40 Under 40

Molly Abrahams ’16 

BS – Psychology
Director of Residential Life, University of St. Joseph

On campus leadership positions in admissions, residential life and student activities at Salem State helped Molly discover her passion for working on a college campus. After encouragement from her supervisors in residential life, Molly pursued her master’s degree in higher education administration and graduated from New England College in 2018.

Molly has worked at colleges throughout the northeast and is currently the director of residential life and student conduct at the University of Saint Joseph (USJ). Since starting in June 2021, Molly has helped with housing the university's largest classes, worked on increasing returning student housing retention and partnered with administrators and the local community to identify off-campus housing options for students. At USJ, Molly has also helped implement new policies and has advocated for hiring of additional student and professional staff to support on campus USJ students.

Outside of work, Molly has volunteered with NASPA Region 1, a student affairs professional organization, and serves as a board member for Everybunny Counts Rabbit Rescue, helping surrendered, stray and neglected domesticated rabbits find loving indoor homes. Molly and her husband live in Connecticut with their hamster and four rescue rabbits.

Ellen Acheampong ’19  

BS – Biology
Graduate Student, UMass Chan Medical School

Ellen is a fifth-year graduate student at UMass Chan medical school, where she studies how CD8 T cells mediate immune protection during TB disease. Ellen graduated from Salem State with a Bachelor of Science in biomedical science with minors in chemistry and Spanish. She spent most of her time in the honor’s lounge, at student organization meetings and most importantly, in the lab with Dr. Brown, where she was first introduced to the world of scientific research and received multiple research grant awards. Her research experience at Salem State opened many doors of opportunity, including securing a job at MGH as a research associate and gaining admission to UMass Chan to pursue a PhD in immunology.

Throughout her academic career, Ellen has enjoyed advocating for underrepresented populations, including immigrants and international students. She served as the president for both the African Student Union and the International Student Association, and as a peer mentor for the Center for International Education at Salem State. While at UMass, she is the co-president for the Diversity Interest Group. As an immigrant herself (now a U.S. citizen), Ellen feels a sense of duty to help immigrants navigate life in the U.S., because she understands the challenges that come with leaving your home country to start a new life.

Ellen is currently married to her long-term partner and navigating life as a new mother to a baby boy, EmJ, while wrapping up her thesis project at UMass. She enjoys cooking and baking for her big family and spending most of her free time working out at the gym. She hopes that her life can inspire other immigrants and young women who have been told that “they don’t belong or have a place in the classroom.”

Mirlesna Azor-Sterlin ’13G

MEd – HESA
Academic Coordinator-Gillings School of Global Public Health Student Affairs UNC Chapel Hill Co-Founder & Chair - Haitians Of The Triangle (HOTT)

Mirlesna seamlessly wears multiple hats in both professional and personal spheres. Passionate about making a positive difference, she works closely with college students, providing guidance, mentorship and resources to help them succeed holistically.

In addition to Mirlesna's primary role helping doctoral students, she is deeply involved in supporting the Haitian Community in the triangle area of North Carolina. Recognizing the unique challenges immigrants face, Mirlesna works tirelessly to connect individuals and families with essential services, advocacy and opportunities for integration. Whether through social programs or community building, she is a committed ally to those seeking a better life in a new country.

Outside of work, Mirlesna is a dedicated parent, family member and partner, balancing the demands of life with a strong desire to create a meaningful legacy. Motivated by the belief that small actions can lead to lasting change, she is determined to leave an impact on the world by empowering others, advocating for social justice and nurturing the next generation of leaders.

"Salem State provided me the knowledge and skills to be able to combine my classroom experiences, theories, practica, and connections with my passion to teach and advocate. I always approach situations and opportunities by asking, "What hill am I willing to die on?" I am beyond grateful for my time at SSU in the HESA program.”

Brandi Brook ’17

BA – Political Science
Attorney

Brandi graduated from Salem State University with a summa cum laude distinction in January 2017. During her undergraduate studies, she was an active member of the Honors Program, majoring in political science with a concentration in policy and law. As part of a collaborative research project focused on marine policy and management on Nantucket Island, Brandi contributed to a study that was published in Marine Policy, a leading ocean policy journal, where she is listed as a co-author.

After completing her undergraduate studies, Brandi attended Massachusetts School of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctor, graduating magna cum laude and ranking in the top three of her class in December 2019. While in law school, Brandi earned CALI awards for her outstanding performance in both Torts and Civil Procedure. The CALI Award is presented to the student with the highest grade in each course. Additionally, Brandi was a finalist in the Writing and Legal Advocacy Competition. Throughout her time in law school, she worked as a paralegal at Taranto Law, gaining valuable hands-on experience that allowed her to apply her legal studies in a professional setting.

Brandi has been working in the legal field since 2014 and passed the Massachusetts Bar Exam on her first attempt in 2020. She has focused exclusively on family law, helping clients navigate every aspect of the divorce process, including modifications to alimony/spousal support, child support and custody arrangements. In recognition of her expertise and commitment, Brandi was named a “Rising Star” attorney by Super Lawyers in both 2023 and 2024.

Michael Corley ’23

BS – Media and Communications
Master of Public Administration, Merrimack College, '24
Constituent Services Specialist, Projects Assistant & LGBTQIA+ Liaison, Mayor's Office, City of Salem

“My time at Salem State was transformative, not just in terms of academic growth, but also in learning the power of advocacy and the importance of community action. Staff from the CCE AND IOP like Cynthia Lynch, Sam Giffen and Katelyn Adams inspired me to stand up for what I believe in and showed me how building strong coalitions can drive real change.”

After finishing a semester early in fall 2022, Michael made a decisive move to get involved in local politics during Salem's special mayoral election. He joined Dominick Pangallo's campaign as deputy campaign manager, focusing on student engagement and door-to-door outreach, ultimately helping secure Pangallo's victory in May 2023. 

