Big sister, expert family dinner coordinator

Jill is my oldest sister and has always been there when I've needed advice, a hug, or a recipe for stuffed peppers. She will go out of her way to do what's right and has been the organizer of many amazing family gatherings. Jill is a great role model and sister. And since I have a chance to say it first here- I love you more.

College roommate and spirit guide

Sam and I lived together for two years at UConn and have been friends since. She is one of the most dependable, honest, and true people I know and gives me faith in humanity. She's gotten me through many tough times and continues to impact all those around her. Just don't ask her to walk on her toes.

Two great parents!

My parents have been my biggest role models and influences. They have always encouraged and supported me, and I've been able to tackle many challenges knowing that they would be there for me regardless of the outcome.

My mother's kindness, patience, and ability to be nice to just about anyone has shown me the importance of finding the good in people and situations. She always goes the extra mile to make people feel at home and welcome, and has given me countless hours of advice and motherly love when I've needed it the most. She has been there through thick and thin, has managed life, family, and work, and still finds time to remodel her house. I hope that one day I will inherit her skills and be as good of a mother as she is.

My dad has taught me the value and power of hard work through example. He is always working to make improvements and innovations, and is able to see both the detail and the larger picture. He has taught me that what you get out of life is a combination of what you put in and the attitude you adopt. He is a great of example of what it looks like to never give up.

I am incredibly grateful to have been blessed with such wonderful people as parents, and hope my marriage is as strong and enduring as theirs.

Godson, Friend, Little Brother Figure, Confidant, One of the Most Important and Influential People in My Life.

Close Friend, Former Roomate, and adventure partner. Morgan has always made a point to come visit me wherever I am living and share in a fun impromtue experience with me. I think that out of all my friends he is the only one that is known by all circles.

Cousin, Close Friend, Partner in Crime. Theodore is like a brother to me. During our teen years we ventured throughout Europe stirring up trouble and having the time of our lives. As adults we still share our close bond, as well as all the teasing and fooling around that go along with that. Like Mark Reed when I need motivation all I have to do is look to Theodore. He also got this photo done as a head shot for when he auditioned for the play Rent.

Close Friend, Mentor. Lazaro has become a very close friend in the last 4 years as well as a person who I turn to for all kinds of advice. He is a person who I trust in and who has made himself a very close and special member of my immediate family.

My Mother has always been my number 1 fan. She has always believed in my potential and ability. She has been there to help me in some of my darkest times as an adult and helped put me on the path to becoming the person I am today. My mother and I have been through a lot and have very strong relationship. She is a very warm woman, with a big heart, and a lot of strength.

I owe a lot to both my mother and my father and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for having put all personal issues aside in order to do what was best for me all my life. Despite all of our flaws as a family I could not have asked for two better parents. I love them both with all of my heart and always try to make them proud with my actions on a daily basis.