Soundview Empowerment Alliance (SEA) was founded in March 2022 as a nonprofit organization in response to the imminent threat of demolition and redevelopment of the more than 100-year-old Old Mill Store. This small but historically significant building has long been a cornerstone of Westport’s shoreline community.
SEA was created by a group of dedicated local residents who shared a deep commitment to preserving this piece of Westport’s history and ensuring it continues to serve the community for generations to come. Their vision joined preservation with purpose, giving new life to a place that has connected neighbors for over a century.
Founding Member, Chair
Jim’s business career spans some 40 years, during which he held senior executive positions in advertising, investment banking, and strategic consulting, including eight years advising Darden Restaurants (Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Yard House, etc.) on a variety of growth initiatives...Read More
Founding Member, Vice Chair
Ian has a business career spanning more than thirty years as an executive in leadership roles primarily with GS America, Inc., a diversified investment and management company with global interests in a broad spectrum of businesses, including numerous investments in real estate, retail, restaurant, and hospitality...Read More
Founding Member, Secretary
Emily is the President and Co-Founder of Anchor Westport Enterprises, LLC (“AWE”). AWE is an independent, privately held business with a diverse portfolio of investments in hospitality, food services, technology, and multi-media publishing...Read More
Founding Member
Chris Tait spent more than 30 years in the hospitality industry working with leading brands including Marriott, Starwood, and Hilton hotels. Leveraging his expertise in hotel management, Chris leads a consulting practice focused on the turnaround of underperforming properties...Read More
Founding Member
Thomas “Tommy” Febbraio brings more than 20 years experience as Real Estate developer, PFS Associates Partner, entrepreneur, cofounder of Edmond Chittendon Inc. and owner of Compass Commercial – (Febbraio Group), which maintains his real estate license...Read More
Board Member
Merrily’s career, and philanthropic work, have focused on education. She has served as Chief Operating Officer of IvyWise LLC, an educational consulting firm that works with students around the globe on admissions counseling and tutoring...Read More
Board Member
Kelsey LaPrad joined the Westport Public Schools at the start of the 2022-2023 school year as the Transition Coordinator. It was an exciting time for her to join as Westport was piloting their Westport Connections Transition Program for students ages...Read More