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Success Stories

Learn where our students go after graduation. These prominent alumni are doing amazing things!

College of Arts & Sciences

Joshua Barry ’12

Manager of Athletics and Events
Fox Valley Park District (Aurora, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Recreation Administration
Professional Involvement: Member of South Suburban Park and Recreation Professionals Association
Awards: 2014 USSA League Director of the Year Award, Certified Parks and Recreation Professional 2015, South Suburban 2016 Young Professional of the Year

Sr. Jeanne Bessette, OSF ’77

President
DePaul Cristo Rey High School (Cincinnati, OH)
Bachelor of Arts, English
Awards: 2012 College of Arts & Sciences Alumni Award (USF)

Ashley Bolyn ’13

Administrator
Alden Courts of Shorewood (Shorewood, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Recreation Administration
Professional Involvement: Certified Activity Professional, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, Certified Dementia Practitioner

Nicholas Bond ’15

Founder, Owner
DBA Bond App Development (Sheridan, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Computer Science, Information Technology

Gina Brandolino ’94

Lecturer
University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)
Bachelor of Arts

Timothy Broderick ’87

National Sales Director
340B Specialty Pharmacy (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Liberal Studies

Patricia Campbell ’70

Associate Professor University of Maryland Center for Mathematics
Education
- College Park, MD
- Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
Professional Involvement: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators, American Educational Research AssociationAwards: Board of Regents’ Faculty Award for Excellence in Public Service, University System of Maryland; Presidential Citation for Research and Development, American Educational Research Association; Louise Hay Award for Contributions to Mathematics Education, Association for Women in Mathematics; Excellence in Education Award, Maryland Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development; Award of Excellence, Baltimore City Public School System; Urban Impact Award, Council of the Great City Schools; Outstanding College Professor, Maryland Council of Teachers of Mathematics; Presidential Award for Service to Schools, University of Maryland, College Park; Professional Achievement Award and also 2008 Alumni Association Board President’s Award (USF); Outstanding Service to Higher Education, Tuskegee University, College of Liberal Arts and Education; Excellence in Mentoring of Faculty Award, College of Education, University of Maryland

Art Carpenter DDS FICOI ’91

Dentist
Art Carpenter DDS LTD (Kenilworth, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Biology
Professional Involvement: Instructor, College of Lake County School of Dental Hygiene
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor
Student Involvement at USF: Student Government, Science Club, Writing for the newspaper, working for Chemistry Lab, On-Air personality for WCSF

Tracy (Phillips) Chapman ’03

Police Chief
Will County Forest Preserve District (Will County, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Technology Management
Professional Affiliations: IL Park Law Enforcement Association, President 2015-Present, Vice President 2013-2015, Media Director 2011-2013; Member of the Will County Chief’s Association, and PLEA; NAPWDA, ILPWDA and NPBA member 2005-2011 (K9 handler)
Awards: Franklin M. Kreml Leadership Award Recipient 2010 – Northwestern University Center for Public Safety Police School of Staff and Command; Values to Vision Award winner 2009 Forest Preserve District of Will County

Michael Clay ’07

Physical Education Instructor
Rickover Junior High (Sauk Village, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Recreation Administration
Professional Involvement: Active in NFL Play 60; IL Council on Health & Physical Fitness; Illinois Elementary School Association (Sportsmanship Committee); Illinois Special Recreation Association
Community Involvement: Developed an umpire mentoring program for high school students, Advocates for sportsmanship and officiating opportunities for those students
Awards: Symetra Hero in the Classroom (2015)
Involvement at USF: Gridiron Club

Jessica Cuevas ‘14

Graphic Designer
McGraw-Hill Education (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Visual Arts

Angela DeCraene ’06

Owner, Clinical Counselor
Evolve Therapeutic Center (Minooka, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Awards: 2009 Award of Merit (USF)
Student Involvement at USF: Psychology Club, Psi-Chi

Mike Feminis ’90

Head Football Coach
Saint Xavier University (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Journalism/Communications
Professional Associations: American Football Coaches AssociationAwards: 151-54 Career Record in 17 Seasons; 10 NAIA Playoff Appearances including 2011 National Championships , five NAIA Semifinal Appearances (06,09,10,12,14); Seven MSFA Conference Championships (02,03,05,09,10,12,15);Three -time NAIA National Coach of the Year honor (06,10,11); Four-time MSFA Coach of the Year honors (05,09,10,12)
Student Involvement at USF: Member of first-ever USF football team in 1986 (played 1986-89); Four-Time All-District 20 Selection; 1989 USA National Defensive Player of the Year

Alberto Filipponi ’00

District Curriculum Director Social Science, World Languages, ESL/Bilingual
Joliet Township High School District 204 (Joliet,IL)
Bachelor of Arts, History
Awards: Distinguished Service Award from the Illinois Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ICTFL), 2014-2015

Ysenia Gallegos ’13

Investigator
ARC Light (Little Rock, AK)
Bachelor of Arts, Criminal & Social Justice
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board of Directors
Student Involvement at USF: UVA Secretary (2013), Ethnic Affairs Council VP, President

John Greenan ’01, ’04, ’18

Principal
Lockport East High School (Lockport, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, History with a Secondary Ed Certification
Master of Science, Educational Leadership
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership

Diane (Felbinger) Habiger ’77

Property Manager
Linconshire Properties (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, English
Community Involvement: Joliet Rotary Club; Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentor 2.0
Awards: Marx Gibson Community Leadership Award (2000); Outstanding Business Alum (2001); Lewis University De La Salle Award (2016)
Involvement at USF: Board of Tustees (since 2008)

Jason Helland ’99

Elected Grundy County State’s Attorney
Grundy County (Morris, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Awards: USF Outstanding Political Science Student of the Year (1997-98)
Involvement at USF: Former Adjunct Faculty Member

Thaddeus Henderson ’10

Marketing Manager
Etihad Airways (Washington, DC)
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Professional Affiliations: DC Power Marketer
Community Involvement: Volunteer at Whitman Walker Community Health Clinic
Student Involvement at USF: Student Government, Student Business Association, Student Alumni Association, Mock Trial, EAA
Other Notes: former Press Secretary, United States Senate

Brian Herbst ’05

Assistant Professor, Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics
University of Cincinnati/Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (Ann Arbor, MI)
Bachelor of Science, Biology
Awards: Alpha Omega Alpha (University of Michigan Medical School)

Hudson Hollister ’02

Founder & CEO
HData (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, Mass Communication, Political Science
Professional Involvement: Illinois Bar, Joliet Area Historical Museum Board of Directors, Art Movement Board of Directors, Data Coalition Board of Directors, Data Foundation Board of Directors, CivStart Board of Advisors.
Awards: FederalComputerWeek Fed100, 2015 and 2019
Involvement at USF: Adjunct Professor (Bill of Rights & Topics: Regulation & Reform – Polisci/CSJU)

