The Darien Community Association’s Board of Directors has a new member and some changes in offices within the board for the next 12 months, the organization announced on Thursday.
The DCA announced also outlined the organization’s goals and plans for the coming year.
— an announcement from the DCA
Photo from North Star Wealth Investors website
New DCA board member John Hess, founding principal of North Star Wealth Investors LLC.
Darien resident John Hess, founding principal of North Star Wealth Investors LLC, has joined the board. Liza Smith will continue to serve as president. Elisabeth Drew and Fiona Leonard have been appointed vice presidents.
In the year ahead, the announcement said, the board will focus on growing membership, strengthening sponsor partnerships, and expanding community impact through its scholarship program.
The DCA will also advance key initiatives including new plans for the DCA Thrift Shop, the annual appeal — the DCA’s largest fundraiser — and Merry Meadowlands, a community event in early December supporting the nonprofit organization’s mission.
Photo by Bambi Riegel
The 2025-2026 DCA Board of Directors
“Our Board represents the heart of Darien — dedicated community members who bring energy, perspective, and a shared commitment to strengthening the town we love,” said Erin Noonan, executive director of the DCA. “Together, we’re carrying forward more than a century of connecting, enriching, and inspiring our community.”
Members of the Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 term are: Caroline Burke, Deirdre McGovern, Patricia Cunningham, Suzanne Mulliken, Elisabeth Drew, Laurie Orem, Liane Hamilton, Sarah Ritchey, John Hess, John Ruddy, Sue Kunze, Liza Smith, Fiona Leonard and Bert von Stuelpnagel.
“The DCA would like to thank every current and former board member and every volunteer for supporting the DCA’s mission to bring its neighbors and friends together through its shared values of learning, green spaces, sustainability and community,” the announcement said.
About the Darien Community Association
The DCA is a privately-funded nonprofit offering educational and cultural opportunities, connection, sustainability and public green spaces. The DCA depends on its members, partners, neighbors and over 100 volunteers to make a lasting impact on future generations through scholarships and programs.