Ernestine Yuille Weaver, Esq.
Legislative and Administrative Advisor
Department of Administrative Services
Office of the Commissioner
1. What do you do?
I am new to DAS and am working in a newly created role. So, I imagine that what I do in this role may evolve. But for starters, I am an attorney in the Commissioner’s Office, so I handle legal matters, render advice and review and draft legal documents. The particular focus of my role as a Legislative and Administrative Advisor is to ensure that DAS adheres to legislative mandates and reports. Therefore, it is also my job to create and facilitate a statutory implementation program for the agency.
2. Why do you work/intern for the State of Connecticut?
I was working at DAS as a part-time temp, backfilling for Attorney Michael Barrera who was on bonding leave, when I was presented with this opportunity. The work looked interesting, and the people in the Commissioner’s Office are great, so for me, it was a no-brainer to stay.
3. What do you love about your job?
For starters, I love the congeniality, professionalism and teamwork that is present within DAS. The people, their attitudes and the environment you work in can make a world of difference about how you enjoy your job.
4. What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?
I have two adult children. I loved raising them and now love watching them lead productive lives. They make me proud. So, our get-togethers and extended family gatherings are my favorite activities. I also am a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and serve on the Harc, Inc. Board of Directors. I enjoy both organizations immensely, and they keep me busy.
5. Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?
Although I enjoy traveling and exploring other communities and cultures, I repeatedly travel to the Dominican Republic because I love the luxury and pampering of an all-inclusive resort. It’s my favorite vacation trip – it’s so relaxing. However, my favorite place for its uniqueness would be Alaska.
6. What would you tell someone who is interested in working for the state?
I would tell someone that although public service is not depicted as glamorous, it is very rewarding. Public servants are great people who work with intelligence and compassion to improve communities and lives and make a lasting impact. Working at State provides an opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting difference in people’s day-to-day lives. You’re a part of a huge team that touches everyone in the State and the work of the State is vitally important.
Also, the State provides opportunities to develop your skills and, provides opportunities for career advancement. With the state, you can grow professionally without cramping your ability to pursue interests outside of work. The benefit package is great, too.
7. Where is your favorite place in Connecticut?
Connecticut is a beautiful state and it’s hard to list just one. I enjoy Elizabeth Park, especially in June, when the Rose Garden is in full bloom. It smells wonderful. I also enjoy the Connecticut shoreline and Hammonasset State Park, but I am more likely to be found at the reservoir in West Hartford.
8. If you could choose one superpower, what would it be, and why?
Persuasion, I’m a lawyer.
9. Who inspires you and why?
When I was in high school completing my college applications, this was a question for which I had to provide an essay. My response was Former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. She was awesome, a true trailblazer and a powerhouse who understood how to use her platform for justice and civil rights. Now there are many people who inspire me: people who persevere despite the odds, people who champion less heard of but necessary and important causes, and people who show kindness in challenging situations.
10. Tell us your favorite fun fact.
My new favorite fact is that the Connecticut Official State Candy isn’t Pez but the lollipop.
