“It’s all because of Salem State,” exclaims Adam Reusing ’03. “The university made such an impact on my life, both personally and professionally, and I was fortunate to have wonderful professors that helped me become the man I am today.”
For Adam, his Salem State journey began long before he stepped foot on campus. He was born and bred in Cincinnati, Ohio, but his New England-loving parents vacationed in the area every summer – from Salem to Cape Cod to North Conway. So when the time came to make a decision for college, Adam already felt at home at Salem State.
“I knew I wanted to be in New England, go into business and play baseball, so Salem State checked all the boxes. John Galaris, former athletic director, offered to take me and my dad on a recruiting visit and I was able to meet the coach. That sealed the deal for me.”
Adam smiles as he talks about his Salem State experience, particularly when speaking about his wife, Bonnie (Federico) Reusing ’08, whom he met in his co-ed dorm freshman year. “Who knew that was going to happen,” he chuckles.
He found the individualized attention and encouragement from faculty to be a big motivating factor throughout his academic journey. He recalls a time when Professor Anne Marie Hakstian PhD pulled him aside to speak about his grade, which ultimately motivated him into understanding and realizing his full potential as a student. “That boost of confidence helped me become an honors student. I’m still in touch with Anne Marie and am thankful for the amazing professors who inspired me.”
As a business management major concentrating on human resource management, Adam built a successful career that led him from Clean Harbors, GNC and Bed, Bath and Beyond to his current role as vice president of global total rewards and people operations at World Central Kitchen.
World Central Kitchen, founded by Chef José Andrés in 2010, is first on the frontlines, providing fresh meals to communities impacted by natural disasters and during humanitarian crises. Adam is thrilled to be working for such a powerful, mission-driven organization. “Relief teams are currently on the ground in Gaza, Israel, Lebanon, Japan, Ukraine, and in the Southern United States, giving jobs to people in the community, providing food and helping to stimulate the local economy. It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we work together.”
Adam is looking forward to being more involved at the university and will be speaking to a group of business students during the spring semester. “I want to give back. Salem State is a great place, and I really believe they are responsible for where I am today.”
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