MEET ISABELLE CRUZ: LOCAL SPORTS STAR & MEMBER OF WNP FAMILY
Folks at the Plate and members of the local Stafford Springs community know Isabelle Cruz better as the basketball star from Stafford Basketball’s youth program, who is now heading to Dartmouth College to play for their D1 Women’s Basketball team!
At Willington Nameplate, our culture is built on the families who have been with us for years and the next generation growing up right here in our community. This summer, we’re happy to have one of Stafford’s standout young talents, Isabelle “Izzy” Cruz, daughter of longtime WNP employee Jay Campos, work with us on the shop floor.
You may have read about Izzy (aka Bella when she’s in sports mode) when the Stafford Community Basketball Facebook page touted her achievements, and for good reason. After growing up locally, she attended Loomis Chaffee, one of New England’s premier prep schools, where she became part of a truly historic run. During her four years on the girls’ basketball team, Loomis captured four consecutive NEPSAC Class A Championships- something that’s never before been achieved by a girls’ team!
Now, before she heads off to the Ivy League, Izzy is spending her summer right here at WNP.
A Summer Job Rooted in Hard Work and Community
Izzy chose to work at Willington Nameplate this summer to earn money before college, which tracks with her and her family’s grounded work ethic and mirrors what she shows on the court. Whether she’s helping on the shop floor or supporting day‑to‑day operations, she brings energy, focus, and a positive presence.
“For many of us, it’s been a full‑circle moment. We’ve known Izzy since she was a little girl, and to see her joining us at the workplace that her family has long been part of is very meaningful! says Operations Leader, Jose Morales, Jr.
Next Stop: Dartmouth College
This fall, Izzy will head to Dartmouth, where she’ll continue her academic and athletic journey. Earning a place at an Ivy League institution is an extraordinary achievement — one that reflects her dedication both in the classroom and in athletics. Stafford Community Basketball put it best: The town is proud of her. And so are we!
A Story that Reflects WNP’s Values
Izzy’s path — from Stafford to Loomis to Dartmouth — is a story of community, opportunity, and hard work. It’s the kind of story that reminds us why WNP is more than a workplace. We’re a place where families build futures, where young people learn what dedication looks like, and where the next generation carries our values forward.
From all of us at Willington Nameplate, Congratulations, Izzy. Dartmouth is lucky to have you — and we’re proud to have you with us this summer. Go, Big Green!