

Dr. Anna Maria Heredia
Assistant Dean SEST
herediaa@ccsu.edu
AIH 202
860.832.1637
I am an Assistant Dean in SEST focusing on student-facing initiatives for undergraduate and graduate students, supporting enrollment, retention, and academic success across SEST programs. I have worked in higher education for over 20 years, including leadership roles in financial aid, student employment, academic advising, and TRIO outreach. I have also served as advisor to student clubs/organizations and enjoy working with students throughout their academic journey. Outside of the office, my favorite book is my passport, and I love to travel. I try to stay active and enjoy participating in races with my running group.

Dr. Ramyapandian Vijayakanthan
Assistant Professor, Computer Science
r.vijayakanthan@ccsu.edu
AIH 413
860.832.2724
I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science. As a software engineer and educator, I have a deep curiosity about how things work in cyberspace—and how we can better protect the privacy and confidentiality of our sensitive data. My journey began with degrees in engineering and information technology and has taken me through diverse roles in both industry and academia. My passion lies not only in exploring emerging technologies but also in inspiring budding scholars and engaging them in STEM research through testbed development, experimentation, and analysis. My recent projects focus on securing IoT systems through innovative digital fingerprinting techniques that convert dynamic memory signals into audio spectrums for effective malware detection and analysis. Beyond my professional work, I enjoy canvas painting, playing pickle-ball, baking cakes, and visiting new places.

Dr. Viktoria Savatorova
Associate Professor, Mathematical Sciences
viktoria.savatorova@ccsu.edu
Marcus White Hall - 117
860.832.3679
I am an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences. I have always been intrigued by how mathematics can explain patterns and processes in the natural sciences from physics and chemistry to biology. My research has focused on applied problems in geophysics and material science, and I have recently started exploring mathematical modeling in the life sciences. I enjoy collaborating with students on research and have co-authored two papers with undergraduate students in the past two years. In the classroom, I like to incorporate real-world applications to help students see how mathematics connects with other disciplines. When I do not teach or work on a research paper, I like hiking and exploring new places.

Dr. Kathy Martin
Professor & Chair, Biomolecular Sciences
martink@ccsu.edu
NC 204
860.832.2655
I am the chair of the Biomolecular Sciences Program which strives to put graduates into professional programs in Health Careers or PhD programs and to insure they are employable in the Connecticut biotechnology industry. I have taught at CCSU for 35 years and find our students to be good people well prepared for rigors of our programs.

Dr. Luz Amaya
Associate Professor, Engineering
l.amaya@ccsu.edu
AIH 31511
860.832.3679
I am an Associate Professor in the Department of Engineering. I am a Mechanical Engineer, which is a decision I took after working with my father in his car shop. All my life I have been trying to figure out how things work and how to make them better. I enjoy teaching a variety of classes, mainly Heat Transfer, Fluid Mechanics, and Numerical Methods. My projects involve conservation of water and energy. I always search for solution of everyday problems.

Dr. Michele Dischino
Professor, Technology & Engineering Education
dischinomic@ccsu.edu
NC 2350300
860.832.1857
I am a Professor in the Technology & Engineering Education Department. As an engineer drawn to education, I’m committed to finding effective ways to excite young minds about science, technology, engineering, and math. As a teacher educator, I also have the privilege of instructing and mentoring the next generation of students who share my passion for exciting students of all ages about technology and engineering and exposing them to the numerous career pathways available in STEM fields. I also like to seek out opportunities for my students and I to use our STEM skills to solve problems in our community.

Leslie Phang
Area Coordinator
phanglv@ccsu.edu
I am the Area Coordinator of Mid-Campus, which means I oversee all things related to Mid-Campus. I am currently entering my 3rd year at CCSU working for Residence Life and have been in this field for about 6 years. I have a Bachelors in Psychology and Sociology from Southern CT State University, and a Master's in Higher Education from CCSU. I am a first-generation graduate, Latina, and am committed to holistic support when it comes to my students. Reach out if you need anything!

Nathalie Sanchez
Graduate Intern
st_ns9899@ccsu.edu
I am the Graduate Intern for Mid-Campus Residence Hall. I recently graduated from Central with a Bachelor's in Social Work and am now pursuing my Master's in Social Work. I have worked in higher education for over four years, entering my third year in Residence Life while also spending four years working in two universities’ Admissions departments. I am passionate about supporting students in their academic and personal journeys, with a strong focus on advocacy and empowerment. As a Latina and first-generation college student, I am committed to building an inclusive and supportive community. I look forward to connecting with you all!

Ryan Cappella
Mechanical Engineering Student
cappella.r@my.ccsu.edu
I am a Junior Mechanical Engineering Major. I am from Hamden CT, and my favorite sports are baseball and basketball. I love all things outdoors including backpacking and snowboarding. I've spent a lot of time working on at an auto shop fixing cars as well!