Lisa Baxter-Rincón
Department: Student Center
Interests and Hobbies: My interests include spending quality time with family and friends, meditation, event planning, and listening to music. I have a deep passion for helping others.
Short Bio: As a first-year coach, first-generation graduate, and administrative assistant in the Student Center, I support new students as they transition into college. My passion for higher education is a driving force in my work, as I strive to create a welcoming environment that encourages academic and personal growth. My experience as a CENTRAL graduate and in my administrative roles equips me to provide valuable guidance. I am committed to helping students navigate their first year successfully and make the most of their college experience, inspiring them to reach their full potential.
Message to New Students: "Embrace new experiences and challenges, as they are essential for growth. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and prioritize your well-being-your journey is unique, and it's about learning and discovering yourself."
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Sedina Begic
Department: Purchasing - Fiscal Affairs
Interests and Hobbies: Baking, watching Marvel movies, the gym, yoga, volunteering on campus, traveling and listening to music with the windows down
Short Bio: I am a first generation college student as well as an Alumni (Central '18) where I graduated with a double major in Management & Economics. I spent my four years of college being part of the Student Government Association, The Economics Club and being Senior Class President. Since graduating six years ago, I have worked in many different types of companies and I landed back at Central. I will be pursing my MBA this fall & I am a first gen advocate here on campus. Fun fact: I immigrated to the USA when I was 4 & a refugee from Bosnia.
Message to New Students: "College is what you make out of it! If you want to re-invent yourself, college is the fresh start you need. (I did, so should you!) Go for it!"
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George Brown III
Department: Residence Life
Interests and Hobbies: I enjoy sports, gaming, and most importantly spending time with friends and family. I also enjoy finding new TV shows and movies to watch and talking about them.
Short Bio: I'm a Residence Hall Director and graduate student here at Central in the Student Development in Higher Education program. I recently graduated with my bachelor’s in communication at Southern Connecticut State University. During my undergrad, I was a very involved student leader. I spent quite a bit of time with orientation, where I was an Orientation Ambassador and Coordinator; and with residence life, where I was a Resident Advisor. I was also part of the Greek-life community, where I served as the chapter president of my fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. I put a lot of effort into trying to make a positive impact on the greater campus community. Now, I’m here at Central trying to do the same.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! Starting college and entering new environments can be very intimidating but you are not alone! There are tons of helpful people and helpful resources available for you that will ensure that you are heading in the right direction. Get involved, meet new people, try new things, make the most of your experience here! You will not regret it."
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Kristin Caruso
Department: Human Resources
Interests and Hobbies: Golf, working out, going to concerts, hanging out with friends
Short Bio: I was raised in Richmond, VA. I first came to Connecticut at age 18 to play college basketball at the University of Connecticut. After college, I went into coaching college basketball and lived in multiple states. About twenty years later, I decided to retire from coaching.
Message to New Students: "Take advantage of the entire collegiate experience. Even though academics are important, there are so many other experiences that are available to you. There are plays, musical events, intriguing speakers, athletic events, and a vibrant student life. Also, in time as you develop your new friend group, you will meet people who will turn into your friends for life. One last piece of advice I can give you is taking advantage of all the resources that CCSU has available on campus and reach out for assistance if you need it. I know this may sound corny but enjoy every bit of your college experience. These years will continue to help you grow into adulthood."
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Kaylee Crockett
Department: Undergraduate Recruitment and Admissions
Interests and Hobbies: Thrifting, exercising, running, reading, paddle boarding, traveling, and trying new foods
Short Bio: Call me Kay, I am an admissions counselor in our undergraduate admissions office. I am also a current graduate student in our Counseling in Higher Education Program. I have been at Central for 2.5 years now and they best part of my role is connecting and building relationships with current and prospective students. I am ambitious, adventurous and an advocate for social justice.
Message to New Students: "Believe in your ability to succeed, and never give up. Don't let fear hold you back from reaching your full potential."
Jaclyn Dahn
Department: Academic Affairs
Interests and Hobbies: Cooking/Baking, Running, Puzzles, Scrapbooking, Hiking
Short Bio: I graduated from Central in 2019 with a bachelor's degree in Business Management. After graduating, I worked in the insurance industry for just over 3 years. I always felt this need to want to return to Central in some way, whether it be to volunteer or as some sort of career. I was hired as an assistant to the Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs in September of 2022 and I have never looked back.