Michael then took on a full-time role within the Mayor’s Office as the constituent services, projects assistant and LGBTQIA+ liaison. He is passionate about advancing bold initiatives like the city’s first Indigenous Flag Raising and the Juneteenth Festival. Michael's commitment to political change continued with his work as campaign canager for Councillor Alice Merkl’s successful reelection bid in 2023, where she became the top vote-getter in her at-large race. 

A proud Salem State alumnus, Michael remains actively engaged with his alma mater and strives to connect students with the work happening at City Hall. 

Lauren DiCredico ’14

BS – Psychology
Business Owner, Performance Psychology and Business Optimization Consultant

“My time at Salem State as a dual sport athlete shaped my work ethic, resilience and belief in the power of teamwork—values I carry into everything I do today.”

Lauren has built an impressive career at the intersection of human performance and business management. After graduating from Salem State, she earned a master’s in performance psychology from the University of Denver, establishing a strong foundation for her career. She began working with the U.S. Military, developing expertise in leadership, psychological skills training and process optimization. Lauren later moved into corporate consulting, where she helped executives and leaders achieve operational excellence.

A natural entrepreneur, Lauren launched her consulting business in 2019, specializing in performance psychology. Over time, she discovered her passion for small business management consulting and made it her specialty. With expertise in leadership, operations and business, she offers small businesses the high-quality consulting typically provided by major firms—delivered in a more personalized and supportive format.

Her mission is to support small business owners and leaders in building workplaces where employees can thrive and grow their careers. She is committed to developing leaders who value their teams and foster business development through effective, streamlined operations.

Lauren’s dedication to her alma mater remains strong. As an adjunct professor and sport psychology consultant at Salem State, she works with student-athletes, teams and coaches to improve mental skills, leadership and performance. She enjoys teaching the bright young minds who are literally sitting in the same seats she once did.

“The faculty and staff at Salem State gave me the confidence to trust myself. They believed in me during crucial times in my life, which is why I’m committed to helping others unlock their own potential.”

Angel Donahue-Rodriguez ’12  

BS – Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Assistant General Manager for External Affairs of the MBTA

Angel has been dedicated to improving public services throughout his career. When Angel was enrolled at Salem State, he served as a student representative on the Salem State Board of Trustees and the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education. While working with these groups, Angel helped to organize the first Public Higher Education Advocacy Day and helped develop a pilot program for students on financial literacy. The creation of the Save More. Act Responsibly. Thrive. (SMART) Salem State financial literacy program was due to Angel’s passion for accessible education and was named the education program of the month for the National Association of College and University Residence Halls in 2011. 

After graduating from Salem State, Angel spent seven years working for the State House, beginning as a legislative aide for State Representative Jerald A. Parisella, and then shifting focus to working as the chief of staff for the Massachusetts House of Representatives Joint Committees for Veterans and Federal Affairs and Public Service. 

Following his time at the Massachusetts House of Representatives, Angel stepped into the role of director of special projects for the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA), leading to his position as deputy chief of staff for the MBTA as well. After some time, Angel was able to further apply his educational background in criminal justice, law enforcement and public administration to create an external affairs department for the MBTA. His dedication to better public services made him a great candidate for his current position: the assistant general manager for external affairs for the MBTA. 

Angel was recognized in 2022 as a member of El Mundo’s Latino 30 under 30 due to his overwhelming love for giving back to the community. He currently is a member of the advisory board of Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics at Salem State, and continues to positively influence the Salem community, as well as the public world around him. 

Renee DuShane ’16

BS – Nursing
Manager of Residential Nursing Services

Growing up a pediatric patient, Renee had always been curious about the work of the many nurses that cared for her in medical environments. This curiosity pushed Renee to pursue her own nursing degree at Salem State University, earning a BSN in 2016. 

“During my fourth year, I completed my mental health nursing clinical rotation. My clinical instructor was highly regarded in her field and quickly became my biggest professional inspiration. I learned what her strongest nursing skill was: empathy. Empathy has been my guiding force ever since.” 

Since graduation, she has been a passionate advocate for adolescent and adult mental health, with more than six years of experience in the fields of behavioral health, inpatient and outpatient substance abuse, case management, and community care. 

In 2021, Renee became board certified for psychiatric mental health nursing. Due to her standing with the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, Renee had the opportunity to present her research on delayed pelvic pain diagnoses and the impact it has on women’s mental health. This led to Renee becoming a sexual assault nurse examiner for the Department of Public Health. She also continues to serve as an e-advisor for Boston Children’s Hospital and volunteers at New England Donor Services. Currently, Renee uses her experience to help patients and community members as a residential nursing services manager. 

Madison Estes ’17

BS – Business Administration
Business Education Teacher

Madison graduated from Salem State with a degree in business administration but didn’t immediately enter the business world. While working in the restaurant industry, Madison came across a Pentucket Regional Middle School employee, who inspired her to step into a paraprofessional position. She soon realized she could utilize her educational background to teach business classes and found herself working to create a DECA chapter (an organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs). 

Seeking additional education, Madison pursued a master’s degree in moderate disabilities as she considered diving deeper into the field of special education. After dedicating time to sub-separate education, Madison realized that her true calling was teaching business courses aligned with DECA for grades 9-12. Madison has been confident in her decision and continues to educate adolescent minds at Masconomet Regional High School. 

“My experience at SSU definitely helped me prepare for my career. [...]The STEP program introduced me to mentoring, sparking my interest in education. My professor, Brian Travers, solidified my confidence in this direction, once telling me I would make a great teacher—a moment that had a lasting impact on me.” 

Following her graduation from Salem State, Madison has been immersed in state-level roles, including treasurer and president of the Massachusetts PTA and youth committee/programs committee member of the National PTA. Her passion for student development has led to her continued work with DECA, judging state and district competitions while splitting time as a co-advisor for Masconomet Regional High School. 

