If you’ve ever shared a laugh or a glass of wine with Susan D’Alessandro, you know she brings both warmth and wisdom to the table. A proud Jersey beach girl, Susan grew up in Beechwood, Ocean County, surrounded by the joyful chaos of three sisters—including her twin—and one brother. Currently living in Absecon, her coastal upbringing shaped her easygoing spirit and love for the ocean.
Susan is a lifelong learner and dedicated educator, having earned two master’s degrees—one in Education with a concentration in Language Arts, and another in Administration—from Glassboro State (now Rowan University) and Georgian Court University. After six years of teaching first grade, she stepped into leadership roles and has been shaping young minds and guiding educators for the past 27 years. She now pays it forward by mentoring aspiring principals through New Jersey’s Leader 2 Leader program.
When she’s not immersed in the world of education, Susan is a globe-trotter with a serious case of wanderlust. She’s collected passport stamps from all over the world, with Iceland topping her list for its otherworldly landscapes and sense of peace. At home or abroad, there’s always music playing—Susan is a true concert enthusiast who’s been to nearly 500 shows (yes, you read that right), with tastes that span genres and decades. And fun fact: she once played Cinderella in the Surf Light Theater, a role that perfectly suits her charm and sparkle.
Susan and her husband Vinny have a love story that started when they were just 14 years old—and this year, they’re celebrating an incredible 35 years of marriage. Their son, Christopher, is following in his mom’s footsteps as an educator, working with special needs students in Cape May County.
When it comes to dining, Susan and Vinny are always up for a great meal and even better conversation. Some of their favorite haunts include Il Mulino in NYC and Fornos of Spain in Newark, where they savor not just the food, but the entire experience.
As a beloved member of our Chaine family, Susan says it best: “It’s a great time to see friends and make memories with good people, good food, and good drink.”
Vive la Chaine, Susan!