Bentley Magazine_Summer 2024

From CEO s to

ABOUT THE COVER: Staff photographer Maddie Schroeder and designer Juliana Freire gathered 17 Bentley students in Koumantzelis Auditorium for a photo shoot and to talk about an important topic: well-being. The images and quotes on the cover, here and in the story starting on page 12 illustrate the faces and experiences of mental health and wellness in teens and young adults today.

Letters to the editor

Re: Hands in the Air, Winter 2023

We asked readers to share their favorite campus concert memory.

’Til Tuesday performing at the Dana Center in autumn 1986. Everyone was entering and waiting for the show to start. Suddenly I noticed standing, literally right next to me, in the audience were four members of the J. Geils Band. They were just there to see the show. No one else seemed to recognize them. They were very friendly, and I had a good conversation with them.

– John Lopes ’89 Ray Charles.

He decided to play at a small college and not a big one at the time.

– Rich Yavarow ’71

Istepped into the role of editor of Bentley’s alumni magazine in January, just as the team was first getting ready to review the issue you’re now holding in your hands. We affixed each draft page up on a board to see the magazine spread out, and before me a picture of Bentley began to come together: the focus on student well-being (page 12), the award-winning faculty and the innovations they contribute to each day (pages 6 and 9), and the smart business perspectives that unfold across disciplines (like in the story starting on page 20). I hope you enjoy this issue. I am so happy to be part of the Bentley community and to have the opportunity to tell the stories that make this place so impressive and special. My inbox is always open, so please feel free to reach out and say hi at magazine@bentley.edu. It’s nice to be here.

editor

Robert Palmer and ’Til Tuesday played shows when I was at Bentley from 1986 to 1990. Fun fact was that members of the J. Geils Band were hanging in the back for the ’Til Tuesday show. Everyone but Peter Wolf was there. Great times.

– Ken Kramli ’90

Re: The Clock Tower Caper of ’73, Winter 2023

This is not the story I was expecting. As a freshman decades ago, I heard the following story: Some frat thought it would be really funny to put Mickey Mouse hands on the clock tower clock. As the story was told, it was organized with military precision.

They had a team to distract the security guard in the police department building (much smaller then) on College Drive, and four teams with ladders, ropes, the clock hands, etc. — all to make their way up and attach the hands while security was distracted. It seemed to fall apart when the security guard sensed something was up and looked back at his monitors and saw the teams assembling around the library. It would be interesting to hear more — even if it turned out to be false.

– George Parker ’83

Letters may be edited for clarity and space. Share your thoughts at magazine@bentley.edu.

Julia Rappaport,

from the NEWS NEST

about jobs in professional sports and how college can provide a foundation for their career. Read more about the partnership on page 5.

Jaychele Schenk ’26, Edissa Ndaikeza ’27, Mozart Saint Cyr ’25, Markus Facey-Castillo ’27 and Mama Darboe ’26 (pictured clockwise from bottom left), members of Black United Body (BUB), attended Celtics Career Day, presented by Bentley at TD Garden and the team’s Boston headquarters in February. At the career day, part of the university’s multiyear partnership with the Celtics, area high school students heard from Bentley alumni who work for the Celtics and learned

New Tradition Celebrates MLK Day

A new tradition began on campus as classes were put on hold for a day in January so the entire Bentley community could come together to celebrate and honor the work of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The MLK Day of Social Justice, Celebration, Listening and Learning — this year themed “The Business of Justice” — featured more than 50 learning sessions presented by students, faculty, staff and alumni as well as documentary screenings and art discussions. Keynote addresses were given by Anthony Abraham Jack, faculty director of the Newbury Center and associate professor at Boston University, and Candice Morgan, equity, diversity and inclusion partner at Google Ventures. “Reflecting on Dr. King offers a means of sense-making, of reconciliation,” President Chrite told an overflowing crowd of students, faculty, staff and alumni in LaCava, “and of our obligation to improve the world around us.” The events marked the 38th annual MLK celebration at Bentley.

