UVBA's Ambassadors are a group of mentors for our members, helping fellow members to leverage our resources, find answers to questions and make the most of their membership. Ambassadors also act as a mentor for businesses to feel connected to each other and their community. We want every business to succeed and our Ambassadors are here to help!
Meet Our Ambassadors
Madison Merrihew, Director of Marketing, Hydrate Marketing
Madison Merrihew is a marketing professional with a passion for helping businesses grow through thoughtful strategy, strong branding, and meaningful connection. With experience leading marketing initiatives that drive awareness and engagement, she enjoys working closely with organizations to bring their goals to life. She has been an active member of the Upper Valley business community for several years and values the relationships and opportunities it has provided. As an ambassador, she’s excited to help others get connected, feel comfortable, and make the most of what the Upper Valley Business Alliance has to offer.
Dan Bessette, Digital Marketing Consultant, NNE Digital
Dan is a father of five and currently resides in Enfield, NH. He started his marketing career in 2004 and has worked in print media, radio advertising, and now exclusively works in the digital space. Dan is a self-described “sports nut” and in his spare time he enjoys traveling, coaching youth sports and spending time with his family. NNEdigital, a NH-based, full-service digital marketing agency, is a division of the parent company of the Valley News and Concord Monitor, as well as several other New England media outlets.

Jenny Ruffin, Account Executive, Commercial Lines, Cross Insurance
Jenny Ruffin is a Commercial Insurance Business Advisor specializing in protecting businesses throughout the Upper Valley and surrounding regions. With a practical, relationship-driven approach, she helps business owners navigate risk, uncover coverage gaps, and build insurance programs that align with their operations. Jenny brings clarity to complex insurance needs, offering trusted support to businesses that power the local economy.

Chuck Sink, Owner and Brand Strategist, Chuck Sink Link
Chuck Sink is a brand strategist, content creator, and writer with over 30 years of experience in sales and marketing. He has led multiple companies to record growth and implemented successful business development programs in competitive markets. Since 2011, he has operated Chuck Sink Link, specializing in websites, social media marketing, video production, and digital advertising. Chuck also teaches management communications at Plymouth State University and is an active member of the Knights of Columbus, supporting local charities through fundraising and volunteer work.

Katy Almstrom, Money Mentor & Debt Coach, Almstrom Financial Coaching
Katy Almstrom is a financial wellness coach, speaker, and podcast host based in the Upper Valley. She works with women and their families to build confidence around money, reduce debt, and create a more empowering relationship with their finances.
Katy brings her expertise directly to the community through financial wellness workshops and speaking engagements for organizations, companies, and groups of all sizes. Whether she's leading a workshop for a local business's staff or working one-on-one with a couple navigating very different money personalities, Katy meets people where they are with practical strategy, warmth, and zero judgment.
Her approach combines real-world financial strategy with mindset work, because she believes lasting change requires both. She's the host of The Debt Payoff Podcast for Women where she shares approachable money advice for everyday life, and offers programs and coaching for women ready to say goodbye to credit card debt for good.
With over two decades of experience in teaching and coaching, Katy is deeply committed to making financial wellness accessible to everyone in her community - because every woman deserves to feel confident and in control of her money.
Tim Rumrill, Business Relationship Manager, M&T Bank
Tim is a Business Banking Relationship Manager at M&T Bank. His banking career started at People’s United Bank in 2018 and continued with M&T when they merged in 2022. Tim grew up in Ludlow, VT and has strong ties throughout the Windsor County and Upper Valley. In his time outside of work Tim enjoys hunting and being outdoors with his family and two dogs, Nanni and Zola.

Lucy Wagner, Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch
Lucy grew up in the Upper Valley and recently returned to the area after spending the past 20 years living in New York City. Lucy’s love for travel, wine and learning about other cultures was ignited during a college semester abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She began her career at Merrill Lynch as an intern in college before joining the company fulltime in 2007. She is now a financial advisor with The SWP Group, a wealth management team with over 75 years of industry experience. Outside of work, she enjoys being active in the community and being outdoors all four seasons through skiing, hiking, biking, and golf.

Keegan Carpenter, Branch Manager, Claremont Savings Bank
Keegan has spent over 15 years managing restaurants in the Upper Valley, where he built a reputation for strong leadership, customer service, and community connection. Now making an exciting transition into the banking industry, Keegan brings the same dedication and people-first mindset to helping clients and supporting local growth. Passionate about community involvement, he’s always looking for ways to make a positive impact. When he's not working, you’ll find him camping, golfing, or enjoying quality time with his wife, Taylor, and their two children.

Jessica Dunn, Licensed and Certified Medicare Advisor, Core Benefits Group
Since 2001, Jessica has been a vibrant part of the Upper Valley community, capturing cherished moments through her lens as owner of Beltrami Photography Studio. While photography remains close to her heart, she’s now channeling her passion into helping others navigate the complexities of Medicare. As a licensed and certified Medicare advisor, Jessica offers free, unbiased guidance to those eligible, ensuring they understand their options and feel confident in their choices.
Community, and helping local businesses thrive is something that is near and dear to her heart. Along with her 2 amazing college kids Gavin and Garrett!
Mission of the UVBA Ambassadors
Operating Principles
The Ambassador program operates under the guiding principles of UVBA’s mission:
- Strengthen the Upper Valley's economic vitality by supporting businesses of all sizes.
- Promote collaboration and connection among businesses, organizations, and the broader community.
- Advocate for policies and programs that enhance economic opportunities in the region.
These principles are the foundation of the Ambassador program and reflect UVBA’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and thriving Upper Valley.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Ambassador program is to foster meaningful connections with UVBA members by:
- Promoting active engagement in UVBA programs and benefits.
- Strengthening relationships within the Upper Valley business community.
- Encouraging members to utilize the resources and opportunities UVBA provides.
