Gabriella Pacitto, People and Culture Associate
What do you do at The Trustees? What’s your role?
I work on the People Team as a People and Culture Associate! As an Associate, I work closely with one of our Human Resources (HR) Business Partners to support our regions and central teams. We make an effort to get out to the properties and meet with the teams to fully understand how their days are spent and what their day-to-day work looks like. Our team strives to make sure every employee throughout the organization feels valued and that their voice is heard. Outside of that, I do everything from benefits, compliance, HR operations, to recruitments, onboarding, and employee engagement.
What brought you to The Trustees?
I first became aware of The Trustees during summers on Martha’s Vineyard, especially through visits to Long Point Wildlife Refuge. Growing up, I admired how the staff cared for and preserved such special places. When this position was posted as I was about to graduate college, I knew I had to apply. I’ve always loved being involved in community work and supporting non-profit missions, so the chance to do that with an organization I’ve respected for so long felt like the perfect fit.
How does your heritage contribute to the person you are today?
My heritage has given me a deep appreciation for different people and perspectives. Growing up around that diversity taught me to approach others with openness and empathy, which I carry into my role at The Trustees. It helps me not only connect with the communities we serve but also encourage my colleagues to embrace inclusivity and understanding in their own work.
What advice do you have for any of similar heritage trying to follow in your footsteps?
Keep your goals front and center, and don’t be afraid to go after them. Work hard, trust yourself, and remember that your background and experiences are strengths. They shape the way you see the world, and that perspective is something special you bring to every opportunity.
Gabriella on a visit to Weir River Farm in Hingham
How have The Trustees and other professional working groups supported you along this journey?
The Trustees has really been a place where I’ve been able to grow. From the beginning, my managers and teammates took the time to guide me, answer questions, and give me space to learn. That kind of support made me feel confident stepping into new challenges. I’ve also been able to connect with professional groups outside the organization, which gave me mentors and peers to lean on and learn from. Having both The Trustees and those networks in my corner has made a huge difference in helping me see a future for myself in this work.
Why is it important to you that The Trustees celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month?
It means a lot to see The Trustees celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. It shows me that the organization truly values diverse voices and wants to honor the many cultures and experiences that make up our communities. For me, it’s not just about recognition; it’s about feeling seen and knowing that my heritage is celebrated alongside the work we do. It makes me proud to be part of an organization that’s committed to inclusivity and continues to strengthen those efforts year after year.
Do you have a favorite Trustees property?
It’s hard to choose, but I’d say either Long Point or World’s End. Long Point has always been special to me because of the peaceful energy it carries—I could sit by the water for hours and just take it all in. World’s End has that same calming feeling, but with the added view of the Boston skyline, which makes it such a unique mix of nature and city. Both places remind me to slow down and really appreciate the beauty around me.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
I’m a big TV and movie fan and love keeping up with the latest releases, it’s one of my favorite ways to unwind. Since I’m originally from New York and moved to Boston for this position, I also spend a lot of my free time exploring the city and getting to know different parts of Massachusetts. It’s been fun discovering new neighborhoods, restaurants, and outdoor spots, and really making this place feel like home.
