For Margaret Corini, the heartbeat of Westerly is the people—and you’ll find her at its cultural center: The United Theatre. As the Community Director, Margaret plays a vital role in nurturing relationships with members, donors, and volunteers. Her warmth, dedication, and passion for service have helped transform the UNITED into a vibrant hub for connection, creativity, and community pride.

Originally from Richmond, RI, Margaret spent several years in New Jersey before returning to nearby Westerly—a town she instantly felt called to support. After retiring from a long career at Tiffany & Co., Margaret dove headfirst into community service. One of her first volunteer gigs was at the UNITED, and it didn’t take long for Executive Director Carly Callahan to recognize Margaret’s potential. Carly invited Margaret to take on the membership role, and from there, Margaret found her new home.

“I used to see movies at the UNITED as a kid,” she recalls with a smile. “Now I get to be part of this amazing place that brings people together through the arts.”

And bring people together she does. Under Margaret’s leadership, membership at the UNITED skyrocketed—from just 70 members in 2023 to over 750 today. She credits this growth to intentional, heartfelt engagement. “I try to see as many members as I can at events. We are always looking for fun ways to keep them involved and help them connect with one another. It’s truly a fun job.”

For Margaret, the mission of the UNITED—to unite the community through the arts—is deeply personal. Whether it’s hosting the annual Soupy Fest, welcoming second graders to performances in the Black Box Theater, or supporting local musicians and authors, the UNITED is a space where all are welcome and creativity thrives. “There’s so much to offer here,” Margaret says. “From our Literary Salon and Author Talks to symphonies, film, and our music school—there’s something for everyone. And so much of it is accessible and low-cost. That’s something I’m really proud of.”

Beyond her work at the UNITED, Margaret is a tireless community advocate. She’s the Treasurer for Friends of the Westerly Library and the Secretary of the Westerly Lions Club, organizing fundraisers that benefit local causes like the Johnnycake Center and the Olean Center. She’s also passionate about dog rescue and supports Always Adopt events, helping dogs from high-kill shelters find forever homes. 

Through it all, Margaret remains grounded in gratitude. She credits Carly for being a supportive leader, and she draws inspiration from the many women in leadership throughout Westerly. Her partner Scott is her behind-the-scenes rock, and she treasures time with him and being with their blended family — her daughter Alyssa, his sons and their wives, and their growing crew of grandchildren. In her downtime, Margaret enjoys reading, beach walks, spending time with her dog Hank, and celebrating the simple joys of small-town life. “What makes this place feel like home?” she reflects. “It’s definitely the people. Seeing someone you know at the grocery store or at your Sunday breakfast spot—it’s special. I’m happy to be here.”

As the UNITED continues to evolve—most recently with its Nashville North project enhancing Westerly’s musical heritage—Margaret remains its steady heartbeat. Her dedication to uplifting others, supporting local nonprofits, and creating meaningful experiences through the arts is what community pride is all about.