NAME: Amanda Bellagamba
Title: Legislative Liaison
Department of Administrative Services
Office: Commissioners Office
1. What do you do?
I am the Legislative Liaison for DAS! In this role I build and maintain strong connections with lawmakers, constituent, and other relevant stakeholders. I serve as a direct contact point for legislators and their staff helping answer any questions they or their constituent may have regarding DAS and our services. During the legislative session, I help draft testimony, advocate on behalf of DAS on legislative proposals being considered by the General Assembly, and track, analyze, and monitor legislation.
2. Why do you work for the State of Connecticut?
I have worked for the State of Connecticut in various roles since 2013. I started working for the legislature as an assistance clerk on the Education Committee, then as a legislative aide, and finally as a caucus policy analyst. After my years working for the legislature, I started working for the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities System as the Associated Director for Government Relations. I started at DAS this past September. In all my roles, I have been able to help people in some sort of way. That is why I work for the state! It allows me to give back and serve the residents of this great state whether it was a constituent calling my senator’s office, drafting legislation to help solve a problem, or working for the agency that oversees a wide range of functions to ensure our state government functions!
3. What do you love about your job so far?
I love working with the DAS Team and learning something new everyday from them!
4. What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?
I love spending time with my family, including my husband, daughter, and cat. I am also an avid reader and have reread the Harry Potter series more times than I can count. I also enjoy watching sports (NY Giants, Boston Red Sox, and Chelsea FC fan here!). I also love anything Fall related!
5. Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?
I did a class abroad to the United Arab Emirates when I was getting my master’s degree. It was such a unique and amazing experience visiting the Middle East, and spending time in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
6. What would you tell someone who is interested in working for the state?
I would tell them to go for it! It’s a rewarding job and allows one to give back to the state in some way.
7. Where is your favorite place in Connecticut?
Mohawk Mountain. I grew up in Goshen, CT, and spent lots of time hiking and visiting the mountain. I still go on occasion when I’m visiting my parents. You can not beat the view from the top!
8. If you could choose one superpower, what would it be, and why?
I would choose teleportation. I think it would be cool to be able to teleport anywhere in the world at any time. I wish I had more time and money to travel, and being able to teleport would solve those problems!
9. Who inspires you and why?
My three-year-old daughter. She has autism, and I learn from her every day. Nothing makes me happier than seeing her achieve goals and milestones. Being her mother has truly made me a better person.
10. Tell us your favorite fun fact.
Sebastian Crab from the Little Mermaid’s full name is Horatio Thelonious Ignacious Crustaceous Sebastian.
