Degree:
Bachelor's in Geology

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
I'm a Coordinator of Accommodations for the Office of Disability Services at Rutgers University-Camden! I work with students who have disabilities toremove barriers to their educational experience through accommodations!

One of my favorite individuals on this planet, Jen Radwanski (ya know, the Associate Director of Graduate Admissions) changed the entire course of myprofessional career when I became a part of T.A.L.O.N.S (The Activity Leaders of New Students) in 2014. Volunteering with a group of amazing peers toensure smooth transitions for incoming freshmen life really gave me the tools to make my passions tangible and helped me realize my career goals werepossible!

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
The Office of Disability Services can carry a stigma to it and students don't always feel comfortable with talking about their experiences. I've used mydegree in geology to create some pretty cool presentations by relating students and their unique needs to how rocks grow and form! I'll usually bringsome samples of rocks and explain the unique ways in with they form to compare to students needing accommodations, which makes our officememorable and more approachable!

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I love my job because I get to meet incredible students every single day. Every person comes with a story that I feel privileged to hear. I also enjoycoming up with solutions that create equal access and opportunity for students, in ways that they may not have thought possible prior to meeting me.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
Jen and I stay connected pretty regularly to catch up. I also enjoy staying up to date on the Geology program's social media when they go on trips!

What is something people may not know about you?
This is my whole personality at this point, but I teach Zumba and FitStix fitness classes! My love for Zumba actually started my freshman year atStockton in 2012 when I took classes on campus in the I-Wing Gym! That's what motivated me to get my license eventually in 2018.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Take any kind of class that may interest you, even if it has nothing to do with your set major! I started Stockton as a theater major, moved to marinebiology, teaching, then finally settled on geology after taking a random class about rocks! You never know what you might be interested in, so getinvolved in all the things both academically and socially!

Degree:
Bachelor of Science

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Deputy Director for the Office of Low Earth Orbit Observations for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Professor Richard Hager. His passion for Marine Science, his personable demeanor, and his ability to work with and help students grow and succeed
helped shape my own personal philosophy for leadership and mentoring. He was a confident and personable person who taught me to look for leadership qualities in others and to do what I can to help them grow. However, at the same time he made sure I understood that though we have to work hard, we must also take time for ourselves (work life balance before the term became trendy). He helped me grow as a person and taught me to strive
for my goals without burning out.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
My proudest professional accomplishment was receiving my commission in the United States Air Force. Most of college/schooling was not difficult for me, and I assumed Officer Training School (OTS) would be similar—but I was mistaken—OTS was very difficult and challenging. I can say that I truly
earned my commission in the USAF, and Stockton played a large role there. Stockton helped prepare me to succeed at OTS by helping me come out of my shell during my tenure there. Most of my life I was fairly shy and not outgoing. My time at Stockton helped me overcome that. The encouragement and non-judgmental attitude of both the staff and my fellow students allowed me to overcome my shyness and to become outgoing by teaching me to be confident in myself. With the support of everyone at Stockton, I overcame my shyness and this helped me to mature as an individual. I can truly say that this was one of the key things that helped me to succeed at OTS.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
My career path was a bit different than what I planned during my time at Stockton. At Stockton, I was accepted to 3 PhD programs, but turned them all down to join the US Air Force. As a commissioned officer I did many interesting things in the Air Force: START treaty work, nuclear missile launch operations, GPS satellite operations, and performing orbital analysis in Cheyenne Mountain. After my time with the Air Force, I transitioned to civilian life
and supported the Department of Defense working on various satellite projects until I joined NOAA where I managed the Wallops Command and Data Acquisition Station near Chincoteague VA—in essence running a facility that downlinks satellite information for the nation. After a bit, I transitioned to my
current position as the Deputy Director for the Office of Low Earth Orbit Observations—where we build the nations low earth orbit meteorological satellites. There are two things I like about my current position, the first is being able to shape the future of the nation’s weather satellites. We are
planning the architecture for next generation of satellites our nation will use through 2050. In addition, I like the flexibility that this position affords me to gain new experiences—I am currently on a rotational assignment to the Office of Space Commerce (OSC), where I am helping the nation stand up a Space Traffic Coordination operations center. This center will take over a portion of the operations currently done by the US Space Force for safety of navigation in space. It’s exciting to help lead a team of truly outstanding professionals as we plan the nation’s space architecture for low earth orbiting weather satellites and building out the operations center to achieve safety of navigation in space. 

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
Mainly through Facebook

What is something people may not know about you?
I grew up speaking Russian

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Take every opportunity to push yourself outside of your comfort zone to allow yourself to grow and achieve great things—that and have fun while at Stockton—those memories will be cherished, and once you are done there, it’s a lot of work on the outside.

Degree:
Bachelors Degree in Business Administration

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Managing Partner/General Manager of Millennium Skate World located in Camden, NJ

Initially, out of high school, I attended Peirce College in Philadelphia and obtained an Associates Degree. As a transfer student into Stockton, I wasextremely nervous. The Admission process was seamless. I was welcomed by the Stockton community with Open Arms. The Management courses,Statistics and Psychology courses are the most memorable.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
After graduating from Stockton, I began my career at University of Pennsylvania Hospital as a Financial Counselor for Infertile couples - OB/GYN, In-Vitro, Inseminations. The Psychology courses enabled me to listen and encourage families through their course of treatment in a compassionate manner.The Math courses enabled me to calculate and process their out of pocket expenses for treatment. I worked at HUP from 1994 to 2000.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
In 2000, I was able to turn my Hobby of Roller Skating into a Career with the Grand Opening of Millennium Skate World. Hence the name Millennium -the year 2000. Everyday is an exciting adventure with the roller skating industry. It is a pleasure seeing the children smiling from ear to ear while skating,celebrating a loved ones birthday plus our Adult skaters performing intricate skate moves. We offer Birthday parties, Adult Night skates, Fundraisers,Educational STEM program for schools, Family sessions and more... Operating a Roller Skating rink entails Profit and Loss responsibility, strongoperational skills, management training plus sales and marketing experience. As a person that possesses good judgement, strong communication andcustomer service skills, I give credit to the courses at Stockton with helping me be successful in Business. Millennium Skate World 1900 Carman StCamden, NJ 08105 856-757-9460 www.millenniumskateworld.com IG @mswcamden

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I enjoyed attending the Evening of Excellence event and the Alumni Meet and Greet event. The emails from Stockton are informative with what ishappening on campus.

What is something people may not know about you?
My Son, Jaden is a Sophomore at Stockton. I am truly a proud mom because my son is following in my footsteps. In addition to attending Stockton, he isalso my Assistant Manager at Millennium Skate World.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Become involved with the different Student Organizations. A job on campus is a good kick start to your potential career. While I attended Stockton, Iworked in the Career center.

Degree:
B.A., literature

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
I am an Assistant Professor on tenure track at Nashville State in TN.

Stephen Dunn! He was my mentor and beloved friend.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
A poem I wrote, "Kaddish" dedicated to Stephen Dunn was published by the wonderful Passengers' Journal. There's also a recording of me reading it. It mentions Atlantic City (I grew up in Margate and graduated from AC High).

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I love teaching college courses to non-traditional high school students and maximum security men's and women's prisons in TN.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
Oh, I'm always visiting the website to see the latest news!!

What is something people may not know about you?
I am a singer-sonwriter. My last record is here.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Find a professor who's interested in and whom you'd love to mentor you! It's a life-long journey!

Degree:
BS Environmental Studies

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Long Beach Township Marine Education Field Station Manager and Sustainability Director

SAVE club and Rocky Mountain Field Trip.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
Establishing the Long Beach Township Marine Education Field Station in 2021.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I have been working in the environmental field in some capacity since I was a sophomore at Stockton. Whether it be with an agency an NGO, throughwriting and reporting or leading tours.. The work has always been a ministry for me. The most culmination of the decades of work is creating a newfacility that intertwines community engagement and real time science on the waterfront of beautiful Little Egg Harbor, it is a gift to us all that I hope stayswithin our community for decades to come.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
Stockton Field Station - included the Stockton Field Station manger in The Oyster Farmers film I co-produced and was environmental consultant for, andthey are a key partner in our shell recycling program ( Long Beach Township has been collecting shell from LBI Restaurants since 2017) as wecontributed shell to the Tuckerton Research Reef 2017- 2021 Stockton Coastal Research Center- the current Interim Director is a founding partner withthe township in the NJ Bay Islands Initiative ( njbayislands.org) and we work closely on large grants for the research and inventory of our bay islands andfocusing on those that hold high potential for restoration off the shoreline of the township. Stockton Aquarium & Aquaculture Club- helped start andmaintains our oyster reef fish tank in the lab at the LBTFS

What is something people may not know about you?
As public facing as I am, I am quite a private person. Familyfriend time and my hobbies are as deeply precious to me as my "work"

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Dive into all the hands on and experiential opportunities that are offered, take the trips, join the clubs, make friends outside of your major, take the risksto develop new ideas.

Degree:
BA in Philosophy

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Professor of Religion at Temple University

Joe Walsh. All of the five classes I took with Joe, especially "Hegel and Marx." It entirely changed my view on human existence and inspired me to worktoward social justice, to serve humanity, hence I joined the Peace Corps after graduating.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
I lectured in Paris at l'Ecole Normale Superieure a few years ago on Pierre Bourdieu, in French, no less. My training in philosophy helped me become anexpert on Bourdieu, and it was in the Peace Corps (Zaire 1986-1988) that I learned French, so.... I mean, how many American scholars can claim that! Itwent well, too.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I love to teach, and Stockton professors were my role models in this regard. The minute I stepped into classes with Jamie Cromartie, Bill Sensiba, JoeWalsh, Maria Teski, and Cindy Jassell, I knew that I wanted to be a professor, and so have I become. And, here is my latest, and eighth, book.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I come walk to around Lake Fred once in a while.

What is something people may not know about you?
My brother Sergio graduated with me and is today one of the most distinguished geographers in the world, a professor at San Diego State. Our firstsemester at Stockton, we did not have housing, so we lived in a tent at Moss Mill Lake Campground.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Don't pass out at Spring Break. Draw upon Stockton's legacy 9f activism and it's radical roots. Study what you love, not what your parents tell you to.

Degree:
B.A. Biology

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
I am the Campus President of Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida campus. Palmer College is the oldest and largest chiropractic program in the U.S.and consists of three campuses.

Dr. Yitzak Sharon took the fear out of learning physics and made it fun. It has reminded me that learning is most effective in an encouraging environment.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
I went on to study chiropractic and earned my doctor of chiropractic degree from Life University in 1989. My proudest professional accomplishment wasearning a graduate merit fellowship from the University of Central Florida upon completing their master's program in applied learning and instruction.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
My work as campus president allows me to influence and encourage a positive campus culture and allows me to engage our alumni to ensure ourstudents have the resources needed to succeed.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I haven't been the best at staying connected so this is my attempt at a start!

What is something people may not know about you?
I wasn't the best undergraduate student but my professors at Stockton always seemed to encourage me in their unique way to define my path andinspire me to complete my degree.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
My advice for students is to become involved in clubs/activities that will contribute to their wellbeing and future self.

Degree:
Master of Arts in Holocaust & Genocide Studies

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
In 2011, I graduated from Youngstown State University in Ohio with a Bachelor of Science in Education with a Language Arts concentration. I am currently a high school teacher in the Wake County Public School System in Raleigh, North Carolina. This is currently my 13th year in teaching, and this year, my classes include 10th grade English and 12th grade AP Literature & Composition.

Taking courses with Dr. Mary Johnson was an invaluable experience. I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to conduct research and study under her tutelage when completing my Masters' capstone project. She inspired me to be a more inquisitive researcher, and her instruction and guidance in turn helped improve me as an educator myself.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
Along with my usual English classes, I will be teaching a new Holocaust/Genocide Studies elective course at my school next year. While I am nervous to create a new class, I am looking forward to utilizing my studies and capstone from Stockton in making this a great elective class for students grades 10-12.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I have always wanted to be a teacher, and I truly love my job. I consider myself a lifelong learner, and I plan to continue teaching high school English classes as well as the new Holocaust/Genocide elective course at my school in North Carolina next year. This upcoming summer, I will be earning my TEFL certification (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), and this is something I would love to utilize when I move abroad. My career path in the next couple years will be to teach secondary education (English, Italian, and/or Holocaust/Genocide) in Europe.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I stay connected through Osprey Connect as a member of the Alumni in Education Club.

What is something people may not know about you?
I am certified in North Carolina to teach Italian as a foreign language. I also have a Bachelor of Arts in Italian from Youngstown State University.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
In order to gain various perspectives from differing backgrounds, students should network with as many peers and professors as possible during their coursework at Stockton.

