Gabriella DePino, a member of West Haven High School’s Class of 2020, discovered her passion for leadership and strategy through extracurriculars like Mock Trial and lacrosse. From her time as a team captain in Mock Trial to competing on the lacrosse field, Gabby developed skills that continue to guide her in both her personal and professional life.
During her years at WHHS, Mock Trial had a particularly lasting impact. Gabby recalls her coaches, Ron Conlan—who sadly passed away in 2022—and Mary Galvin as guiding forces who not only taught her to think strategically and speak confidently in public, but also showed her the importance of building relationships and navigating new environments. “Ron Conlan’s belief in me and our team was unwavering, and the support he gave us was extraordinary. I hope to one day honor Ron’s legacy in West Haven by continuing the Mock Trial tradition and inspiring future students the way he inspired us.”
Reflecting on advice for current students, Gabby emphasizes self-reliance and patience: stand by yourself, make choices that feel true to you, and be kind to yourself along the way. Life may not always have a clear path, she explains, but growth comes in time, and challenges often feel bigger than they are.
If she could speak to her high school self, Gabby would remind herself that nothing is as hard as it seems. “Challenges feel big in the moment, but they’re often more manageable than we think. We will always get over it and we will always move on. What truly matters is being a good friend, sister, daughter, and most importantly, being a good friend to yourself.”
Today, Gabby works as a Product Analyst at The Hartford Insurance Company through their Product Analytics Early Leadership Development Program, a rotational program that allows her to explore different areas of the business before transitioning into a permanent role. She credits her success to networking, staying engaged with professional opportunities, and guidance from her older sister, Catherine, a fellow WHHS alum.
Reflecting on what guides her, Gabby shares, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’ This quote reminds me of my roots in West Haven, of Ron Conlan, and of my family. It continues to ground and guide me. Real success isn’t just about personal achievements, but about how you show up for others. Being helpful, caring, and lifting up the people around you is what truly matters.”
Gabby's journey from WHHS to her career at The Hartford illustrates how the lessons learned in high school can shape not just a career, but a life. Her experiences with Mock Trial, lacrosse, and the mentorship she received instilled a foundation of confidence, leadership, and empathy. These qualities have allowed her to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and continue growing in a fast-paced professional environment. Her story is a testament to the impact of mentorship, self-belief, and a commitment to helping others—a legacy she continues to build.