Bentley Honored for Impactful Inclusion Efforts

The university received the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The national honor was given by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. Bentley was recognized for its programs including BentleyFirst, which gives eligible first-generation students the opportunity to attend Bentley for the same cost as tuition at UMass Amherst; the MOSAIC Experience, a pre-orientation program for first-year students of color and their allies; and the Rainbow Scholars Program, a yearlong leadership development program for LGBTQ+ and allied students.

Bentley Launches Partnership with the Boston Celtics

Talk about a slam dunk: Last fall, Bentley launched a multiyear partnership with the 17-time world-champion Boston Celtics. The partnership allows Bentley students to explore potential career paths in the business of sports and learn firsthand from sports industry professionals, including Celtics President Rich Gotham, who came to campus to speak. Additionally, students are working with CLTX, the team’s official NBA 2K online gaming affiliate, to develop solutions to real-life business challenges. The university and team co-hosted a career day at the Celtics’ headquarters for Boston-area high schoolers (see page 3).

Ariann Williams ’12, director of community engagement at the Celtics, and Celtics Marketing Coordinator Autumn Ceppi, MBA ’23, were among those who addressed the students. “Teaming up with the Celtics offers a winning opportunity for Bentley,” says President Chrite, pictured above with women’s basketball captain Maggie Whitmore ’24 and Gotham.

Media Highlights

Feb. 18, 2024

Associate Professor of Mathematical Sciences Noah Giansiracusa discusses how AI-generated misinformation threatens the integrity of the presidential election.

Jan. 18, 2024

Senior Finance Lecturer Steve Wasserman offers tips for successful networking — a key skill for future business leaders.

Jan. 12, 2024

The Bentley-Gallup Business in Society Report is featured for finding that Americans say four-day, 40-hour weeks as well as mental health days and limiting after-hours emails would positively affect their well-being.

Dec. 5, 2023

John W. Poduska Professor of Governance

Cynthia Clark and Finance Professor

Laura Jackson Young are highlighted for their work tracking the number of women in leadership roles at the 100 largest public companies in Massachusetts.

LEARN MORE at bentley.edu/news.

Preparing Business Leaders to Meet the Challenges of Tomorrow

Bentley’s new Executive and Professional Education programs give business leaders the training and knowledge to move their organizations and careers forward. From integrating AI to best practices for the boardroom to leveraging DEI to strengthen companies, Bentley faculty experts provide the continuous learning that managers and executives need to succeed and lead in today’s market.

Wiley

Bentley alumni receive a 50% discount using code Falcon50. LEARN MORE at bentley.edu/ExecEd.

Student-Athletes Lead the Nation in Graduation Rate

For the seventh consecutive year, Bentley student-athletes have the highest graduation rate in the nation at 99%, according to the NCAA’s latest Division II ranking. Bentley was one of only two schools to achieve this percentage out of more than 300 colleges and universities. The Academic Success Rate reflects the percentage of student-athletes who graduate within six years of enrolling in college. The national average for studentathletes is 76%. “We take great pride in being number one in the ranking that matters most for our student-athletes — their academic success,” said Paul Tesluk, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs.

Cynthia Clark, John W. Poduska Professor of Governance, teaches Enter The Boardroom: Principles of Corporate Governance.

Marcus Stewart ’92, MBA ’95, professor and chair of Management, teaches the Essentials in Management Mini-MBA.

Davi, professor of English and Media Studies, facilitates the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Champion certificate program.

WHAT EMPLOYEES WANT FROM WORK IN 2024

Four-day workweek

77%

The percentage of respondents that say offering a four-day, 40-hour workweek option for employees who typically work the same number of hours across five days would have a positive effect on their well-being.

LEARN MORE at bentley.edu/gallup.

Limit email after work

66%

The percentage of respondents reporting that if their employers limited the amount of time they were expected to spend on work email outside of the workday, it would have a positive impact on their well-being.

