Alumni Class Notes / Archive

Nicole Santoro '23

After graduating Central in May 2023, Nicole went on to pursue a masters degree (also from Central) in Counselor Education with a specialization in Student Development in Higher Education. She says her time at Central really shaped her career path as she wasn’t really sure what she wanted to do prior. She hopes to come back and work for Central one day and help students along their higher education journey, just as others did for her.

Eric Burns '21

In 2024 Eric started a new job as an implementation specialist at Trinnex in Texas.

Bessie Fong '17

Bessie started her own video media production company. Bessie Fong Productions which offers full production services.

bessiefong.com

Bethany Grupp '15

Bethany was featured in Granby Living Magazine in 2024 spotlighting how she is helping people in Ghana and staying rooted to her hometown of Granby, CT.

Harrison Katz '12

Harrison started a new position as Director of Global Product Placement at Sun Chemical.

Ben Martino '11

Ben started a new position as a Cost Accountant at Gemma Power Supply.

Cory Rogers '20

In December 2023, Cory graduated with an MBA from Johns Hopkins University's Carey School of Business. In August 2024, he joined a STEM doctoral program at Southern Connecticut State University. In August 2024, he accepted an adjunct faculty role in School of Business at Central.

Jane Hikel '90

Jane published a memoir, Monkey Boulevard, (Ingram Press 2023). Her childhood was informed by the weight of history and her parents' survival as Polish forced laborers under the Nazi regime. As displaced persons after World War II, they settled in Ville Emard, a multi-ethnic borough of Montreal where her journey as a five-year-old began. This is the story of an immigrant's journey with its sense of dislocation and collision with new languages and culture that is survived with curiosity and humor.

Clifford Snow '93

Congratulations to Clifford who was inducted into the Bristol (CT) Sports Hall of Fame in November 2024 for many years of service as a Football Coach (1983-1994 High School, 1995-1998 College) and Athletic Administrator (1999-2018 Director of Football Operations at six Division 1 Universities).

Kelly Theriault '93

Kelly Kalat Theriault was chosen as Canton Public Schools 2024-2025 teacher of the year. Kelly has taught kindergarten at Cherry Brook Elementary School for the past 17 years.

Ryan Budd '15

Ryan Budd has accepted a position as the Head Men's and Women's Cross Country and Men's and Women's Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field Coach at Western Connecticut Stae University.

“The Glass Menagerie”

An Extra Special Reunion of “The Glass Menagerie” cast 54 years after performing together in the Torp Theater at Central.

From left to right – Bill Brimmer, Linda DeRose Carlson ’71, Chris Holstgrubbe Napolitan ’68 and Ron Piretti got together in Hopewell Junction, NY to enjoy a Reunion.

Donna Bushka '83

Donna Bushka began her career at United Technologies (UTC), primarily working in the aerospace industry. She spent over a decade at Hamilton Standard, traveling across Asia to support field representatives and airline customers, before moving to Pratt & Whitney to manage international spare parts orders. After also working at Carrier in Contracts/Accounting, she took early retirement post-COVID a

Matt Friedman '84

Matt Friedman has spent the past 35 years living and working in Asia, dedicated to combating human trafficking. His latest book, Awakening the Advocate: Memoirs of a Modern Slavery Activist, released by Penguin Random House, builds on his previous work and shares over 100 stories highlighting modern slavery, his personal journey, and ways to drive change, with all proceeds supporting anti-trafficking efforts.

Lesbia Nieves '92

She was one of 14 veterans selected for the 20th class of honorees for induction into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame.

Story on CT Insider

Chris Rocheleau '85

Chris Rocheleau was named Acting FAA Administrator in January 2025. He is responsible for leading the safe and efficient operation of the largest aerospace system in the world.

FAA Profile

Barbara Budaj '05

Barbara Budaj, an assistant dean at Central Connecticut State University, has been awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching by the National Science Foundation, recognizing her dedication to STEM education. Barbara has served in various teaching and leadership roles, including mathematics curriculum supervisor and principal, before joining Central in 2022. She oversees student-teacher placements, supports future educators, and teaches in the Master of Arts in Teaching program, contributing significantly to the advancement of STEM education in Connecticut!

Madison Palumbo '23

Madison Palumbo has just started a new journey as a sports and news reporter for @6NewsCTX in Waco, Texas! Madison was a double major in Journalism and Strategic Communications and captain of the NCAA DI women's lacrosse team during her time at Central.

Chuck Breiner '67

Chuck Breiner who recently retired and moved to Florida shares that he is indebted to Central for the exceptional foundation he received to prepare him for the gratifying 53 year career in teaching and leadership in public education. He was a deans list performer at Central and went on to land his first teaching job right after graduation. He says he credits his professors especially Dr. Josephine Ryan and Dr. Ralph Goodell for all of their encouragement and support. We wish Chuck the best in his retirement!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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 '24 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 '85

Congratulations to Kathleen '85 for being named one of the Hartford Business Journal 2025 Women in Business.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Kevin Harris '11

MahoneySabol of Glastonbury promoted Kevin Harris '11 to partner. As a partner, Harris will continue to oversee tax-related services, lead a team of tax professionals, and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations for a diverse range of clients, including individuals, corporations, partnerships, and not-for-profits. Harris joined MahoneySabol in 2015 and is a member of the state and national societies of CPAs.

Daniel A. Steiner '21

Kahan Kerensky Capossela, LLP, announced the addition of Daniel A. Steiner '21, as associate attorney to the firm. Steiner will work in the firm’s Business Department. Daniel completed his law education at Western New England University School of Law, where he received a Transactional Law Certificate. Daniel successfully passed the July 2024 Bar Exam.