Patrick Keating ’94

News Photographer
WLS-TV/ABC7 Chicago (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Journalism/Communications
Professional Affiliations: National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians/NABET Local 41, National Press Photographers Association/NPPA, National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences/NATAS Chicago-Midwest Chapter
Community Involvement: The Duke Classic/Volunteer Co-chair, Lombard Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association/LCPAAA Member, Chicago White Sox Volunteer Corps
Student Involvement at USF: Baseball and Football/Equipment Manager, WCSF DJ, TV Club President

Eugenia Kougias ’15

Life Engagement Director
Anthem Memory Care
Tinley Park, IL
Bachelor of Arts, Recreation, Sport, Tourism Management
Special Notes: Life Engagement Director, 17833 Harlem Ave., Tinley Park, IL 60477

Eric Lawhead ‘07

Field Sales Rep
Great Lakes Brewing Company (Cleveland, OH)
Bachelor of Arts, Recreation Administration
Alumni Involvement: Student Alumni Mentor; Alumni Association Board Member
Student Involvement at USF: SGA, SAB, Resident Assistant

Donald Maier, Ph.D., P.Log. ’89

Dean & Professor, Loeb-Sullivan School of International Business & Logistics
Maine Maritime Academy (Castine, ME)
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Professional Affiliations: Council of Supply Chain Management, Academy of Management, International Association of Maritime Port Executives, Institute of Supply ManagementCommunity Involvement: Board Member Maine International Trade Center; Board Member, International Association of Maritime Port Executives; Faculty Advisor MMA Men’s Basketball and Rugby Club
Awards: 2009 USF Excellence in Teaching Award; 2009 USF Alumni Association Board’s President’s Award; Academic Tenure (USF)
Involvement at USF: College of Business Faculty 2004-2010

Katherine Maier ’13

Doctor of Chiropractic
Hoffman Chiropractic Neurology (Bourbonnais, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Biology
Professional Involvement: American Chiropractic Association, Young Professional’s Network of the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce
Community Involvement: Volunteers at her church’s community outreach program, active member of a local yoga studio
Involvement at USF: Duns Scotus, student worker in the USF athletic training room

Mary Francis Malinoski ’67

Principal
San Francisco de Asis Catholic School (Flagstaff, AZ)
Professional Affiliations: President of Western Wisconsin Education Association; National Catholic Education Association
Student Involvement at USF: Choir, Catholic Youth

Patrick McGuire ’87

Illinois State Senator 43rd District
State of Illinois (Crest Hill, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, English

Bret McKeand ’81

Senior Executive Editor/President, Retired
Independent Newsmedia Inc. (Sun City, AZ)
Bachelor of Arts, Journalism/Communications
Professional Involvement: President of Arizona Newspapers Association (2000); President of Arizona Newspapers Foundation – Statewide Press Association (2001); President of Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce (1999 and 2000)
Awards: Valley of the Sun Society of Professional Journalists “Order of the Silver Key Society”, 2013; Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce “Member of the Year”, 2001.

Daniel Merkle ‘87

Executive Director of Elections
ABC News (New York)
Bachelor of Arts, Journalism/Communications
Professional Affiliations: Active member of the American Association for Public Opinion Research, having been elected four times to AAPOR’s Executive Council as Secretary/Treasurer, Counselor-at-Large, Conference Chair and Communications Chair; Member of the Advisory Committee for the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research; Served as Associate Editor of Public Opinion Quarterly and on the Advisory Board of the Encyclopedia of Survey Research Methods
Awards: 2006 Alumni Association Board President’s Award (USF); Selected one of USF’s “90 Notable Alumni” (March 2011)
Student Involvement at USF: Station Manager and Program Director of WCSF Radio

Dr. Mary Jo Moran, Ph.D. ’69

RETIRED: Executive Director
National Association of Church Personnel Administrators (Cincinnati, OH)
Bachelor of Arts, Mathematics
Professional Affiliations: PhD, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Awards: 2013 College of Arts & Sciences Alumni Award (USF)
Student Involvement at USF: Sophomore Class Vice President; Junior Class President; Student Government President; Theta Chi Sigma

Dr. Stephen Morrissette ’83, ’86

Associate Professor, College of Business
University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, English
Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Awards: 2010 Joann Placher Distinguished Alumni Award (USF)

Mike Mravle ’97

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Wingstop (Tampa, FL)
Bachelor of Arts, Accounting, Mathematics

Fran Naal ’58

Retired Social Worker
State of Illinois (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Social Work
Community Involvement: Various Charitable Organizations in Joliet
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board

John Nee ’99

Head Baseball Coach
St. Rita High School (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Education

Meghann O’Hara ’01

Owner/Artist
My Good Night (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Visual Arts

Kevin O’Keeffe ’81

Executive Director
Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce (Bolingbrook, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Journalism/Communications
Professional Affiliations: Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (IACCE)
Community Involvement: Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, IHSA Basketball and Football Official
Student Involvement at USF: Student Government Vice President; Served as one of the WCSF Radio Club managers at the club’s inception

Dr. Kent Oots Ph.D. ’78

Director of Examination Development
CFA Institute (Charlottesville, VA)
Bachelor of Arts, Law and Government
M.A. and Ph.D. At Northern Illinois University
Professional Affiliations: CFA Institute; Former President of the CFA Society of Arkansas

Elizabeth Overholt ’78

Assistant Attorney General
Arizona Attorney General’s Office (Phoenix, AZ)
Bachelor of Arts, Law and Government
Professional Involvement: State Bar of Arizona
Community Involvement: Ascension Lutheran Church (ELCA)
Involvement at USF: Radio, Theatre

Mario Pistilli ’89, ’14

Manager of Imaging Services
Presence St. Joseph Medical Center (Plainfield, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
Master of Business Administration
Professional Affiliations: American College of Healthcare Executives, Association of Hospital Radiology Administrators, Chicago Healthcare Executive Forum (Communication Committee Chairperson)
Community Involvement: Founding Board member Plainfield Prowlers Athletic Association
Involvement at USF: Alumni Speakers Bureau (USF)

Dr. Christy Ann Powers J.D. ’97

Program Chair, College of Policy, Ethics, and Legal Studies
St. Petersburg College (Clearwater, FL)
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Community Involvement: Involved in local legal community; Free Student Legal Clinics; Frequent Speaker to Ex-Offenders to Assist in Re-entry into the Workforce;
Awards: 2015 League for Innovation Excellence Award
Student Involvement at USF: Women’s Soccer Captain 1995-1997

Candice Quinerly ’10

Education Director
Joliet Area Historical Museum (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Mass Communication
Community Involvement: Joliet Junior Women’s Club,Ways & Means Committee Chair; JTHS Foundation Board of Directors
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor; Alumni Association Board Member

Jazzmyne Robbins ’13

Junior Producer
Buzzfeed (Los Angeles, CA)
Bachelor of Arts, Visual Arts
Professional Involvement: Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (certificate in Merchandise Marketing)
Community Involvement: Los Angeles LGBT Center Volunteer
Involvement at USF: Volleyball

