Alumni Class Notes

Max Arzu '17

After graduating from Central, Max went on to get his MFA in Film & Television Production at Sacred Heart University. He is currently based in Dallas, Texas and works independently as a professional photographer. He shoots all types of events, but his main focus is shooting concerts!

Cheryl Gonzalez '99

Cheryl Gonzalez has been appointed superintendent of the Mill River Union School District in Vermont. She most recently served as principal of Frank Ward Strong Middle School in Durham, CT. She earned both a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Science in Education from Central, as well as a postgraduate degree in Educational Leadership.

Lenard Foust '17

Lenard is a NYC-based performing artist and part-time doctoral student in Dance Education at Columbia University, with a career spanning performances with recording artists, cruise lines, a ballet company, and musical theater productions. He holds an MFA in Dance Performance and a graduate certificate in World Performance Studies from the University of Michigan, has taught at institutions including Alabama State University and the University of Michigan, and was a Fulbright Scholar in China. Currently represented by LDC Artist Representation, his research investigates how Hip Hop and Jazz practices can enhance dance education and improve the professional readiness and employability of BFA dance graduates.

Raul Ortiz '16

Raul served with the Hartford Fire Department from 1999 to 2018, rising through the ranks to Deputy Fire Chief before becoming Chief of the New Britain Fire Department, a role he continues to hold. He was recently inducted into CT State Firefighters Association Hall of Fame and serves as a Commissioner on Connecticut’s Commission on Fire Prevention and Control. Ortiz has also been recognized with multiple honors, including 50 Influential Latinos in Greater Hartford, 100 Men of Color Award in 2019, and was inducted into the Bulkeley High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.

Olivia Carlson '20

Olivia Carlson made history as the first graduate of the Dance Education Entrepreneurial track. In 2020 she launched the QT Bears Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to its mission to offer comfort, hope, and love to children facing crises. She is now based in Los Angeles.

Ron Farina '15

Ron has built a powerful second career as an author highlighting the sacrifices of America’s veterans. His acclaimed works, including Who Will Have My Back and Out of the Shadows, which spotlights the courage of wounded soldiers and the caregivers who support them. In recognition of his impact, Farina was inducted into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame and continues to teach and write, using storytelling to honor those who have served.

Morgan Bengel '18

Morgan Bengel '18, is a recipient of this year's state Young Preservationist Award! https://preservationct.org/2025-connecticut-preservation-awards-recipients

Christina Volpe '18 & '20

Christina Volpe '18 & '20, is a recipient of this year's state Young Preservationist Award! https://preservationct.org/2025-connecticut-preservation-awards-recipients

Jerry Libbin '74

jerry Libbin '74 has published a new book titled Chambers of the Heart, available on Amazon. The book shares powerful life lessons drawn from his extraordinary experience surviving both heart and kidney transplants in 2022.

Chambers of the Heart on Amazon

Edward Ramsdell '04

Ed Ramsdell '04 is the founder, President, and CEO of Orion Protective Services, a Connecticut-based security staffing firm that employs hundreds of security professionals across Connecticut and Massachusetts. This year, Orion Protective Services proudly celebrates its 15th anniversary, continuing its mission to safeguard businesses and provide security services that deliver protection and peace of mind.

Iris Gomero '24

The Windham Board of Education has named Dr. Iris Gomero as the district’s next superintendent of schools.

She will officially step into the role on July 1. Dr. Gomero earned her Doctorate of Education from Central in 2024.

Kathleen Rickard

Congratulations to Kathleen for being named one of the Hartford Business Journal 2025 Women in Business.

Tyler Kania '14

Tyler Kania recently published a memoir titled The Maniac with No Knees, which chronicles his journey through devastating sports injuries, living with undiagnosed Bipolar I Disorder, and ultimately finding healing through storytelling. The book offers a raw and insightful look at mental health, resilience, and personal transformation. You can read and purchase the book here

Jim Murphy '86

Jim Murphy owns Mod Mansions in Palm Springs, CA and The Sea View Inn in Manhattan Beach, CA. He was recognized as one of Leading 100 LGBTQ Executives in the World by Financial Times London in 2016.

In his spare time, he is the goalkeeper for the Palm Springs Masters Water Polo Team.

Christine Reed Davis '95

Christine Reed Davis, vice chancellor for student affairs at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, was honored with the 2025 John L. Sanders Student Advocate Award—the highest recognition from the UNC Association of Student Governments. With over 20 years of service in the UNC System, Davis was celebrated for her unwavering commitment to student success and well-being. Read more here

Kayla Miller

Kayla Miller '16 is transforming science education in under-resourced communities and across a broad range of school systems, bridging the gap between PK-12 learning and emerging technology industries. Read more here