Rooted in creativity and community, Tyler Newkirk, a 2017 graduate of West Haven High School, found purpose and passion through the arts. A dedicated member of Theatre Workshop, the Choral Department, National Honor Society, and Future Business Leaders of America, Tyler immersed himself in opportunities that blended expression, leadership, and hard work. Those experiences, paired with strong relationships and personal ambition, laid the foundation for a future in both entrepreneurship and community connection.
Reflecting on his time at WHHS, Tyler credits several educators with having a meaningful impact. “All of my teachers at WHHS left a huge impact on me,” he shared, “but specifically: Phyllis Silver, Margi Maher, Rosanne Ferraro and Lauren Plumey.” While he appreciated the support inside the classroom, it was the stage and the choir room that felt like home. “Theatre Workshop and the Choral Department were my home for four years,” he said. “I developed incredible bonds and memories while working very hard and performing many times over the school year.”
When offering advice to today’s students, Tyler emphasizes the importance of patience and perspective. “It is okay to not know your future right away,” he said. “You will go through so much in the years following high school—good and bad—but everything will shape you and your path to success and happiness.” He encourages students to embrace the uncertainty of life, trusting that each experience contributes to their growth.
If he could speak to his high school self, Tyler said he’d remind himself to slow down and stay present. “I would tell myself to relax and enjoy the moment,” he said. “It is so easy to get caught up in the stress and drama of high school, but all of it is so small in the grand scheme of life.” He’d also remind himself that it’s okay not to have everything figured out, and to enjoy the memories and friendships along the way. “Four years go by quickly—it is okay to not know your next move in the moment.”
Today, Tyler is the proud owner of the Tyler Newkirk Craft Company, a gift and garden shoppe located in West Haven. “I started Craft Co. as a sophomore in high school,” he explained. “What started as online sales and local craft fairs became my full-time job after college.” The shop features a variety of indoor and outdoor plants, locally made gifts, and artwork that reflects the heart of the community. “As difficult as it was building a business while in high school then college, it grew so much over those years that I was lucky enough to take this on full time. I love what I do, my community, my hometown and all the people that continue to support me—11 years later.”
The path to becoming a business owner came with challenges, but Tyler has always leaned on a quote that’s stuck with him through it all: “Leap and a net will appear.” For him, that mindset has been essential. “Take the jump, opportunity, etc. and the outcome will always work out,” he said. That belief continues to guide his decisions as he grows his brand and gives back to the city that raised him.
Tyler’s story is a reminder that success comes in many forms, that passion can grow into purpose, and that trusting yourself—especially when the path isn’t clear—can lead to something truly lasting.