Meet A Parkie
Annetta Centrella-Vitale
Director of Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center
What does a day for you look like?
“My day starts with a building inspection...I can spend time doing program development or procurement for contracts in maintenance or repairs. I work with HR and am also part of the Employee Assistance Program Committee (EAP), as well as the sustainability committee. This can be statewide or region wide. I always try to get outside when I can.”
Prior to your time at parks, what was your experience?
“So, I had a very diverse career... I went to Molloy for Nursing and then Stony Brook for Marine Environmental Science... I worked for the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation as a Marine Resource Specialist and also worked for the Naval Oceanographic Office as a Civilian Oceanographer. I also worked at Hofstra most recently. My research interests were Climate Change and impacts to human health...in the Navy I did a lot of ocean optics work...Besides my (initial research) I did a lot with sustainable agriculture (in Nassau County). My husband and I are also beekeepers.”
How has it been working for New York State Parks?
“I started in June. This is my dream job! ...I wasn’t even looking for a job when this came across to me... I think of myself as an applied scientist, so being able to work with cutting edge research and applying it to real world situations is very exciting for me...I also experienced Sandy, so being able to deal with changing climate and (coastal) resilience is very near to me. With this job, I feel like we have a very important role in inspiring future generations. Yes, there may be challenges, but I have a hope for the future... I think my favorite thing so far has been working on the Wellness Programs. I love the staff and the feeling of family. We all belong here and I love that.”
What are some fun facts about you?
“I grew up going to Jones Beach. I loved the West End. What’s so great about it is that it looks so much like it always looked. I really feel at home here... I can drive my boat to work!”
