Meet Cindy! Our Board Vice President

We are excited to introduce you to our Board of Directors Vice President, Cindy Laino! Cindy is an area native, bringing her experiences as a parent and her expertise in customer relations to the role. 

Read on to learn more about Cindy, her leadership, and her vision for the future of the Utica Children’s Museum! 

Tell us about yourself!

Hello! My name is Cindy Laino, and I am a lifelong resident of the Greater Utica area. I have a deep love for all things local. I graduated from SUNY Polytechnic Institute with a Bachelor of Arts degree. For the past 28 years, I have been with Verizon Communications, where I have focused on enhancing the customer experience. I live locally with my husband Nick, who serves as the Officer-in-Charge at Herkimer College. I am a proud mother of two adult daughters and the caregiver of three morkies (Cody, Casey, and Cooper)!

Tell us a little bit about your history with the Utica Children’s Museum.

When my daughters were young, we visited often, hosting birthday parties and special events. One of our cherished family photos was taken on the main staircase at 311 Main Street. I became a member of the Board of Directors in September 2019 and was later elected to Board Vice President in January 2024.

What is your favorite part about being UCM Board Vice President? 

I am thrilled about what the museum will mean for not just the children but the community as a whole. It will bring inspiration and learning to everyone, children and adults alike, and open young minds to new opportunities. It has been an exciting four years being a part of the UCM board and witnessing the evolution from unveiling the new brand to constructing the new building and exhibits. I am looking forward to seeing it become a favorite place to spend family time and make memories, just as I did as a mom when my daughters were younger. I hope the community will become as passionate about the museum as I am! I’m looking forward to seeing it attract visitors from all over New York State and beyond.

Tell us about your day job; how do you better the community outside of UCM? 

For the past 28 years, I have worked in the telecommunications industry, focusing on customer experience and relations. Through continuous training and service, I understand the need for clear and understandable communication with customers. Additionally, I have been a supporter and volunteer of the Telecom Pioneers for 27 years. They focus on improving the quality of life for our local communities. My favorite part of this was helping with events for local families in need during the holiday season. I have also assisted with numerous local non-profits, charities, runs, walks, and fundraisers.

What are some of the board’s goals for the Children’s Museum?

As we prepare to open a brand new museum, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment is our top priority. As a mother who often visited museums with my children, I firmly believe that a secure and safe setting is essential for children and their caregivers.

I have frequently visited the Washington, DC, museums; each visit always brings us new ideas, experiences, and memories. I am thrilled to pass on this experience to the families who will step through the doors of the new museum. I hope that each visit will ignite something new for them!

What are three words to describe your personality?

Creative, intuitive, and adventurous!

We hear you’re a fan of museums, so tell us more!

Yes, my family and I enjoy spending time visiting them together, always seeking out new things to learn and discover. As my daughters were growing up, we often visited the museums in Washington, DC, with the National Air and Space Museum being a favorite. Each visit taught us something new and helped create new memories. I am excited to be the Board Vice President for a museum, encouraging visitors to come often, learn new things, and create lifelong memories.

Which children’s book or story is your favorite?

Unstoppable Me! by Dr Wayne Dyer

What's the most important thing you hope children learn from their museum visits?

I hope it inspires them! I believe the most significant aspect of a child’s education is developing a “love of learning.” Our hands-on exhibits will help foster a child's desire to be curious. 

How can the community support UCM? 

The community has been incredibly supportive and generous. I hope they visit frequently, cherish family moments, create memories, and pass on these traditions to future generations. Additionally, let's welcome visitors from all over and offer them the warm hospitality of Utica and the Mohawk Valley!