Message to New Students: "I look forward to the opportunity to work with students. As a former Central student myself, I'm confident I will be able to offer insight to those students seeking guidance."
Rachael Davis
Department: Advising - Ammon College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
Interests and Hobbies: Photography, yoga, meditation (mindfulness), traveling, journaling, learning different cultures, hanging out with family and friends, having fun!
Short Bio: Hi! My name is Rachael, I have over a decade of experience in higher education. My specialty is academic advisement. Outside of working at Central, I am a certified Life Coach and photographer. I enjoy helping students reach their goals and maximizing their potential. I am an extremely positive, proactive person, and always willing to help out when I can.
Message to New Students: "To all new students... WELCOME TO Central!!! Congratulations in taking such a monumental step in life. I am here to be a person of support, guidance and encouragement during your time here. Please know that you can achieve anything that you put your mind to! "
Lashanda Dove
Department: School of Engineering, Science, and Technology - Dean's office
Interests and Hobbies: Due to my current work schedule, I do not have any hobbies. But, if I had the time I would love to go hiking.
Short Bio: I graduated from Central with a degree in Criminology. I work as an Administrative Assistant in the Dean's office in the School of Engineering, Science, and Technology. I also work part time at a domestic violence shelter. I have 4 children and 3 grandchildren.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! Please do not hesitate to reach out and ask for help. Develop relationships with peers. This can keep you motivated during class and can help with study groups."
Adina Elfant
Department: Undergraduate Advising
Interests and Hobbies: Hiking, reading, traveling, golf, pickleball, tennis and spending time with my dogs. I love being outdoors especially at a lake or beach.
Short Bio: I have worked in higher education for over 30 years and joined Central in 2019. I especially enjoy working with freshmen and transfer students and assisting them in their transition to university life. I live in Massachusetts with my husband and three daughters (one starting grad school and two in college) so I don't have nearly enough time for my hobbies :-)
Message to New Students: "If you don't already, learn to advocate for yourself. Ask for help when you need it - we're here to help you. Going to class is most important but we want you to have a well rounded college experience. Central has so much to offer and you should take advantage of all of it!"
Natalie Ford
Department: The Learning Center
Interests and Hobbies: Spending time with my family, playing games, doing puzzles, Sudoku, and word searches. I enjoy watching tv shows & movies - The Office, Grey's Anatomy, Marvel movies (MCU). My family loves softball, the NY Yankees, Hartford Yard Goats, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Short Bio: My name is Natalie Ford, and I am the secretary of The Learning Center. I graduated from Central with a degree in Communication. I have been blessed to work here for 16 years. I have two daughters: one high schooler and middle schooler - they are my world. My favorite way to relax is watching them do what they love - sports & art.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! I hope you enjoy your time here at Central. My main goal, with all students, is to eliminate the "run-around". Please do not hesitate to ask for help or guidance. We are here to help make your Central experience a positive one."
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Trizy Garcia
Department: Office of the Registrar
Interests and Hobbies: I enjoy reading, listening to podcasts, cooking, puzzles, and binging a good tv series.
Short Bio: Hi there! I’m Trizy, and I am a first-generation college graduate from Central. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Sociology, and currently help students in the Registrar’s Office. I look forward to connecting with you, and encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities you’re presented with while you’re here. Whether that’s joining a club, working on campus, or becoming a student leader, your experiences will help you as you navigate this new journey.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! I’m glad you’re here and I can’t wait to get to know you and share all the resources our campus has to offer for your success."
Larry Hall
Department: Recruitment and Admissions
Interests and Hobbies: Golf, Basketball, Playing cards, and civic engagement
Short Bio: Former Central student '89, MS '95
Former President of the Black Student Association
Father of 3/married
Basketball official/christian
Admissions professional for 30 years
Message to New Students: "I strongly encourage that you get connected with a member of the university as quickly as possible to assist you through your journey at Central. It is important that you navigate the college experience in the path that is best for you. It really does take a village to succeed in college. Let us be a part of making your dreams come true."
F. Kamilah Hastings
Department: Center for Community Engagement and Social Research
Interests and Hobbies: Chess, Exercising, Watching Basketball, Puzzles, Fashion, Shopping
Short Bio: I was born in Hartford, CT and moved to Windsor, CT at the age of 8. I earned a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 2001. After graduating from college, I lived in Brooklyn, NY before returning to CT. I am a mom and foster parent. I have raised and fostered 10 children, and counting.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central and congratulations on the start of your college journey! During the years ahead you will spend a great deal of time learning in the classroom, as well outside the classroom through your everyday interactions and experiences. Your time in college will impact you and help to shape your future. I look forward to learning from you, just as you will learn from us."