Degree:
BA Psychology, minor Childhood Studies

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Currently, I am finishing my master’s degree at Montclair State University Child Advocacy and Policy Program this summer. I began a new venture andam volunteering as Chairperson on the Board of Directors for Choose love. Celebrate life. A Foundation for Youth and Families, Inc. CLCL Foundation isa nonprofit founded by 5 prior Residential Counselors with a combined 57-years experience with at-risk youth (10-19) and their families. This group isforming a community-based, evidence-based, trauma-informed, and anti-racist program that can effectively assist homeless and runaway youth, treatfamilies in active crisis, and prevent crises thrive supportive services and respite care.

Dr. Tang and the creation of the Childhood Studies minor program influenced my Stockton experience most. Not only did I learn youth issues related tocrime and maltreatment, I also had the opportunity to learn research design and even create my own for my CAPSTONE requirement.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
After graduation, I have reached out to mentors as I navigate the nonprofit field and engage in social advocacy work. The feedback and constructivecriticisms help me improve and mold my craft.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I love doing advocacy work to alleviate social justice issues and address the needs of youth and families. Prevention and intervention can change thedirection youth lives take and increases positive outcomes. As a former foster youth, adopted youth, and runaway teen, I feel grateful for the policies andprograms that acted as protective factors. I hope to work on legislative child welfare policy changes.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I stay engaged through alumni emails so I can stay on top of school news and events. I also love to visit the campus and return to the peace of the waterand woods, some of my favorite places to have lunch. I also maintain contact with some of my professors and seem their guidance from time to time.

What is something people may not know about you?
People may not know that I always wanted to learn to play my mother's guitar. She passed when I was 3 weeks old, so learning it felt important butclasses we always unsuccessful. Then, during Covid lockdown, I learned how to play through YouTube videos and now it is my favorite hobby. I amactually really good at it now and can play hundreds of songs!

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
My advice for current students is to embrace the Stockton community. Don't be afraid of reaching out and forming relationships with professors andpeers. Even as a transfer and commuter, there were multiple avenues for engaging with the Stockton community.

Degree:
BA Communications

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Assistant Public Information Officer —City of Atlantic City I am responsible for communicating with the public and media, as well as coordinating with
other agencies when necessary to effectively inform of the city’s plans and policies.

Being an executive board member of PRSSA showed me how to apply the textbook work with real life experience. As the secretary and treasurer during
my tenure, I was tasked with a lot of things that grew me into the leader I am today. I also met a lot of mentors who showed me that there were a lot of
career options related to my degree.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
After graduating Stockton in 2019, I went on to obtain my MPA and now am pursuing a PhD in public policy. Stockton exposed me to professors and mentors who strongly encouraged higher education and diving into multiple fields of work.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I love the work I am doing now. I am proud to be serving my local municipal government. I was able to combine my love of communications and public
policy to become a liaison for the government and people in my community.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I am a Young Alumni Advisory Board Member.

What is something people may not know about you?
I am a wife of a police officer and a mother of soon to be 3 sweet babies.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
My advice for current students is to join organizations around campus. Those organizations can be a bridge that leads to meaningful experience,
friendships and guidance. Remember networking is just as important as grades.

Degree:
BS in Public Health

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Regional Director of Operations EyeSouth Partners I work for a private equity backed physician management services organization. In my role, I am responsible for managing the strategic and day-to-day operations of ophthalmology practices in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.

My involvement and active participation in extracurricular activities lead by the clubs' advisors had the most influence on my Stockton experience. Each Advisor was a mentor that provided me guidance that shaped my authentic leadership style. There was a symbiotic culture that existed among the campus clubs and programs that shaped my collaborative mindset after college.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
I went onto graduate school at George Washington University and received my Masters in Health Services Administration. I could not have done it without the support of my professors and club advisors.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I enjoy the opportunities to make organization better by working closely with an excellent group of physicians, managers, and staff. I like when I can help a patient and that brings a smile to their face. After graduate school, I worked in progressive management positions at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer in New York City. I then became a Practice Administrator at an ophthalmology practice and worked in NY and NJ. In 2021, I relocated to south Florida to become the Regional Vice President of Operations for another ophthalmology group in Florida. I now responsible for managing practices in several states with increased responsibilities.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
Throughout my career, I have not forgot where I started and have paid it forward by offering an internship program at our organization to Stockton students. If I have a job opportunity, I have shared it with the Stockton Career Services Department.

What is something people may not know about you?
 I like to do kick-boxing at 6:00 am.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Meet and talk to as many new people you can in your life. You will always learn something new from that person. Be a humble leader. Always find time to take care of yourself first.

Degree:
BA Business Marketing

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
HR Director at ARSA(Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Alliance) I support all human resource activity across our pillars/practices located throughout the country, while focusing on developing best practices for our parent practice; The Plastic Surgery Center.

I was waitlisted for my first college choice, and defaulted to Stockton as a back-up. My plan was to attend Stockton for ONE SEMESTER and move on to my dream school. Well it only took one semester for STOCKTON to become my dream school! Within 30 days of being SU, I found myself the Pledge President of AGD, one of the sororities on campus back in 1985. For sure it was the influence and experiences I had as a pledge and then later as a sister of AGD(Alpha Gamma Delta)was the root cause for my decision to remain at Stockton beyond my initial game plan. I don't regret, not for a minute, the decision to stay at SU. I loved every minute of my 3.5 years on campus and semester traveling abroad as a SU student. I thank my parents for pointing me in Stockton's direction but I attribute my decision to stay to the sisters and lifelong friends I found through Greek life and specifically Alpha Gamma Delta at Stockton.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?
During my almost 10 year tenure at Prevalent Inc., as Sr Director of HR and Finance I played an instrumental role in securing over 75M in private equity funding and growing the organization from 25 employees to over 100. This was a huge challenge and my first experience with working with PE. The knowledge and wisdom I gain while in this role, played a significant part in my career success and where I am today.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I now focus more on "people" operations vs the finance side of things and love it! I enjoy helping employees find joy and happiness in their work while ensuring performance and process is top of mind. Most employees think of their HR leaders as the enemy, but I've work diligently to change that narrative at every organization I've worked for. The way I see it, HR leaders should play the role as liaison between company leadership and staff. We should represent the needs of our employees while ensuring the vision of the business is supported and top of mind.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I enjoying reading the newsletter and attend alum functions whenever possible. I am still very much connected to the friends and AGD sisters I met while at Stockton. We are often together reminiscing about the good ole days while at SU.

What is something people may not know about you?
That I am one of 3 in my family that attended Stockton! So I guess you can say I led the way for my two younger brothers to also attend and graduate from Stockton. Both brothers were members of Pi Kappa Phi, one a founding brother. (again a fraternity that was on campus during the mid 80s)

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Enjoy each experience because it goes fast!! You'll blink and your college career will be completed. Live outside your comfort zone and be open to new experiences. College offers you 4 years to learn, make mistakes and grow from them, take advantage of this because the "real" world is not this forgiving! Know that the friends you make during these years will most likely be your life long friends, so embrace those relationships. Lastly, live with no regret, life is short and this is NOT a dress rehearsal.

Degree:
BA - POLS (Political Science)

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Since 1989 I have been working in financial services. I have had the pleasure of growing in the now Fintech space, evolving along with this period of great change. I have gained experience with progressive positions throughout our industry, being employed with Merrill Lynch, Charles Schwab , OneAmerica, FolioFN and now helping to run an independent RIA (Registered Investment Advisor). My current role & title is COO & CCO at Provident Capital Management, Inc.. During my career I had to attain many FINRA licenses, which enabled me to act as a principle and leader at many firms as well as different platforms. I am a staff of one, and have managed to successfully apply many of my hands-on experiences to efficiently run a business as an employee of one.

William Daly. My freshman year at SU was more of an exploratory year as far has determining my major course of study. I started in Sociology & Anthropology with job prospects being second to my desire to study what interested me and build on my love of history, geography and human development. I attended my first POLS class being taught by Mr. Daly, and was most attracted to his passion and objective focus on education. Bill really cared about his students, Stockton and most importantly helping us to critically think and apply our learnings to support our perspectives and objectives.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton
played a role?
Shortly after graduating and stumbling around trying to be employed and have an apartment in NYC - (My only goals), I was lucky to have landed a position in commercial film production. I didn't study art, film or communications, but found myself thrust into the peak of film making in NYC in the 80's in my 20's. Needless to say - VERY EXCITING times. I managed to excel due to SU, because I learned how to learn and needed to apply those skills in order to keep my job. The SU education was foundational in my ability to navigate different, demanding and diverse partners form actors, crew, film commissions, clients & the Director. This experience along with my SU foundation prepared me early on to gain the experience needed to in essence build the Project Manager competency. The rest of my career continued to progress in different fields but the PM competency is what was critical to my success on tasks, client service and leadership.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I help people achieve their goals. I have an intense "Passion to Serve", which ultimately has been my success anchor wherever and whatever I am called to do. In leadership serving clients and those that serve them has been my primary mission wherever I work. My career path started in service and as I grew with growth companies and delivered I was at the right place at the right time with the right skills. I have a career in an industry that starts at the open each and every day and is always changing. I am always required to keep learning and applying knowledge operationally as well as directly to my clients. No job is too small and applying objective, empathetic & leadership skills to all that you do as well as being prepared to position your life/career to catch the best wave has been critical to my success.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I live in Indiana so staying connected to our community has been a challenge. I joined the alumni association shortly after graduating and lost touch back in the 80's (NO SOCIAL MEDIA) or internet within a few years of graduating. Now that there is connectivity via this tool, it has easier for me to follow as well as engage at will.

What is something people may not know about you?
I am still open to a world of unlimited possibilities, variables and outcomes. I attempt to only exist in the present while reacting to others in order to influence good decision making, planning and happiness. Empathy is the key and I am a rational optimist. In nature one can find truth, solitude and clarity.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Get involved in extra curricular activities, follow your passions (if you have the financial luxury) , meaning some do need the education and a definitive outcome for economic reasons. Learn all that you can - be VERY open to the Humanities and always challenge your subjectivity in order to help yourself and others solve the problems, challenges and opportunities they face. Learn ONE, Do ONE - Teach One.

Degree:
Bachelor of Sciences - Geology

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
I am a registered Professional Geologist in PA, DE, and TN and am also the President of Digneo Engineering, LLC. We are a Geotechnical Engineering firm providing soils and foundation engineering services throughout NJ, PA and DE, with occasional projects in NY, MD and VA.

Many professors influenced me during my time at Stockton, but I'd say that Dr. Hozik, Dr. Farrell and Dr. Epstein had the most impact on my studies and time there at Stockton.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton
played a role?
Stockton provided my base knowledge in geology and soil science. That led me to my career in Geotechnical Engineering which ultimately led to me owning my own geotechnical engineering firm, Digneo Engineering, LLC.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I always liked the diversity of projects that geotechnical engineers work on. One day it might be an investigation for a warehouse, the next day it might be an investigation for a home down the shore, the next day it might a bridge. So, we do work on many different types of projects. I also always liked the fact that our profession has a lot of fieldwork time and office time, so we are not always tied to a desk and have a lot of opportunities to be outdoors doing our work.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I attend various alumni events and also routinely attend Stockton's Career Fairs. The career fairs have directly led me to hiring Stockton grads. Currently, I have 2 staff members who are alumni like myself. Muhammad Khan graduated with a BS in Geology from Stockton in 2018 and Joe DelConte graduated with a BS in Geology from Stockton in 2023.

What is something people may not know about you?
I make award-winning homemade wines.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Take an interest in everything about your major. Dive into your studies beyond what your classes teach you. Noone will hand you all of the info you will need to have a successful career - you have to go get it. In short, you are your own best advocate! The more you know about your chosen major and profession, the further you will go. Lastly, use Stockton's resources to your advantage! They are there to help you get all of the info I noted above and more!

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts - Business Studies - Accounting Focus

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Transportation Manager at Carvana in Winder, GA

I was enrolled at Stockton via the EOF program. I am very grateful for the opportunity it provided my to pursue a higher education. My experience at Stockton laid a strong foundation for me to be successful in my life and career.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton
played a role?
During my junior year (1985), I joined Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. It has provided me with a strong network of professional men and women, who are committed to Service for the community and worldwide connection. I am current active in an alumni chapter in Metro Atlanta.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
After graduation, I encountered a difficulty landing an opportunity in the Accounting industry, due to the reductions in the workforce, and computerization. I eventually landed my 1st opportunity in the transportation industry in 1988 and the rest is history. The majority of my experience has been in automobile transportation, managing commercial truck drivers, that hauls full loads of vehicles. I was promoted and relocated to Metro Atlanta in 1999. The automobile/ transportation industry has provided me with a Great career. But, it is very economically driven. I have encountered 3 layoffs since being relocated. I have landed on my feet each time with another opportunity. I have managed the transportation of quite a few commodities, automobiles, bread/pastries, telecommunications cable and mail as a result of job change. Life always comes "full circle", I am currently managing automobiles. That
where I started in NJ.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I am Blessed to have a very strong connection with former Stockton classmates and friend. We communicate in a multitude of ways. I started a Stockton Friends Facebook page a few years ago. The page has over 1000 members. It serves a GREAT purpose of keeping everyone updated about Stockton. I
hope to do more with it in the near future.

