Rebecca Bleiman recently joined our team as the Program Coordinator for the UConn Extension Master Gardeners in Lower Fairfield County at the Bartlett Arboretum in Stamford. Rebecca grew up in Princeton, New Jersey, graduated from Ithaca College, and completed the Master Gardener program in 2024.

What is your area of interest? 

I retired from a corporate career in Human Resources in 2023 where I worked primarily for large multinational companies in the finance and manufacturing sector. I always had a passion for gardening, so when I retired, I applied to the Master Gardener program in Stamford.  I loved the educational and outreach experience and was excited when I saw the opening for the Program Coordinator role.  I also am a volunteer with the Starfish Connection program in Stamford, CT where I mentor children from underserve families in the Stamford Public School system.

What excites you the most about working with UConn Extension? 

The opportunity to keep learning and working with the amazing faculty and students. I also love that I get to work at the Bartlett Arboretum in Stamford which is one of my favorite places in Stamford. I love watching the Arboretum come to “life” through the course of the program.

What is one thing you hope people will learn from you and your work? 

To not be afraid to pursue your passions and try something new. It was a big pivot to go from the corporate world into the gardening world, but I couldn’t be happier!

What is your favorite thing to do in Connecticut? 

I love hiking and visiting all our parks.

What is the most unusual job you’ve had? 

I was a mentor to Teen Mom’s when I was in college. We provided educational and maternal care support.  I was a birthing coach to a 16-year-old girl in the program.  It was an incredible experience to go through when I was only 20 years old.

What are some of your hobbies and other interests? 

I love cooking, traveling, reading, knitting and beading.