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Anna-Maria Heredia
Department: Undergraduate Advising, School of Engineering, Science, and Technology
Interests and Hobbies: Traveling and learning about cultures is at the top of my list! I love all music, especially 80s - 00's. I enjoy working out and running during the workout, but still working on loving it. I love being an aunt/tia/madrina.
Short Bio: I am a first-generation college graduate from Hartford; I earned my bachelor’s at WCSU, master’s at CCSU, and doctorate at Arizona State University. I have worked in higher education for over 20 years with TRIO programs, pre-collegiate programs, financial aid, and academic advising at the community college level and at state universities – I recently joined Central in summer 2024. I was a very involved undergraduate which led me to this profession – orientation leader, club officer/member, worked on-campus, Greek Life. I know what it is to feel lost, to second-guess if you belong, and to thrive once you’ve found your niche. I strive every day to be the person I needed when I was a student.
Message to New Students: "We’re so glad you are here! College is a time to learn about yourself and challenge yourself to be the best version of you! Get connected to the campus community and get involved – it helps you learn about people, working with others, and makes college a great experience."
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Jamahl Hines
Department: Academic Affairs
Interests and Hobbies: I love watching sports, particularly football and basketball. I bowl, fish, game, read, and an avid movie-goer. I am a former mixed martial artist and enjoy that discipline as well.
Short Bio: I am a former public school educator who has been afforded the opportunity to serve the higher education community. I am student-centered, focused on student success, and believe that I am here to help all students navigate college life in order to fulfill their personal and professional goals. I hope to be a listening ear, voice of reason, and mentor to students who need that support. I am excited to work with any student that elects to work with me!
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central and congratulations on the start of your college journey! During the years ahead you will spend a great deal of time learning in the classroom, as well outside the classroom through your everyday interactions and experiences. Your time in college will impact you and help to shape your future. I look forward to learning from you, just as you will learn from us."
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Sarah Horrax
Department: Student Activities/Leadership Development
Interests and Hobbies: I love soccer, reading mystery thrillers and YA fantasy, and listening to true crime podcasts.
Short Bio: Hi! I was a freshman at Central back in 2004, and was a History Major who went through the Secondary Education program, and was certified to teach Social Studies grades 7-12. I also did a Course Abroad experience in Ireland during the summer before student teaching. In 2012 I returned to Central to get my Masters in Counseling with a specialization in Student Development in Higher Education.
Message to New Students: "Change is scary but also exciting - reach out to me if you need advice or to be pointed in the right direction!"
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Rene Karas
Department: Facilities Management
Interests and Hobbies: pickleball, golf, reading, volunteer work, walking, crafts
Short Bio: I started at Central over 30 years ago in a COOP position and have never left. I have my Masters from Central and work in the Facilities Management Department. My days are always a great variety from doing a tour on campus to paying an invoice.
Message to New Students: "Dream big and cast your net wide as you never know where you will land."
Frank Kirschner
Department: Registrar's Office
Interests and Hobbies: Video games, snow boarding, Celtics basketball, Red Sox baseball, pro wrestling.
Short Bio: I am an alum of Central ('12), earning a degree in Marketing. I grew up in Bristol, CT and I currently work at Central as a Senior Degree Auditor for the Office of the Registrar. I know a lot about Central from both a student and professional perspective, so I'm always willing to provide any insight and guidance for our students. My favorite bands (past and present) are The Beatles and Paramore.
Message to New Students: "There's almost always someone just around the corner to assist you here on campus if you ask for help; please don't be afraid to do so. Even if they may not know the answer, they most likely will point you in the right direction to someone who does!"
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Shayne Koplowitz
Department: The Learning Center
Interests and Hobbies: Baking, cooking, going to events at Central, arts & crafts
Short Bio: I am a two time Central grad (political science 2011 and SDHE 2014). I am from West Hartford Connecticut and love working with student success initiatives. I have lived all over the Northeast. I volunteer with the Bloomfield Fire Department Auxiliary committee. When I am not at Central I spend time with my 8 month old baby and 12 year old English Bulldog.
