Alumni Class Notes

Tyler Kania '14

Tyler Kania '14 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 '86 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 '95, 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 '16

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

Gary Mullins '73

Gary Mullins '73, recently celebrated his 800th career win as the head coach of Turners Falls High School softball—a remarkable milestone in Massachusetts high school sports. Under his leadership, Turners Falls has become a powerhouse program.

Mary Lou Mayo '84

At 100 years old, Mary Lou Mayo ’84 continues to inspire as she co-facilitates the "Friends for Older Adults" discussion group at the West Hartford Senior Center. A retired special education teacher with three master's degrees, Mayo fosters community and self-reflection among seniors, emphasizing the value of lifelong learning and shared experiences.

Kevin Ryan '80

Kevin Ryan ’80 co-leads the "Friends for Older Adults" group alongside Mary Lou Mayo '84 at the West Hartford Senior Center. A dedicated advocate for lifelong learning, Ryan is currently enrolled in gerontology courses at Central Connecticut State University.

Sherma Rismay '17

Sherma Rismay '17 is the founder of BluePrint Publishing and the creator of the first-ever, patent-pending Black American History Map—an educational resource linked to a digital archive of African American primary sources, artwork, and historical materials. Her initiative aims to integrate African American, and eventually Latino, narratives into the broader American story over the next five years.

Joyce Bogdan '73

Joyce Bogdan ’73 has recently published a collection of educational books for early readers, including the Street Rhymes Series, Short Vowels and Basic English Sounds for New Readers. Designed to support phonics and vocabulary development, the series helps children build foundational literacy skills through engaging stories and activities. Joyce is also the author of several poetry books, including Enjoying Language through Poetry and Positive Power, Poems that Inspire! You can find some of her books here

Vanessa Rossitto '92

Vanessa Rossitto ’92, CPA and Principal at CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP), was honored with the inaugural CTCPA Impact Award by the Connecticut Society of CPAs. She was recognized for her leadership in advocating for legislative changes that improved reporting accuracy and reduced burdens for schools, municipalities, and auditors across the state.

Marla Rubenstein '15

Marla Rubenstein ’15 established a Community Medical Fund at the Connecticut Veterinary Center in West Hartford, a 24/7 emergency clinic, to provide life-saving care for stray cats and dogs suffering from abuse, neglect, or abandonment across Connecticut. Thanks to this initiative, many animals have recovered and found homes through rescues such as CT Cat Connection, Protectors of Animals, and My Bella TNR.

Jessie Fong '17

Jessie Fong ’17 was recently named a 2025 Most Valuable Athletic Trainer of the Year by Training & Conditioning magazine, a prestigious national recognition celebrating her outstanding dedication and impact in the field of athletic training. A proud Central alum, Jessie earned her M.S. in Athletic Training in 2017 and returned to campus in 2024 to join the Sports Medicine Department as an Assistant Athletic Trainer. She now works closely with the Blue Devils’ football and lacrosse teams while also serving as a preceptor for CCSU’s graduate students in the athletic training program.

Nally Sahin ’17

Nally Sahin ’17 was named assistant director of Branford Parks, Recreation & Senior Services in June. Nally is the president-elect of the Connecticut Association of Physical Education, Health, Recreation and Dance and a cadre trainer for the Dove Self-Esteem Project. She also serves as vice president of health for the National Academy of Health and Physical Literacy Eastern Seaboard Region and chairs its Academy Community Engagement Committee.

David Lawler ’05

David Lawler ’05 was named managing director of technology advisory services at Baker Newman Noyes, a nationally recognized top 100 accounting and advisory firm. In this new leadership role, David will guide strategic business and technology consulting initiatives for clients across industries. He brings nearly two decades of experience in cybersecurity, systems engineering, and executive technology advising.

Pete DiStefano '05

Pete DiStefano '05 was recognized as a 2025 Top Young Leader by Carolinas AGC (CAGC). Pete serves as director of operations at Crowder Construction’s Heavy Civil Division. The award honors rising leaders in the construction industry who exemplify excellence, integrity, and service to the community and the profession.

Ellie Lloyd '16

Ellie Lloyd '16 was named Windsor Public Schools’ 2025–26 Teacher of the Year. A dedicated K–5 art educator at John F. Kennedy and Poquonock Elementary Schools, Ellie is known for her creative, student-centered approach to teaching. Her passion for the arts and commitment to fostering meaningful engagement in the classroom have earned her multiple Teacher of the Year nominations.