Bentley’s partnership with Gallup was recognized as a 2024 Innovation that Inspires by AACSB, an organization that accredits business schools around the world. “The Bentley-Gallup Business in Society initiative is influencing the dialogue around the role and expectations of business in today’s world,” the AACSB wrote.

Forward Thinking

BY BRENT CHRITE

As the post-pandemic world continues to reveal, health and well-being are not “nice-to-haves.” They are the very foundation of personal and professional success. This is particularly true for teens and young adults — the demographic that comprises many of our college students and young workers — who across America are struggling with stress, anxiety and depression.

Universities can only deliver on the promise of a transformational, life-changing experience if their students are mentally healthy. And companies can only reach their full potential if their young workers and future leaders are emotionally fit.

As a university that consistently attracts highperforming, ambitious students, it is important that we take a holistic approach to supporting them. Yes, at Bentley we meet our students’ ambition with academic rigor and plenty of real-world learning opportunities. But we also realize that we need to help them develop the resilience and coping skills that will prepare them to be active participants in their own personal and professional success — advocates for their own well-being no matter their career path.

College is an exciting experience, but it can also be challenging as students learn to adapt to situations they’ve never faced. Many are living away from home for the first time and balancing academics, new relationships, jobs, student clubs, athletics and internships. It’s not easy.

That is why we and other universities are focusing on creating a healthy on-campus culture where students can learn the resilience to cope with the stressful times that will undoubtedly occur while in college, and beyond when they enter the working world.

Well-being is about more than mental health. It includes stress management, physical wellness, nutritious eating, sustainable sleeping habits and healthy relationships, among other areas.

In a time when employers report that leave-ofabsence requests are on the rise, providing our students with tools to navigate these areas so they can manage stress and anxiety is a necessity. The students of today deserve it. And the employers of tomorrow will expect it.

FIVE STRATEGIES TO Improve Employee Happiness (and Productivity, too)

BY SUSAN VROMAN

Promoting mental health and well-being isn’t just the right thing to do. It helps your company’s bottom line. So as a manager or executive, how can you help make your team happier (and more productive, too)?

Susan Vroman, senior lecturer in Management, offers five tips.

Get to know your employees as humans.

In nearly every job, we interact and work with other people, so why don’t we remember we’re all, well, human? We all have some need for belonging. When managers make an effort to learn about their employees — what excites or interests them and even what they don’t like — it shows they are valued. When employees feel respected and validated, they do better work. It’s that simple.

Empower your staff.

To do your best work, you can’t be afraid to fail. Anyone who knows the story of Thomas Edison understands the value of trying unsuccessfully (many times) before you succeed. So why is it so hard for many managers to let their workers try? For workers to feel empowered, they must be given permission to take risks and — if they fail — to learn from their mistakes in a safe environment. Leaders should delegate both tasks and authority to their employees. And don’t forget to provide training opportunities so that when you delegate a project, they’re ready.

In the office or remote?

Choose which makes sense for your team. It’s hard to know how and where people work best. While some companies mandate a return to the office, others say remote or hybrid work is here to stay. When possible, leaders should assess which parts of work must be done in an office — and why — before mandating changes based on what other organizations are doing. Look at each role and team on a case-by-case basis to determine if flex space and/or flex time is appropriate.

Promote friendships.

What keeps people in their jobs? Research shows that workplace friendships not only encourage trust among employees, they enhance creativity. However you do it — staff meetings, training seminars, holiday parties — bringing people together strengthens relationships among workers. That makes them happier, more creative and more productive.

Give context for the work. Being asked to complete a task, role or job is one thing. Understanding the impact it will have is quite another. Be transparent with your staff and explain why you are asking them to take on a project — how it matters in the “big picture.” Providing this full context for the work that employees do gives them both a reason to do it and a motivation to do it well.

Susan Vroman is a senior lecturer in Management at Bentley who specializes in organizational effectiveness and leadership development. Her research focuses on flexible work arrangements, remote work, authentic leadership and leading responsibly. With experience working as an internal and external resource, Susan’s passion and expertise lie in values-based leadership and culture development.