Message to New Students: "Our Central community is here to support you and assist you in building your tribe. It is okay to not have all the answers, we can work to find them together..."
Matthew Landrigan
Department: Student Center
Interests and Hobbies: Being with friends and family, going to the beach, watching movies, trying new restaurants
Short Bio: Hi Blue Devils! My name is Matt and I work in the Student Center here at Central, where I support all campus events and programs and work closely with our student employee teams. What I love most about this role is the opportunity to foster community and inclusive environment that serves as a gathering space for all members of our Central community. I have worked in various areas of Student Affairs here at Central and I am more and more surprised every day with the resilience and determination of our students. I look forward to welcoming a new group of Blue Devil's to the Central Community and seeing them grow into future leaders!
Message to New Students: "My biggest pieces of advice to new Blue Devil's is to find comfort in stepping out of your comfort zone, ask questions, and strive to make new connections. The people are what make Central the community it is!"
Jennifer Lentino
Department: Undergraduate Advising
Interests and Hobbies: I enjoy traveling, spending time on the beach especially in OCNJ, reading, musical theatre, and spending time with family and friends.
Short Bio: This is my 4th year at Central working within the School of Business and the Office of Undergraduate Advising. I have also taught courses in Psychology and Sociology for the past 10 years at another institution. I am mom to a 10 year old son and 7 year old daughter who keep me on my toes. I earned my Bachelor's Degree from UConn and Master's Degree from UNH. I enjoy working in Higher Education and helping students navigate this exciting time in their lives.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central and the beginning of this new and exciting chapter of your lives. I look forward to supporting you."
Melina Lopez
Department: Veteran's Affairs
Interests and Hobbies: In my spare time, I enjoy crafting, cooking, and spending time with my granddaughter and gardening.
Short Bio: I am a Veteran Retention Assistant in the Office of Veterans Affairs. I engage students to reach their potential and maximize their college experience. I assist with transitioning students in and out of military all while using their VA educational benefit. I am a proud Latina, who is second generation graduate at Central. I earned my B.A in Modern Language.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! Thank you for choosing Central and we look forward to supporting you every step of the way."
Sabrina Maldonado
Department: Recruitment & Admissions
Interests and Hobbies: Travel, Music, Hiking, Time with family & friends, Trying new foods & restaurants
Short Bio: Hi! I am Sabrina Maldonado and I am one of the Assistant Director’s in the Department of Undergraduate Recruitment and Admissions. I joined Central as an employee in the summer of 2022, however I completed undergraduate degree and graduate degree at this institution. My Bachelor’s degree is in Sociology and my Master’s degree is in Counselor Education with a specialization in Student Development in Higher Education. I am a Latina professional, and I have a passion for working with students and doing impactful work.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to the Central family! I look forward to supporting you along your academic journey. Get involved on campus, and be sure to utilize our student support services! This University has so much to offer."
Sarah Martin
Department: Student Rights and Responsibilities
Interests and Hobbies: Reality TV, reading, baking, being outside, hiking, I LOVE anything ocean related
Short Bio: Hi! My name is Sarah (she/her) and I am the Assistant Director for Student Rights and Responsibilities. I have recently moved back to Connecticut after living around the country (and world) for the past decade. I spend my free time taking care of my puppy, spending as much time outside as possible, and watching reality TV.
Message to New Students: "I was a first generation student when I attended college. I am very excited to get to know you and be here through your time at Central"
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Courtney McDavid
Department: Office of the President
Interests and Hobbies: Photography, listening to music, event planning, and cooking/baking.
Short Bio: Throughout my time at Central, I have worked in many different departments across the campus, allowing me to gain a better understanding of the important role we each play in helping our students succeed. My goal is to provide the highest level of support to our students and their families.
Message to New Students: "Align yourself with people who can teach, connect, and guide you."
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Brian Michaud
Department: Undergraduate Advising
Interests and Hobbies: Eating, watching/playing sports, crushing fantasy sports, and eating again
Short Bio: I was born and raised in Waterbury, CT, but now live in Southington, CT with my amazing wife and adorable dog Ollie. My entire career has been spent in Higher Education, mainly in Recruitment and Admissions, but also Marketing, Events, and now Advising. I'm an overly optimistic and positive person who can always find the good in a situation.
Message to New Students: "College is all about taking that next big step in life. Although it might be stressful, it should also be the most fun time of your life so buckle up and enjoy the ride!"