Lataya Ferguson-Jean ’16

BA – Communication
Senior Assistant Director, Bentley University

After graduating from Salem State, Lataya began her career in the non-profit sector as a marketing coordinator. Over the years, she has worked for museums and transitioned into higher education in 2017. Lataya had the honor of working at her alma mater as a donor engagement officer before becoming the senior assistant director of fund and data management at Bentley University.

As the first in Lataya’s family to graduate college, she deeply values education. She is committed to continuous learning, having recently earning a certificate in change management and planning to pursue an MBA with a concentration in marketing. 

Salem State holds a special place in her heart because it’s where she grew and thrived. She was fortunate to learn from skilled professors, especially Dr. Peggy Dillon, who guided her from student to professional, always offering support when needed. She never imagined she would come this far, and she is honored to serve others, just as Dr. Dillon served her.

Samantha Giffen ’22G

MEd– HESA
Communications Manager, Town of Amherst

Samantha is a public service professional with a mission to empower people with the knowledge, tools and confidence to be change-makers in their communities. As the communications manager with the Town of Amherst, she manages public relations, digital media and outreach initiatives to expand community engagement, promote opportunities for government participation and increase the transparency and accessibility of information and services. 

Prior to this, Samantha worked in higher education as the assistant director for the Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics at Salem State University, where she developed a comprehensive portfolio of programs that inspired students to be active in our democracy and pursue careers in public service. While in this role, she helped organize the inaugural Salem State alumni reunion for professionals in politics and public service at the Massachusetts State House. Samantha also worked as a campus organizer for the Student PIRGs, where she mobilized college students to run effective campaigns on a variety of public interest issues.

While a graduate student in the master’s degree in higher education in student affairs program, Samantha was honored with the Rising Star for Commitment to Civic Engagement Award from NASPA and served on the advisory board for the Students Learn Students Vote Coalition. Currently, Samantha serves on the board of directors for the League of Women Voters Massachusetts and co-chairs their statewide voter engagement committee.

Christopher Gomez-Farewell ’15, ’20G 

BS - Business Administration 
Master of Business Administration 
Executive Director of the Beverly Council on Aging 

A proud double Viking, Christopher graduated from Salem State University with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business administration. He currently works for the City of Beverly as the executive director of the Beverly Council on Aging and proudly represents the senior center at community events throughout the year. 

Before working in Beverly, Christopher was the director of elder services for the City of Lynn for nearly two years, where he was able to play a fundamental role in the opening of the new senior center by working closely with the mayor’s office and city council. During Christopher’s time as the director of elder services, he also connected seniors with helpful resources and planned events in diverse spaces. 

Christopher created the new programs and services currently used at the Lynn Senior Center. He also recently joined the Vision Lynn Steering Committee and the Food Security Task Force in Lynn. He also extends his reach within the community as the junior varsity boys’ basketball coach at Lynn English High School, where his passion for watching and playing sports shines through. 

Tyreke Harris ’19

BS – Sport & Movement Science 
Administrator, Coach and Entrepreneur 

Tyreke is a first-generation college student who realized that he is a lifelong learner, passionate about the development of the next generation and community engagement. Tyreke is going on seven years of experience in recreation and athletics at the private and state university level. Additionally, he is a doctoral candidate interested in the best methods for helping the younger generation flourish through mentorship and life development. His career is more of a passion since he enjoys watching young people thrive, continuing their family's legacy and using athletics to teach valuable life lessons. 

"My time at Salem State University was worthwhile, and I have gained transferable qualities like accountability, resilience and leadership. As a young person of color, it was not an easy transition to Salem State, but I managed to get by, by using the opportunities offered to me, like becoming a member of the SSU TRIO student support services team or being a member of the Summer Bridge Academy in the summer of 2015. TRIO and the Summer Bridge Academy were invaluable services for me as a first-generation college student navigating a campus environment.” 

During his professional career in athletics, Tyreke has worked at MIT, Boys and Girls Club of America, Boston University, Manchester Community College, and more. In his most recent role at Manchester Community College (NH), Tyreke had the opportunity to build an athletic department from scratch. When he first stepped into the role, his main objective was to establish a competitive club level sports program for the 2024/2025 season and eventually move into the collegiate level in the Yankee Small College Conference (YSCC) for the 2025/2026 season. With determination and hard work, Tyreke was able to achieve some of those goals within a short period of time. In just nine months, he successfully launched a men's basketball team with 15 students, a women's volleyball team with 12 students and an Esports team with nine students. Some of these teams have had the opportunity to compete against schools throughout New England, such as Bunker Hill Community College, Tufts University, UMass Lowell, Northeastern University, NHTI, and more—a truly rewarding experience.

Julio Hernandez ’23

BA – Business Administration
Sr. Housing & Development Manager, City of Chelsea

Julio is a first-generation American, born to two hardworking immigrant parents who came to this country in search of a better life. A proud graduate of the Bertolon School of Business, with a Bachelor of Science in business administration and a minor in criminal justice, Julio is currently pursuing a legal career at the Massachusetts School of Law.

Julio’s journey of public service began at the age of 18, when he became the youngest elected official in the city of Chelsea, Mass., serving on the School Committee. In 2019, he stepped down from his role to complete his studies.

After graduating from Salem State in 2023, Julio transitioned into the housing field, which led to his former role as business manager and current role as the senior housing and development manager in Chelsea’s housing and community development department, where he oversees, manages and implements policy and fiscal oversight in regard to vital programs addressing affordable housing, housing stability, legal services, housing rehabilitation, and homelessness prevention.

Chelsea Kopacz ’12

BS – Occupational Health Science
Master of Occupational Therapy
Director of Rehabilitation Services, Bradley Hospital

Chelsea is the director of rehabilitation services at Bradley Hospital. Within this position, she created the programming for occupational therapy that is currently used for their child and adolescent services. She also played an important role in helping to reopen and redesign the Bradley Hospital’s COAST Clinic, a “Communication Occupational and Sensory Treatment Clinic” center. 