Can Entrepreneurship be Learned?

INTERVIEW BY KRISTEN WALSH

Is entrepreneurship innate or can anyone develop it? Ahead, Kara Banosian ’04 and Runyuan (Mike) Wang ’23, MBA ’25, MSBA ’25 offer their thoughts and share tips for aspiring entrepreneurs. “Anyone can be an entrepreneur,” says Sandeep Purao, who, as Computer Informations Systems professor and director of Bentley’s Entrepreneurship Hub (E-Hub), has cultivated a student and alumni network that includes Banosian and Wang. The E-Hub is supported by a $1 million gift from Steve ’08 and Samantha Somers.

What does it take to be a successful entrepreneur?

MIKE WANG: Regardless of your technical skills in areas like marketing, sales, operations and technology, what really matters is persistence. When I first started my business, I encountered a lot of failures and people who didn’t believe in me. I remember working out of my small, one-bedroom apartment in Shenzhen, China — my bed was my office chair — making cold calls to the U.K., Canada and the U.S. to try to get clients. In some of those moments I felt defeated, but I had to trust myself and keep going. If I had given up, even for one moment, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish what I have today.

KARA BANOSIAN: I agree that you need the drive, passion, persistence and resilience to want it so much that you can sit through the storm. Another important attribute of being a successful entrepreneur is having the ability to leverage your network to ask for help, an introduction or even funding. That takes a combination of confidence and humility: believing in yourself but being able to listen and learn so you can make informed decisions and pivot when needed. Striking that balance will translate to the success of your business and team.

How do you develop an entrepreneurial mindset?

KB: I’m a big believer that you learn by doing, and you can build up resiliency over time through different experiences and situations. Your first idea might completely flop and you get crushed, but you can pick yourself up and build a tougher skin. Failure teaches you a lot about what you’re made of.

MW: My biggest failures and toughest moments are also my most valuable assets that nobody can ever take away. If you truly want to change the world, you can push yourself to develop the skills you need to get there.

What inspired you to launch a business?

MW: While I’m young, achieving total financial and personal freedom is a driving factor for me, but it’s not just about money. In my lifetime, I want to make a positive impact on my country and contribute to a magnificent future

for humanity. I aim to leave a meaningful social and spiritual legacy for my kids and the world.

What drew you to the startup world?

KB: The No. 1 thing that drew me to a startup was the ability to have an impact and access to all levels of an organization. I have learned over the years what motivates me and keeps me driven: I like to roll up my sleeves, dig in to do the work and connect with teams at all different levels. One of the exciting things about entrepreneurship is the ability — and the need — to wear many hats.

How did Bentley help in your entrepreneurial career path?

MW: In addition to mentors like Professor Purao, the Bentley E-Hub is an entrepreneurial platform that provides networking opportunities, seminars and coaching sessions for students, faculty and alumni. I’ve learned so much including how to find and pitch investors. Through the E-Hub, Bentley is going to create entrepreneurs who change the way businesses operate in the world. I see a lot of possibilities.

KB: Bentley’s curriculum was core to helping me truly understand how an organization works, and that knowledge put me in a completely different realm when entering the workforce. More recently, engaging with the E-Hub network has given me fresh ideas and ways of thinking about growing a business and maybe even one day launching my own. It presents a continuous cycle of learning and fosters a whole new level of business acumen and conversation.

What’s your advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?

MW: Pitch people, notice their objections and see if you can get some customers before you even start a company. This allows you to not only garner interest but also validate your market fast and get initial cash to grow your business without going through investors.

KB: My advice is to be a sponge. Read, talk to entrepreneurs and other people in your life to learn how they got their start. Get feedback on your ideas from people you trust. Plant the seed and see how it grows — or dies. That will help you figure out which direction to go.