Audra Mika
Department: Career Development Office
Interests and Hobbies: Reading, writing, swimming, traveling, teaching
Short Bio: As a career coach at Central Connecticut State University, Audra enjoys guiding students and alumni in launching careers and lives they love. Audra is an avid reader, writer, and networker. She launched her career at George Washington University in the admissions and public affairs offices before moving to Connecticut for an alumni relations and event planning job at Loomis Chaffee where she lived in the dorms, advised students, and taught English. After earning her graduate degree in journalism at Quinnipiac University, she later worked there as a career development director and adjunct professor. She joined Central in February 2022 and loves being a part of our community!
Message to New Students: "Hello, and welcome to Central! I can't wait to meet you and learn all about your goals and dreams -- and help you to get there! Know that your courage, curiosity, and hard work will all payoff. I look forward to supporting you in designing your dream life."
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Jessica Ofray
Department: Counseling and Student Development
Interests and Hobbies: Traveling, photography, reading spending time with my family and dog, watching tv series/movies, attending concerts, and spending time outside
Short Bio: Hi, I'm Jess and I have been a counselor at Central for 5+ years. I enjoy supporting students in and outside of the counseling office. I am passionate about maintaining balance and wellbeing, while also working hard to achieve goals.
Message to New Students: "Surround yourself with people who fit well with your values. It helps to find a community that reflects who you want to be."
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Claudia Richards-Meade
Department: Office Equity and Inclusion
Interests and Hobbies: My interests are watching movies, spending time with my friends and family. I like to listen to different genres of music, but my favorite are Gospel, Soca, and R & B. I love to travel and learning and experiencing other cultures.
Short Bio: I am a first-generation graduate from Hartford, CT. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Masters degree in Organizational Management. During my undergrad, I worked in Financial Aid, Student Affairs, and Residential Life. I participated in many campus clubs and participated in community service opportunities. I currently work in the Office of Equity and Inclusion but have worked in the Office of Human Resources prior to moving to the department.
Message to New Students: "Welcome! Welcome! Welcome! Make every day count. Everyone you meet is a resource. Take advantage of all the resources you have access to. I look forward in meeting with you and seeing how I can help you navigate toward your goals."
Monica Rivera
Department: Undergraduate Advising, School of Business
Interests and Hobbies: Reading, arts and crafts
Short Bio: Hi, I am Monica and I am an academic advisor in the School of Business. I am first gen too! I have my Master's in Management and I strive to give my students the supports they need to be successful. In my free time, enjoy spending time with my kids who are 7 and 8.
Message to New Students: "You can do anything you set your mind to, even more so when you have people who support your goals and provide you with the resources to be able to achieve them! So, I want to know, how can I help?"
Tina Rivera
Department: Information Technology
Interests and Hobbies: Travel, reading, crafting, movies
Short Bio: Hello! My name is Tina, and I work in the Information Technology Department. I am a Blue Devil at heart, and a first gen student. I love my job on campus, however being a mom is my favorite role. My daughter is going into her sophomore year here at Central. I also love to travel, go to the beach, read and craft.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! I truly bleed blue. I started my career at Central as an undergraduate student in 1994 and never left. I love being a part of the Central community first as a student, and now as an administrator. I am active on campus in various committees and enjoy helping our students succeed. I look forward to meeting you!"
PJ Rossito
Department: Career Development
Interests and Hobbies: NFL, MLB, Reality TV, Short Hikes, Long Naps
Short Bio:
From: Meriden, CT
Current: Vernon, CT
Undergrad: SCSU - Marketing
Masters: ECSU - Organizational Management
12 years as Higher Education Administrator
Message to New Students: "I'm happy to help anyway I can."
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Densil Samuda
Department: Public Safety
Interests and Hobbies: I enjoy watching football, fishing, and gardening.
Short Bio: I have three children – one of them is currently a student at Central. I have been working in law enforcement for 36 years – 15 have been at the CCSU Police Department.
Message to New Students: "Be a good citizen."
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Maria Santilli
Department: New Student Programs
Interests and Hobbies: Some of my interests include pilates, family time, baking/cake decorating, trying out new foods, listening to crime podcasts and planning Disney trips!
Short Bio: As a first-generation college student myself, I know how scary coming to a new college can be. I am a Hartford native, with parents who immigrated to the US in their early 20s. I have 2 degrees from Central, and consider myself a proud Blue Devil! I studied Italian, secondary education, and received my graduate degree in Counseling, with a focus in Student Development in Higher Education. I'm proud to work at Central, with some of the best students- and I love being able to meet them all through Orientation programs hosted through my department. Being positive and appreciating the little things is something I strive for each and every day.