Jim Schuler ’03

Solutions Architect
Franciscan Sisters of Chicago Service Corp. (Lemont, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Involvement at USF: Supports the USF Senior Projects

Dr. Janet Seper M.D. ’87

RETIRED: Otolaryngologist
Tampa Ear, Nose & Throat Associates (Tampa, FL)
Bachelor of Science, Biology
Professional Affiliations: American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery; Florida Society of Otolaryngology; American Medical Association; Florida Medical Association; Hillsborough County Medical Association
Community Involvement: Yearly participant Great American Teach In
Student Involvement at USF: Intramural Sports

Susan Spurgeon ’78

Shareholder, Attorney
Pennington, P.A. (Tampa, FL)
Bachelor of Arts, Speech Communications
Professional Affiliations: Real Property Litigation Committee Chair, Real Property Probate and Trust Law Section of the Florida Bar

Cheryl (Schroeder) Stepney ’70

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Empowerment Associates (Minneapolis, MS)
Bachelor of Arts, History
Professional Affiliations: Master Data Management and Big Data thought leaderCommunity Involvement: Habitat for Humanities, AARP Smart Driver Program Deputy State Director
Awards: 2011 College of Arts & Sciences Alumni Award (USF)
Involvement at USF: Board of Trustees

Janice Sterling ’95

Attorney at Law
Sterling Law Group, PLLC (Farmington Hill, MI)
Bachelor of Arts, English
Professional Affiliations: Defense Research Institute – Labor and Employment Committee; Michigan and Indiana State Bar Association – Labor and Employment Committees

Dr. Billie Terrell Ph.D. ’77

Professor Tenure/Chair and MSW Program Director
University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Social Work
Professional Affiliations: National Council on Social Work Education and Council on Racial, Ethnic and Cultural Diversity
Awards: 2010 Alumni Association Board President’s Award (USF)
Involvement at USF: Academic Assembly Governing Board

Wilhelmine Vidmar ’68

Adjunct Professor
Joliet Junior College (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Biology
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board Member

Kasia Wereszczynska ’06

Crisis Worker
Ada S. McKinley Community Services (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Professional Affiliations: American Counseling Association; Founder of In Her Shoes Foundation and co-founder of Counseling SpeaksCommunity Involvement: Sheliah Doyle Foundation Volunteer
Awards: 2015 College of Arts & Sciences Alumni Award (USF)
Involvement at USF: Adjunct Professor (Intro to Crisis Intervention)

Mary Wollgast ’06

Market Specialist Chemical Engineering Recruiter
Chemical Personnel Search (Westchester, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Mass Communication
Community Involvement: St. Raymond Nonnatus – Parish Council, Centennial Chair, Capital Campaign, Be My Witness Leader, Eucharistic Minister
Involvement at USF: Student Ministry, Eucharistic Minister, Floor Board, Track team captain, SAC, Schola Cantorum

Sr. Mary Jo Young, OSF, Ph.D. ’66

Vocation Director
Sisters of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts
Professional involvement: National Religious Vocation Conference
Community Involvement: Various community organizations in Cincinnati, OH
Awards: Professor Emeritus, Elmhurst College
Involvement at USF: Board of Trustees

Jennifer Yucus ’06

Assistant Professor of Graphic Design
University of South Florida (St. Petersburg, FL)
Bachelor of Arts, Mass Communication

College of Business & Health Administration

Mary Ellen Aderhold ’09, ’11

Coordinator of the Neuro Diagnostic Unit
Reading Hospital (Pottsville, PA)
Master of Science, Health Administration

Marie Armbruster ‘02, ‘07

Diagnostic Imaging Manager
Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (Fairfax, VA)
Bachelor of Arts, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Service Administration
Professional Affiliations: American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRA); American Society of Rediologic Technologists (ASRA); Association for Medical Imaging Management (AHRA)

Megan Barton ’13

Vice President Medical Management
Home State Health – Centene (Chesterfield, MO)
Master of Science, Health Administration
Professional Affiliations: Case Management Society of America, Case Management Society of St. Louis

Mark J. Batty ’13

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Rochelle Community Hospital (Rochelle, IL)
Master of Science, Health Administration

Rachael Bartolini ’00, ’02

Vice President of Finance & Administration
Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance
Master of Business Administration
Professional Involvement: Part of Caesars Entertainment professional development group “Lean In”; Member of the Joliet Chamber of Commerce

Kenneth Baxter ’94

Owner
Fast Signs
Lake Worth, FL
Master of Science, Health Services Admin

Doreen (Duba) Begley ’92, ’99

University of St. Francis Health Coordinator and University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) Early Head Start (Reno, NV)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Involvement: Nursing Honor Society Sigma Theta Tau, Nu Iota Chapter; Nevada Nurses Association; Nevada Nurses Foundation, Secretary; Institute of Regulatroy Excellence Fellow, NCSBN
Community Involvement: Northern Nevada Nurses of Achievement; Immunize Nevada, Board Chair; AVA Ballet; Medical Reserve Corp Volunteer
Awards: CDC Childhood Immunizaiton Champion Award for Nevada (2015); NNNA for Patient Advocacy (2006); NNNA Nursing Leadership Award (2009); NNNA Community Health Award (2011)
Other Notes: Currently enrolled in the R.N. to BSN program with expected graduation May 2017 at age 69

Michael Beshel ’06, ’08, ’14

Vice President of Patient Care Services/Chief Nursing Officer
Nazareth Hospital-Mercy Health System-Trinity Health (Philadelphia, PA)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Master of Business Administration
Master of Science, Nursing
Professional Affiliations: AONE, ANA, Sigma Theta Tau, Delta Mu Delta; Nurse Executive – Board Certified

Matthew Bisek ’10

Career Advisor
Clatsop Community College (Astoria, OR)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board Member

Marlene Bober ’89, ’99

Vice President for Practice Development
American Case Management Association
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Administrations

Donna Bogari ’03

Director for Accreditation Services
Christiana Care (Maryland)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration

Patricia Bracken ’73, ’86, ’94

Case Manager for the Emergency Room
Advocate South Suburban Hospital (Hazel Crest, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board Member, Student Alumni Mentor

Michael Bryant ’83

Co-founder, Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
nSource (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing
Professional Involvement: United States Tennis Association
Community Involvement: Cradles to Crayons, Chicago Launch Committee; Oak Park Tennis Center, Board Member
Involvement at USF: Tennis Team

Dewitt Buchanan ’89

Managing Director
Safe Habor Retirement Consultants, LLC (Channahon, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance
Involvement at USF: Board of Trustees; Student Alumni Mentor

Judith Bulat ’72

RETIRED, Certified Public Accountant; international technical advisor on the staff of the
Assistant Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service
Internal Revenue Service (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board Member, Student Alumni Mentor

Mila Carlson ’99, ’02

President
Mila Carlson & Associates (Rockford, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Involvement: American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants; American Association of Nurse Life Care Planners; National Alliance of Medicare Set-Aside Professionals; Rockford Network of Professional Women
Community Involvement: Rockford Alpine Kiwanis; First Evangelical Covenant Church
Involvement at USF: Adjunct Faculty

