It’s not about the building but what happens inside,” said Stephanie. “Wellbeing, safety, and mental health are prioritized, as well as prevention through education and understanding.”

“There are many forms of abuse and it is something that can happen to anyone,” she added.

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Highlighting the positive outcomes provides models for meaningful change within the community. Their success stories demonstrate possibility. They inspire both individuals and organizations striving to shine a light on the issues and challenges facing society today.

“The fi rst step is just jumping in,” said Stephanie. “Join that committee or board. Just say, ‘yes’. Make that phone call and ask, ‘How can I help?’ See

what it leads to.”

Stephanie’s clarity and consistency as a change agent is perhaps best measured by these successes, as well as her enthusiasm for the future.

“I am thrilled and feel so lucky to live in this community, there is always something coming up next,” she said.

“Everyone takes their own lane to get to the goal. If you assemble a team so their strengths compliment the end goal, you’re bound to be successful.”

Si er Charla Commins

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Living Kindness

Those yearning for understanding have turned to her for nearly fifty years.

Sister Charla Commins is a compassionate listener, a careful, confident speaker, and a snappy dresser. Stylish and classic, her appearance might differ from one’s expectations of a woman who joined religious life at age 18.

Sister Charla’s knack for defying convention is one of the qualities that makes her so relatable to the disenfranchised, poor, and vulnerable.

“I grew up in an extremely stable background and have been constantly amazed at the challenges faced by the poor and the vulnerable, and impressed by their resiliency and courage” she said.

SARATOGA GAINS A SISTER

Born and raised in Syracuse, Sister Charla has been a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet for 60 years. Initially employed as a secondary English teacher for eight years, one summer, she got a taste for another kind of work in the inner City of Albany. “That experience really whet my appetite for more ministry in the field of social work,” she said.

In 1975, she was tapped, along with three others, by Sister Serena Branson, DC, the then CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, to help

expand Catholic Charities from just within the Capital District into all 14 counties, beginning with Saratoga.

SOCIAL SERVICES BLOSSOM IN THE CITY

The fledgling agency was one of a handful of non-profits serving the county and Sister Charla recalls a very different climate. “At that time, there was more available funding and much less external regulation,” she said. “Our task, simply stated, was: ‘Identify the urgent needs of the poor and vulnerable and find ways to meet them’. And so, counseling services, services to the frail and isolated elderly, emergency services, and a drop-in center began the journey.”

In 1995, Catholic Charities of Saratoga County merged with Catholic Charities of Warren and Washington Counties, and has been serving those in need through a variety of programming in the Tri-County region ever since.

Sister Charla earned her Master’s in Social Work from SUNY Albany in 1985 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the years to follow. She was appointed Executive Director in 1988, a position she holds to this day. She has served many area organizations throughout the years and was a founding board member of the Domestic Violence/Rape Crisis Services of Saratoga County, the Hospice of Saratoga County, and the area’s first taskforce working to build a permanent shelter for the homeless (to name a few).

THERE, FROM WOMB TO TOMB

Sister Charla served on the frontlines of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on the Community AIDS Foundation of the Capital Region Steering Committee and as the HIV/AIDS Coalition of the Saratoga Region, Inc.’s Board Chair.

“Working with those infected with HIV/AIDS was a privilege and an honor. It was one of the best things I ever did in my ministry,” she said. “They knew they could find a place here that was welcoming and safe, a place where they could feel valued and cared for.”

The Coalition was a stabilizing force amid the turmoil. It helped to facilitate counseling, financial assistance and advocacy, and a much needed “buddy” system. Sister Charla co-facilitated a support group for nearly twelve years.

FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL

To the surprise of many, Catholic Charities serves those of every race, creed, lifestyle, and age.

Sister Charla believes there is a difference between organized religion and spirituality. “The unchurched still have a strong spirituality,” she said.

“In reading the Gospels, we see that nobody is outside of Christ’s circle. All are accepted and loved.”

“Some women think they don’t have the resources within themselves to resolve a difficult situation,” she continued. “Sometimes, women think asking for help shows weakness, so they suffer far too long and the challenges grow enormously. In those situations, the best thing I did was listen, engage, and offer support –that has been the pivotal thing.”

MORE NEED, LESS MONEY

Through the years, addressing problems has become more difficult, said Sister Charla. “We’ll never end poverty, we’ll always have the rich and the poor, but it’s touching more people now than ever,” she said, adding, “It will probably be here until the end of time. However, there are so many good people, agencies, and faith communities helping others, it makes me hopeful. We can’t change the world, but we can help individual situations.”

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In the current economic climate, more people are living in poverty or existing paycheck to paycheck. During just one day in May, Catholic Charities’ Saratoga office received 18 calls for emergency financial assistance from individuals unable to pay their rent, electric bill, needed car repairs, etc. Sister Charla fears funding will not keep up with increasing demand.