What is something people may not know about you?
I am most proud, that I have been married (wife Tracy) for 31 years with one child (son - Charles Jr - 29 yrs old). I attended Stockton with a number of high school classmates (Barringer High School, Newark, NJ). We were all blessed to achieve completion of our degrees at Stockton. Rest in Peace to
Kenneth Boler- 87' and George Briscoe-88'. Also, I gained some valuable career guidance working in the Casinos on Atlantic City during my time at Stockton.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Your Stockton years should not be taken for granted. It will provide you with a strong foundation to achieve Great Success in your life. I am a living witness and testimony to that. "OSPREY FOR LIFE"

Degree:
BA in English Language Literature

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Program director for an innovative educational technology program that offers certificate in STEM teaching, with an emphasis in educational sectors in K-12, HE, and L&D. Title: Director of STEM Certificate Program in the Department of Educational Technology at New Jersey City University.

Ken Tompkins & Tom Kinsella. It's Ken Tompkins and Tom Kinsella. Need I say more? :D

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton
played a role?
Stockton was integral in launching my professional journey in education. The courses I took in English Language, Composition, and Literature were
exceptional, and provided me with the solid foundation I needed to excel in communicating in writing, speaking, and in digital formats that became
essential in my career.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I love everything about the work I do now. As a Program Director, UX/UI and instructional designer, I get the opportunity to help other educational professionals use subject-matter content, various technologies, and pedagogical approaches for human-centered learning that emphasizes personal and
professional growth and diversity, equity, and inclusion. I am, much like my programs and projects, an iterative work-in-progress. I am continuing to learn
through seeking professional certificates in leadership at Columbia University.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
Through Osprey Connect!

What is something people may not know about you?
My son and I construct tiny houses and sell them!

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Get involved--in any way. Ask questions--a lot of them! Don't be afraid to try new things, and be vulnerable in doing so. Stockton's faculty and academic
environments will help you soar when you leave the nest!

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Management

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
I'm the Co-Founder and CEO of Mile Square Labs. We are a management consulting firm focused on driving revenue systems for high-growth
technology companies.

Having the honor to represent the University as the goalkeeper for the Men's NCAA Soccer Team was by far the most influential experience of my
college career.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton
played a role?
Utilizing both the business knowledge I accumulated in the classroom as well as the leadership principles taught through sports, I took a risk in 2014 and joined an early-stage startup. At Fundera, as an early employee, I built a team that was responsible for helping millions of small business owners make better financial decisions. The lessons, mistakes, opportunities and friendships that arose from that experience will last a lifetime. Fundera became a part
of the Nerdwallet family in 2020, and to say that I played a small part in that success story brings me a lot of pride. This pride wouldn't be possible
without the lessons taught from school, classmates, teammates, and the Stockton experience.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
The work I'm doing now is by referral only - and it varies quite a bit. It keeps things interesting! Initially, I thought I wanted to "climb the corporate ladder" and quickly realized it wasn't for me. After nearly half a decade in the Healthcare space, I joined a fast-growing tech startup called Yodle (Now web.com) and fell in love with the startup life. After a couple of other full-time roles, I started consulting and now work with an amazing client roster year in and year out. We have helped companies do amazing things such as: - Sell a solution that lets you pay for goods and services using major us brand gift cards - Helped one of the first "Order food through FB Messenger" companies get their first customers and developed all their sales collateral. - Developed a solution to sell thousands of hearing aids over the phone. - Built a team that delivered "Kayak for small business loans"

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
Our Soccer program has some really tight alumni, so that helps. I was also a member of TKE at school and a lot of my fraternity brothers still keep in touch. Many of them are local and also entrepreneurs, so we support each other. I also am trying to be better about utilizing Osprey Connect. And don't forget homecoming every October!

What is something people may not know about you?
Most people know I am a family man, but some may not know that my grandparents, Tom, and Betty Sauer, are 93 years old and still together after 70+ years. I am so proud of them and their example.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
First and foremost - Be a builder vs. a consumer. The world needs more builders. Second - Practice honing your social skills at school. Get out and meet new and different people. Understand that life doesn't happen after you graduate, it's happening right now so make the most of it. - Take the trip - Join the club - Make the call/send the DM The real fun in life isn't plopped in your lap(top) it's out there mixing it up with real people!

Degree:

B.S. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.

Sr. Manager- Quality Assurance at Molson Coors, Shenandoah Brewery. As the Senior Quality leader at the site, I am responsible for maintaining and increasing the overall quality and food safety of our beers from raw materials to shipment of finished product while also supporting improvements in people engagement, efficiency, sustainability, and cost improvements. This Brewery produces over 2 billion beers a year.

What person, course, or moment most influenced your Stockton experience? How?

During my senior project, I had the privilege to work one on one with Dr. Karen York on commissioning a new DNA sequencer and working with various methods of DNA extraction to determine how to identify unknown bacteria based on their ribosomal RNA sequences. This experience was not only a fun experience but gave me firsthand experience in what a professional career in a lab could look like. I had exposure to the manufacturing reps for the sequencer, testing and proving methodologies, troubleshooting, and time management. Little did I know that 21 years later I would be leading a department, still be using the fundamentals I learned in that lab around PCR and bacterial identification.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton played a role?

I feel like Stockton provided me the foundation that all my educational and professional wins have been based on. My company sponsored me to go on to get an MSc. Brewing Science from the University of Nottingham, where I graduated with Distinction and was awarded the Science prize for highest overall marks in my program. In my professional capacity, I was proud to be awarded a “Step Ahead” award given to Women making significant impacts to the manufacturing industry by the Manufacturing Institute in 2021.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.

Making beer for a living can be hard to beat when asked “what do you do for a living”. I personally like that even though it is manufacturing, I get to use my technical background and passion for fermentation to make a beer that people like to drink. We take natural ingredients such as barley, hops, and spices, mix it with living yeast and manipulate the conditions to make the beer taste the same batch to batch, year to year, and compared to our sister breweries across the country. I stumbled into the Brewing industry in 2005 working in the chemistry and microbiology labs. I quickly fell in love with the Brewing process and started to study the process through the Institute of Brewing and Distilling. I went on to get a Master’s degree in 2017. Over the years I have worked in roles of increasing responsibilities in both the Brewing and Quality departments in two different Breweries.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?

I follow Stockton on LinkedIn and like to visit any time I am back in the area.

What is something people may not know about you?

Brewing is a mix of art and science. There are lots of passionate people that believe a certain aspect is most important like the barley used or the hops used. I am personally in the Fermentation camp. I think yeast and fermentation are the most critical aspects of making beer and I love working with live organisms to make our product.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?

Don’t say no to opportunities that come up, even if it doesn’t seem like a direct link to what you want to do. This is the time in your life to try new things and find out what fits and what doesn’t.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
Senior Parole Officer with NJ State Parole, sworn law enforcement assisting in public safety, and successful rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders in the community and Adjunct Professor with Caldwell University

Dr. Darrell Cleveland's classes always stuck out to me. He allowed his student's to bring their personal views and beliefs and respectfully discuss them in class. He taught me the importance of how you dress and carry yourself; representation matters. EOF, also allowed me to build lifelong friendships that I carry with me to this day.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton
played a role?
I am in the midst of completing my doctoral degree in Criminal Justice, while also serving as an adjunct professor in criminal justice. Stockton played a roll in letting me know I can wear many hats, how to adapt in any environment and thrive. Most importantly the professors in my program were some of the best, I learned so much. I aspire to be like those professors.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
In both the criminal justice field and educational field I am equally rewarded. I get to take on both things that I've wanted to do and combine my love for them. In both settings I am able to assist people in their walks of life, whether it is providing them with resources and information to assist them in the their personal and professional lives.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
I receive emails, I try to my best to attend or support events. I am a member of the MACJ at Stockton, I am also part of the recruitment unit with my job, I've attended the career fair and spoke to several criminal justice classes regarding different opportunities in law enforcement and NJ State Parole. I am actually scheduled to present at Stockton again later this month, I was invited again and I am thrilled!

What is something people may not know about you?
As much as I speak in public, I still dread it and get nervous (lol). It's something I've feared for the longest, but the more I do it the better I become.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
Do not limit yourself, ever. Make yourself marketable. There are so many opportunities out here in the world, do not let fear stop you from being amazing!

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies Minor in Ancient Greek

Briefly explain your occupation including job title and company name.
PhD candidate at Texas A&M University studying Nautical Archaeology.

My academic interests are Greek and Roman maritime history and
archaeology with a special focus on naval warfare, naval rams, and warships. I specialize in the study of sex and gender in antiquity, especially in
relation to navies and naval monuments.

Recently, I was the project lead of an experimental archaeology project which successfully cast the first trireme-
sized naval ram in over 1,500 years based on ancient methods. I received my Master’s in Ancient History from the University of South Florida in 2019. I
attended the American School of Classical Studies at Athens (ASCSA) as part of the Summer Session group of 2018 and the American Academy in
Rome (AAR) as part of the Classical Summer School group of 2022. I currently run communications for RPM Nautical Foundation (RPMNF) which
conducts underwater archaeological surveys at the Battle of the Egadi Islands site in Sicily.

What person, course, or moment most influenced your Stockton experience? How?
There are two people at Stockton University who made my experience there truly worthwhile, Brian K. Jackson and Dr. David Roessel. Brian has been a
central part of Stockton University’s success for over a decade. When I was transferring colleges, Brian suggested that Stockton University was the right
choice and said I could excellence there, especially in their history program. Once I entered Stockton University, I met Dr. David Roessel. While at
Stockton University, I took a majority of my classes with Dr. Roessel which included courses in Ancient Greek language and culture. Dr. Roessel instilled
in me a love for the Ancient Greek world and a passion to know more about the Greeks.

What is your proudest professional or personal accomplishment that occurred after graduating in which Stockton
played a role?
From 2021 to 2023, I was the lead in an experimental archaeology project in recreating a trireme-sized bronze naval ram based on the closest (and
known) ancient methods. The project consisted of building the front of a warship, pitching the bow, building the entire ram model in beeswax, and then
lost-wax castings the model. This is the first bronze naval ram cast in over 1,500 years and the only naval ram outside the Mediterranean basin. This
reconstruction can better inform us about the time, manpower, and materials needed to create ancient naval rams as well as the socioeconomic
implications of building ancient navies. As the project progressed, I kept Dr. Roessel informed of each stage. He was very encouraging and provided me
with the words I needed to hear to finish the project.

What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
As an ancient historian and nautical archaeologists, my job takes me to the most beautiful and remote places in the Mediterranean. I have worked on
archaeological material that is over 3,000 years old and have participated in projects that have changed how we think about the ancient world. I have had
the opportunity to be part of both the American School of Classical Studies at Athens (ASCSA) and the American Academy in Rome (AAR). In both
programs, I was allowed access to ancient sites that are typically restricted to the average tourist. Overall, my job allows me to study what I love and
engage with scholars in the field.

How do you stay connected with Stockton University?
Each year I have given a short lecture on the process of applying to graduate school and the opportunities there are in the fields of ancient history and
archaeology to Dr. Roessel’s Ancient Greek students. It is a refreshing experience to share what I have learned at Stockton and how it set me on a path
of success.

What is something people may not know about you?
I used to be a bouncer at the House of Blues in the Showboat Casino in Atlantic City and was a bouncer at various bars/clubs in South Jersey until I
graduated from Stockton.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at Stockton?
My advice for current students is to use the resources that Stockton provides, including the faculty who are compassionate, intelligent, and willing to help any struggling student.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Business Studies,  Master of Arts in Business Administration

Profession:
Atlanticare Foundation, Director of Community Health Investment & Development

Owner of Medwebdesign.us - digital branding company serving vendors in the healthcare sector

Fun Facts & Hobbies:  
Being a dog dad to my aussie-mix rescue, Cameron, cooking, playing baseball/ watching baseball, visiting big cities, going to the beach, and working out

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 
Stockton has given me so many great experiences, relationships, and opportunities to grow.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
Stockton’s Business program has molded me into the young professional that I am today. The professors and staff at Stockton have taught me valuable lessons about leadership, communication, and professionalism.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student. 
I always enjoyed attending Stockton’s “Get-involved” fair. Meeting club leaders and learning about the student organizations available opened doors to learn and have fun as a student. Also, some of my greatest memories came during my time as an RA.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys. 
I credit much of my success to the experience I gained at Stockton. I see the University and Atlantic City growing in the years to come and I want to be connected to that!

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys? 
Take advantage of the programs and resources that Stockton has to offer! Stockton has all of the tools for success available under one roof!

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
If you have not taken a Philosophy course, please do so! Most important courses I have ever taken.

