Welcome, 2025 Interns!

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

We are excited to welcome our 2025 class of Conferences & Events Interns to YC&E! Their enthusiasm and experience will undoubtedly make an impact on our upcoming projects. We look forward to seeing the amazing ideas they bring to the table. Read on to get to know them!

Kayla Finkle

Hometown: Middletown, CT  

University: Quinnipiac University

Previous Work Experience: Kayla most recently worked at Wildcat in Hamden, CT, where she assisted with events and gained hands-on experience in planning and coordination. Additionally, she holds several leadership roles at Quinnipiac, including PR Director for a community service club and Vice President/Publicity Chair for the Rock-Climbing Club.  

Favorite Pastime: Watching and critiquing movies with family and friends  

Kayla is excited to have the opportunity to create memorable experiences for clients while learning more about event logistics and operations! 

Kayla Finkle

Sarah Graff

Hometown: Brattleboro, VT  

University: Quinnipiac University  

Previous Work Experience: Sarah has worked in customer service as a host in a restaurant and has experience in administrative work and marketing for small businesses.  

Favorite Pastimes: Reading and being in nature

Sarah is looking forward to seeing the events that we plan at YC&E come to life! 

Sarah Graff

Vanessa Lopez

Hometown: Bogota, Colombia  

University: Southern Connecticut State University 

Previous Work Experience: Vanessa has experience in a variety of settings, including customer service, food service, and hospitality.  

Favorite Pastimes: Reading, volleyball, and trying new coffee spots 

Vanessa is excited to start working behind the scenes on events and learning more about the processes that take place for them to run smoothly! 

Vanessa Lopez

Krista Luongo

Hometown: East Brunswick, NJ  

University: University of New Haven

Previous Work Experience: Krista has held multiple positions at the University of New Haven, including being a Charger Ambassador for Student Admissions and a Student Manager at the Hazell Nut Café. Within her sorority, Alpha Sigma Alpha, she held the position of Service and Giving Director, where she planned fundraising events for Alpha Sigma Alpha’s local and national philanthropies.

Favorite Pastimes: Pilates and working out  

Krista is looking forward to gaining real-world experience in her future career field at YC&E! 

Krista Luongo

Ella Marzec

Hometown: Bothell, WA 

University: Southern Connecticut State University 

Previous Work Experience: Ella has worked as a Banquet Manager for a local catering and events company in her home city of Seattle, as well as an assistant manager for New Canaan Country Club, catering to a variety of events with 1,000 to 15 guests in attendance. She also enjoys volunteering at local events in New Haven such as the Night Market. 

Favorite Pastimes: Spending time with friends and reading  

Ella is excited to get to know the Yale community and grow her skills in planning exceptional events! 

Ella Marzec

Olivia Toto

Hometown: North Branford, CT  

University: Quinnipiac University  

Previous Work Experience: Olivia has worked as a physical therapy aide and a fitness center director.  

Favorite Pastimes: Crocheting, scrolling on Pinterest, and scrapbooking. 

Olivia Toto