Life, Love, Volunteerism, and Business!
I have lived in Windham for 18 years. I grew up in Marstons Mills, Massachusetts and graduated from Barnstable High School. Like many teenagers, I couldn’t wait to spread my wings. Clearly I was (and still remain) a New England girl and I never strayed very far! I attended the University of Rhode Island where I received a Bachelors of Science in Textile Chemistry, Fashion Merchandising and Design. A few years after graduating from URI, I fell in love and moved to Windham.
Windham has been my home for 18 years now. It is beautiful and peaceful, yet fun and exciting! My love for Windham is so strong, that not only do I live here, but I opened my business here as well. I am the owner of J Mason Design, a bridal alterations and custom design studio on Lowell road.
Six years ago, in 2018, I came to realize that I was ready to give back to the town and community that I love. I began to reach out to people to see what I could do, and I was asked to work as a Ballot Clerk. I jumped at the opportunity! I absolutely loved it (as I knew I would). I met so many new people and learned so much more about our town! Soon after, I decided to run for Planning Board, and I am currently in my 5th year. I am also the current Vice Chairperson of Windham’s Capital Improvements Committee, and has been a member for 5 years.
Windham Volunteer Work
Business Talk: Money Matters!
In 2001, I began my corporate career. I moved through the ranks, eventually becoming a Managing Partner for Brinker International (Chili’s Grill & Bar). Along the way, I became the go-to manager for under performing restaurants. I consistently brought team morale up with positive energy. Always ensuring that the rules were followed, implementing efficient systems, praising hard work, and building strong, cohesive teams.
As a Managing Partner, my ability to build successful, cohesive teams also allowed me to increase sales up to 20%. The ability to run an efficient business both on the sales side as well as on the business management side, helped me succeed. I am proud to say that as a Managing Partner, I brought my restaurant to the top 10% in the country (out of approximately 1500 restaurants).
In addition to my success as a Managing Partner, I was also honored as the New England Region’s representative at the Women in Leadership Conference for Brinker International. An honor which I am very proud of to this day.