Kara Banosian ’04 is chief revenue officer at Stavvy, a fintech startup that provides digital solutions to the mortgage industry. Her expertise in go-to-market strategy helps bring new products to market and boost demand. She believes that growth in challenging markets is informed by the ability to execute, adapt, learn, change and respond — including through innovative technology.

Runyuan (Mike) Wang ’23, MBA ’25, MSBA ’25 is a global online business enthusiast who is passionate about global selling and marketing. In 2020, he founded Tier 1 Animation with a mission to amplify global brand impact. Clients have been featured in more than 100 U.S. media outlets including USA Today, MarketWatch and CNBC.

Why focusing on mental health and well-being is an essential element to the success of students — and the companies they’re about to join.

BY DAN O’SULLIVAN PHOTOS BY MADDIE SCHROEDER

or Ellie MacMillan ’24, the issue of mental health is extremely personal. At age 14, she lost her older brother to suicide. In the wake of her brother’s death, several doctors told MacMillan that she was dealing with grief — a natural reaction that she would overcome in time. A more complete accounting of her mental health problems wouldn’t emerge for a few years.

“I eventually learned I had depression and anxiety mixed in with post-traumatic stress disorder and mood disorder,” she says. “It really affected me back then. Even now, seven or eight years later, depression and anxiety still affect me. Suicidal thoughts as well.”

MacMillan’s mental health struggles are all too common among today’s undergraduate and graduate students as well as recent entrants into the workforce. It’s no surprise that finding solutions to enhance the health and well-being of young people has become a priority for universities and employers alike.

ROOTS OF THE ISSUE

Each year, the Healthy Minds Network conducts a survey to assess the mental health of college and graduate students. Its most recent study, published in March 2023, surveyed 96,000 students across 133 campuses in the 2021-2022 academic year.

The results were jarring. “It found that 44% of students reported symptoms of depression, 37% reported anxiety disorders and 15% reported having seriously considered suicide in the past year — the highest recorded rates in the history of the 15-year-old survey,” according to the University of Michigan, a member of the Healthy Minds Network.

The roots of today’s mental health crisis may well date back to 2007. That was the year Apple released the first iPhone, ushering in the smartphone era. Silke Plesch, a senior lecturer in Natural and Applied Sciences at Bentley who teaches cyber psychology courses and works as a mental health counselor, notes that this generation of college students has grown up relying on smartphones to stay connected with others.

“They actually prefer online communication over offline communication because it’s more convenient, it’s faster and they don’t have to feel other people’s feelings as much,” Plesch says. “But in the long term, this damages a person’s sense of self and ability to read social cues. There’s very clear data showing this reduction in in-person communication has led to a rise in mental health issues, particularly anxiety issues and depressive symptoms.”

Starting in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic spurred young people to spend even more time on their phones to combat feelings of isolation. Peter Forkner, director of the Bentley University Counseling Center, says the increased screen time — especially consuming social media — exacerbated mental health problems.

“Many students are already insecure about how they fit in with their peers,” he says. “Now you have a massive platform for judgment where you can post a picture of yourself and literally measure on a day-to-day basis how much approval you’re getting.”

Forkner adds that broader concerns ranging from wars in the Middle East and Ukraine to the existential threat of climate change are also weighing on young people’s minds. “But that’s no different than previous generations, which had their shares of troubles and hardships as well,” he says. “The difference is that with smartphones, we’re engaging with those horrible things

Then during his first year at Bentley, Maselli began experiencing symptoms of depression. “I had a lot of rough days where I didn’t want to get out of bed or hang out with friends,” he says. “At that point, I got a therapist to explore that side of me. He helped me reignite my purpose, do well in class and become engaged on campus.”

That resilience eventually had a campus-wide impact. Two years later while running for Student Government Association president and vice president, respectively, Maselli and MacMillan decided to make student mental health the focus of their campaign. They won the election and went on to found Bentley Active Minds in December 2022. The university’s chapter of the national nonprofit organization, Bentley Active Minds is Bentley’s first student-led organization dedicated to mental health awareness and education.