Message to New Students: Get yourself connected- to a friend, a club, a professor, a mentor- even a spot on campus that you feel comfortable with. Feeling connected will make college feel more like your home away from home, rather than somewhere you only come to take classes. That connection is an important puzzle piece to your success at Central.
Allison Shannon
Department: Office of the Registrar
Interests and Hobbies: Reading, video games, art, writing, walking in nature, discovering new music, hockey, and thrifting.
Short Bio: I love assisting students in navigating college and overcoming struggles. As a coach, I'm available for your questions to find the right person with the right answer. I want to make things not only easier in your first year, but fun and memorable. It's an important time! I hold a Bachelor's in English and a Master's in Higher Education Leadership. I greatly enjoy the liberal arts, including reading, writing, music, history, culture, politics, etc. I'm also a gamer, I love to go on walks, and I shop too much.
Message to New Students: "Always ask questions. People are here to help and they like to help. If things are hard, keep going. Doing one thing each day is enough."
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Lisa Solari
Department: Student Wellness Center (health)
Interests and Hobbies: I love to hang out with my friends and family, my golden retriever, exploring new places, trying new recipes in the kitchen and watching sports/working out
Short Bio: I graduated from Central in 2014 with my nursing degree and have seen the campus evolve over the years. I worked as a NICU nurse before graduating from Sacred Heart University in 2020 with my nurse practitioner degree. I found my way back to working on campus in 2021 and have enjoyed working with the student population. I have traveled abroad many places both on mission trips and for fun. There are so many great opportunities with nursing!
Message to New Students: "Everyone has to start somewhere, and Central is a great place to start! Don't be afraid to ask questions or reach out for help!"
Nicholas Streifel
Department: Student Center
Interests and Hobbies: Gaming, esports, going to the gym, reading, history
Short Bio: I graduated in 2016 with a History Secondary Education Degree. Through my connections I made while working in the Student Center, I was hired back to a full time position here later that year. I currently supervise technology for all major events, as well as overseeing the operations of the Esports Center.
Message to New Students: "The two most important things to start working on are getting a handle on classes and beginning to make connections. The more connections you make, the easier dealing with your classes becomes."
Theresa Thompson
Department: Information Technology
Interests and Hobbies: pickleball, spending time with friends and family, NFL
Short Bio: I currently work in IT as admin to the CIO. I love my job! I took 15 years off from the workforce to raise my children, returning in 2021. I previously worked in software support for Hyperion Solutions. I have three children, aged 21, 19 and 16.
Message to New Students: "I am so glad you chose to attend Central! You will learn and grow in so many ways here and I look forward to being part of that!!
John Tully
Department: Academic Affairs & Graduate Studies
Interests and Hobbies: Red Sox, college football, playing the piano, politics
Short Bio: I earned my Ph.D. from Ohio State University with a concentration in the history of American Foreign Relations in 2004 and joined the Central history faculty that year. I became chair of the department in 2018 and served until January 2021. I am currently an Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, with responsibilities for Graduate Studies. My portfolio includes all aspects of Graduate Studies, the Library, the Center for Teaching Innovation, and our Bachelor of General Studies and National Student Exchange programs. I also support the Provost on faculty and department chair support initiatives.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! As an alum and now faculty member, Central is dear to my heart. I'm happy to have the chance to make your Central experience the best one possible."
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Diana Velasco
Department: Center for Community Engagement and Social Research
Interests and Hobbies: My interests include spending time with family and friends, learning about social issues, making embroidery pieces, playing tennis, reading, and being a plant mom!
Short Bio: Hi! I'm Diana and I am a first-generation Chicana professional. I received my Bachelors and Masters degrees at the University of Connecticut in 2021 and 2023. I am new to my role here at Central but I have been striving to be a part of an inclusive and welcoming community. I also teach FYE here at Central and Women/Gender Studies courses at UConn. I love to engage in conversations that lead me to learn more about the ideas and nuances around me and connecting with more people.
Message to New Students: "A quick word of advice/wisdom that I would like to share is to find your community here at Central. Don't be afraid to meet new people, start up a conversation with someone sitting alone, and go to that club meeting! You never know if you'll meet a life long friend."