Michael Carpanzano ’08, ’12

Regional Director of Sales
Amita Health (Bolingbrook, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Management
Master of Business Administration, Business Administration
Professional Involvement: Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce; Romeoville Area Chamber of Commerce; Lemont Area Chamber of Commerce; Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce Community Involvement: Kiwanis Club of Bolingbrook & Romeoville; Midwest Christian Montessori Academy Board Member; P.O.W.E.R. Connection Advisory Board Member; Crime Stoppers of Bolingbrook Board Member; United Way of Will County Committee Member, Marketing Advisory; Heart Haven Outreach (H2O) Committee Member; College of Business National Advisory Board, Rasmussen College; March of Dimes Event Committee Member; Camp Fire Committee Chair, Governance & Nominating
Awards: President’s Award for Outstanding Community Service (Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce); Kiwanian of the Year (Kiwanis Club of Bolingbrook & Romeoville); Community Service Award (Lemont Girl Scouts); Character Counts Award (Bolingbrook/Romeoville Character Counts Coalition); Best Under 40 (My Suburban Life, Shaw Media); 2015 UNSTOPPABLE Award Recipient (PT Solutions Physical Therapy)

Jeffrey Chiapello ’10

Director of Academic Advising, Assistant XC/Track Coach
University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Master of Science, Training & Development
Professional Involvement: Illinois Academic Advising Association (ILACADA) 2012-present. Positions held on executive board include Treasurer (2013-2015) and Communications Chair (2015-2016)
Community Involvement: Joliet Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership School (Graduated in 2010, Planning Committee 2011-present)

Karen (Christianson) Ciarlette ’94, ’97

Bway Corporation
HRIS Supervisor (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Master of Business Administration, Business Administration
Community Involvement: Village of Channahon Planning and Zoning Committee – Chairman
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor; Business Alumni Network (BAN) Past President, Alumni Association Board Member

Dr. Jeffrey Combetta ’98

Medical & Hospital Director, Vice Chief of Staff
Franklin Medical Center (Winnsboro, LA)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Professional Affiliations: Board of directors at Calcasieu Parish Medical Society
Awards: Practitioner of the Year 2010 from Louisiana Rural Health Association; Outstanding Volunteer award from Baton Rouge General Medical Center; Meritorious Service Award

Elmer Eddy ’80

Senior Material Engineer, Retired
Caterpillar (IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration
Professional Involvement: Society of Manufacturing Engineers Life Member; USF Alumni Association Board Member

Linda (Reinhard) England ’77, ’86

Laboratory Director
Rush Copley Medical Center (Aurora, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Medical Technology
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Affiliations: ASCP, AACC, CLMA

Joseph Ferrallo ’85, ’07, ’08

Professor in COBHA
University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Business, Management
Master of Business Administration,
Master of Science, Training & Development
Professional Affiliations: Student Alumni Mentor; Alumni Association Board Member

James Flynn ’00

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Heartland Regional Medical Center
Master of Science, Management
Professional Affiliations: American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)
Community Involvement: Rotary International; Board Member – Chamber of Commerce; Board Co-chair – Williamson Co.; CEO, Board Member-The Women’s Center
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor

Guadalupe Fonseca ’98, ’04, ‘08

Chief Operating Officer
Greater Elgin Family Care Center (Elgin, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Master of Business Administration, Business Administration
Professional Involvement: National Athletic Trainers’ Association; National Strength and Conditioning Association; Illinois High School Association – Sports Medicine Advisory Committee
Community Involvement: 2018 Beatrice Dorsey Award for Business & Professional Category

Roger Forgey ’96

President, Chief Operating Officer (CEO)
Medical Consulting Resources (Ringgold, GA)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Affiliations: Fellow, American College of Health Care Executives
Community Involvement: Past President, Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce
Awards: 2012 College of Business & Health Administration Alumni Award (USF)

Joseph Formhals ’86

Fire Chief
City of Joliet (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing
Professional Affiliations: International Association of Fire Chiefs, Illinois Fire Chiefs Association, Will County Fire Chiefs Association, MABAS Division 15
Community Involvement: Exchange Club of Joliet

Gregory Gaa ’02, ’00

Manager Sports Outreach
OSF HealthCare (Peoria, IL)
Master of Business Administration, Health Services Administration

David Gomel, Ph.D., CADC ’98

Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer
Rosecrance Health Network (Rockford, IL)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Affiliations: Illinois Association for Behavioral Health
Community Involvement: Board Member Rock River YMCA; Northern Illinois Special Olympics; Make-a-Wish Foundation

H. Richard Hagen ’90

President, Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel
D’Orazio Capital Management (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting
Professional Affiliations: American Institute of Certified Public AccountantsCommunity Involvement: Treasurer of the New Lenox Soccer Association; Treasurer of the Lincoln-Way West Music Boosters; Member of choir at the United Methodist Church of New Lenox
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board Member; Co-founder of the Business Alumni Network; Member of Committee Advising the USF Business School

James Hamilton ’89, ’07

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Axis Accident & Health (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance
Master of Business Administration
Awards: 2010 USF Professional Achievement Award

Craig Herkert ’81

Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Consultant
Herkert Consulting (Long Lake, MN)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing
Awards: 2011 Presidential Alum of the Year Award (USF)
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor

Donald Hildebrand ’83

Vice President of Finance & Operations
Le Creuset of America (Charleston, SC)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting

Wayne Hochwarter, Ph.D. ’86

Jim Moran Professor of Management
Florida State University (Tallahassee, FL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Management
Professional Affiliations: Academy of Management, Southern Management AssociationCommunity Involvement: Numerous philanthropic, outreach, and professional presentation activities across the country
Awards: 2005 Alumni Association Board President’s Award (USF); Fellow – Southern Management Association; 2009 Burning Spear Faculty Award Recipient; 2012 & 2013 Newsmakers External Visibility
Award; 2012 Human Relations Journal – Reviewer of the Year; Distinguished Doctoral Alumni Award for Florida State University’s College of Business

Lawrence Hopkins ’87

President and CEO
Regenerative Biologics, Inc. (Gainesville, FL)
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Involvement: American Association of Tissue Banks
Community Involvement: Rotary

Joanne Hostrander, Ph.D., M.S., RN ’89, ’98

Clinical Education Specialist
Susquehanna Health System- Divine Providence Hospital (Williamsport, PA)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Awards: 2007 USF Alumni Association President’s Award

Connie Huffman ’04

Assistant Administrator
Blount Memorial Hospital (Maryville, TN)
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Involvement: Executive director of the Blount Memorial Foundation, 2005 graduate of Leadership Blount, and 2016 graduate of the East Tennessee Regional Leadership Academy
Community Involvement: Serves as a board member for the Blount County Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Blount and the Boys and Girls Club, is the president of the Parent Advisory Council at Maryville Junior High School, and is a member of the Tommy Hatcher Golf Tournament Committee
Awards: 2015 & 2016 Athena Leadership Award Nominee, 2016 Inducted into The Daily Times Alumni Hall of Fame