In addition to advocating for more mental health resources, destigmatizing mental illness is central to Bentley Active Minds’ mission.

“There’s still a stigma surrounding mental health and the ability to get help for yourself,” MacMillan says. “It’s interesting because everyone says they wouldn’t judge someone else for seeing a therapist. But if you ask whether others would judge you for seeing a therapist, most people say ‘yes.’ Where’s the disconnect?”

about his future and what others thought of him compounded his

Since its launch, Bentley Active Minds has attracted around 50 members and hosted a number of events, such as a conversation that MacMillan led about using proper language when discussing suicide. “We’re giving people a different way to talk about mental health and reframing the conversation so that we can attack these issues through a different lens,” says Maselli, who now serves as a senior adviser to the organization.

Companies that offer high-quality mental health and other benefits stand to gain in recruiting and retaining talented young employees.

COLLEGES RESPOND

In the United States, the size of the pediatric mental health workforce has proven inadequate to serve the increasing number of youth with mental health problems. According to Massachusetts General Hospital, only about 9,000 practicing clinicians in the U.S. are qualified to care for the roughly 15 million children and adolescents nationwide that are in need of mental health support.

Many colleges and universities are dedicating staff and other resources to meet the heightened demand. At Bentley, improving students’ mental health is part of a larger emphasis on student well-being. Students are encouraged to be active participants in their own care because well-being is such an essential part of their academic and future career success.

Bentley’s Counseling Center has a flexible, short-term model of services that offers students counseling sessions based upon their need. But the center may not be appropriate for a student whose problem isn’t very severe and is seeking long-term weekly care — or for a student with a severe mental health disorder. In either case, the Counseling Center will connect the student with the appropriate resources in the community using their insurance, whether a private practitioner or a higher level of care.

Since the onset of COVID-19, many schools have turned to telehealth to supplement their in-house counseling services. For instance, Bentley contracts with teletherapy vendor BetterMynd to provide students with remote therapy sessions with licensed counselors. Students can use BetterMynd to see a counselor of their choosing each week during the school year at no cost.

Besides improving access to mental health services, BetterMynd has a roster of counselors who are diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, gender identity and more. That’s a key benefit, notes Oyenike Balogun-Mwangi, a licensed psychologist and assistant professor in Natural and Applied Sciences at Bentley.

“Research shows that people want to be in spaces with someone who matches their lived experience or at least can appreciate their lived experience,” Balogun-Mwangi says. “It’s important to have a diverse range of therapists providing mental health care so that people can be in spaces with someone with whom they connect. Therapeutic match matters more than technique and is what drives adherence to treatment.”

WHY COMPANIES CARE ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH

But what about the mental health of recent college graduates who are early in their careers? To find out, several organizations collaborated on a survey of 1,005 workers between the ages of 22 and 28. The study, published in January 2023, reported that 51% of respondents noted emotional or mental health problems in the previous year, while 38% said their workplace had a negative impact on their mental health and well-being.

Companies have plenty of motivation to focus on improving their employees’ mental health. BalogunMwangi cites research showing record-high rates in leaves of absence among Gen Z workers. “Corporations measure their output in terms of productivity,” she says. “If there is a mental health crisis and they’re not addressing it or providing adequate support, they’re going to lose money.”

Companies that offer high-quality mental health and other benefits stand to gain in recruiting and retaining talented young employees. According to the Bentley-Gallup 2023 Business in Society Report, which surveyed 5,458 U.S. adults, 66% of Americans aged 18 to 29 say that whether a company offers free mental health services would be somewhat or extremely important in their decision to apply for a job there.

Without question, employee mental health has gotten the attention of U.S. businesses. Companies are responding in a variety of ways, from taking steps to enhance their culture and reduce burnout to expanding mental health benefits. One approach that may be gaining momentum: offering a four-day, 40-hour work week for employees who typically work a five-day week. The Bentley-Gallup survey found that 82% of Americans aged 18 to 29 say that option would have a somewhat or extremely positive impact on their well-being.

