2024 Inaugural Gala
NOCO’S LOCAL STARS
PETER CORDEAU
By day, Peter is the esteemed President of Norwalk Hospital, combining executive expertise and clinical experience to improve patient care and outcomes. By night, he sings to support Norwalk Conservatory’s scholarships and arts education. His leadership focuses on innovative programs, cost efficiencies, and branding strategies that drive quality improvement and patient engagement.
DANIEL CIURO
By day, Daniel is a Financial Advisor helping clients nationwide achieve their financial goals. By night, he’s a theater enthusiast, 90s hip-hop fan, and performance driver, while also a proud dad and husband. A former USAF weather forecaster, he holds an honors MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management. Daniel is active in his community, chairing Brevard County’s chamber of commerce and advising on tax-dollar investments.
COLIN HOLSTEN
By day, Colin is the Executive Director of the Leonard Litz Foundation, supporting programs that uplift the LGBTQ+ community. By night, he performs to help Norwalk Conservatory raise funds for scholarships and arts education. A writer, teacher, and former Norwalk Councilmember, Colin has authored seven children’s books and teaches writing at Fairfield University. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, he holds multiple graduate degrees and lives in Connecticut with his husband, Joe, and their dog, Bugsy.
NOCO MOMS
By day, Susan, Kristin, Pam, Tera, Amy, Kristy, and Angie dedicate themselves to careers ranging from choreography and teaching to sales, community leadership, and caregiving. By night, they’ll all brush off their dance shoes and musical talents to support the Norwalk Conservatory’s scholarships and arts education. From decades of experience in dance and theater to supporting loved ones in the arts, they’ve each brought their unique passions to this exciting event. Together, they’re thrilled to showcase their talents and raise funds for future performers.
RICK TAYLOR
By day, Rick is the Senior Director of Community Engagement for HMTX Industries. By night, he sings to support the Norwalk Conservatory’s scholarship and arts education efforts. With over 40 years of experience in various industries, Rick is passionate about helping communities through advocacy and volunteerism. He also serves on the Advisory Board for the Norwalk Conservatory and the Steering Committee for Norwalk Workforce Development.
RUTH WINNICK
By day, Ruth teaches Body Awareness with movement at the Westport Senior Center, inspiring others through her passion for dance. By night, she dusts off her dance shoes to support Norwalk Conservatory’s scholarships and arts education. A 96-year-old Westport resident of 74 years, Ruth has devoted her life to movement, from childhood ballet and tap to competitive ballroom dancing. With degrees in Speech Therapy and Education, and a master’s in Dance Therapy from NYU, she’s worked in hospitals, taught classes, and mentored youth, always celebrating the joy of self-expression through dance.