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Biology

Profession:
Restoration Ecologist

Fun Facts & Hobbies:  
Animal Control Officer Wildlife Rescue Volunteer

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 
I came to Stockton knowing I would dedicate my career to helping wildlife and the environment. I was just not sure exactly how that would look. Looking back on my life so far, I can sum up my work: When I was an adolescent, I rescued animals. When I was a young adult, I cleaned up the environment. Now well into my career, I restore the environment so wildlife can live there.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
Stockton introduced me to Philosophy, which I fell in love with. I got to be a student to the greatest minds that have ever lived. Those classes and lessons changed my life, they took a lost and aimless boy and turned him into a young man with purpose, passion, gratitude, and knowledge.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student. 
My favorite single memory is meeting my future wife! I have very fond memories of having a great group of friends that would always frequent the library and study together and make those sessions enjoyable. Even if we had different classes, we would help each other study, and push one another to do better and better. And it worked 😊!

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys. 
So many fantastic people helped me get to a career in which I find satisfaction and fulfillment. I want to help others in the same way. The environment needs our help! And I will help anyone who wants to help it.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys? 
Do not think you need to know exactly what you want to do when you graduate. Try several different jobs you are interested in, it will help lead you to a place where you will find happiness and fulfillment in your career and life.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
If you have not taken a Philosophy course, please do so! Most important courses I have ever taken.

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Health Science with minors in Childhood Studies Minor and Behavioral Neuroscience

Profession:
DPT student at Washington University in St. Louis

Fun Facts & Hobbies:  
I enjoy reading books, discovering new restaurants and trying food from different cultures, listening to music and discovering new artists to listen to, and walks in the park during the fall when all the leaves are changing colors (mother nature shows off during this time of year).

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 
Stockton allowed me to come out of my shell and grow as an individual. I joined clubs and volunteered whenever I could and that helped in creating connections with different people that I would not have had the chance to meet had I not pushed myself out of my comfort zone. I created friendships, gained mentors, and I even learned about things I didn't know I was interested in. Stockton and the opportunities I was offered there, gave me the courage to venture out into the midwest for my PT career haha I didn't see myself moving to STL but here I am and its going great!

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
I am currently in PT school and I feel prepared for all the courses I am currently taking so that means the program works! I am glad my advisor made sure I had all the necessary courses needed to apply to grad program, it definitely helped with lessening the stress that comes with applying to programs.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student. 
I have two memories that will forever hold a special place in my heart. The first one is my EOF experience—I made great long-lasting friendships that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world. The other memory was my first ASB trip to Delaware where we helped build a home—it was an amazing learning experience and I made two of my most important friendships while on this trip.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys. 
Stockton provided me with the resources I needed to grow and learn. In the future I hope to have the means to assist students that are like myself to ensure they also continue to have the resources needed when starting their journey at Stockton.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys? 
Take advantage of ALL the opportunities you are offered, you never know where they'll take you! You'll create some of the most amazing memories and you'll learn A LOT about yourself in the process. #GoOspreys!

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Master of Business Administration

Profession:
I am a Lead Account Manager at Sea Isle Ice Company, Part Owner of Sea Isle Spiked Iced Tea, andRealtor at Blue Homes Group. 

Fun Facts & Hobbies:  
I enjoy traveling around the world, experiencing new places and cuisines, spending time with my husband, family, and puppy Winston!

How did your Stockton experience and academic program influence your life and impact your career? 
Attending Stockton, living on campus, working in the Admissions Department, and receiving my MBA provided me with the experience and knowledge I needed to start Sea Isle Spiked Iced Tea. 

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student. 
I was an Admissions Ambassador for 4 years, which was the highlight of my academic career at Stockton. My very last year as an Ambassador, I was promoted to Social Media chair. It was a tremendous experience that brought me out of my comfort zone, showed me the ability to public speak, learned a plethora of knowledge about Stockton and the surrounding area, boosted my confidence, and helped make connections.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys. 
I enjoy giving back to our community. As an 8th generation native of Sea Isle City, sharing my love and admiration for Stockton and the surrounding community is very important to me. I have used the knowledge and experience I gained from time at Stockton and apply it to my everyday life.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys? 
Break out of your comfort zone. Join the club. Put yourself out there. Be receptive to change and constructive criticism. Embrace your professors experience and knowledge and use what you have learned and build upon it.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
I highly recommend living on campus even if you live close by. Although Stockton was a 30 minute drive from my house, the ability to live on campus just made my Stockton experience that much better. I felt more connected with the school, made life-long friendships and connections, and feel I had a better experience then most of my friends that decided to go far away. Stockton felt like home. It was small enough and big enough at the same time. They were always working towards improving the campus and giving back to the students. I knew all my professors and could speak with them one-on-one. Working in the Admissions department was pivotal in breaking me out of my shell and helped my public speaking skills. I am very grateful to have been able to attend Stockton and call it my home away from home.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Minor in Political Science 

Profession:
I am a Professional Services Specialist at Stockton University in the Department of Development and Alumni Relations. 

Fun Facts & Hobbies:  
I am a huge fan of movies and music, and love to collect physical copies of both. I have bookshelves full of blu-rays and crates on crates of vinyl records! 

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 
Stockton has influenced every facet of my life since the moment I stepped foot on campus. I found a second home here and have never looked back. I was able to strengthen relationships with old friends and meet some new ones. I’m truly grateful that my Stockton experience allowed me to grow into the person I feel I was always meant to be.  

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career? 
It had a massive impact on my experience and career. I feel so lucky to have had the instructors that I did when I was here, in both my major and my minor. I am still constantly referencing material from a variety of courses I took during my time at Stockton, and I feel as though the faculty and staff here could not have prepared me any better for the world outside of the university’s doors.  

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student. 
Most of my favorite memories here are ones that happened inside the classroom, like premiering new short films, participating in debates and discussing books or movies. My field of study was so in tune with my outside interests that class discussions and projects were always enjoyable and engaging! 

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys. 
I feel I owe a debt of gratitude to Stockton for several reasons, many of which I have referenced in responses to other questions. Remaining part of the Stockton community as an alumnus provides me with new opportunities to give back to a school that gave so much to me. 

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys? 
Take advantage of everything that’s offered to you as a Stockton student. I have the occupation I do now because a former professor brought it to my attention, and I was identified as a candidate due to the work I completed in an internship I participated in through Stockton. There are more resources available to you than you may realize. Everyone here wants to help you succeed! 

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

Profession:
I am President of Jigsaw Clinical Research Solutions and Jigsaw Medical Supply Solutions based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
I currently live in Kuala Lumpur. I am a third-degree black belt in Jiujitsu. I have traveled to over 60 countries. I still miss the Jersey shore!

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 
I took advantage of everything Stockton offered. I was a member of the first student government called the AFRB, I enlisted in the military while at Stockton, and I was a founding member of AXP fraternity. I was able to spend a semester at the University of Copenhagen, thanks to Professor Jan Colijn, and since I have worked and lived all over the world. I owe Stockton my life! It was an amazing experience.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
It totally impacted me. The pols and Crim programs were amazing, and my professors were super intelligent and patient. They gave of themselves freely. Despite myself I learned and learned a lot.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
Alan Acuri, Bill Senaba, Jan, and so many more. The concerts, spring bash, Octoberfests I will never forget.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
How could I not. Chris Connors, Henry Glickel, Bob Cooper and Steve Mancuso were all active in school government, politics, and extracurricular fun. These guys took what Stockton had to offer and went to the next level. Leaving so many names out and I am sorry.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
Stockton has evolved and changed over the years, and much for the better. Those of us who started at Stockton in the 70s had an amazing experience. Today, I’m sure current students will and can have the same experiences we did, if not better.

Brian Pluchino ‘08

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Business Studies with a concentration in Marketing, Master of Business Administration

Profession:
As the Associate Director of Residential Facilities and Student Retention at Stockton, I work in the Residential Life department, ensuring that students living on campus are provided safe living environments, the ability to apply for housing, and quick and easy remedies to any issues they may have.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
I am an advisor for the Stockton chapter of the world's largest collegiate volunteer organization, Circle K International. I am a committee member for an annual leadership retreat for high school students, and I am a shareholder of the Green Bay Packers! I enjoy video games and Parks and Recreation, and I’m a big Star Wars fan. Also, if you've seen that guy walking around as a Christmas Tree during the holidays raising money for charity over the last 14 years, that's me!

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? Stockton University provided me with tremendous professors, great residential facilities, and a plethora of ways to get involved that still shape my life today. Stockton let me grow, gave me the chance to pursue some dreams, and now allows me to try and help provide others the same opportunities I was given.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
Working in Higher Education, specifically in Residential Life as a marketing and business administration major, has afforded me ways to think about things differently. I regularly apply the things I was taught, and the industry's changes (stay up to date with your major!), towards how I approach student outreach, development of processes, and overall procedures for customer service.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
My favorite memories as a student are sitting in the "Osprey's Nest," a smallish on-campus food eatery, with tables and chairs, big TVs, a pool table, foosball, people ordering food, loud talking, good food, better friends. It was such a mood; you told your friends, "you going to the Nest tonight?" And, they would deliver food to your dorm for a $1 charge!

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
Obviously, I loved it so much here that I never left; but the biggest reason I stay here and don't look elsewhere for jobs is because of my commitment to giving back to the institution. I believe in what we are trying to do, and hope to be someone who helps others build those fond memories too.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
Don't be afraid to take some jobs that aren't your dream. Don't be afraid to fail. Make sure that if you see something you want, go for it without hesitation. Don't fall victim to time, hesitation, or greed. Love those around you, and PLEASE practice being kind.

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Studies; GIS certification

Profession:
Senior Executive Services Manager for the Program Management Office at the New Jersey Department of Transportation. I oversee areas of project support to the Capital Program of NJDOT Capital Projects, which includes project budget changes, estimation, change management, contract administration, management training and guidance, liaisonships with the FHWA and ACEC-NJ, and a project management information system.

Fun Facts & Hobbies: 
When I am not at work, I am spending time with my wife and two daughters. I also see friends, write, amateur voice acting, and video editing.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 
I would not be where I am without so many extracurricular and educational experiences at Stockton. On an educational level, I initially intended to be a high school Biology and Environmental Science teacher. However, I fell out of love with that and in my last semester, I took some management courses. I never realized the activities I spent time on in college related so well to project management. Additionally, had I not become an Admissions Ambassador, I would not have gotten into Circle K; and without Circle K, I would have never met my wife (a TCNJ student also in Circle K) or some of the closest friendships I have today. Had I not been involved in The Argo, I would have never had the experience in running and managing a multifaceted program with publication production, budget and schedule management, staff supervision, payroll, and so much more. Had I not gotten involved with Water Watch, I would have never planned and led the first Environmental Education Forum. Had I not been given the opportunity to attend the Spring Job Fair, I would have never applied to the New Jersey Department of Transportation and have the 16-year career I currently have.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
After I took some management courses at Stockton, I pursued a Master of Science degree in Organizational Management, which allowed me to move to different areas within my career at NJDOT; and with my background still in teaching, I managed to create a training curriculum and program within the department for a project management information system, and now also oversee project management training curricula.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
My time in extracurriculars helped shape and guide so much of my life. However, I never would have known or attended Stockton without meeting Steve Phillips. Steve was an admissions counselor at Stockton, and I first met him in my high school cafeteria. Over the years at Stockton, he was my guide, mentor, and friend. There is no way I would have made it through my college journey without him and his guidance.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
I want to pay it forward. I got so much out of Stockton because of the work of so many people before me. I give back so that others can continue to move forward.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
Do not think inside of a box. Your degree does not define you. You are the sum of your education, your experience, your connections, your successes, and your failures. You have an amazing opportunity to write your own story and use all of your experience to move forward into the future and "real world."

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
Never be afraid to meet someone new. You never know how the entire trajectory of your life may change because of meeting someone in a cafeteria.

Degree: 

Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies

Profession:

Senior Consultant at Iron Mountain

Fun Facts & Hobbies: 

Plays bass guitar, is a big fan of the New York Mets and New York Giants, enjoys reading and watching terrible movies.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

Stockton made me a more well-rounded person as l attended classes with different types of people with varying views than my own. The Stockton experience taught me to respect and accept others, no matter our differences.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

I always wanted to go into a field that was history-centric, and Stockton prepared me for my future work in the archival and records management world.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

My favorite memories of Stockton include: taking classes with some brilliant history professors, Experiential Chemistry class senior year, seeing the Hooters and the four-night run of the Rocky Horror Picture Show in the A-Wing theater.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

I'm proud of the fact that l attended and graduated from Stockton, that's why l stay in touch...it's home.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Take advantage of your diverse education and do what makes your heart happy...the money will come eventually!

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?

You will eventually graduate, but you will always be an Osprey.

Degree: 

Bachelor of Science in Business Studies, Cum Laude Honors

Profession:

President and Executive Recruiter at Sales Recruiters, Inc.