Joy Hughes ’12, ’16

Director of Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy Program
Marywood University (Scranton, PA)
Bachelor of Science, Health Care Leadership
Master of Science, Health Administration

Hermilo Jazmines ’97, ’00

Senior Corporate Medical Director
WellCare Health Plans Inc. (Tampa, FL)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Master of Business Administration, CSA to MBA Completion
Professional Affiliations: American Association of Physician Leaders; American College of Obstetrics-Gynecology; American Association of Managed Care Physicians

Eleanor Kay-Mirich ’78, ’90

Chief Operating Officer/Chief Financial Officer/Health Administrator
Mirich Medical Corporation (Crown Point, IN)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Involvement: Board of directors, Northern Indiana Arts Association and Trade Winds Rehabilitation Center; American College of Healthcare Executives; American Assn of University Women; Association for Politics and the Life Sciences; American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance
Community Involvement: Catholic Charities Board
Awards: Sagamore of the Wabash (2004)

Ronald Kenny ’81

Chief Accounting Officer
Chicago Trading Company (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting
Professional Affiliations: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Community Involvement: Big Brothers Big Sisters
Awards: 2005 Joanne Placher Award (USF)
Student Involvement at USF: Basketball Team (1977-1981)

Linda Kilroy ’73

RETIRED, Contract Manager
Institute of Medicine – National Academies (Washington D.C.)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing
Professional Affiliations: National Contract Management Association; American Nuclear Society; American Association of University Women
Community Involvement: Rotary-International
Awards: 2003 Award of Merit (USF)
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board of Directors

Anita “Tina” Licari ’03

Wealth Management Advisor
Merrill Lynch (Duluth, MN)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Affiliations: Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification, Charter4ed Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC) designation
Community Involvement: First Witness board member, Kitch Gammi Club, AAUW, Serra Club of Duluth, Duluth Womne’s Club, DSSO (past board member), Girl Scouts (past board member)

Jamie McCormack ’01

Vice President & Chief Operating Officer
First Bank of Manhattan (Manhattan, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration
Professional Affiliations: CRCM (Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager)
Community Involvement: Parent Advisory Committee Member with School District 114 (2014-present)
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor

Michael McGreal ’01

Department Chair, Culinary Arts
Joliet Junior College (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Professional Arts
Professional Development: American Culinary Federation, International Association of Culinary Professionals, International Association of Food Service Executives
Community Involvement: Chefs Move to Schools
Awards: 2006 Professional Achievement Award (USF); NISOD Excellence in Teaching Award 2013; 2009 FENI Educator of the Year Award; Author, “Culinary Arts Principles and Applications;” Author, “Culinary Math Principles and Applications;” Author, “50 Effective Knife Techniques”

Laura (Dunlap) Messineo ’11, ’15

System Director TeleHealth Strategy and Development
Presence Health Hospitals (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Care Leadership
Master of Science Health Administration
Professional Affiliations: American Telemedicine Association (ATA); American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN); Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM)
Community Involvement: Board of Directors Sepsis Alliance; Illinois Sepsis Challenge 5K
Awards: 2015 College of Business & Health Administration Alumni Award (USF)

Gloria Metrick ’86, ’06

Owner
GeoMetrick Enterprises (Ann Arbor, MI)
Bachelor of Arts Management, Mathematics
Professional Involvement: Association for Computing Machinery, MichBio
Awards: GHP (Global Health and Pharma) Magazine’s 2016 International Life Sciences Award (to GeoMetrick Enterprises)
Involvement at USF: Student Council Executive Vice Present

Diana Middendorf ’93

Legal Nurse Consultant
Self-Employed
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Awards: Outstanding Student Award

Bob Moore ’00

Chief Executive Office (CEO)
Gateway Medical Center
Bachelor’s in Health Services Administration

Laura Muñoz Lopez ’16

Legislative Assistant
S. House of Representatives (Washington D.C.)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Management
Awards: 2016 Lincoln Laureate; 2016 Who’s Who Among Students; 2016 NRHH Member of the Year; 2015 Outstanding Resident Assistant of the Year

Lisa Nichols ’07, ’09

Administrator
St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital (Pell City, AL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Community Involvement: St. Clair County Monthly Mayor’s Breakfast, St. Clair County Economic Development Council Board Meeting, Go Red and Heart Walk, and various other charitable events

Kathleen (Hettiger) O’Neill ‘90

Senior Director of Quality Initiatives
American Heart Association (Hawthorn Woods, IL)
Master of Science, Health Administration
Professional Affiliations: American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE); National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ), CHEF
Awards: 2011 College of Business & Health Administration Alumni Award (USF)

Mary Frances Oskvarek ’89, ’11, ’18

Manager of Clinical Operations
Advocate Christ Hospital (Oak Lawn, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Administration
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership & Nursing Administration
Professional Involvement: AACN/ASPAN/ILSPAN Professional Memberships
Awards: Nominee for the Pinnacle Nursing Leader Award

James Ostrom ’07

Owner
Ostrom Management Consulting (Oak Forest, IL)
Master of Business Administration
Professional Affiliations: American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE), University of Saint Francis Business Alumni Network (BAN), Lean Construction Institute (LCI)
Awards: 2013 College of Business & Health Administration Alumni Award (USF); Elected Member of the International Honor Society of Business Administration; Senior Designation (SASHE) in the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE); Central Illinois 40 Leaders under Forty
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor (USF)

Victor Patterson ’03

Senior Human Resource Leader
The Home Depot (Atlanta, GA)
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Master of Business Administration, Business Administration
Professional Involvement: Society of Human Resources Management, National Black MBA Association, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Community Involvement: Nexus Youth & Family Solutions- Board of Directors/Human Resources Committee Chair
Awards: MBA of the Year & Most Outstanding Human Resources Performance

Karla J. Perez ’92

Regional Vice President of seven hospitals within the Western Region
Universal Health Services
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Affiliations: Board of Directors – Nevada State Bank
Awards: 2008 Professional Achievement Award (USF)

Cecelia Best Pezdek 96, 01, 12

Manager Endoscopy and Ambulatory Center
Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital (Downers Grove, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Admin,
Master of Science, Nursing
Professional Affiliations: Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates
Awards: GEM (Giving Excellence Meaning) finalist by Nursing.com in 2014; SGNA fellowship for Evidence Based Practice completed in 2012

Mario Pistilli ’89, ’14

Manager of Imaging Services
Presence St. Joseph Medical Center (Plainfield, IL)
Master of Science, Chemistry
Master of Business Administration
Professional Affiliations: American College of Healthcare Executives, Association of Hospital Radiology Administrators, Chicago Healthcare Executive Forum (Communication Committee Chairperson)
Community Involvement: Founding Board member Plainfield Prowlers Athletic Association
Involvement at USF: Alumni Speakers Bureau