Inez Vera
Department: Academic Center for Student Athletes
Interests and Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading any Colleen Hoover book and supporting Central students!
Short Bio: I am a first generation Latina college graduate, and a proud CentralBlue Devil! I graduated with my Undergraduate degree in Sociology, and pursued my Graduate degree in Counseling, specializing in Higher Education. I am a mother, sister, Tia/Auntie, friend and mentor. I am currently the Director of the Academic Center for Student Athletes at Central where I provide academic support for our students. As a student leader on campus I was involved with Admissions, the Latin American Student Organization, SGA and CAN! Getting connected at Central through clubs/organizations and mentorship were HUGE factors to my success academically and professionally. I look forward to connecting with you!
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! I am proud of you. I look forward to connecting with you and providing you support to be happy, healthy and successful!"
Lauren Veronneau
Department: Undergraduate Academic Advising
Interests and Hobbies: Cooking, reading, playing with my kiddos, being outside, trying new restaurants and fitness.
Short Bio:I have been working with college students for 12 years and love every part of it. I enjoy making connections with students and learning more about them.
Message to New Students: "Welcome to Central! Enjoy your new adventure as this is an opportunity to start fresh. Get involved in as much as you can on campus and don't be afraid to try something new."
Alicia Waring
Department: Academic Center for Student Athletes
Interests and Hobbies: Reading, music, dancing, festivals, beach, FUN
Short Bio: I am absolutely elated to be a part of the FYC program! I began my college journey as an active duty Air Force member and single mom in 2005. I found my voice through higher education and the support, resources, and services I took advantage of from mentors to the emergency relief fund. As a first generation and nontraditional student myself, it is my honor to meet and learn from/with incoming students as I highlight the transferrable skills that can be capitalized on for success in this realm :)
Message to New Students: "I cannot wait to meet you and please know that I am here for a vent, guidance, introduction to another person/department on campus, or sit with and share a meal in silence. Welcome to Central :)"
James Whittemore
Department: Registrar
Interests and Hobbies: Trying new foods, woodworking, fishing, sports (fantasy and real), cooking, watching terrible sci-fi movies.
Short Bio: After earning my degree at Clemson (you can find me wearing orange most days), I worked at ESPN before returning to school to earn my master's degree at William & Mary. Currently, I work in the Registrar's Office and love my colleagues and work that I am doing on behalf of our students. Outside of Central, I am blessed to be the proud father of two amazing kids.
Message to New Students: "Discover your passion and make the most out of every day. Use your education and opportunities presented by Central to help find what makes you happy and never be afraid of trying new experiences"
Davin Williams
Department: Counseling and Student Development
Interests and Hobbies: Spending time with family, proud girl dad of two, Sports (NCAA wrestling, NFL, NBA, MLB and Fantasy leagues), Foodie and Crossfit
Short Bio: I am Davin Williams a counselor for the Department of Counseling and Student Development. I have been at Central a little over a year now. I was born in Jamaica, raised in Hartford. I’m a graduate of Weaver High school. I was a collegiate athlete (wrestling) and was a member of Res life staff (RA & ARD). I have Undergraduate degree in criminal justice, minor in psychology and a graduate degree in clinical psychology from American international College.
Message to New Students: Hello and Welcome to Central! This is the beginning of self-discovery and creating lifelong memories.
Grecia Zaldivar
Department: Residential Life
Interests and Hobbies: Swimming, dancing, cooking, acting, reading, and spending time with fur friends.
Short Bio: Hi! I am the Residence Hall Director of Barrows Hall. My undergraduate major was in Psychology with a double minor in Business and Theater Performance. I graduated from my Master’s in Higher Education in Student Development. What lead me to Higher Education was how involved I was on campus and my experiences from being a tutor, a peer mentor, and a resident assistant. These roles made me want to give back to my Central community. During my graduate program, I worked as a grad intern at a Women’s Center. I am big on empowering women, and I had previously offered workshops on self-confidence and decision making skills based on all improv techniques uniquely designed for women. I am a first generation student who was born in Lima, Peru.
I love all furry friends, especially dogs. I speak Spanish fluently. During my free time, I love to attend dance classes, I love going to the gym, I love to swim early in the morning, and I love reading books.
Message to New Students: "As a first generation student, nothing is impossible if we put all of our energy, passion, and work into what makes our soul shine. I am here to help you during your journey- we are a Central community."