Fun Facts & Hobbies: 

Stockton University’s Dean Executive Advisory Board-Chairperson; Travel Recruiting, Employee Engagement and Recognition Seminars; Teaches College Courses in Management and Human Resources; Research and Development of College Course on Recruiting; Revising published book "The Power of Proactive Recruiting"

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

Stockton University's engaging and inclusive learning environment taught me the hard and soft skills necessary for me to expand my academic, social, and intellectual horizons. The connections I made while a student, and after as an alumnus and speaker, have impacted my professional and personal development in a positive and meaningful way. I look back and am proud of my Osprey roots.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

My professors, advisors, and club mentors provided me with insight, guidance, and influence. Their words of wisdom, life, and business principles are still remembered years later. They were special mentors and guides in my life.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

Two stories come to mind. I took 28 credits in coursework one semester (32 credits are needed for a year's study). Two of my Professors were not happy with this, but supported me in my goal of Dean's List for that semester. The second story revolved around my two years as a member of the Student Senate. I was selected to be the Budget Chair for the Student Senate. It was a great responsibility (managing a six-figure budget). As a Student Senator, I was immersed in the various college activities and their influence on college life for the students, staff, faculty, community, faculty, and administration. I felt that I was able to support activities that help create positive activities for the Osprey Nation members.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

Helping the students and alumni guide their careers is a motivating factor that brings me great pride. The faculty, staff, and administration have impacted the students and community in their careers. I am happy to help augment their actions to expand their reach in touching the students' lives.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Stockton University is a special place where you can obtain experience and practical knowledge that you will use for the rest of your life. While at Stockton, leverage your college experience to set yourself up for lifelong learning. Your college years can be the blueprint for expanding your thoughts, increasing your openness to other ideas, and collaborating with others in life.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?

In 50 years, Stockton College (now University) has helped create a positive impact and moments in tens of thousands of people's lives. In the next 50 years, may the influence and impact be even greater to more people! I will not be here to see it but I know others will help see this wish come to fruition. Happy 50th Anniversary, Osprey Nation.

Degree: 

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies

Profession:

Vice President of Programs  for New Jersey Family Planning League, Inc. where she oversees the organization's relationships, providing family planning and STD services statewide. As part of her profession, she is passionate about health equity, improving access and quality of sexual and reproductive health services in New Jersey. 

Fun Facts & Hobbies: 

I enjoy getting on the leader board with my Peloton crew and spending time with my wonderful husband and two energetic kids. 

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

My Stockton experience greatly influenced my life and helped define who I was during my young adult years. Going through the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program fostered “Dignity, Intensity and Pride.” I can still remember waking up on those early summer mornings with friends learning how to navigate college life with trusted advisors coaching us through it all. I’m still forever thankful for that experience.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

My academic program was the foundation that paved the way for the success I have achieved today.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

EOF was the best experience and memory. The friends who I met through the program haved remained with me through life. We are forever #EOFStrong

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

Stockton has evolved since I was there and remaining connected allows me to engage and connect with current students as a resource.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Remember every moment is an opportunity to learn from everyone around you. Build connections, support those around you. Remain connected to your community by going back and helping others.

Degree: 

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science 

Profession:

I am currently the U.S. Consul General at the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, South Africa. This three-year posting is the latest assignment in my 20-year career as a Foreign Service Officer at the U.S. Department of State. I have also served in Chad, Canada (Vancouver), Mongolia, Tanzania, and Washington DC.

Fun Facts & Hobbies: 

Like most Foreign Service Officers, I love traveling and learning about different cultures and places. Closer to home, I am a life-long baseball fan.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

I always appreciated that Stockton focused on pushing us to pursue broad academic experiences, not pigeon-holing us into specific paths. So even though I was a Political Science major, I was encouraged - and even rewarded - for taking courses in math, business, science, and more. I think that helped instill an important understanding of how everything is linked together.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

In addition to having the opportunity to explore different classes, the Political Science Department was truly outstanding. Rather than focus on rote memorization, the professors pushed us to think, solve problems, and defend our positions. Those types of critical thinking skills are certainly at the center of my work today.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

Bill Daly's Senior Seminar class remains the best course I have ever taken - undergraduate, graduate, or professional - as it really replicated a work environment where you have to take a project from concept through end delivery. In addition, my Washington Internship Program during the spring semester of my junior year was critical to expanding my horizons and seeing how many opportunities really existed for all of us studying in South Jersey.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

I hope it is helpful to demonstrate to current students the type of opportunities that are available to them, either with the Department of State or in the policy field more broadly.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Take some time to travel - whether it be major international trips or short weekends away, the more you see how others live opens your mind to new ideas.

Degree:

Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics

Profession:

Knowledge Graph Initiatives Manager: I manage efforts in Knowledge Graph, Semantic data, Machine Learning, and Natural Language Processing for a major national bank.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:

I’ve loved hiking, biking, sailing, collecting vintage rock albums, rebuilding a ‘65 Corvette, and renovating an old house in Maine, where we now live. The sea is wonderful!

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

I attended Stockton from 1973-1977. I learned what I loved to learn, made lifelong friendships, had wonderful professors, and fit right into the small size (at that time), closeness, open mindedness, and best place for me, with a post 1960s mindset.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

I became enthralled with the early functional microprocessors ( a 1k NIM 1…if you can believe it.) Using a hex keypad and cassette recorder for data, opened a new world to me of computing and my first foray into computer science. I loved physics, but I wasn’t as skilled as my classmates. But I found my passion.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

Two professors had a major influence on me, as teachers, people, and as friends: Yitzhak Sharon (physics) and Dennis Wildfogel (math.) I enjoyed D court but more so living in Brigantine, which was quiet during the winter except for students and a few locals. Playing pool at the Beach Bar dropping quarters into the juke box.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

After Stockton I studied and worked in north jersey for a couple years before moving to San Francisco in 1979. That’s where I was meant to be: the mecca of technology and where my life took a quantum leap forward. After many years, and when the internet took flight, it became easier to reconnect with people. It became gratifying to periodically remain connected to my Stockton people.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Time goes by very quickly. Focusing on what truly matters is much more important than becoming stuck in useless stuff. I tell the people that work for and with me to let things go that won’t have consequential significance. There are only so many opportunities in life to make a significant impact on yourself, people you love, and on humanity. Choose wisely.

Is there anything else that you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?

Personal accomplishments only matter if you use them to make a difference in the lives of people you care for and about. Love not just what you do, but how you do it.

Degree:

Bachelor of Arts in Geology

Profession:

Coordinator of Accommodations for the Office of Disability Services. I work with students who have documented disabilities to receive equal opportunity and access through reasonable accommodations.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:

I have been a certified Zumba instructor since November 2019 and love to dance! I danced for 14 years with several dance schools prior to coming to college in 2012. I also love going hiking and talking about rocks!

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

My randomly assigned roommate freshmen year on the N 300 floor and another girl I met freshman year are still my best friends to this day (shout-out to Allyson and Amy)! The people that I met and became friends with both in other students, staff, and faculty are still those that are a major part of my current life and have helped shape the person I am today. Being a T.A.L.O.N.S (The Activity Leaders of New Students) for two years was the greatest experience, as it gave me the opportunity to create lasting first impressions for incoming students who were just starting their Stockton experiences. Taking Zumba classes in the I-wing gym sparked my love for Zumba and really encouraged me to take the leap into getting my own certification.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

Stockton allowed me to study a field that I didn't even know existed! Even though I am not working in the field, I use the knowledge every day to put a unique spin on how I talk about disability related matters. My academic program was the most challenging coursework I've ever had, but it prepared me perfectly for my graduate school studies.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

There are just too many to choose, from late night Wawa runs, to frolicking around Lake Fred, and the Theater Club's Night of Sex presentations! However, I took Professor Matt Landau's Tropical Marine Biology course one summer that included a trip to the Florida Keys! My best friend was the TA for the course, so it was such a fun week of traveling around together with the class for both academics and fun!

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

Stockton and its community gave me a place to grow, learn, and thrive during a time that is most important for young adults to develop a sense of who they are. If there is anything I can do to give back and help create that opportunity for someone else, then I am more than happy to do that.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

I would say to be BOLD, be FIERCE, and TAKE RISKS! Stockton has given you all of the tools needed to make your mark on the world so now it's up to you to USE THEM! Never be afraid to be who you are and to leap into opportunities in full force.

Is there anything else that you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?

If you are looking for a fun way to get your exercise in and may be interested in Zumba classes, I teach class both in person and virtually through Relax Mind and Body Yoga Studio in Williamstown, NJ! Zumba classes are Wednesdays at 6:30pm and Saturdays at 10:30am, but there are other great classes offered both in person and virtually. Check it out here: https://relaxmb.com/

Degree:

Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Magna Cum Laude, Program Distinction

Profession:

I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. I work at Stress Care of NJ in their higher level of care department as a therapist.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:

Cooking, baking, exercise, and Netflix.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

My Stockton experience influenced my life because it laid my path for success. At Stockton, I was able to get involved with so many clubs and network with professors and staff. Most importantly, I was able to ask questions. I didn't feel alone while trying to navigate college. There was so much support.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

At Stockton, I found out how much I love social work in my Intro to Social Work course. I read the first chapter of that course's book and I realized that I wanted to be a social worker. So, my academic program supported my eventual career.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

My favorite memory of Stockton is probably my involvement with Active Minds. I love the work that Active Minds continue to do and I am so glad it was part of my Stockton career. One of the best Stockton events would have to be the student leadership award dinners and also, anything SET hosts.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

Stockton was a very special part of my life. It was a flexible learning institution. You could create your own internships and explore the subjects you were interested in. Stockton has wonderful, imaginative professors. Stockton suited my needs and personality. I believe I would not have succeeded in business without the "Stockton Experience.” Most other New Jersey schools seemed too rigid for my needs. Stockton gave me wonderful memories.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Remember your resources at Stockton. I still use the Stockton career center for advice on interviewing.

Degree:

Bachelor of Arts in Business; Juris Doctorate in Law

Profession:

Diamond Consulting Group-Mentor CEO - CC&R Property Investments Inc

Fun Facts & Hobbies:

I like to trail run 10 miles a day. I also love skiing – I live part of the year in Winter Park, Colorado.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

Stockton allowed me to explore the possibilities life has to offer. To challenge myself and to expect more out of life. It helped me to discover my love of the law (I have a J.D.) and running my own consulting business.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

I took great classes in business and a lot of intriguing and fun electives. In one class we even started the Stockton federated credit union back in 1974. I learned that you could do anything if you have the will, drive and guts.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

I always loved the parties in the Courtyard Apartments. One year we even had a pig roast, and everyone attended. I remember being part of small student-led grocery store in one of the apartments. We sold Ramen, Mac-n-Cheese, Twinkies etc. I always loved taking my morning run around Lake Fred. Best Class was "Boating and Fishing 101" where we went out in the professor’s boat and learned how to deep sea fish, after which we then went to a local bistro for beers and fish stories. Finally, I always loved going to Louies (Lutz's) – a small tavern near the college campus in Pomona for huge fresh made turkey or ham sandwiches and homemade whiskey sours. The owners were always nice to the starving college students.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

Stockton was a very special part of my life. It was a flexible learning institution. You could create your own internships and explore the subjects you were interested in. Stockton has wonderful, imaginative professors. Stockton suited my needs and personality. I believe I would not have succeeded in business without the "Stockton Experience.” Most other New Jersey schools seemed too rigid for my needs. Stockton gave me wonderful memories.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Life is Short-Don't be Patient ! Go for it !
GET A MENTOR (it was my shortcut to success)
Stay Healthy.
Do not accept mediocrity as a lifestyle. Start your own business and do something you love that is also financially practical. Embrace your freedom.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?

Enjoy your life; create and savor awesome memories.
Personal Fun Note: I am 69 years-old and the photo featured of me here was taken in April 2021 – Stockton may be the fountain of youth; I still have my Hippie hair

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Business Management

Profession:
I own and publish a magazine called New Jersey Lifestyle Magazine that targets the affluent market by using demographic data such as location, income and home value. We direct mail the publication bi-monthly to households in Atlantic and Cape May counties.

Fun Facts & Hobbies: 
I love to bike, travel and enjoy all things outdoors. I live by the beach, so I enjoy the beach life as well.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 
Stockton was the start of serious learning for me. I took the opportunity to learn as much as I could about business when I attended. I enjoyed the small class sizes and engaged with the professors on a one-on-one basis.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
I connected with a few passionate professors that turned on my passion for deep business thinking. I also looked for as much business material that could increase my learning. Back then it was more physical reading than online data like today. I was a big subscriber to the Harvard Business Review which helped my case study work.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
Lew Leitner was my favorite professor, and I found the interchange with him in his classes advanced my thought process.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
I had a great experience and made a lot of close friends at Stockton. I still connect with many of my classmates. Stockton is a community and like any community it requires people with a common interest and a shared experience.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
I would advise graduating students to keep an entrepreneurial attitude toward life. No one is going to hold your hand, so you have to go out and be creative and driven to succeed no matter what your career path. There are no limitations in life or your career.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
Take your learning and life into your own hands. Your experience in school and out are important and should be fun and successful. You should be spending time socially with both your educators and fellow students. That is also part of learning. Dealing with people will be one of the most important things you will have to do. People with shape your personal life and professional life. Knowing how to navigate personalities and situations will be the difference between success and failure.