Chelsea has shown immense commitment to the OT world, dedicating six years of her life to work as an occupational therapy assistant, building on the skills that she now uses in her current day-to-day life as an occupational therapist director of rehabilitation services. Chelsea also spent time working with pediatric services prior to fully dedicating her time to the Bradley Hospital.  

A proud member of the SSU community, Chelsea gives back by staying committed to OT fieldwork educational processes. Each semester, she accepts numerous occupational therapy students from SSU to work in placements at Bradley Hospital, where they can build their hands-on experience within the OT world. 

Cheryl M. Lawrence ’16, ’18G 

BA – English
MEd – HESA 
Assistant Director for Community Standards, Babson College

As a member of the community standards team, Cheryl serves as the primary point of contact for all non-academic conduct matters (i.e., damage, alcohol violations, physical violence, etc.) as well as the point of contact and primary accountability officer for student organizational related conduct. Additionally, Cheryl advises the College Hearing Board–an objective hearing body composed of students, faculty and staff–on cases involving academic and non-academic misconduct, including those that may lead to suspension or expulsion.  

Cheryl earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in educational studies from Salem State University and, shortly thereafter, returned to Salem State and earned her Master of Education in Higher Education in Student Affairs, discovering her passion for student affairs while reflecting on her experiences at Salem State during her undergraduate years.  As a first-generation college student herself, Cheryl deeply understands the unique challenges students face and prioritizes their individual needs and well-being. She fosters close collaborations with other departments across campus to ensure comprehensive support, even if it requires adjusting timelines for other projects. In her previous role as community director at Clark University, Cheryl successfully led teams. She collaborated closely with fellow community directors to identify the most effective resources, programming and support for their students. Simultaneously, she worked closely with her team of resident advisors to ensure a cohesive and efficient delivery of these services. 

Hannah Levine ’22

BSW – Social Work
Assistant Director, Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics

Hannah Levine is the assistant director of the Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics at Salem State University, where she aims to engage and inspire the Salem State community to be active in our democracy and encourage civic and political engagement. She is a 2022 graduate of SSU with a bachelor’s degree in social work and a minor in civic engagement. She was the 2019-20 Newman Civic Fellow representative for Salem State and was an involved student with the Center for Civic Engagement, Berry IOP and served on the BSW curriculum and academic policies committees as a student representative. She was inducted into the Alpha Lambda Delta National First-Year Honor Society, Phi Alpha Tau Phi chapter of the National Social Work Honor Society and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. Levine was also a 2022 undergraduate inductee into the Salem State University Civic Engagement Hall of Fame and was awarded three Berry IOP stipends during her undergraduate career. 

Upon graduation, Levine successfully ran Manny Cruz's campaign for State Representative and served as his legislative aide in the Massachusetts State House. She also worked for former State Representative Paul Tucker as his legislative aide.

Levine is passionate about mental health and being active in her community. She serves on the boards of Mental Makeover, a local nonprofit in Salem, Mass. and North Shore Community Action Programs (NSCAP). You can find her spending time with her friends and family and exploring new places to eat and visit.

Qingzhi James Li ’15

BS – Business Administration
Talent Development Lead, Apple Greater China

“Studying at Salem State University was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. It opened my eyes to new cultures, perspectives and lifelong international connections.”  

As a 2012 enrollee in SSU’s 1+2+1 dual degree program, Qingzhi (James) embraced every opportunity to grow. On campus, he served as resident assistant, chairperson of the International Student Association and 2015 commencement student speaker—SSU’s first Chinese student selected for this role. Academically, he earned Dean’s List honors, the Senior Award for Outstanding Graduates and a Book Award for the highest GPA in his concentration.  

Professionally, Qingzhi advanced within Apple in Shanghai, transitioning from retail to finance. As talent development lead, he designs and executes talent programs that shape the talent transformation of Greater China and global finance teams. Beyond his role, Qingzhi championed community engagement as Apple’s Volunteer Champion (2019–2021), mobilizing teams to contribute hundreds of service hours and secure $18,000 in matched donations—a tradition he continues today by mentoring new volunteer leaders.  

Guided by SSU’s transformative spirit, Qingzhi strives to empower others through education, cross-cultural connection and purpose-driven leadership. From tutoring peers in the Bertolon School of Business Lab to scaling Apple’s talent initiatives, every step reflects his belief in collective growth. He remains deeply connected to SSU, advising prospective students in the 1+2+1 program and co-founding the SSU Chinese alumni group to strengthen global ties.  

Together, we build bridges—one opportunity at a time.  

Virginia Lyons ’16

BS – Accounting
People Consulting Manager, Ernst & Young, LLP

“The exceptional education, dedicated professors and comprehensive career development opportunities at Salem State University were pivotal in laying the foundation for my professional success.” 

Virginia is a people consulting manager at Ernst & Young (EY) and a passionate real estate investor. She also proudly serves on the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation board of directors as secretary. 

Since completing her education, Virginia has dedicated herself to various community service initiatives. A key program she is involved with is EY's College MAP (Mentoring for Access and Persistence). This initiative pairs EY volunteers with juniors and seniors from underserved high schools across the U.S., helping them access and succeed in higher education. The program demystifies the college application and financial aid processes, encouraging students who might not have viewed college as a viable option. Since becoming a mentor in 2016, Virginia has guided over four classes, helping students develop the skills and confidence to achieve their post-secondary aspirations. 

Virginia earned her Bachelor of Science in accounting with a minor in economics from Salem State University. During her time there, she made a lasting impact through roles such as resident assistant, co-founding Black Brown and Proud, co-founding the Salem State ALPFA Student Group, and serving as the 2015-2016 President of the National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH).

