THe Spark Team
Caitie Hilverman, Executive Director
Caitie Hilverman’s Hudson roots combined with her academic pursuits and experiences led her to her role at The Spark. After graduating from Hudson High, Caitie earned degrees in Brain and Cognitive Science and American Sign Language from the University of Rochester, then a PhD in Psychology from the University of Iowa. She went on to research mechanisms of learning at Vanderbilt before returning to Hudson with her family in 2018. Back home, Caitie joined and chaired the Hudson Area Library Board. At The Spark, Caitie leverages her deep-rooted connection to the city and her experiences to spearhead initiatives that foster innovation, education, and community engagement.
Elizabeth Dickey, Operations Coordinator
Elizabeth Dickey worked as a project manager for many years and now handles daily operations for the Spark Building. Before moving to Hudson in 2018, she was a volunteer crisis counselor for NYC Anti-Violence Project, a teaching assistant with Art Start, and a member of the University of Michigan’s Collective Against White Supremacy. She’s a trustee of the Hudson Area Library Board and previously served on Mayor Johnson’s Police Reconciliation & Advisory Commission.
Linda McGriff, Communications Specialist
Linda McGriff, a proud Hudson native and Communications Specialist at The Spark of Hudson, has recently extended her professional horizons by introducing LM Communications, a venture dedicated to empowering local businesses. Her initial collaboration with The Spark of Hudson as LM Communications' first client highlights The Spark's dedication to supporting emerging entrepreneurs. In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Linda also holds a full-time position of Director of Education and Youth Development at The Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood, complementing her community-focused initiatives. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and over a decade of experience in communication strategy, which includes overseeing The Spark's social media and website, Linda's enthusiasm for her hometown and its progress is evident in all that she does.
Susan Danziger & Albert Wenger,
Co-Founders
The Spark's founders, Susan Danziger and Albert Wenger, have long been champions of positive change and innovation. With a track record of driving impactful initiatives, they bring a spirit of innovation and a dedication to creating lasting solutions to our organization. Their vision is the driving force behind our mission to ignite curiosity, inspire learning, and empower community development.