Nora Mocarski '99

Nora Mocarski '99 has been named the 2025 Connecticut History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. A longtime Social Studies Department Chair at Canton Middle/High School, she has maintained a 92% AP U.S. History pass rate over 16 years. Nora previously earned Canton’s District Teacher of the Year (2019–20) and the DAR “Outstanding Teacher of American History Award” (2014). Beyond the classroom, she serves on the Winchester Board of Education, has evaluated social studies programs, and has contributed to Connecticut's state standards.

Garrett Walker '07

Garrett Walker '07 earned 12 varsity letters and six All-SWC honors in football, basketball and baseball at Foran High of Milford. He was twice all-state in baseball while playing for his father, Ken. Now the Lions’ football and baseball coach, he led Foran to the 2017 CIAC Class L championship.

Ron Luneau '89

Ron Luneau '89 has served on the Southern Connecticut Diamond Club Executive Board for 16 years. A longtime coach in the greater New Haven area, he has led both football and baseball programs for more than three decades, including head baseball coaching roles at Derby High School (1997–2003) and West Haven High School (2015–2022).

Robert “Robb” Warner '78

Robert “Robb” Warner '78 was elected commander of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 17 in Manchester, CT. An Air Force veteran who served in Thailand during the Vietnam War. Robb has been an active member of the veteran community for decades - he is a 45-year member of the American Legion and a former commander of Hebron’s Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Veterans (AMVETS). He has also served his hometown as first selectman, tax collector, and secretary of the Conservation and Wetlands Commission.

Corrianne Gagliardi Chipello '13

Corrianne Gagliardi Chipello '13 was recognized in 2025 as one of Hartford Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty honorees for her leadership as Executive Director & CEO of Hartford’s Camp Courant. Since 2020, she has guided the organization’s mission by expanding programs, leading successful fundraising initiatives, and ensuring access to enriching summer experiences for Hartford youth. Read more here

Todd Jones '08

Todd Jones '08 published Plainville, Connecticut: A History (Arcadia) in May 2025. He holds degrees in History and Public History from Central and currently works in the Historic Preservation Office in Washington, D.C. The Historic Preservation Office is responsible for the planning, protection, and public outreach of the District's historic and cultural resources.

April Norman '21

April Norman ’21 was recognized in 2025 as one of Hartford Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty honorees for her achievements as Director of Construction for Comcast’s New England Region. She manages large-scale infrastructure and network expansion projects across six states, championing innovation and representation in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Jacquelyn DeNicola Rose '09

Jacquelyn DeNicola Rose ’09 was recognized in 2025 as one of Hartford Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty honorees for her leadership as Executive Director of ALS United Connecticut. Since taking on the role, she has strengthened organizational operations, expanded local programs, and advanced the mission to support individuals and families affected by ALS across the state.

Vivian Pereda '18

Vivian Pereda ’18 was recognized in 2025 as one of Hartford Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty honorees for her leadership as Director of CampusCare Operations at Hartford HealthCare. She oversees student health, counseling, and sports medicine services across seven Connecticut college campuses, improving access to care and wellness outcomes for thousands of students each year.

Steve Green ’09

Steve Green ’09 has taken a leadership role as Executive Director of Retina Strategy & Business Development at ANI Pharmaceuticals. His work focuses on the rare-disease space, particularly in ophthalmology and retina-related therapies, with deep expertise in sales and launch excellence for biologics, medical devices and rare-disease treatments. Prior to this role, Steve served as Vice President of Ophthalmology Sales at ANI Pharmaceuticals, building and directing commercial strategy for retina markets. His career reflects a strong dedication to advancing treatments in underserved areas of vision care and bringing new innovations from development into the marketplace.

Ralph Anderson ’05

Ralph Anderson ’05 brings over 20 years of experience in public accounting, specializing in tax compliance, planning, and consulting. He works closely with business owners and leadership teams to provide guidance on federal, state, and local tax matters. Ralph serves clients across a wide range of industries, including medical and dental practices, real estate, private equity, continuing care retirement communities, and law firms, as well as closely held businesses and high-net-worth individuals. He is also a contributor to Connecticut Magazine, a frequent lecturer on tax law updates, and an active member of the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants, where he has organized the Federal Tax Forum.

Mike Makoski ’03

Mike Makoski ’03 has joined Coole Insight as the Associate for International & UK Development (United States). Mike is a seasoned higher education leader with more than 15 years of experience in student engagement, event management, and campus operations. He has held roles at Smith College, the University of Massachusetts Lowell, Fitchburg State University, and William & Mary, and currently serves as the Student Involvement Coordinator for ACUI Region VIII. Mike is known for bringing creativity, compassion, and strategic insight to his work, helping institutions build inclusive, community-centered environments where students thrive!

Behrooz Badii ’03

Behrooz Badii ’03 has built an impressive career across some of the world’s leading tech companies. He began as a Software Engineer at YellowJacket and CapitalStar Systems before moving into an Associate role at Morgan Stanley. From there, Behrooz advanced into high-impact engineering positions at Twitter and Uber, later joining Google as an Engineering Manager for several Google Docs teams, where he helped drive key product improvements. He has also served as an advisor to tech startups Pixie and Torq. Behrooz went on to become a Director of Engineering at Lyft, leading major initiatives and supporting the company’s NYC office. As of 2023, he serves as Director of Engineering at Airbnb.