Sam Mandracchia ’15

BS – Psychology
CEO/Co-Founder, Grim Reaper Coffee Company

Sam, a proud graduate of Salem State University, is the CEO and co-founder of Grim Reaper Coffee Company, earning his bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in business in 2015. Shortly after graduating, fueled by passion for serving his community, Sam joined the Massachusetts State Police, dedicating almost a decade being a public servant. In that time, he received numerous awards, most notably the Massachusetts State Police Life Saving Award and Rookie of the Year from Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

In 2023, Sam retired from the Mass. State Police due to an injury and created a new path that combined his entrepreneurial spirit with his love for coffee. In early 2024, Sam, along with his two brothers and sister, founded a ready-to-drink canned coffee company called Grim Reaper Coffee Co. Grim Reaper Coffee Co. is a brand that embodies the spirit of counterculture, freedom of expression and unfiltered creativity. The company quickly gained recognition for its smooth taste and unique branding, attracting coffee lovers on the East Coast and beyond.

Today, Grim Reaper Coffee Company is in over 150 stores throughout New England and continues to grow.

Jobita Mao ’14

BS – Business Administration
Associate Director of Admissions

Jobita is a seasoned higher education professional with a proven track record in student admissions, diversity outreach and team leadership. Currently serving as the associate director of admission for diversity, inclusion and outreach, she is a key member of the undergraduate admissions team at Salem State University, and leads strategic recruitment initiatives to increase enrollment across diverse student populations, including first-year, transfer, international, and evening students, which is very meaningful to her being a first-generation college graduate herself. 

With extensive experience in managing admissions activities, staff development and training, Jobita has demonstrated expertise in driving outreach campaigns, application review processes and fostering relationships with community-based organizations. 

Additionally, she is committed to ensuring inclusive practices and developing recruitment strategies that support historically underserved and underrepresented students. As an advocate for diversity, Jobita co-leads the Direct Admissions Pilot program. 

Jobita’s dedication to supporting students is also reflected in her involvement with various volunteer organizations, including mentoring at Girls Incorporated of Lynn and participating in the New England Association for College Admission Counseling. Recognized with the 2020 Professional of the Year Award from NEACAC, Jobita is a trusted leader, mentor and advocate for students’ educational journeys.

Amanda Mark ’17

BS – Political Science
Research and Communications Director

Amanda is the research and communications director for Massachusetts House Majority Leader Michael J. Moran. While at Salem State, Amanda served as president of the Political Science Academy, an intern for the Center for Civic Engagement and fiction editor for Soundings East Literary Magazine. 

After graduating, Amanda had the opportunity to intern in Washington, D.C. for Congressman William Keating through the political science department’s Congressional Internship Scholarship. She was then hired as a research analyst and then research director for the Special Joint Committee on redistricting. In 2023, Amanda moved to the Majority Leader’s Office. 

The support and guidance Amanda received from the political science department laid the foundation for a career in public service. Amanda is currently earning her JD as a member of Suffolk Law's part-time program.

Armando Martinez ’20

BS – Psychology and Sociology 
MA HESA, Ohio State University
Assistant Director of Operations and Auxiliary, Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Armando started his higher education career as an undergraduate student at Salem State University. With student leadership positions, such as Black, Brown and Proud representative and Student Government Association president, and employment positions, such as senior resident assistant and diversity, equity, social justice assistant, there was no shortage of opportunity for Armando. 

From there, he went to The Ohio State University to continue his studies in higher education with the support of the Institute for Recruitment of Teachers. To this day, Armando serves as a member of summer faculty for The Institute for Recruitment of Teachers. Ohio taught Armando a lot, with the most important lesson being the irreplaceable value of family and loved ones. After he graduated from his master’s program, Armando quickly returned home. First landing an entry level residential life role at Boston College, then getting a career growth opportunity at Tufts University. Now, Armando’s journey has taken him to MassArt to continue his path in higher education, serving the students of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

Having worked at many different institutions of higher education, Armando continues to work toward full scale professional growth and development. With every new position comes new challenges, and he has taken in stride each position and the new learning opportunities that come with them.  

"Time is a funny thing. It happens independent of us, to us, and yet all the same, we make of it what we choose. 2020 feels like yesterday, 2022 feels like this morning. Time passes slowly. Time flies by. I try every day to make the most of the time I am given on this earth, knowing every second is a gift from God. My commitment remains to be made whole through the One who created me."

Erica McAvoy ’10

BA – History
MA – History, UMass Boston
History Professor, Rivier University and Middlesex Community College

Erica is a PhD student in history at the University of New Hampshire and teaches history at Rivier University in Nashua, N.H. and Middlesex Community College in Lowell, Mass. Prior to teaching, most of her career has been spent in the museum field, where she served as executive director of the Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden in Portsmouth, N.H., the Lexington (Mass.) Historical Society and Wellesley (Mass.) Historical Society.   

Erica earned a master’s degree in history from Umass Boston, where she wrote her thesis on the evolution of church seating in Boston in the early eighteenth century. Her doctoral research is focused on the intersection of oppression and opportunity for Black and Indigenous New Englanders in the pre-Revolutionary Congregational Church. Erica is passionate about telling the stories of marginalized people in her work in museums and as a scholar. She has presented with colleagues at museum and history conferences about interpreting slavery, creating partnerships to diversify museum collections and programming and decolonizing the classroom. 

She lives in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire with her husband, Steve, their two daughters, Lizzie and Abby, and their two rescue dogs, Dewey and Pedey. 

Lindsey McGovern ’15                  

BS – Dance
Principal/Owner, Enchanted Dance Academy

Lindsey graduated in 2015 as a Commonwealth Honors Scholar from Salem State University’s sport and movement science department with a Bachelor of Science and dance concentration. She continues performing modern/contemporary dance today as an individual freelance artist.