Eventually, today’s young professionals will need to take the lead in creating workplaces that pay attention to and nurture their mental health. Maselli, who will start a job in corporate finance in June, believes he will be up to the task.

THE PATH TO WELL-BEING: THE BENTLEY APPROACH

Traditionally, universities cared for their students’ well-being by focusing on two areas: psychological support and physical activity. Bentley has a broader understanding in which mental health is one of many parts of a student’s well-being. The approach known as BentleyPlus includes developing skills such as:

Ethical reasoning: Making decisions based on one’s values.

Critical thinking: Objectively analyzing information before making a decision.

Problem solving: Creating and carrying out a plan to address a need.

“I think I have the tools and confidence to bring the

Community engagement: Making a positive impact in the world.

Leadership: Developing others’ strengths to achieve team objectives.

Teamwork: Building relationships and managing conflict to work toward common goals.

Dialogue: Listening to different perspectives to deepen understanding and ease loneliness.

Identity awareness: Understanding how social identity affects others’ experiences.

Resilience: Using strategies to overcome challenges and reduce fear of failure.

Well-being: Practicing balance in life and developing the habit of self-care.

Work ethic: Following through on commitments.

Students are encouraged to develop their competencies through engagement in clubs, cocurricular activities, or employment experiences and meeting with an adviser to think about their progress. The BentleyPlus program fosters skills that help students advance their careers and improve their overall health and well-being.

Kevin Gillis, MBA ’93 meets with Bentley students at Third Rock Ventures.

Thinking Outside the Medicine Cabinet

Bentley’s new center aims to transform the business of health.

BY MOLLY MASTANTUONO

When Mourad Mokrani ’26 applied for and accepted a campus job with the university’s new Center for Health and Business, he had no idea that it would profoundly influence his academic interests. After all, the Lexington, Massachusetts, native had already decided to pursue dual majors in Management (with a concentration in Entrepreneurship) and Finance.

However, working with the center has opened Mokrani’s eyes to the countless opportunities that exist for business students in the health industry, one of the most complex and important sectors of the U.S. economy. “I have a lot of family friends who work in biotech, but they’re all involved with the science side of things,” he explains. “I never really stopped to consider how important the business side of the house — finance, accounting, marketing, management — is to the overall success of these companies.”

This awareness has inspired Mokrani to consider a career in this rapidly growing industry. He has now added a minor in Health and Industry to his academic course load and — thanks to the Center for Health and Business, which launched in October 2023 — is currently interning with Third Rock Ventures, a Boston-based venture capital firm that invests in and creates life science companies. Kevin Gillis, MBA ’93 is partner and chief operating officer at the firm.

“It’s been an incredible experience,” Mokrani says, noting that while he works primarily with the finance team, he’s been able to connect with and learn from employees in all areas of the company. His internship has not only broadened his understanding of how entrepreneurs are transforming the business of health but also deepened his appreciation for the industry’s higher purpose. “At the end of the day, it’s about more than just making money,” he says. “It’s about identifying new medicines and technologies that can literally save people’s lives.”

longstanding issues of efficiency, transparency and access that directly affect the health and well-being of every member of our society.” These problems stem from the fact that the industry encompasses a vast array of disciplines — from clinical care and biomedical research to data analytics and financial administration — that make it difficult to balance the needs of patients, providers and policymakers.

Achieving that balance, Hartigan says, requires health industry leaders to think outside the medicine cabinet, harnessing the power of business to better understand connections among the health industry’s various disciplines and identify innovative, scalable and sustainable solutions.

That’s where Bentley’s new Center for Health and Business comes in. The center builds upon the blueprint provided by the university’s Health Thought Leadership Network (launched in 2014), bringing together more than 90 faculty and staff members from various departments and disciplines, as well as students, alumni and corporate partners in health, to explore the industry through a multidisciplinary lens. A generous gift from entrepreneurs Chris Smith ’91, MBA ’92, P ’19 ’24 and his late brother Greg Smith ’91, Hartigan says, “provided the catalyst we needed to begin transforming our dreams for the center into reality.”