Degree:

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies

Profession:

As a member of the enrollment management team at Stockton, I am responsible for supervising the various functions which support the enrollment objectives of the university, including executing recruitment strategies, overseeing day-to-day recruitment functions and managing, mentoring and cultivating recruitment staff who play an integral role assisting with applications and the guest experience. I oversee five full-time staff and the Ambassador Organization consisting of approximately 40 of the University's finest student leaders. These students are my world and are superstars.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:

Growing up as a little girl in Atlantic City, the beach was my second home. As soon as I had my daughter, I bought my house right in the heart of Gardner's Basin a block from the beach and a block from the famous docks of the prohibition era. My favorite pastimes are spent with my 7-year-old daughter, Mila, at the beach, swimming, bike riding on the boardwalk, and most importantly, volunteering in the community for the Hispanic Association of Atlantic County.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 

I will never forget the day I got the phone call that my grandmother was killed in a car accident at the young age of 59. My grandmother or "Abuelita," helped raise me and my three siblings while my single mother worked three jobs to survive. The last conversation I had with my grandmother was a week before she passed. I was 19 years old and a college dropout, and I remember her expressing her disappointment in me for "giving up" because the strong women in my family raised me to be "resilient", "fearless" and "deserving of all this country has to offer." When she died, my Mom, who worked at Stockton (and continues to work here 20 years later) had me meet with Nelson Morales in the Admissions Office so that I could learn about the transfer process and enroll in courses. Not even a month after my grandmother's funeral, I had enrolled in college and was on my path towards making the strong women in my life proud. Although I entered in spring of 2008 feeling forced, rushed and alone, I graduated in the fall of 2009 feeling thankful, loved, heard and seen. Stockton became my home away from home, my safe haven, my place of learning and inspiration. Stockton's courses allowed me to learn how to advocate for myself and for others in various capacities. I learned how to become a change agent, and most importantly, a mentor for young Black and Brown girls.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

As a child of proud immigrants, it was instilled me at young age that I had to go to college so that I could take courses that would grant me entrance into a prestigious graduate school that would allow me to become a doctor or a lawyer. I quickly learned that I was not into math, science or anything having to do with statistics (there goes law school!) As a three-time major changer, I finally found my happiness and strength in the communication studies program. In that program I learned about media, culture, politics, cinema, public speaking and TV/productions – all of these skills that I utilize in my personal and professional career today. I learned from the greatest in their fields: Dr. James Shen, Dr. Suya Yin, Dr. Joe'l Ludovich and Lynn Keyser. Although I did not take any courses taught by Dr. Donni Allison (because I heard her classes were hard!) she remains as a mentor and close friend of mine to this day.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

Some of my favorite memories at Stockton were in the Provost Office where I worked as a student assistant during my junior and senior years. As the extroverted Latina with tons of personality, I loved every moment of making all who entered K201 comfortable and right at home (which was often the opposite of how folks felt coming to visit the Provost). My passion for higher education and access comes from the fierce women who inspired me every day in that office including Dr. Claudine Keenan, Dr. Sonia Gonsalvez, Dr. Deb Figart (who pushed me to apply for my first job at Stockton after graduation), Diane Epps and Trish Snyder.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

After five years as a counselor in the Graduate Studies Office, I did not realize that I was going to continue in the field of higher education until a group of amazingly talented students asked me to be their advisor for the club, Los Latinos Unidos. They needed me to help them organize and kick off the campus-wide Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration. I needed them to help me realize an important part of my identity: advocacy. I stay at Stockton and connect with fellow Ospreys because I truly believe that the youth of this institution provides many opportunities for growth in representation among the student body, faculty and staff. I love getting involved in new retention initiatives and programming that fosters an inclusive and equitable environment for all who land on our campus. Through Los Latinos Unidos, Unidos, Council of Black Faculty and Staff, TogetHER, First Ospreys and the various committees in which I serve, I get to pave the way for my daughter and other little Black and Brown girls to have a safe space where they can flourish at Stockton and beyond.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Live in the moment. Appreciate every situation and circumstance that you encounter in life. Listen, observe, learn and give back to your community.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?

Get involved with Alumni Relations as an Alumni Ambassador! What better way to recruit students than to hear directly from the mouths of fellow Ospreys as to why they should choose Stockton!

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Studies in the Arts with a Concentration in Dance Performance

Profession:
Emily is the Co-Owner and Executive Director of Dancers Inc. Competitions and Conventions.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
I love spending time with my one-year old son, JJ, and spending time outdoors either at the beach or in my backyard with my family. I have been teaching dance for 10 years across the east coast. A fun fact: I use to participate/compete in the events of Dancers Inc. when I was a dancer growing up and now, I own the company. I have been awarded several choreography and technique awards for my work in competition dance.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
My Stockton experience taught me to always persevere through the challenging times as the reward is always worth it. This is very relevant given the year everyone has had with COVID, and now owning my own business. There were many times of uncertainty but as I sit here and write this, I can say I successfully planned 25 events for Dancers Inc. while following COVID restrictions and keeping our dancers, studio directors and staff safe!

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
My academic program gave me real life experience and connections that I have been able to use as I have taken on my new endeavor. I learned more about the dance industry and the importance of providing a quality dance education to our youth.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
My favorite Stockton memory would be meeting my now husband while performing in the Medley Series, written and directed my Henry Van Kuiken and Bud Noble, and having the opportunity to work with Dance Now Miami! Also working with the youth of AC by organizing and facilitating the annual AC PAL Summer Art Camps.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
My main reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton is so I can continue to learn and give back to the community that helped influence me and provide me with the tools and resources I needed to be successful.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
I would tell future graduating classes to be kind and patient with yourself during the difficult times and always invest in yourself!

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
Dancers Inc. is looking to connect with current students on possible internships for our upcoming season beginning in September 2021.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor is Africana Studies

Profession:
Juana is the Resident Director for Morgan State University where she leads a staff of 15 Resident Assistants and two Assistant Resident Directors. She trains, supervises and serves as a role model for her staff as well as recruits, interviews, hires, trains and evaluates 100 Residence Hall staff members, among other responsibilities.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
I enjoy traveling and keeping up with my motto: “Don’t let your age get larger than the number of countries you’ve explored” - Prof Don Gogniat. During my senior year, I participated in Semester at Sea (SAS), a study abroad program sponsored by the University of Virginia, that circumnavigates the globe on a ship. Professor Don Gogniat was my global studies professor. I am currently a Chapter Representative for SAS. I promote a community among alumni, including planning and facilitating events in the Baltimore/DC-area and encourage alumni to continue to participate via emails and online networking.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life? 
Since the beginning of my journey at Stockton, I was intrigued by how much higher education could make available character opportunities to individuals. I am a proud Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) student. The EOF program was more than an intense five-week summer program that provided financial aid; they became my support system. The staff and students in the EOF program became my family and their love for education and leadership guided me to become who I am today.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
Fall 2007, the seed was planted and my passion of traveling the world was ignited after visiting South Africa as a requirement for the course, ‘South Africa Now’ with Professor Melaku Lakew. From this experience, I developed a deeper understanding of the importance of maintaining a global perspective and traveling the world to learn about and appreciate other cultures. I realized that the world was literally at my fingertips and since 2010 I have explored 30 different countries and five continents while on Semester at Sea and through personal travel.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
Ever since I graduated, I stayed connected with the University in different ways. I served as a chartering member for the Educational Opportunity Fund Alumni Advisory Board at Stockton and worked as a Campus Police Officer for SCPD. After I moved to Baltimore, I was not able to stay as connected as I would've liked to, but I am happy that I have been working with the University virtually with their M.E.N.T.O.R. program, which is a student career-coaching project led by alumni of color to facilitate professional and career coaching to help students access and build social networks. As a M.E.N.T.O.R., I am tasked to help prepare students with aligning skills, homing in on their knowledge, and career planning to help with their career goals and post-graduation aspirations.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
In these uncertain, unprecedented times, do not be discouraged; continue to pour into yourself because we can't pour from an empty cup. While doing this, make sure you are looking at different ways to improve your everyday habits through the 8 Dimensions of Wellness, so you can improve quality of life.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
Never stop exploring and always be a long-life learner!

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Public Health

Profession:
Sharone Jones, is the assistant vice president of Student Success and Experiential Learning at Lincoln University, the first degree granting HBCU in the nation. Sharone oversees six High Impact Co-Curricular Engagement Units including the Offices of Career Development, Community Service and Engagement, Internship Services, International Programs, the Center for Undergraduate Research and Pre-professional preparatory programs in Health and Biomedical Sciences including Pre-Medicine, Pre-Dentist, Pre-Veterinarian and Pre-Law Students. Sharone is responsible for the administration, reporting, implementation and execution of student experiential learning initiatives in alignment with Lincoln University’s Mission and Strategic Goals.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
Aside from the world of work, Sharone is passionate about community service. She is a member of several community/civic engagement organizations. She is the Pennsylvania State President of the National Council of Negro Women Inc. where she liaisons with five Community-Based Section Presidents and 10 Collegiate Section President’s and their membership to ensure that the mission of the organization guides their passion to serve.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
My journey at Stockton University introduced and prepared me with knowledge, skills and experiences that helped me launch my career and manage transitions along the way. In addition, Stockton provided a holistic approach to learning, growing and building relationships. Upon exiting the Stockton, I truly felt prepared to enter the workforce.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
As a Public Health Major, I knew I wanted to enter the Pharmaceutical Industry. I enjoyed my science courses and knew I wanted to work in a regulated global industry where I could apply my analytical skills to improve compliance.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
My favorite memories of Stockton were experiences outside of the classroom that were shared with friends. As a result, my immediate circle of friends today are those I met while attending Stockton.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
Take advantage of every opportunity academically, co-curricular, culturally and socially. Doing so will increase your competitiveness to thrive in a global marketplace.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Business Studies with a minor in Economics, 2009

Profession:
I am an Assistant Prosecutor in Cumberland County

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
I enjoy singing, playing basketball, and collecting vintage video games.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
My experience at Stockton was beneficial to my life. I met many of my closest friends, many of whom I text constantly. I was able to sing with the oratorical society and play on the basketball team. I left Stockton with more than just a degree. Stockton feels like my family.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
Stockton helped me to broaden my horizons. I took courses on a wide range of areas. Professor Bob King encouraged me to go to law school and I’m happy I did. I wouldn’t have considered going to law school without taking his business law course.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
Hard to narrow to just one. Honorable mention includes: Singing the Handel’s Messiah with Bev Vaughn; beating Ramapo to win the NJAC; conference junior year; Attending NCAA leadership conference in Disney; making it to the NCAA Final Four; hanging out with the athletics department crew before games working games. But my favorite memories came from hanging out with my girlfriend at the Galloway diner. We’d typically get gyros. She’s now my wife.
Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
Stockton is family. Even though they’re all fancy now because it’s a university, it will always be Richard Stockton College to me.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
Just remember that an Osprey is a bird of prey indigenous to the New Jersey pine barrens. You will have to explain this to people.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
I’m excited to see what the future Stockton graduates have to share with the world. Times are hard because of COVID-19. I graduated during the Great Recession. Things will get better.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Biology with High Honors - 1996

Profession:
I am one of the leaders on PTC Therapeutics' Global Talent Acquisition Group.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
I love working out, listening to music, reading, jogging and watching movies.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
Stockton helped me to bring out my best both from an academic and an extra-curricular perspective. I worked in the Dean of Students office as well, where I was able to develop my skills further. The teachers were excellent, and I think they brought out the best in me and my abilities. I was also a member of The Honesty Appeals Board which shaped my overall academic life.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
Biology was a challenging subject and to attain a High Honors degree, I had to work very hard. The knowledge I gained was invaluable since it helps me work with top Scientists and Clinical professionals in my profession. I am routinely conducting in-depth interviews with these professionals and thus the knowledge I gained here is invaluable.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
Receiving four Academic Scholarships was memorable along with the dinner to celebrate these accomplishments. My family attended and was very proud of me. I also enjoyed playing tennis on campus with my buddies.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
Stockton has given me a lot in my life and therefore I want to stay connected to it. I want to help the students there, especially graduating seniors. Working in HR at a top pharmaceutical company, I have the opportunity to do so.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Work hard and don't take short cuts. Stay focused on your goals and never give up.

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in ENVL Science - 1988

Profession:
Owner and Lead Instructor at National CSI Camp, LLC. We teach young minds about how STEM is used to solve crimes. 

