Yvonne's childhood unfolded in a picturesque setting, adjacent to an apple orchard, within a quaint town situated just outside the bustling city of Albany, New York. Born into a lively family of six siblings, Yvonne was the offspring of an Italian hairstylist father and an Irish mother who skillfully managed a pediatrician's office.
Yvonne's fervent enthusiasm for the performing arts served as a catalyst for her academic pursuits, ultimately leading her to obtain a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Adelphi University, a prestigious institution renowned for its rigorous programs in the arts. Subsequently, she further honed her craft by earning a Master's degree from the University of Albany, a distinguished institution that has produced a multitude of accomplished artists and scholars.
Yvonne's professional trajectory has been marked by a propensity for globe-trotting, with numerous excursions to diverse locales that have greatly enriched her life's tapestry.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Yvonne's personal existence has been characterized by a deep sense of familial love and devotion. Her marriage to Mark has been a cornerstone of her life, and together they have embarked upon the extraordinary journey of adopting two beautiful daughters from China.
Yvonne's illustrious career took off in the early 1990s when she was bestowed the esteemed Soap Opera Award for Outstanding Female Newcomer in Daytime, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft, specifically for her captivating portrayal of the character "Rosanna" on the long-running and beloved television series As The World Turns.
Throughout her journey, Yvonne has successfully translated her experience in beauty pageants into a diverse array of corporate spokesperson roles, consistently demonstrating her ability to adapt to new situations and feel at ease in front of a camera, thereby showcasing her remarkable versatility and confidence in her abilities.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Yvonne can often be discovered embarking on invigorating hikes through the majestic Adirondack mountains, where she finds solace in the great outdoors. She is also a talented seamstress, known for crafting exquisite quilts from repurposed denim jeans, imbuing each stitch with love and care. When the seasons change, Yvonne's green thumb takes center stage as she tends to her lush garden, nurturing a vibrant array of flora and fauna. And, of course, no mention of her hobbies would be complete without highlighting her renowned baking skills, as she whips up legendary pies that are the stuff of local legend. Moreover, Yvonne's appreciation for the performing arts extends far beyond her own work, as she is a devoted fan of her colleagues' various stage productions, traveling across the country to cheer them on and revel in their artistic triumphs.
Yvonne's dedication to her community is profoundly exemplified through her multifaceted roles, which showcase her unwavering commitment to the arts and education.
As Chair of the Greater Albany Area Liaison for Actors' Equity, she plays a pivotal role in fostering a strong and supportive community for actors and stage managers in the region.
In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Yvonne also serves as an Artistic Associate at Capital Repertory Theatre, where she collaborates with the artistic team to bring innovative and engaging productions to the stage.
Furthermore, she is an esteemed teacher and director at several upstate colleges, inspiring and guiding the next generation of performers and theatre professionals.
Despite her numerous commitments, Yvonne still finds solace in her Manhattan apartment, where she can unwind and indulge in the diverse and vibrant performances that take place in New York City, the Berkshires, and the Capital Region.
In this cherished sanctuary, she can revel in the beauty and creativity of the arts, rejuvenating her spirit and preparing herself for her many endeavors.