Post-graduation, Lindsey opened Enchanted Dance Academy (EDA) in Winchester, Mass.–a private dance studio offering youth dance instruction in all genres to Winchester and surrounding communities. There, she cultivates a dance community that values inclusion, artistry, growth, collaboration, respect, and body neutrality. She recently discussed these practices with fellow dance educators as a presenter for the 2024 National Dance Education Organization’s annual national conference in Seattle, Wash.

Lindsey is the dance education specialist for Five Star Theatre Program and a musical theatre choreographer in the Reading Public Schools. As of May 2025, she is a graduate of Wayne State University, receiving a Master of Arts in dance teaching artistry. With a passion for research on body image issues and eating disturbances in dance, her master’s thesis focused on dismantling female dance body ideals reaffirmed in traditional dance teaching methods through the use of critical feminist dance pedagogy. Through research, advocacy and personal teaching practice, she hopes to contribute to an improved learning experience for future private studio dance students.

Traci Mentuck ’10, ’14G, ’24G

BA – Educational Studies, Sociology
MEd – Elementary Education, Educational Studies
Math Instructional Coach, Horace Mann Saltonstall School

Traci has always known she wanted to be a teacher. After completing her undergraduate degree at SSU, and having student taught in Salem Public Schools, it was clear that she wanted to teach in an urban district. While completing her master’s program at SSU, she started her teaching career at Saltonstall School, teaching first and second grade. From there, she moved to the Horace Mann School and taught fifth grade math and science for eight years. Being able to work at a school that was on Salem State’s campus was a dream because she was able to stay connected to the education department and she got to work with many of the undergraduate students that student taught in her class. 

After her school moved locations, she stayed connected by taking on fellows. After eight years teaching fifth grade, she started the CAGS program and made the leap into coaching. As the math instructional coach at HMLS, she now gets to work with both the teachers and the students to ensure Salem students are receiving high-quality math instruction that will set them up for success. Salem State has enabled her to continue to grow, as she now holds an administrator license in a district that she feels so connected to. 

Michael Mulkern ’17

BS – Business Administration
Owner/CEO of Mulkern Coaching and Consulting, MM Elevated Productions, MAVZ Naturals

Michael is an accomplished entrepreneur and dedicated community mentor recognized for his innovative spirit and commitment to making a difference. After graduating from Salem State University, Michael founded a successful CBD business in 2018 called Wave Hemp, guiding it from startup to acquisition. This achievement demonstrated his ability to identify new market trends and build impactful brands and relationships.

In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Michael started a consulting agency in 2020, Mulkern Coaching and Consulting, helping businesses navigate growth challenges. In 2022, he launched a drone photography/videography business, MM Elevated Productions. Both ventures highlight Michael’s diverse skill set and passion for entrepreneurship.

Beyond professional achievements, Michael is deeply committed to giving back. As a volunteer youth mentor with the Big Friends Little Friends program for the last four years, Michael dedicates time to supporting and inspiring individuals, fostering a new generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.

Through Michael’s entrepreneurial successes and dedication to mentorship, he exemplifies the spirit of innovation and community leadership. His journey reflects a commitment not only to professional growth but also to empowering others and giving back, making him a deserving honoree of the Salem State University 40 Under 40 award.

Brenda Ortiz-Peral ’15       

BS – Business Administration
Senior Loan Officer, Salem Five Mortgage Company

Brenda is a senior loan officer at Salem Five Mortgage Company with over 14 years of experience. During her four years at SSU, she also worked full-time in a bank. Much of what she learned in the classroom, she was able to apply at work every day. Since becoming a loan officer in 2016, she has been able to help hundreds of families become homeowners. She works with individuals in all different stages of life, but her passion has always been helping first-time homebuyers.

Brenda has been listed as one of MassHousing’s top lenders several times due to her commitment to help low-to-moderate income earners obtain homeownership. She also partners with several organizations around the North Shore/Boston area to teach first-time homebuyer courses.

Brenda is very active in her community and is a member of the North Shore Latino Business Association. She has served on the board of directors for Lynn Main Streets, Lynn Museum and the Lynn Rotary Club. She has been married to her husband, Reggie, since 2018 and has two daughters, Amelia and Camila. In her free time, she loves to read and to travel with her family.

Taylor Philcrantz ’12G, MS, LMHC, LMFT

MS – Counseling and Psychological Services
Visiting Senior Instructor, Salem State University

“Salem State was a safe place to learn and grow, with encouraging faculty that became mentors post-grad.” 

Taylor began her master’s level coursework immediately following graduation from her bachelor’s program and has worked at many community mental health agencies as a therapist and supervisor. Taylor found her passion as an educator and has been teaching part-time at three local colleges for the past five years. She enjoys helping students access material in unique and equitable ways, making the classroom a safe space. 

Salem State’s education provided a foundation of clinical skills and role models in effective teaching strategies that Taylor utilizes to this day. Taylor enjoys working closely with her former professors, Dr. Melissa Kaplowitch and Dr. Mark Libon, and appreciates the openness to new ideas and growth that both provide as program leaders. 

Taylor also works closely with her local early intervention team as the parent contact and has recently begun to advocate to reduce the inequities she encountered in the healthcare system as she was navigating her son’s hearing loss and subsequent cochlear implant surgery. 

Jessica Pittenger ’16

BS – Biology
Associate Clinical Trial Manager, Scholar Rock

Jessica began her career at Salem State, majoring in biomedical sciences with minors in chemistry and psychology. Active in Phi Sigma Sigma Sorority, she held leadership roles and volunteered for Girls Inc., preparing young girls for college. Initially aiming to become a pharmacist, Jessica shifted to clinical research after being recruited by Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Starting as a clinical research coordinator (CRC), she advanced to CRC II in the breast oncology department. Currently, Jessica works at Scholar Rock in Cambridge, Mass. as an associate clinical trial manager on their immuno-oncology and spinal muscular atrophy programs.