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
After racing Track and XC at Stockton for four years, I was hired at Stockton University after I graduated as the distance coach for both of those sports. I am still an avid runner, triathlete, race organizer, hiker, biker, fitness enthusiast, explorer and traveler.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
Stockton helped shape and train me for the real world. Pursuing my Stockton internship in my field of study eventually led me to a full-time job using my degree for 10 years. I have maintained many close relationships both personally and professionally with others from Stockton through the years. Additionally, many of the Science Labs that we incorporate in our new National CSI program, I actually learned from my years at Stockton.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
I loved interacting with so many great professors who helped guide me along my educational path and eventually my career path. I have met so many others in both the Science and Law Enforcement fields, Stockton being that common thread. My career in Science at Stockton led to my 18-year career as a Detective at the County Prosecutor's Office. Combining both of those professional experiences culminated in the creation of my new company, National CSI Camp, LLC where we examine STEM concepts that are used to solve crimes.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
The lab, gym, pool and the XC course on campus. My favorite teachers, to name only a few, were Yitzak Sharon (Physics), Dr. Zimmerman (Dendrology/Stats), Shelby Broughton (Chemistry), and Track & XC Coach Dave Pfeiffer.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
At 18 years old, I entered Stockton. I enjoyed the college, the area and the nearby beach that lead to me relocating permanently to Atlantic County after growing up in Somerset County. The Stockton community extends beyond campus and well beyond the years you spend attending the university.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

Stay connected to your friends and professors. Chase your dreams and what you love to do career-wise. When you find a job that you love to do, it doesn't really feel like work.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice - Cum Laude May 2015 Holocaust and Genocide Studies Minor May 2015

Profession:
I am the Program Assistant of the Sara & Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center at Stockton University. I am fortunate to work in one of the most enthralling places in the world, the Sara & Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center at Stockton University. I work in a place where I am reminded of the consequences of hate and racism, and of the plight of peoples, from the Holocaust until today. Through lectures, conferences, workshops, classes, and tours, we foster the academic study of the Holocaust and we commemorate the victims of the Shoah. Over the years, as an undergraduate student and as a staff member of the Holocaust Resource Center, I have come to know, respect, and admire our South Jersey Holocaust survivors and their families.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
I am a passionate fan of soccer or fútbol. I am not a good soccer player, but I love watching it on television. My favorite soccer teams are the Philadelphia Union from the United States, Cruz Azul from Mexico, and Real Madrid C.F. from Spain. I am also a collector of wristwatches, so if you have any, let me know!

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
I loved Stockton so much I guess I never really left! Stockton is my life because the lessons I learned here, as an undergraduate student, prepared me for what I would experience later in the “real world” and it set me apart during job interviews. I learned how to be passionate about your work from my Stockton professors, and as a student worker in the Office of General Studies, under Dean Jan Colijn, Dean Robert Gregg, Assistant Dean Claire Lopatto, and Dale Howell, I learned how to be confident, dedicated, and disciplined.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
I am working in the Sara and Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center because of the experiences and the education I received while earning the Minor in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. Earning the minor, expanded my horizons, it elevated my circle of awareness, from a local level to an international level. My expanded level of awareness has made me a more educated individual and a better community organizer and activist.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
My favorite Stockton memory, as a student, was when my friends and fellow classmates came out to an event to make fake bones out of modeling clay in June 2013. At that point in time, I was president of a Stockton student organization called STAND, which was an acronym for Students Taking Action Now: Darfur. STAND sponsored an event for Stockton students to sculpt fake bones because they were going to be a part of an art installation called “One Million Bones,” in Washington, D.C. This art project was created by a fellow Stockton alumna, Naomi Natale. Naomi wanted to create a project that would illustrate the skeletal remains of victims of ongoing genocides and mass atrocities around the world. Stockton students created approximately 100 bones for the art installation in Washington D.C. Later that year, STAND co-sponsored a bus trip with the Sara and Sam Schoffer Holocaust Resource Center to see the bones on the National Mall. Stockton students were able to meet Naomi and I remember being so amazed at how she was able to educate and inspire people all over the world, and she was a fellow Osprey just like me. Learn more about the project. 

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
Stockton is a special place and we host some of the most fascinating students and alumni anywhere. There is never a dull moment at Stockton, and I look forward to seeing how the next generation of Ospreys change the world.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
The faculty and staff at Stockton want the best for every student. It took me a while, but always ask for advice and help. They may not know the answer, but the key difference is, they will help you find it.

Stockton alumni Jennifer Ling and Kevin Lynch wrote their first children’s book, “Hippity Hop Dave” – a story that follows the journey of a bunny searching for the missing piece of her heart. The themes of acceptance, sharing, and friendship are all so relevant in today’s society and is a great gift for young children.

Degrees:

• Jennifer: Criminal Justice, Homeland Security
• Kevin: Environmental Studies, Education

Professions:

• Jennifer: Software Analyst
• Kevin: 6th Grade Science Teacher

Fun Facts & Hobbies:

• Jennifer: I love being outdoors, whether it be a walk, hike, or bike ride! I also enjoy reading a good book.
• Kevin: I like playing sports. I played on Stockton’s club volleyball team. Now that I am graduated, I rely on playing sports like baseball and football with my friends to keep active.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?

• Jennifer: My Stockton experience influenced my life by introducing me to new people and new ways of thinking that I haven’t experienced before. I switched my major after my freshman year and I greatly attribute this to Stockton’s course setup, which allows you to take classes in different disciplines early on in your college career.
• Kevin: Stockton taught me everything I know regarding teaching which has become my career. Both Professor White and Professor Culleny guided me through the process of teaching affectively which has translated very well into my classroom as I take on my first year of virtual education.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

• Jennifer: The Criminal Justice program molded my career very specifically. I got to experience a wide variety of disciplines through the program, which ultimately led me to Homeland Security. This was greatly inspired by Dr. Jess, who’s passion for the subject and guidance throughout my studies was greatly appreciated. I now work as a software analyst on a homeland security defense contract.
• Kevin: In my environmental studies program, I learned a lot about sustainable practices which I have taken to the classroom as I am now the advisor for the environmental club in the school where I teach. I also use this knowledge in my own life to reduce my carbon footprint.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

• Jennifer: Apart from meeting each other, which happened at Stockton in 2018 and ultimately led to the creation of our book, our favorite memories include: I had the opportunity spend a semester in Washington DC completing an internship through the Washington Internship Program. I had interned on Capitol Hill with the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security. It was an amazing experience being involved in the creation of homeland security legislation!
• Kevin: One of my favorite memories from Stockton was going to St. Louis for the Club Volleyball Nationals. I loved bonding with my team in St. Louis which was the first time I was ever in the state of Missouri.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

• Both: Staying connected helps us keep in touch with our classmates and the different accomplishments that they are achieving throughout their careers and lives. We love seeing the success of fellow classmates and following their journeys.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

• Both: We would share that you can do anything you set your mind to. We had no idea we would be able to publish a children’s book, but here we are!

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?

• Both: Please check out our children’s book, Hippity Hop Dave, on Amazon! It is a story based on our pet bunnies, Dave & Jim. The main themes are focused on sharing and acceptance, which is so relevant in today’s world.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies and a minor in Ancient Greek Language.

Profession:
I am currently a PhD student at Texas A&M University studying Nautical Archaeology. I received my Master’s in Ancient History from the University of South Florida in 2019. During my master’s I attended the American School of Classical Studies at Athens in the summer of 2018. As a doctorate student, I am a graduate assistant researcher for the Institute of Nautical Archaeology and run communications for RPM Nautical Foundation. My academic interests include Greco-Roman maritime history and archaeology with a special focus on naval warfare, naval rams, and warships. My academic interests also include the study of sex and gender in antiquity, particularly concerning navies and naval monuments.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
Reading, writing, computer gaming, weightlifting, and outdoor sports.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
I did not start my academic career at Stockton University, but entered as a transfer student during my sophomore year. Stockton made the transfer process from my previous institution simple and offered a welcoming environment that helped me feel like I belonged. As a local of South Jersey, Stockton was like a second home which provided a place to learn and grow as a young adult. The friendliness of the faculty, staff, and students is unparalleled. I did not feel as an outsider in an ever-expanding university system, but as an integral part of the academic experience. The educational experience I received at Stockton was intellectually stimulating and created a sense of community and solidarity. Consequently, in all my endeavors I seek to emulate a similar sense of camaraderie with my friends, colleagues, and professors.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
Stockton was the cornerstone to my academic success and pushed me to pursue a career as a scholar. The rigorousness of the History program equipped me with the basic skills required to be a proper historian. These skills include how to formulate primary source analyses, write historiographical essays, and, most importantly, think for myself. I learned that self-expression through writing was a productive and worthy enterprise as writing history is reflective: the more you learn about the past, the more you learn about yourself. After I graduated from Stockton, I desired to advance my academic career with the aspiration to become a scholar of history. With the support of my professors and the foundational education I received at Stockton, I applied to graduate school to accomplish my goals.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
The history faculty are an exemplar of scholarly determination, success, and compassion that I attempt to emulate in my own work and strive to achieve daily. Dr. David Roessel and Dr. Tom Papademetriou were the catalysts to my pursuit of academic success. Dr. Papadimitriou’s classes on the Hellenic world introduced and encouraged me to study the Greek peoples and cultures throughout human history. His work with the local Greek community showed how integral it is for a historian to engage with the public in addition to the past to acquire a greater sense of global and cultural awareness. As for Dr. Roessel, I would need to write a monograph on how he shaped my life. In short, I would not be where I am today without his continued support. Dr. Roessel was and is a constant reminder for me to push myself to be a better scholar, student, and person.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
Stockton gave me a sense of purpose that I wish for all past, current, and future Ospreys to gain during their academic journeys. I want students who attend Stockton to strive to be their best selves and use Stockton as a starting place to do so. A key aspect of being an Osprey is to give back to others and the community. Keeping in touch and supporting faculty, staff, and students is just one way of saying that I still care and look forward to contributing even more to Stockton in the future.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
Graduating from Stockton is the beginning of a new chapter. I would advise that graduating Ospreys use what they learned at Stockton as motivation to continue to strive to reach whatever goals are set, whether small or large. Having a degree does not mean that learning has ceased. Try every day to learn something new and exciting.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
Do not stop beginning great! Other student alumni and I are always ready to support those who need help or are just seeking some guidance.

Profession:
Partner and Executive Director of Clyde Is Thinking Records, which he created out of the Communication Arts Holding, Inc and ESP. Eric helps guide the firm toward the Events/Entertainment/Festivals category and move away from the Tech category they had been involved with for so long. Eric is also a singer, songwriter and guitarist. 

Fun Facts & Hobbies:

Eric lists the following as fun facts and hobbies:

• Spent four years at St. Josephs College, Darjeeling India
• Visited Ankor Watt in Cambodia
• Grew up in Bangkok, Thailand for 10 years
• Created the Georgetown Film Festival in Washington, DC
• Created the Johnson City Folk Festival, Johnson City, Tenn.
• Touring Guitar player with John Mayall, Leon Redbone, John Hammond, Jr., David Bromberg, Buddy Guy, Little Feat with Lowell George, Dr. John
• Spent two years in London with Nick Lowe, Dave Edmonds, Wreckless Eric & Bram Tschikovsky
• Winner of the Piedmont Blues Challenge, Greensboro, NC
• Lake Fred is named after me

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
Faculty member Brooke Larsen changed my life and gave me a pathway to have a creative life filled with visual beauty, creative clarity, and intellectual honesty. I have used what I learned in my years at Stockton every day since.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
It gave me confidence and direction in an atmosphere of freedom and visual experimentation. Starting at the Mayflower, I was surrounded by the values of creativity and production excellence that were the core of that early learning environment and I have maintained those ideals ever since. They served me well.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
Too many to pick one, but if I had to, it would be what I created in the pine barrens just off the dirt walk around Lake Fred from housing to the Main Campus. A small group of us who were interested in writing, prose and Thoreau's thoughts on living deliberately at Walden Pond in Concord, Mass. decided to meet in the trees. We met where we had discovered a group of hunter platforms all at the same height - around 50 feet off the forest floor - up in the trees. We met once a week, we communicated by notes on times and dates, and we brought hot coffee, donuts, and subs from the Corner Store; we then pulled them up in a bucket on neat pulley systems. We sat there in the twilight, watching the sun go down, sometimes in the dark and we all sat there being part of the trees and the wind, swaying with the trees and passing new poetry around, telling stories or just howling. This lasted for quite a few months until we came one day when all the hunting platforms had been taken down.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
After I left Stockton, which was smaller,  I finished my undergrad work at George Washington University in Washington, DC. It was a large, urban school with a medical school, law school, an economics department and it was too big. I missed the close community of BP Stockton (Before Pomona) and I always try to come through Pomona when I play the New Jersey area.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys
Don't worry and find what you love, then just throw your heart over the fence and the rest of you will follow.