Caroline Portlock ’02, ’04

Director, Workplace Development
Joliet Junior College (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Professional Arts
Master of Business Administration
Professional Affiliations: National Association of Workforce Development Professionals; Society for Human Resource Management
Community Involvement: United Way of Grundy County Advisory Board
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor; Alumni Association Board of Directors

Alan Randolph ’07

Director of Sustainability/Outreach Manager
DNV GL – Energy & Sustainability (Oak Forest, IL)
Master of Science, Health Service Administration
Professional Affiliations: Association for the Healthcare Environment (AHE); International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP); Great Lakes Region – International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP); Practice Greenhealth (PGH); Past Chairperson: Solid and Recycling Waste Committee, Metropolitan Chicago Healthcare Council (MCHC)
Community Involvement: Past President, Oak Forest Football Booster Club; Oak Forest Wrestling Booster Club; Oak Forest Track and Field Booster Club; Cyclones Running Club Booster Club
Awards: 2014 College of Business & Health Administration Alumni Award (USF)
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor; Alumni Association Board of Directors

Kimberly Roesel Reese ’05, ’08

Vice President Human Resources
Pierce Manufacturing – Fire and Emergency (Appleton, WI)
Bachelor of Science, Professional Arts
Master of Business Administration
Professional Affiliations: SHRM
Community Involvement: Co-Chair – Center for Exceptional Leadership (St. Norbert College); Big Brothers/Big Sisters; Junior Achievement Feasibility Study Lead for the Louis and Clark Museum in Lockport, IL

Mollie Rockafellow ’15

Director of Residence Education
University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Master of Business Administration
Professional Associations: Great Lakes Association of College and University Housing Officers (GLACUHO)
Advisor: Late Nite Programming Club, Residence Hall Association

Eric Ruiz ’07, ’09

Director of Undergraduate Admissions, Coordinator for Multicultural Initiatives
University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting
Master of Business Administration
Professional Affiliations: Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling, National Association for College Admission Counseling, NACAC Delegate for IACAC, National College Fair Committee, Mentorship Committee, Leadership Manual Committee Co-chair, Credentials Committee, Scholarship Committee, Sharing the Dream Conference Chair (These committees are through IACAC). USF MERIT Executive Board member, Advisor for the Unidos Vamos A Alcanzar Club, Member of the DREAMer Ally Committee, Member of the Diversity Council, Member and one of the founders of the currently Multicultural Graduation Reception (former Hispanic Graduation Reception), member of the Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP) at USF. Former member of AACRAO, ASC Chair at USF, Hispanic Serving Institution Committee Chair at USF, program Advisor for the Collegiate Leadership Development Program at USF, Student Alumni Mentor, Community Leadership School through the Joliet Chamber of Commerce, Vice President of the Young Professionals Committee at Big Brother Big Sisters of Will and Grundy County, Treasurer of Alianza de Negocios (Business Alliance) through the Joliet Chamber of Commerce, Delta Mu Delta, and Enrollment Leadership Academy through Collegeboard
Awards: James Alexander Newcomer Award (IACAC), May 2011; Inclusion, Access and Success Service Award (IACAC), May 2015
Student Involvement at USF: Saints Ambassador, Bernie the Saint Bernard Mascot, Ministry Staffer , Student Activities Board, Student Business Association, Bolivia Mission Trip, Mission Trip to Elington Missouri, Koinonia Retreat, Assisi Pilgrimage

Rebecca Ruettiger ‘09

Senior Communications Analyst
Pacific Life (Newport Beach, CA)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing
Professional Involvement: Public Relations Society of America; Delta Mu Delta Honor Society

Michele Ryder ’02, ’05, ’14

Chief Operating Officer/Chief Nursing Officer
Miami Cancer Institute at Baptist Health South Florida (Miami, FL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Service Administration
Master of Science, Nursing
Professional Affiliations: Association of Community Cancer Centers; South Florida Association of Nurse Executives; American College of Healthcare Executives; American Nurses Association; Oncology Nurses Association; Florida Nurses Association; American Cancer Society
Community Involvement: Relay for Life; Board Member Living Hope Haiti; American Cancer Society

Dr. Sibu Saha ’03

Keith Schomig ’13

Human Resource Coordinator
Legacy Professionals LLP (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Management
Awards: 2016 Student Alumni Mentor of the Year
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor; Alumni Association Board Member; Judge for Dr. Morrissette’s Business Policy Class

Deborah Smith ’03, ’06, ’08

National Manager of Operations – Employee Benefits
HUB International Ltd. (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Professional Arts
Master of Science, Training & Development
Master of Business Administration

Michael Spinozzi ’81

Board Member
Marianna Industries (Omaha, NE)
Former president (2006-2013) of Sally Beauty Supply (Southlake, TX)
Bachelor of Business Administration
Community Involvement: University of North Texas Board Member (2011-2013); Life Directions Vice Chairman (1999-2001)
Involvement at USF: University of St. Francis Board of Trustees (1993-2010); Athletic Hall of Fame (Baseball); Business Club President (1980-81); All American Baseball Player (1981)

Dennis Swift ’88

Pharmacy Manager
Walmart Pharmacy (Omaha, NE)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration

Kim Terhaar ’05

Vice President of Strategy and Innovation
St. Luke’s (Duluth, MN)
Master of Science, Health Service Administration
Professional Affiliations: MGMA, AHIMA
Community Involvement: Board of Director for Hermantown Chamber of Commerce

Anne-Christine Tompkins ’14, ’15

Credit Analyst
First Midwest Bank (Westmont, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, International Business, Management
Master of Business Administration
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board of Directors; Business Alumni Network (BAN) President-Elect; Various Alumni Service days including Northern Illinois Food Bank, Daybreak Homeless Shelter, Sunny Hill Nursing HomeStudent Involvement at USF: Women’s Tennis Team (Captain); Student Business Association (President); Student Alumni Mentoring; Delta Mu Delta International Honor Society in Business Administration- Delta Kappa Chapter (Vice President); International Club; Alumni Association Board Student Liaison

Rhonda Trader ’91

RETIRED, Director of Medical Personnel
Orthopedics Associates of Manitowoc (Manitowoc, WI)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Affiliations: American Assoc. of Suicidology; American Foundation to Prevent Suicide; Prevent Suicide Wisconsin
Community Involvement: Survivors of Suicide Loss Program; Mental Health Coalition; Community Speaker on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Geoffrey Tyron ’82

Vice President
Silver Cross Hospital (Joliet, IL)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration

Charles Seal-Villafranca ‘18

President
Arizona State Board of Examiners of Nursing Care Institution Administrators and Assisted Living Facility Managers (Phoenix, Arizona)
Master of Science, Health Administration
Professional Involvement: American College of Healthcare Executives; American College of Healthcare Administrators; Arizona Geriatrics Society
Awards: ACHA/NCAL 2018

Roniece Weaver ’89

Executive Director, Consultant
Hebni Nutrition (Orlando, FL)
Health Services Administration
Professional Affiliations: Member of the Academy of Food and Nutrition, Advocacy Member of the National American Diabetes Association, CHIC – Community Health Impact Council
Awards: 2014 Presidential Alum of the Year Award (USF); African American Chamber Corporate Awardee