Salem State's rigorous coursework and extracurricular activities equipped her with a strong foundation in scientific principles, leadership and mentoring. A pivotal conversation with a professor and a favorite class on research ethics influenced her career choice in clinical research.

Post-graduation, Jessica continued community service, focusing on health and education initiatives, and participated in local health fairs. Recognized for her contributions at Scholar Rock and in community service, she has stayed connected to Salem State through alumni events and sorority ties.

Her passion for continuous learning, interdisciplinary approach and commitment to improving patient outcomes drive her professional journey.

Alexis Quintal ’13, ’15G

BA – Communications
MEd – HESA
CEO, Rosarium

Alexis is a personal branding expert, accomplished speaker and founder of Rosarium, a PR and marketing collective dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners. Her six transformative years at Salem State University profoundly shaped her journey, having worked in admissions, advising, campus life, alumni relations, and the Entrepreneurship Center while earning her bachelor's degree in communications and master’s degree in higher education in student affairs. During her graduate assistantship with graduate admissions, Alexis honed her leadership and mentorship skills, fostering a deep passion for community building and innovation.

Today, Alexis channels these experiences into Rosarium, leveraging her natural passion for teaching as a sought-after speaker and consultant for personal branding and business growth. She continues to inspire entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders, embodying the values instilled at Salem State while making a meaningful impact on the communities she serves.

Kali Richards ’09

BA – Communications
Manager of Fan Services and Entertainment, Boston Red Sox

Fueled by a commitment to making every moment memorable, Kali Richards has excelled in the event engagement industry, fostering positive and dynamic relationships between top organizations and their audiences. At the Boston Red Sox, she currently serves as the manager of the fan services and entertainment department, where her expertise has produced exceptional fan experiences and engagement initiatives. Hailed for her diligence, creativity and leadership, Kali’s success has taken her from Salem State to Fenway Park, and around the globe. 

Her passion for creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences was sparked in 2012, when she began working part-time for the Boston Red Sox as a Fenway ambassador. In 2016, Kali's passion blossomed into a career, as she entered the incentive travel industry, honed her event engagement skills and explored the world with Executive Group Travel. 

Since returning to the Boston Red Sox full-time in 2022, Kali’s high level of service has continued to realize her commitment to leaving a lasting impact on every guest, fan or client interaction, both big and small. It is an example she learned from the friendships and connections she made through her Salem State family, a strong support system that continues to encourage her throughout her career.

Edi Rovi ’14

BA – Music
Music Educator/Band Director, Swampscott Middle/High School

Edi is a dedicated music educator and accomplished band director at Swampscott Middle/High School. A graduate of Salem State University, Edi earned a degree in music in 2014, laying the foundation for a passionate career in music education. With a commitment to fostering a love for music among students, Edi has cultivated a vibrant band program, emphasizing both performance and musical growth.

Edi credits most of this success to his professors at SSU as well as his high school band director, Cynthia Napierkowski. Mrs. Napierkowski has had a huge impact on Edi’s musical career, and he owes everything to her. Edi believes in the transformative power of music and strives to create an inclusive environment where students can explore their creativity and develop their talents. 

Outside of the classroom, Edi enjoys participating in community music events and continually seeks professional development opportunities to further enhance his skills. Some of his highlight performances have been as a featured soloist with the SSU Chamber Orchestra as well as the Salem Philharmonic Orchestra.

Stella Scata ’19

BS – Social Work
Director of Admissions, Salem State University

Stella was an active member of the campus community while completing her bachelor’s degree in social work at SSU. As part of her BSW degree, Stella completed an internship at local non-profit LEAP for Education, whose mission is to “empower underserved students to achieve social and economic mobility by cultivating personal, educational and career growth.” Coupled with her experience as a student employee in the admissions office, it was this cumulative experience that led Stella to her passion for creating pathways for equitable and accessible higher education.

After graduating with her degree, Stella was hired in the admissions office at Salem State, where she has held several roles, including admissions counselor, associate director of graduate admissions and, currently, as the director of admissions. During her professional tenure, Stella has worked alongside her team to reduce barriers for prospective students and their families in the college admissions process. Notable successes include the pilot of a direct admissions program to support first-generation and Pell-eligible students, the removal of standardized testing for several graduate programs and campus tour programming for LGBTQIA+ students and their supporters.

Outside of her time at SSU, Stella recently earned her master’s degree in social work, during which she completed a yearlong clinical internship at Beverly High School’s Beacon program. In her free time, Stella enjoys trying new recipes, spending time with family and antiquing.

Danielle Terrell ’16                   

BS – Psychology
International Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities Advocate

Danielle graduated Cum Laude from Salem State University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree in psychology. During her time at Salem State, she founded a dance team, received the Viking Award, was a member of multiple honor societies, served on the psychology curriculum committee, and advocated as an advancement ambassador.

Danielle is a highly accomplished, master's-level professional who specializes in developmental disabilities. With expertise in direct support, ABA, transition planning, and crisis management, she is a passionate advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Danielle's career spans diverse settings, including service coordination, residential programs, schools, and in-home therapy. She excels in providing compassionate, individualized support and collaborates effectively with interdisciplinary teams.

She co-hosts Rising Voices: Career Journeys and Autism Advocacy, which is a podcast that provides inspiring stories in hopes to drive young professionals toward meaningful careers in autism advocacy and human services. Danielle's commitment extends to international public speaking and volunteering with non-profit organizations. She is also a contributing author to a published book. She actively seeks to address the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in navigating housing, policy and healthcare systems.

Outside of her professional roles, Danielle is a model, brand ambassador and former Disney princess. She enjoys creative expression through her brand, Light Up My Life, and provides consulting services. 

