Photo by Lisa Hughes

Personal: 30, married with two boys ages 5 and 3

Occupation: IT Project Lead for Information Technology Services at the University of Rochester.

Community activities: Board of the Rochester chapter of Mothers & More and the Pittsford Co-operative Nursery School; PTO at the Winslow Elementary school in Henrietta; cultural performances at the Indian Community Center, a local Aids Benefit, the city’s Winter Festival and other community events.

My favorite thing to do in Rochester: During the summer, I like to go on a picnic to any one of the several beautiful parks in the area.

What I’m reading now: The latest issue of InfoWorld and Blood Work by Michael Connelly.

Biggest challenge I’ve overcome: One of the biggest challenges I have faced recently is rejoining the workforce after taking some time off to raise my kids. I was fortunate enough to work out a flexible, part-time, work-from-home arrangement with the University of Rochester so I stayed in touch with my professional career during the years I was home. In spite of that, going from being a stay-at-home mom with a part-time job to a full-time professional was an adjustment — both personally and professionally. It took a lot of patience (as my family adjusted to my new schedule) and organization (to keep the house running), but life is back on an even keel. It helps to have a supportive husband, wonderful kids and a very understanding employer. Achieving the perfect home-work balance has been a big part of my life for the last few years. I am fortunate to have found a blend of wife, mother and professional that works for me and makes me happy.

The best advice I ever received: Trust your instincts. When you are not sure which path to take, trust your instincts. They are usually right.

Goal that I’m working on right now: Personal — I am currently trying to learn how to ski so we can take skiing trips when my children grow up. I am scared of heights and honestly not much of an athlete but the experience is challenging and fun! Professional — I am developing my project management skills to work toward a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

What I do to relieve stress: I love reading mystery novels and spending time with my family.

My favorite guilty pleasure: Chocolate. I absolutely love Lindt’s milk chocolate truffles. I am also a Law and Order aficionado and watch every variation.

What people say about her: Doug Ryan, ITS project manager at the University of Rochester: “Sam is a ball of energy. She loves taking on new challenges and is never intimidated by large or complex initiatives. Her background provides her with the ability to break work down, prioritize it and accomplish it. On top of all that, she’s always wearing a big smile that makes everyone feel warm and welcome.”

Click on a picture to read more Susan Knight-Nanni Debora McDell Elizabeth Wolford Yamalis Hernandez Samantha Ann Singhal