Gloria Williams ‘05

National Director of External Accreditation Services and Programs, Retired
Department of Veterans Affairs (Washington D.C.)
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Involvement: Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN); Nurses Organization of Veterans Administration (NOVA)
Awards: Certificate Project Management, The George Washington University; Graduate Health Care Leadership Development Institute, Department of Veterans Affairs; Graduate African American Diversity Program, Veterans Health Administration

Jason Whiteside ’00

Attorney, Owner, Managing Partner
Whiteside & Goldberg (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance
Professional Affiliations: Illinois Bar Association, Illinois Trial Lawyers Association
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor

College of Education

Kathleen (DeGeus) Barker ‘86

Elementary School Principal
Troy School District 30C (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education
Professional Affiliations: Illinois Principals Association (IPA)
Awards: 2011 College of Education Alumni Award (USF)

Andre Bober ‘02

(RETIRED) Registered Nurse/Respiratory Therapist Adventist Health Care and Adjunct Professor at University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Master of Science, Continuing Education & Training
Professional Affiliations: Medinah Temple Shriner; Grove Lodge Mason
Community Involvement: Masonic Lodge and Shriner’s Children’s Hospital

Holly Bontkowski ‘93

Graduate Program Coordinator
University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Master of Education, Elementary EducationAwards: 2008 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching

Jeffrey Budz ‘15

Principal
Joliet Catholic Academy (Joliet, IL)
Master of Education, Elementary Education Licensure

Kristina Conrad ’12, ’14

Special Education Teacher
Downers Grove South High School (Downers Grove, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Special Education
Master of Science, Teaching & Learning
Professional Affiliations: National Education Association (NEA), Illinois Education Association (IEA)
Community Involvement: Volleyball coach, STRIVE Coordinator, Tech Team Member, LD Team Leader, Mentor for New Teachers, Cooperating Teacher, Unified Special Olympics Sponsor
Student Involvement at USF: Volleyball Team Member, Duns Scotus, Resident Assistant

Jacob Darley ‘02

President/Principal
Forest Park Individual Education School (Joliet, IL)
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership

Karla (Narducci) Guseman ’01

Superintendent
Joliet Township High School District 204 (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Education
Elementary Education Licensure
Professional Involvement: Member of Learning Forward and Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), CADCA member
Community Involvement: YMCA Metro Board Secretary and member of the Board Governance Committee and executive committee. Joliet Kiwanis Club Past President and current Secretary. Member of the Joliet Township High School Foundation
Awards: Distinguished Club President for the Joliet Kiwanis Club 2017

Rita Guzman ‘02, ‘10, ‘11, ‘15

Assistant Principal, Independence Elementary School
Valley View School Dist. 365U (Romeoville & Bolingbrook, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education
Master of Science, Education Leadership
Master of Science, Teaching & Learning
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership
Awards: 2013 College of Education Alumni Award (USF)
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor (USF); Education Alumni Network (EAN) Service Committee Chair; Speaker for Chrysalis and Project LEAD

David Lawrence ’08

Principal
Mendota CCSD #289 (Mendota, IL)
Master of Education, Elementary Education with Licensure
Earned a Doctorate of Education Degree from Concordia University of Chicago in 2020

Daniel Markun ‘13

Health and Medicine and Human Services Academy Coordinator
Joliet Township High School (Joliet, IL)
Master of Science, Educational Leadership
Professional Affiliations: MERIT Executive Board Member, MERIT High School and Junior College Action Team, Advanced Placement Exam Coordinator
Community Involvement: Joliet West Academy Roundtable Facilitator
Awards: 2015 College of Education Alumni Award (USF)

Meghan Maurer ’16

Principal
Prairie View Middle School (Tinley Park, IL)
Doctor of Educational Leadership

Erika Martinez ’11, ‘15

Bilingual Kindergarten Teacher
Valley View School District (Shorewood, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education
Master of Science, Teaching & Learning
Professional Affiliations: Bilingual Building Representative; College and Career Ready Committee Chairperson
Awards: Will County Teacher of the Month September 2015; USF Superstar Mentor Award 2016
Involvement at USF: Student Alumni Mentor; Alumni Association Board Member; Kappa Delta Pi

Dianne McDonald ’04, ’10

Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services
Joliet High School District 204 (Joliet, IL)
Master of Education, Secondary Ed/Science Licensure
Master of Education, Educational Leadership

Kathryn McVey ’05, ‘16

Assistant Principal/Teacher
Diocese of Joliet – Visitation Catholic School (Elmhurst, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education
Master of Science Educational Leadership

Shawn Olson ’16

Superintendent
Kirby School District (Tinley Park, IL)
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership

Craig Ortiz ’18

Superintendent
Morris Community High School District 101 (Morris, IL)
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership

Mary Frances Oskvarek ’89, ’11, ’18

Manager of Clinical Operations
Advocate Christ Hospital (Oak Lawn, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Administration
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership & Nursing Administration
Professional Involvement: AACN/ASPAN/ILSPAN Professional Memberships
Awards: Nominee for the Pinnacle Nursing Leader Award

Eric Patnoudes ‘11

K-12 Education Strategist at CDW-G (Chicago, IL) and
Adjunct Professor at University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Special Education
Professional Affiliations: ISTE and COSN
Community Involvement: Cub Scouts, Junior Achievement Mentor, Volunteer at Misericordia

Sharon Paver-Nepote ’02, ’07, ‘15

Frankfort School District 157C
Principal of Chelsea Intermediate School (Frankfort, IL)
Master of Science, Curriculum & Instruction
Master of Science, Educational Leadership
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership
Professional Affiliations: Illinois Principal’s Association, International Literacy Association, Illinois Association for Supervision and Curricululm Development, Reading Recovery Council of North America, National Association of Elementary School Principals
Involvement at USF: Kappa Delta Pi and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Societies

Jeana Carrico Pekol ’00

Principal
Minooka District 201 (Minooka, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education
Professional Affiliations: Illinois Principal Association
Student Involvement at USF: Volleyball Team

Glenda Rosado ’06, ’08

Executive Director of Elementary Teaching and Learning
East Aurora School District 131 (Aurora, IL)
Master of Education, Elementary Education Licensure
Master of Science, Educational Leadership
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership

Saundra Russell-Smith ‘18

Principal
Sandburg Elementary School (Joliet, IL)
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership
Professional Involvement: ASCD, Joliet Principal’s Association, Kappa Delta Pi
Awards: Walmart Community Grant Recipient, 2016; Joliet Grade Schools Foundation for Educational Excellence Grant Recipient, 2016; Valley Community Service Award, 2016; Black Police Officer’s Association Grant Recipient, 2016; Joliet Public Schools Star Employee Award, 2011

David Spesia ’05, ‘06

Director, Institute for Lay Formation
Diocese of Joliet (Romeoville, IL)
Master of Science, Education
Master of Science, Education Leadership