Alexander Tilkens ’20, ’24G

BS – Criminal Justice
MBA – Business Administration

Alexander is a proud graduate of Salem State University, where he earned a BS in criminal justice with minors in geology, psychology and business administration, as well as an MBA. A former army explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) technician, Alexander’s military service came to an end after he was medically retired. Since then, he has dedicated himself to advocating for veterans, serving on the executive boards of the Salem VFW, Salem DAV and Salem Veterans Council.

During his time as a student, Alexander co-founded Bubble Bar Boston with his mother, Maria Tilkens. What began as a mobile bar company in 2021 has grown into a flourishing enterprise. In August 2024, the business expanded with the opening of Bubble Bar Boston On Main, a 1930s-inspired craft cocktail lounge in Amesbury, Mass. This innovative establishment emphasizes hyperlocal, high-quality ingredients and supports women- and veteran-owned businesses that align with its mission.

Alexander’s commitment to community, entrepreneurship and excellence has earned him recognition as a leader and changemaker. He continues to champion veterans’ causes, drive small business innovation and contribute meaningfully to the Salem State and greater Massachusetts communities.

Jessica Tomlinson ’09

BS – Psychology & Social Work
Real Estate Salesperson, Coldwell Banker Realty

Jessica graduated as a double major in both psychology and social work with an urban studies minor, obtaining membership in honor societies for both major academic disciplines. As an undergraduate student, Jessica was active in various student clubs and worked on the advancement team supporting the gift processing department. Jessica’s commitment to the Salem community extended to her position as a front desk clerk at the Hawthorne Hotel for over seven years while she was a student and post-graduation.

Upon graduation in 2009, Jessica began her career in the non-profit and development sector with a role at The Caleb Group as the director of development and public relations, where she supported affordable housing and service coordination efforts at various housing communities throughout New England. She went on to work at Cohen Hillel Academy in Marblehead, Mass., supporting the admissions, development and special events operations. During a short life detour to Atlanta, Ga., she had the pleasure of working with the Atlanta chapter of Habitat for Humanity, continuing her development and affordable housing work. Her work has always focused on equity and access to resources for vulnerable populations. Jessica currently works as a licensed real estate professional in Mass. and N.H. at Coldwell Banker Realty and continues to use both her education and skills to support the lives of many, especially those who are lucky enough to be her clients. 

Her work ethic and commitment to her craft are constantly celebrated, often achieving top ten status in her field. That passion is only rivaled by her commitment to service of others. In 2023, while a member of the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Jessica was the recipient of the George H. Ellison ’54 Volunteer of the Year Award, as she has been dedicated to positively impacting the Salem State community and world around her. 

Tianna Torres ’13                      

BS – Biology
Head of Operations, Novartis

Tianna’s journey in biomedical sciences began at Salem State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in biology, with minors in chemistry and physics, graduating with a 4.0 in her physics minor. Her academic experience at Salem State sparked her passion for research and provided the foundation for her career in biomedical sciences.

As head of operations at Novartis, Tianna leads initiatives to improve laboratory safety, quality and efficiency. She is dedicated to optimizing lab environments and fostering collaboration across teams, ensuring scientists have the resources to make groundbreaking discoveries. Her focus is on creating spaces that promote innovation and scientific advancement.

At Salem State, Tianna was an engaged member of the campus community. She was a basketball cheerleader, a dancer with the Repertory Dance Theatre and an active participant in both the chemistry and biology societies. These experiences helped shape her leadership and community involvement.

Beyond her professional achievements, Tianna is passionate about mentorship and community outreach. She is committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and believes in the transformative power of education. Her dedication to advancing science and empowering others continues to be guided by the strong foundation she built at Salem State University.

Jabari Tovar ’16

BA – Music
Percussion Specialist, Salem Public Schools

Jabari Tovar '16 is a percussion educator based in the North Shore of Massachusetts. Currently, Jabari serves as the percussion specialist for the Salem Public Schools (Mass.), instructing all percussion students in grades 4-12. Jabari also serves as the percussion director for the Salem High School Marching Band and the Salem High School Indoor Percussion Ensemble, where he arranges/composes music for percussion students of all skill levels. 

Outside of the classroom, Jabari also has an extensive background in the marching arts, most notably working with the Open Class World Championship drum corps, The Spartans of Nashua, N.H., as well as the WGI World Championship Finalist Spartans Indoor Percussion. In the Spartans organization, Jabari serves as percussion consultant, working with the percussion education teams to further develop teaching strategies and pedagogy. 

In February 2023, Jabari was named by the Yamaha Music Corporation as a “40 Under 40” music educator. Jabari was nationally recognized for his efforts in creating a culturally responsive curriculum and challenging the “traditional” aspects of band and percussion repertoire. In November 2023, Jabari was inducted into the Northeast Regional Educators Hall of Fame in recognition of his work in Salem Public Schools.

Yaqin Zhu ’12, ’13

BS – Business Administration (Marketing and Accounting)
FSO Tax Manager – Ernst & Young, LLP

Yaqin is a proud alumna of Salem State University, where she earned a dual degree in marketing and accounting. After completing her undergraduate studies, she pursued a graduate degree in taxation from Bentley University. At SSU, she met her husband, the love of her life, and together they are raising their four-year-old daughter.

As an international student from China, Yaqin credits the support and opportunities she received at SSU as instrumental to shaping who she is today. She is deeply committed to supporting student success, particularly helping international students thrive in their careers. She dedicates her time to fostering human connections and advocating for women’s success in the workplace.

Since 2016, Yaqin has built her career at EY, one of the big four public accounting firms. Through hard work and dedication, she has since grown into a manager role, where she leads teams and delivers impactful solutions for clients.

Yaqin is a member of the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. board of directors and has been an advocate for Viking Warrior Day, Salem State's annual day of giving. She aims to give back by empowering the next generation of leaders and making a lasting impact in her industry.