The agency’s largest fundraiser, the Festival of Trees, is a fun, social event made possible by hundreds of volunteers each year. For the past 27 years, this wonderful event has simultaneously ushered in the holiday season while raising much needed funding for agency programs.

“It’s a wonderful coming together of the Saratoga Springs community,” she said.

LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST

Sister Charla has journeyed with many during their final days, and has learned from them that, in the end, people examine the lives they have lived. Often, they are no longer concerned with themselves, but instead want to mend fences, if necessary, and ensure the ones they leave behind are cared for.

“Live with kindness and integrity,” she advises. “Live life to the fullest, you never know when it’s going to be over.”

To relax, Sister Charla enjoys time spent with friends. She can often be found enjoying a good Kristin Hannah novel, some light reading from author Emily Henry, or receiving spiritual stimulation and guidance from the work of theologian Fr. Richard Rohr.

“It’s been a great ride. My life has been blessed and I am grateful.”

“Live with kindness and integrity. Live life to the fullest, you never know when it’s going to be over.”

Linda Kranick

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A Trailblazer

Who Breaks Barriers And Records

The time Linda Kranick spent in Junior High has defined who she is today. It was then, at age 14, she met Art in Earth Science class, and the rich synthesis of the two great loves of her life began to merge. Art and Linda have now been married for 52 years, and have two Whippets, Rudy and Rose (who they’ve trained to use the doorbell when they want to go out). They both taught Junior High science at Saratoga Springs High School (just across the hall from one another), and have been coaching cross country together for 39 years.

“I was fortunate to find my best friend in my husband. We work well together,” said Linda. He is her biggest supporter; constantly boosting her confidence and encouraging her to face challenges. “Whenever there has been a challenge, or tough time, Art and I support each other – we’re a team.”

NURTURING CURIOSITY

Growing up, Linda’s parents treated her, her two sisters, and four brothers, equally. They never held her back, even when she decided to pursue a career in science at a time when women were not encouraged to enter the male-dominated field.

Although tests indicated Linda had the aptitude to become a mechanical engineer, her guidance counselor suggested she become a teacher or a nurse. “I was determined to do something more challenging than what she’d

suggested, I was naturally curious and interested in science,” said Linda. Her interest was piqued by the teachings of Paul Tyner, her 7th grade Shalamot Central School science teacher. On his 85th birthday, Linda was finally able to share with him, much to his surprise, the extent of his influence on her.

EMPOWERING THE UNDERREPRESENTED

At the time, there were so few women in science, that Linda received eight job offers after completing her Bachelors of Arts Degree at SUNY Brockport. Originally intending to enter the field of scientific research, Art encouraged her to reconsider.

“My husband said, ‘Just try it, I think you’ll like it’. I did and I loved it,” said Linda.

She taught both 7th and 8th grade science, 11 years of summer school biology, served cafeteria duty for 25 years, as the NYS United Saratoga Springs Teacher’s Association Secretary, and during the last five years of her 34-year career, was a lead educator in the Phoenix Program, Saratoga’s school within a school for at-risk youth.

Often pegged as disrespectful and disinterested, Linda instead found these students excelled in smaller classes taught by a core group of educators with a common philosophy and an integrative learning curriculum. “They were some of the brightest students I’ve taught. We saw something in these kids and brought it out in them,” she said.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE SPORT

In September, Linda and Art will be celebrating their 50th anniversary as teachers and coaches. Since 1985, they have been making historic coaching contributions at Saratoga Springs High School. Utilizing their background in science, the Kranick’s methods are years ahead of the competition. Not only do they analyze performance charts, they discuss nutrition and look beyond the statistics, at the individual, in the present.

“At 12 years old, kids just want to be kids,” said Linda, so they load on the praise and rewards including trips, crepes, and have Watermelon Wednesdays and Smoothie Saturdays.

AMAZING RACERS

An immense power is unleashed when athletes with innate ability, at the peak of training, are encouraged with positive reinforcement. Their

motivation is intrinsic, they push themselves to thrive under pressure, creating the physical and mental ability to dominate.

“Our secret is that we love what we’re doing,” said Linda. They also never cut a player from the team. “We try to include as many athletes as we can. Art can see things in kids they didn’t know was there.”

Under the Kranick’s guidance, the Blue Steaks improved rapidly. By 1987, the boys’ team was third at States and the girls won. Thirteen times since 1993, they ranked number one in the country.

“From then, on, the kids believed they were capable of doing great things, of looking further ahead, and higher up.”

The Kranicks have won Sectional, State, and National Coaches of the Year awards, and are members of the Coaches Hall of Fame. In addition, they coach the Saratoga Recreation Commission’s summer running program. Even as a national powerhouse, the team continues to participate in charitable races such as the Freihofer’s Run for Women in Albany, NY.