Veronica Tylka-Shaw ‘16

Dean of Students, Spanish Teacher/Adjunct ELL Professor/Board Member
Lincoln-Way District #210/University of St. Francis/Lockport District #205 (New Lenox, IL/Joliet, IL/Lockport, IL)
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership
Professional Involvement: Illinois Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ICTFL), National Association for Down Syndrome, Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network

Donald Stinson Jr. ‘18

Band Director
Joliet Central High School (Joliet, IL)
Master of Science, Educational Leadership
Professional Involvement: National Band Association; Phi Beta Mu; National Association for Music Education; Illinois Music Educators Association
Awards: Chicagoland Outstanding Music Educator; Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity; Conn-Selmer VIP for Music Education; Country Music Association Music Teacher of Excellence

Shawn Walsh ’00, ‘15

Will County Regional Superintendent of Schools
State of Illinois (Elwood, IL)
Bachelor of Arts, History, Secondary Certification, Social Studies
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership
Professional Affiliations: Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools; Illinois Association of School Administrators; Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce; Will County Center for Economic Development
Community Involvement: Will County Center for Community Concerns; VISTA Learning, NFP
Involvement at USF: Alumni Association Board Member

Laura Weed ’11

Principal & Director of Digital Learning and Innovation
Eagle Pointe Elementary School (Plainfield, IL)
Master of Science, Educational Leadership
Professional Involvement: IPA and ISTE
Community Involvement: WYSK – Women You Should Know; Plainfield Chamber of Commerce

Leach College of Nursing

Dr. Cheryl Brubaker ‘04, ‘15

Nurse Practitioner at Da Vita Medical Group
Faculty at University of New Mexico (Albuquerque, NM)
Master of Science, Family Nurse Practitioner
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Professional Affiliations: NM Nurse Practitioner Council, AANP
Community Involvement: PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization devoted to Educational Support and Opportunities for Women)
Awards: 2012 Leach College of Nursing Alumni Award (USF); 2015 University of St Francis Leach College of Nursing DNP Research Award; 2012 AANP Nurse Practitioner Advocate State Award for Excellence

Amanda Buechel ’15

ANA-Illinois Director at Large
SNAI Co-Consultant (Chicago, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Nursing
Professional Involvement: American Nurses’ Association, American Association of Critical Care Nurses
Community Involvement: Participant in Respiratory Health Association Events- Hustle Up the Hancock and Skyline Plunge, Our Lady of Angels Volunteering (Started partnership between USF students and OLA while in SNA) Awards: 40 Under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader, 2016; Lincoln Academy of Illinois Student Laureate, 2015; Margaret Brophy Meritorious Service Award, May 2015; Dorothy Kenney Busse Award, May 2015; Who’s Who Among Students in American University and Colleges, May 2015 Involvement at USF: Student: Student Nurses Association board member for 4 years; Track & Cross Country; Saints Guiding Saints Mentor; Nursing Tutor; Nursing Student Mentor Program Coordinator & Mentor; LCON Curriculum Committee; Learning Resource Committee

Linda (Reinhard) England ‘77, ‘86

Laboratory Director
Rush Copley Medical Center (Aurora, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Medical Technology
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Professional Affiliations: ASCP, AACC, CLMA

Brian Feehery ’06

R.N. Case Manager
Interim Home Health Care
Bachelors of Science, Nursing
Community Involvement: Village Clerk of the Frankfort Village Board, Frankfort Park District Board of Commissioners for 10 years and counting, and a founder of the Frankfort new Lenox Running Club

Dayna Jaynstein ’09

Assistant Director, PA-C
Red Rocks Community College (Lakewood, CO)
Master of Science, Physician Assistant Studies
Professional Involvement: AAPA, CAPA, SEMPA

Awards: Eugene Stead Clinical Student of the Year, 2009; Peak Performers Award: Hospital- Based Physician Assistant, 2012; USF Leach College of Nursing Alumni Award, 2018

Dr. Forouz Jowkar, Ph.D. ‘08

Physician Assistant
Santa Fe, NM
Master of Science, Physician Assistant Studies
Professional Affiliatons: American Academy anti-aging Functional and Regenerative Medicine, American Academy of Environmental Medicine, American Academy of physician Association
Awards: Awarded Master’s Degree in Metabolic Nutrition from University of South Florida Medical School in 2013

Carmen Kosicek, RN, MSN, PMHNP ‘94

Nursing Career Coach, Author
Self- Employed (Nashotah, WI)
Bachelor of Science, Nursing
Awards: “Nurses, Jobs and Money – A Guide to Advancing Your Nursing Career and Salary” received award-winning “Best Book of 2014” by Amazon editors of all books sold worldwide.

April Kubinski ’08, ’13

Owner, Family Nurse Practitioner
Emediate Cure Quick Care (Shorewood, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Nursing
Master of Science, Nursing
Professional Affiliations: UCCOA, AANP, ANA
Community Involvement: Shorewood Chamber of Commerce
Awards: Margaret Brophy Award
Student Involvement at USF: Student Nurses Association, President

Dr. Jean Mau ‘80, ‘12

Advanced Practice Nurse, Heart Failure
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital (Park Ridge, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Nursing DNP
Professional Affiliations: ISAPN, AAHFN, AACN, Vice Chair IDFPR Board of Nursing
Community Involvement: Community Board Lutheran Life Communities, St. Peter Lutheran Church Music Ministry
Awards: 2014 Leach College of Nursing Alumni Award (USF)

Dr. Mary Lauric Petrella ‘78

Nurse Practitioner
Edward Hines VA Hospital (Joliet, IL)
Awards: 2015 Leach College of Nursing Alumni Award (USF)

Cecelia Best Pezdek 96, 01,12

Manager Endoscopy and Ambulatory Center
Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital (Downers Grove, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Health Arts
Master of Science, Health Services Administration
Master of Science, Nursing
Professional Affiliations: Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates
Awards: GEM (Giving Excellence Meaning) finalist by Nursing.com in 2014; SGNA fellowship for Evidence Based Practice completed in 2012

Sheri Pieroni ’08

Presence Health
BSN, RN, VA-BC (Vascular Access Specialist) (Joliet, IL)
Bachelor of Science, Nursing
Professional Involvement: Board Certified in Vascular Access, Member of the Association of Vascular Access (AVA), Member of Illinois Vascular Access Network (IVAN)
Community Involvement: Presence Health, Community Health Screenings, Kiwanis Club (speaker about flu prevention)

Amy Vertin ‘13

Owner, Family Nurse Practitioner
Emediate Cure Quick Care (Shorewood, IL)
Master of Science, Nursing
Professional Affiliations: UCCOA, AANP, Sigma Theta Tau
Community Involvement: Shorewood Chamber of Commerce

Kathleen Wolz ’76

Joliet Junior College
Professor of Nursing (Joliet, IL)
Professional Involvement: AACN, IOADN, American Nursing Informatics Association
Community Involvement: Volunteer at church, WGMC

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