The Johnson Family: Darrell, Madison, Anne, Reese, and Dylan
Today’s Meet a Mom is Anne Liss Johnson, a mother of three and the Associate Executive Director of Stamford JCC. We spoke to Anne about what she and her family love about their city, their children’s school, and the Stamford community.
Tell us about your work and volunteer activities…
I am the Associate Executive Director of the Stamford JCC. In my role, I directly supervise the JCC Sara Walker Nursery School, as well as provide leadership to all of the early childhood and youth programs at the JCC.
Where do you volunteer?
I like to volunteer in the greater Stamford community. Most recently, I was a part of Stamford Hospital’s Paint the Town Pink Committee, helping plan and execute community programming to raise awareness and funds around breast cancer early detection during the month of October.
Tell as about your children…
I have three children: Madison age 23, Dylan age 20, and Reese age 15. We also have two rescue dogs, Jack, a lab terrier mix, and Izzy, an Australian shepherd. Madison graduated from Stamford High in 2016 and the University of Pennsylvania in 2020. Dylan graduated from St Luke’s School in New Canaan in 2020 and is currently a sophomore at Tufts University. Reese is currently in tenth grade at St. Luke’s.
Why did you select St. Luke’s School?
When choosing our children’s schools, we’ve always prioritized ensuring they would be in places that had strong shared leadership (administrators, faculty, students, and parents all collaborating) and an emphasis on community. We chose St. Luke’s based on its culture, one that emphasizes the student’s place in the broader society; best summed up in the school’s motto, “Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve.” The focus and commitment to social awareness and compassionate action are very important to our family. We’ve had an incredibly positive experience at St. Luke’s. Dylan spent eight years at St. Luke’s and participated in incredibly diverse activities. He was on the football team, sang with the Acapella group and choir, played tennis and squash, and performed in the school play. He also served as an alumni ambassador and admission tour guide. The SLS environment supports and encourages students to stretch themselves in every way. The school helps students build the confidence to try new experiences. We are thrilled that Reese is now at St. Luke’s and will also explore some of these opportunities.
How long have you lived in Stamford and what drew you here?
We moved to Stamford in 1997, after my husband Darrell finished graduate school and was about to begin a job in Greenwich. I am originally from Fairfield, so the return to Fairfield County was very appealing. We were particularly drawn to Stamford due to its socio-economic, racial, and cultural diversity.
What are your favorite family activities in the area?
We love to walk the dogs in Mianus Park, Cove Island Park, Waveny Park, and Tod’s Point. Going Apple Picking at Silverman’s Farm in Easton is an annual family event.
Name one thing about you that would surprise people.
Laughter keeps me feeling fulfilled. Classic comedy movies like Stripes, Caddyshack, Tommy Boy, Wedding Crashers, and Cheaper by the Dozen are a few of my favorites.
When you need “Me Time,” what are your favorite escapes?
I feel very fortunate to have an incredible group of friends in our community. Spending time with them—walking and hiking outdoors and getting together at our monthly book club gatherings—always refuels me.
What’s the best advice you’ve received from another mom?
As a mother, trust your instincts. They tend to be the best guide.
Any words of wisdom?
Life isn’t a straight line; it zigs and zags. We grow stronger from life’s challenges and learn from them.
The Local Moms Network likes to support local businesses. What are your favorites?
For a special occasion: Tutti Pazzi
Spend time together as a family outdoors: Mianus Park
Grab coffee: Lorca
Shop for the perfect gift: More and More