Even off the trail, Linda and Art’s runners excel.

“They have the discipline needed to focus on being a good runner and any athlete on a team learns to work together, which they go out and use later in the workforce. They are individuals with strong personalities who do what they think is right regardless of the crowd.”

After graduation, they send the Kranicks Christmas cards, photos, stories of how they’ve progressed, and of how their love of running has been inherited by the next generation. Linda and Art’s students have rewarded them with 44 weddings and a goddaughter, but also broken their hearts with a few funerals.

Their assistant coach, Dan VanCott, was born on Linda and Art’s first day teaching. Ray Harrington, who ran on their first boys’ team, and his wife, Joannie, remain so close to the couple that the Kranicks refer to their daughter, Siovhan, a Sophomore at Syracuse University, as their granddaughter.

“Our secret is that we love what we’re doing.”

Den n Palmat r

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Together We Rise

Deneen Palmateer, a Schenectady County resident, is a woman who brings about change by reframing challenges. “Each day starts anew with new challenges and new successes,” she said. “Keep learning, failing, striving, and going.” Beyond that, have fun, she advises.

“Keep making friends. Those friends are a lifeline. They help, educate, and support you.”

CHANGING PERSPECTIVES

Deneen’s friendships form through the organizations she is involved with. She is the Associate Executive of Communications, Development, and Community Engagement for Living Resources, an organization she has been working with for more than five years to empower and support individuals with disabilities, and other life challenging conditions.

“It’s important that individuals with disabilities become louder and prouder of who they are. It’s a mind shift. They have abilities like everyone else. They work, volunteer, go out to dinner, attend functions, and enrich our communities through inclusion,” said Deneen.

With 12 supportive programs, including 50+ homes, Living Resources supports 1,500+ individuals and family members, from 14 counties. Although much of their funding is supplied by Medicaid, they are always searching for donations and hosting events to raise the remainder needed. It is an ever-increasing race to keep up with rising costs and inflation.

FINDING THEIR VOICE THROUGH INTEGRATION

Living Resources’ first Saratoga residential group home, on Union Avenue, was purchased from Skidmore in the 1970’s (it is now the Union Gables Bed & Breakfast).

“We’ve strategically tried to grow the mission but there is a stigma associated with individuals with developmental disabilities. It is a part of the systematic discrimination they experience. When people hear ‘group home’, they build barriers. We break down barriers,” said Deneen.

Today, Living Resources provides a wide array of services throughout Saratoga County, including supportive living at the Intrada Apartments, employment supports, an art studio in Malta, mobile and virtual day programs.

They also host art instruction at the Beekman Street Art Gallery, a community workspace where integration allows for the voice of every artist to be heard.

“Art is a great avenue for connection. Even those who are nonverbal can communicate through art,” said Deneen.

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GOING FURTHER AND DOING MORE

Volunteering in the community is a value ingrained in Deneen while she was young. Her father, Roy Palmateer, was Johnstown Town Supervisor, and the family was often volunteering at chicken barbecues, participating in Fire Department fundraisers, and picking up garbage along the roadways.

He also instilled in his daughter the idea that one must never stop learning.

Deneen, who became a mother at 17, holds a Bachelor’s in Political Science and Criminal Justice. What she calls her first “big girl” job was working for then Assemblyman (now Congressman) Paul Tonko.

“Working with Paul really provided me the opportunity to get a deep dive look at what happens in the political landscape,” she said.

Deneen then worked as a paralegal at Harvey & Mumford law firm, and as Operations Manager contracted to the GE Power Executive Team, while also becoming active in many governing boards, including the Schenectady Rotary Club, where she has been a mem ber since 2009 and served as their past president.

“Being involved in many organizations has allowed me to become more educated about community needs while meeting such wonderful people who are also committed to bettering the world we live in,” she said.

Going with the group to Haiti after an earthquake was both enlightening and devastating, she said. Seeing the community come together was eye-opening, but so was the Haitian’s extreme poverty, and the high value they place on education.

AN EVER-EXPANDING “FRAMILY”

Give Deneen 10 minutes, she said, and she’ll likely end up talking about two things; her grandkids, Emily, 17, Kendra, 7, Macie,5, and Braycen,1; and her work with the Junior League of Schenectady and Saratoga County.

A member since 2003, she has served as president twice, and is most proud of their Distributing Discreet Dignity program, established in 2015 to provide feminine hygiene products to women and teens who otherwise can’t afford them. The program helped raise awareness of the state’s “pink tax”, which was eliminated the following year. To date, the program has supplied more than 100,000 products throughout both Saratoga and Schenectady Counties.

A fan of traveling both abroad and locally, Deneen spends her free time going on excursions, and making new friends.

“I have an awesome group of friends but love making new ones. You learn so much more that way. When you expand your circle, you expand your knowledge,” she said. Together they have fun, learn, and buy hats (to add to Deneen’s collection of more than 50!) Through it all, she emphasizes the importance of giving back.

