The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Kerri Harrington in our Community Proud series sponsored by CorePlus Credit Union. As the Executive Sous Chef for Sift Bake Shop, Kerri has been a key part of A.T.Y Hospitality’s growth for the past six years, helping to shape the culinary scene in Mystic and beyond. Her leadership, passion, and dedication to both her craft and her team make her a standout in our community.

Kerri has always known she wanted to be in the kitchen. From as early as fourth grade, she was drawn to cooking, a passion that led her to the Culinary Institute of America. She started at Sift when the pastry team was just two people working on croissants. Today, that same station has nearly eight employees, and Kerri has had the privilege of witnessing and contributing to the incredible growth of the company. She oversees Sift’s multiple locations, including Mystic, Watch Hill, and Niantic, and is playing a crucial role in launching the new Sift and A.T.Y location at Mohegan Sun.

Her role extends far beyond baking—Kerri is a true problem solver. Whether overseeing kitchens, ensuring high-quality products, or stepping in as a bartender or server when needed, she is always willing to support her team. Her leadership is built on mutual respect, valuing strong work ethics, and fostering collaboration between front-of-house and back-of-house teams. “You can teach anyone a skill, but you can’t teach work ethic or being a good person,” Kerri shares, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in a fast-paced industry.

Born and raised in Connecticut, Kerri moved to Groton five years ago and immediately felt a sense of belonging in Mystic. “This is where I spend all my time,” she says. “Mystic is small enough that you know everybody—or at least recognize them. It creates a feeling of comfort and familiarity.”

Sift and A.T.Y Hospitality have played a major role in Kerri’s connection to the community. Through sponsorships and donations, they actively support local events, including one of Kerri’s personal favorites—the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival. “There are so many talented people in this town,” she says. “It’s such a unique place, and I can honestly say there’s nowhere else like it.”

What keeps Kerri inspired? The unknown. “Not knowing what’s going to come next excites me,” she explains. Whether it’s launching a new location or simply creating a pastry that brings someone joy, Kerri thrives on change and connection. While working in a kitchen often limits customer interactions, she deeply values personal connections. “I worked front-of-house for years before culinary school, and having a sincere conversation with someone, leaving them with a great experience—that drives me every day.”

When she’s not at work (which isn’t often), Kerri enjoys spending time with her dog, visiting breweries and vineyards, and exploring new culinary experiences. Family is incredibly important to her, and she shares a love for food and hospitality with her girlfriend, who serves as the Food and Beverage Director at Sift.

Kerri Harrington embodies the spirit of the Community Proud series—dedicated, hardworking, and passionate about making Mystic a better place through her craft. We celebrate her achievements and contributions and look forward to seeing her continue to shape the culinary world in our community and beyond.