Lisa Overton and Leigh Overton Boyd both graduated from Stockton University with Criminal Justice degrees. Together they published a book about a fire that killed their parents in 1974, called "The Fire She Set". The process took 12 years, but they completed the venture together. This month we decided to feature both alumnae in our Bird’s-Eye View! 

Degrees:
Criminal Justice

Professions:

• Leigh: I am in real estate consulting providing global portfolio management services to large manufacturing companies. I am also a published author of the book, “The Fire She Set,” which is my first book. It’s set around the beach towns of Atlantic City in the early 1970s.
• Lisa: I am retired from a long career as a full-time mom. Now I’m consultant to my former clients.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:

• Leigh: I am currently training for a half marathon in Idaho and enjoy many outdoor activities including gardening, fishing and hiking the Teton Mountain trails. I am also actively volunteering in my community and have a golden retriever, Caleigh, who is a trained therapy dog.
• Lisa: Living in rural Kentucky, there is no shortage of fun activities to participate in. I make my own food and engage in projects here on my twenty-wooded acres. I'm active in the local addiction recovery community. I love any outdoor activity and yoga. During times of indoor activity, I like to write, sew and read.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?

• Leigh: I was one of the early students at the college before it became a university, and it attracted top quality professors from around the community. I was most influenced by my criminal justice professor, John Sliwa and after graduating attended Delaware Law School.
• Lisa: I discovered a love of learning and spent most of my life attending school. Professor Phil Klukoff once told me "I think expressing yourself on paper is one of the things you do best." That set me up to be a writer. The written word and I have a long-standing love affair.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?

• Leigh: I graduated with high honors in 1979 and started working for one of the early casinos, Caesars Boardwalk Regency, in their Licensing department, which inspired me to pursue a career in Labor relations and attend law school. During that time, I also became Miss Atlantic City, 1980 (representing Caesars) and due to my strong academic background and confidence, I participated in many community events. Ultimately, I moved to the San Francisco Bay area and worked in the commercial real estate development sector.
• Lisa: During my Stockton years, I was addicted to heroin. Although I received my degree, I was unable to procure employment. The criminal justice education I received helped me when I was arrested and jailed. It helped me to find compassion for people I didn't understand. A class on Violence Against Women made me realize I was in a destructive relationship and had to make changes. Being educated has made me a stronger, tolerant and giving person.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.

• Leigh: During my four years, I commuted to school from Brigantine and enjoyed the many different classes which Stockton offered and the excellent teachings of the professors which has made me a lifelong student to this day.
• Lisa: When I arrived the first day, I had not turned in my financial aid paperwork and nearly didn't get enrolled. Distraught, I almost left, and wouldn't have returned. Bob Ostaszewski in the admissions office made sure I got everything in order. If he didn't reach out to me and help, my life would've been completely different. One person can change your life, even if they're just doing their job.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.

• Leigh: I still have family in the area and with pride, I have watched the college grow into a well-respected and honored university and expand its program offerings.
• Lisa: I didn't stay connected to people when I was at Stockton, and I'm certain I missed out. My addiction to drugs closeted me. Now that I have a chance to stay connected, I don't want to miss out again.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?

• Leigh: Follow your dreams and believe in yourself.
• Lisa: Make sure you do your research; don't believe everything you're told. Seize opportunities as they may not come again. Save your money, no need to buy a bunch of status symbols. Treat yourself as your own best friend, and you will attract people who will do the same. Take time to understand others and learn how to be of service.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?

• Leigh: My sister, Lisa Overton, also a Stockton alumna, worked with me to finish my book, The Fire She Set. It took almost 12 years to complete and publish, but we are actively promoting on Amazon and Facebook, and we hope you enjoy our story!
• Lisa: My sister Leigh Boyd, class of 1979, and I have written a book about the fire that killed our parents in 1974. The process took years, and it is important to stick with a project and work hard to achieve goals. The book is well written, and the story is an important one. In the course of a lifetime, redemption is possible, the truth outs itself, and forgiveness triumphs.

Degree:
Mathematics MAIT (instructional technology)

Profession:
I work in University Relations and Marketing at Stockton where I focus on photography, storytelling and social media. I get to highlight the exceptional work of our students, alumni and employees. The most exciting part of my work is that I’m always learning something new while on assignment in the science labs, dance studio, performing arts center, classrooms and beyond.

Fun Facts & Hobbies:
My hobbies include photography, hiking and volunteering for citizen science projects. My hikes have taken me to places like Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park, the diving board at the top of Half Dome in Yosemite and Havasu Falls below the western rim of the Grand Canyon. Every spring, I volunteer to tag horseshoe crabs along the Delaware Bay. Some of my conservation photography projects include shorebird banding with the National Audubon Society, crossing amphibians during the spring migration, and searching for great whites with OCEARCH while they were off the coast of Wildwood.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
Thanks to Professors Tait Chirenje and Patrick Hossay introducing me to the American Southwest during a field experience course, I have gotten involved with USGS and the Arizona Game and Fish Department where I’ve volunteered on fish surveys along the Colorado River and Little Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. The Humpback chub, which was placed on the first endangered species list in 1973, exists nowhere else in the world outside the Colorado River Basin, and the surveys help scientists monitor their survival, growth and movement.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
My math degree gave me a knowledge base that helps me communicate science to a broad audience. I love learning about a complicated experiment, and then breaking it down for a diverse audience to connect with science.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student.
My favorite Stockton memory was actually before I was even a student when I attended a field trip as a guest in Dr. Rudy Arndt’s Ichthyology class. We caught a variety of fish and turtles with seine nets to learn about local biodiversity, and that experience is probably why I decided to choose Stockton. Another favorite memory was after I graduated when Professor Jason Shulman sent me a tweet that resulted in me covering a live RS-25 rocket engine test at NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Mississippi.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
I stay connected because I enjoy following the impressive science conducted by our faculty and students.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
My advice is to believe in yourself and reach for your furthest dream because when you ignore your doubts, surprises and opportunities will come your way.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
I’m really proud of Stockton for supporting the installation of a mural on the K-Wing breezeway that prevents bird strikes on campus.

DEGREE:
Bachelor of Science in Biology

JOB TITLE:
Product Marketing Manager working on the Waze Ads team in the Sales Engineering sector of the business. Alexander works on product intelligence and measurement helping his team make data-driven decisions. His day-to-day work includes making sure he is supporting the sales org with accurate product information and collaterals for them to use in their go-to market strategy.

FUN FACTS/HOBBIES:
I grew up in Margate City NJ fishing, surfing and being outdoors as much as possible. I am an avid outdoorsman and there's nothing I love more than spending a day on the beach. If I end up with any free time, you can find me walking the sod banks fishing for striped bass.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
Stockton is an amazing institution that challenged me to complete the tasks I set out to achieve. The smaller sized personal learning environment helps establish a connection with your peers and professors. Coming to the scenic campus each day was a routine I loved especially being able to step out to Lake Fred between class. Being organized helps a lot in my field of work with balancing key objectives and prioritizing objectives to drive business ahead.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
The Biology undergraduate program was challenging and consistently pushed you to think critically. My academic career laid the foundation for my professional career and I realize every day the experience itself was integral to my success. The hierarchical nature of biology plays a major role in my daily data science work. Thinking outside the box in a nurturing environment at Stockton helped ease the pressure of the lofty criteria set forth in any undergraduate collegiate program.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student. (Ex: favorite professors, classes, events, activities, etc.)
My favorite class was Wildlife Biology with Dr. Daniel Hernandez. We spent time outdoors and the very class sparked an app idea I rolled out in 2013 called Fish Circle. This was a great example of creativity being fostered through an amazing learning environment. Through this experience I was able to advance my digital marketing and leverage my natural entrepreneurial skills in an effective way. In my view this is what college is all about. It is a time to make mistakes, test new ideas, learn from them and best position your hard and soft skills for the post undergrad world.

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
A great entrepreneur and Googler alike once told me “Give back”. As simple as that, and ever since I heard that, I realized that helping others succeed helps us all succeed (for the most part). Valuable information you can gather from someone else’s experience is critical in this fast-paced game of life. You simply do not have the time to learn everything, but you can make connections and extract the stuff that really matters.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
Don’t focus on being perfect; just do your best to create opportunities. Make sure you are objective in your decision making. Always provide a cover letter and a resume tailored to the job you’re seeking. Stay positive, grow each day and don’t let negativity from others slow you down in seeking your goals.

Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Marine Science

Profession:
Operation Manager - Rutgers University Marine Field Station

Fun Facts & Hobbies: 
Kayaking, Hiking, Animal Husbandry and hosting House Concerts

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
Because Stockton is a smaller schoo it allowed for interpersonal connection to faculty. I also secured a volunteer internship opportunity that helped develop my career.

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
The direct field instruction I received at Stockton created a passion for the marine environment that continues to fuel the days and nights on the water.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student. (Ex: favorite professors, classes, events, activities, etc.)
Dr. Rudolf Ardnt's field trips on the Great Bay-Mullica River have become a part of my daily life. Exposing others to the experience and knowledge provided to me has become integral to who I am.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
I stay connected to Stockton through various fundraising efforts for the Stacy Moore Hagan Memorial Scholarship in Estuarine Sciences. These efforts provide opportunities for me to head back to campus for various alumni events. I also promote almost 50 concerts to raise funds for the Scholarship where attendees can hear the stories of the various Stockton scholarship recipients and all they’ve been able to achieve because of the generous donations to the Stockton University Foundation.  

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
Volunteer your time generously in all that you are passionate about and seek opportunities that will expand knowledge in a preferred area of interest.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
The love for coastal systems near campus and the knowledge provided by many professors allows for continued interaction with Stockton undergraduates and the local environment, expanding horizons for many entering the marine field. The connectivity between music and nature has allowed for involvement in a Sustain Songscape highlighting the Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in which the Great Bay-Mullica River exist.

Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a Concentration in Media Production

Profession:
Professional Services Specialist 4 for Stockton University's Hammonton campus

Fun Facts & Hobbies: 
One of my favorite things to do is travel. I recently got back from a 15-day trip to Europe where I backpacked and stayed in hostels both with my best friend and alone. It was such a fulfilling experience, taking in local culture and getting to know so many people from around the world, that I cannot recommend it enough. I also enjoy playing Nintendo Switch, the theatre and the arts, photography, classic movies and TV shows, coffee, and making people laugh. One of my secret skills is that I am a powerhouse shower singer.

How did your Stockton experience influence your life?
The lifelong friends that I have made thanks to Stockton have given me nothing but support, kindness, and encouragement. I am fortunate to know both sides of the University, from the student and employee perspective. That is actually one of my favorite things about this University – the number of former students that work here. It goes to show that Stockton creates such a positive experience for their students that many of them want to stay!

How did your academic program impact your Stockton experience and career?
The talented faculty that lead the Communication Studies department helped me hone in on my creative talents. This allowed me to flourish in my current position when it comes to creative projects and designs I need to make. Similarly, it is thanks to my academic program that I have been afforded the opportunity to work at Stockton! I began my career as an intern at Stockton's Kramer Hall in Hammonton, working with the town and wonderful staff on the Hammonton History Project, which is a digital archive designed in honor of the town's 150th anniversary. This collection of historical photographs and items is housed in a digital collection through Stockton's Richard E. Bjork Library, and I encourage you to check it out! Under the wings of Dr. Eileen Conran-Folks, Christina Birchler, and Ginna Petrillo, I was given a voice and endless opportunity for professional growth. I finished my internship that summer, and was offered a student employee position at Stockton's Manahawkin site with select days in Hammonton. Upon graduating in December 2015, I was afforded yet another opportunity to apply for and, thankfully, acquire a position at Stockton's Manahawkin site. There was so much to learn from my fantastic colleagues Michele Collins-Davies, Nicole Heinrich, and Maria Giunta, and they have truly helped me with my professional skillset and personal growth. I have since been able to return to where it all began in Hammonton, now as a multifaceted, well-versed Stockton professional, and enjoying each day immensely.

Describe your favorite Stockton memory as a student. (Ex: favorite professors, classes, events, activities, etc.)
I would have to say that one of the most profound events I attended during my undergrad was the Fannie Lou Hamer Human & Civil Rights Symposium. It was my first semester at Stockton, and Dr. Jess Bonnan-White encouraged us all to attend the event for class that day. I was so floored at the entire production, complete with song, a short re-enactment of the life of Ms. Hamer, and just the overall feeling of community the event gave me. It was a turning point for my own understanding of the world, as well, and the importance of diversity and inclusion.

Describe your top reason for staying connected and involved with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys.
This one is easy - I work here!

What piece of advice would you pass onto the graduating class of Ospreys?
Never stop learning. Never stop growing. There is a chance each day to learn something new, and I don't think that should be taken for granted.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Stockton and your fellow Ospreys?
Come visit us in Hammonton! We have so much to offer our Alumni, from community, student, and alumni events to new exhibitions from the Noyes Museum of Art in our gallery. I would love to meet you and show you the historic town of Hammonton!