“If you can give back, you should. The more you give, the more you get back.”

Speaking of giving, Living Resources, together with Building on Love, will be hosting their 2nd Annual Tribute to Transforming Lives fashion event on Sunday, August 20th at the Saratoga Race Course’s 1863 Club. If you would like to be a part of this wonderful world-class experience (and make some new friends) join them by going to https://www.livingresources.org and purchasing a ticket today.

"Art is a great avenue for connection. Even those who are nonverbal can communicate through art."

photo provided

Maddy Zane i

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A Genuine Leader with the Courage to Be Herself

In genuine leaders, purpose aligns with personality.

Maddy Zanetti was a “horse-crazy” girl growing up, and is now the co-owner of Impressions of Saratoga and The Dark Horse Mercantile.

Maddy follows her heart. When she was told the world wasn’t ready for a person like her yet, she responded, “This is who I am. I’m ready, and I believe in myself.”

FINDING WHERE SHE FITS IN

For her 14th birthday present, Maddy picked out her first horse, a quick quarter horse cross with a confident air, and named him Flye. That was 2005, the same year Maddy started working at Impressions of Saratoga, the downtown shop she had stopped in often on her own to talk about horses with owner Mare Barker and employee Kim Tribley (who is now

the owner of Coffee Planet in Ballston Spa).

“They were always happy to see me and made me feel welcome,” said Maddy, adding, “That’s still a really big part of what we do. It’s very comfortable and inviting there.”

A HUNGER TO EXCEL

In addition to working, Maddy became Student Council President before graduating from Saratoga Springs High School in 2008. She won the prestigious Yaddo Award (like her grandmother and brother before her) and brought Flye with her to SUNY Geneseo.

Despite carrying a full course load, Maddy was restless, so she became a Sports Medicine Student Trainer and was active in the Sports Medicine Club, which she said was fun because it afforded her the opportunity to attend a variety of the school’s sporting events.

What Maddy really wanted to do however, was get back to her hometown. As a result, she graduated a year early, earning her Bachelor’s in Business Administration in just three years.

“Being at Geneseo showed me how much I love Saratoga and how special of place Saratoga is,” she said.

LEADING WITH GENEROSITY

Maddy is passionate about buying local and giving back to her community. She volunteers with organizations including the Saratoga Historical Society, serves on the Discover Saratoga and Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation boards, and is former president of the Downtown Business Association (which she has been affiliated with since 2012).

“I’m used to hard work and stepping up. I have the passion and commitment to take on the responsibility. I’m not afraid to tell people what needs to be done, and I do set a very high bar,” she said.

Often the youngest and the only female in the room at meetings, initially, Maddy wasn’t as confident as she is today, she said, and sometimes kept quiet instead of speaking her mind.

THE UNDERDOG GETS THE UPPER HAND

Today, Maddy engages with others in an authentic and open way but the story of an underdog who prevails continues to resonate with her.

Maddy authored Upset – The Original Dark Horse (2018) and Jim Dandy – A Dark Horse on a Dark Day (2020) to tell the stories of two horses who defied expectations at the Saratoga Race Course a hundred years ago.

“I told the stories so much to people coming into the store, I decided to write the books, but I am surprised by their following. It’s really humbling to see people enjoy them so much,” she said.

MORE SURPRISES IN STORE

An even bigger surprise for Maddy was how well she hit it off with Zach Novick, who lived in the apartment above Impressions. The couple was married in 2016, and their son, Tommy, is now four years old. Maddy enjoys reading to him the same book she loved as a child, Mrs. Mack by Patricia Polacco (a story about kindness, overcoming fear, and a horse named Penny). Today, Maddy’s horse Flye is 23, and has been joined by two more horses; Upset and Poppy.

Often seen riding her bucket bike downtown, with their two dogs, Smitty and Thatcher, in the back, Maddy said life is a balancing act. It’s one she is still figuring out by following the advice her dad gave her (and it’s what she signs in all of her books) - always do your best.

“I’m also very lucky to have a very supportive family, a network of friends and coworkers,” she added.

Because of their excellent character references, she received a mortgage from Adirondack Trust for her first home at age 23, while still a single woman. Now, her family helps care for Tommy while she is working.

In 2024, Maddy will become full owner of both stores, while Mare Barker transitions into retirement.

“We’ve worked together for 18 years, and she tells me, now, I’ve got to find my ‘Maddy’ (someone as passionate as I am) but I haven’t found them yet, ” said Maddy, adding that, “No matter what, I’ll manage, and Mare and our staff will always help .”

“I’m still young and there is still so much to come. I haven’t had my moment yet.”

"I’m used to hard work and stepping up. I have the passion and commitment to take on the responsibility."

photo provided

photo provided