New London - Darcy Van Ness of Waterford has been chosen queen of the city's St. Patrick's Day Parade, which will be held March 17 at 1 p.m.

In her interview with the parade committee, Van Ness said as a girl with Irish heritage, she's always identified St. Patrick's Day as a time for connecting with friends and family and having a good time.

Also chosen to serve on the queen's court are Heather Cote of New London, Katy Murphy of Waterford and Bethany Paige of Groton.

The queen and her court were selected on the basis of personality, poise, communication skills, academic achievement and service to community. They will serve as role models and goodwill ambassadors throughout the community.

Van Ness attends the University of Connecticut at Avery Point, works part time at Waterford Public Library and wants to be an art therapist for children in inner-city schools. Her ambition is to open her own practice.

She helped plan a "Rock for Japan" relief concert, contacting local bands, designing T-shirts to sell and raffling off donated goods from local businesses.

She also raised over $1,000 for the American Red Cross' relief efforts and plans to organize another benefit to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy and the recent snowstorm.