“At the end of the day, it’s about more than just making money. It’s about identifying new medicines and technologies that can literally save people’s lives.”

MOURAD MOKRANI ’26

According to Danielle Blanch Hartigan, executive director of the Center for Health and Business and associate professor of Health Studies, “aha” moments like these are precisely what the center is trying to foster — not only among students, but also among the university’s faculty, staff, alumni, and corporate and community partners.

“The health industry plays an outsize role in our nation’s economy,” Hartigan explains. “But it’s also plagued by

The Center for Health and Business aims to transform the business of health in three areas: education, research and key partnerships with leaders in the health industry. For example, site visits to area companies (known as Onsite Insights) offer students a firsthand look at careers in health-related fields. So far, students have toured the headquarters of the Boston-based construction company Suffolk to see how the company uses technology to design state-of-the-art science labs, research centers and other health facilities, and Boston Scientific, which develops medical devices to improve patient health outcomes. The center also sponsors a “Hot in Health” speaker series, where students can take in the advice and insights of Bentley alumni and other professionals working in the industry.

Leveraging the experience and expertise of Bentley’s strong alumni network, Hartigan says, is a key factor in the center’s ability to achieve its mission and vision, given that Massachusetts is a global hub for health care and life sciences. Hundreds of healthrelated companies, large and small, are headquartered in the state, many in close proximity to Bentley’s Waltham campus.

Kevin Gillis understands better than most what this means for the future of the health industry in Massachusetts. “We’re lucky to have such a strong ecosystem of innovation here,” he says, noting that the industry’s continued success relies as much on human capital — capable and confident graduates from some of the nation’s top universities — as financial backing.

That’s one of the reasons why Gillis is excited to partner with the Center for Health and Business. As a Bentley graduate, he believes his fellow Falcons share his passion for applying their

knowledge and skills in a way that benefits society. That’s why Third Rock Ventures, which has nurtured the growth of more than 60 life science startups, created the dedicated internship for a Bentley student.

This summer, Gillis notes, the Food and Drug Administration approved an oral medication for mothers experiencing postpartum depression that was developed by one of the startups in his company’s portfolio. “It’s incredibly gratifying knowing that your efforts are helping others lead happier, healthier lives.”

The Center for Health and Business Three key Areas of Focus

EDUCATION

The Center for Health and Business expands Bentley’s existing programs — including undergraduate majors in Health Studies and Psychology, an MBA concentration in Strategic Health Care Management, and customized MBA programs for companies — by offering health-related courses such as the Business of Health and outside-the-classroom activities including healthfocused career fairs. Faculty associated with the center are also partnering with Minerva Project, a global education company, to develop an executive education program, Leading Business Transformation in Health, to equip mid-career professionals in the health industry with the skills to drive change in the evolving health landscape. And this summer, the center will launch the Business of Health Innovation, a weeklong program for rising high school juniors and seniors that focuses on the business side of the health industry.

RESEARCH

Bringing faculty and staff together to explore health-related issues is a hallmark of the center. Research has focused on mental health in the workplace, privacy concerns and gender bias in corporate wellness programs, public health messaging during the COVID-19 pandemic and policy barriers that prevent housing homeless people. The center also provides enriching research opportunities for Bentley students who get hands-on experience with cutting-edge analytical methods like machinelearning algorithms. One such project allows students to work alongside faculty on a virtual reality platform that systematically examines the patient experience in palliative care. And students can explore how technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality can improve health care delivery and outcomes.

PARTNERSHIPS

Through collaborations with health industry leaders — including many Bentley alumni — the Center for Health and Business is bridging the gap between theory and practice, giving students mentorship, experiential learning and job opportunities. Locally, the CHB has increased engagement with a number of companies in the health industry through the “Hot in Health” speaker series, “Onsite Insight” field trips and opportunities to attend the biannual career fair. And the CHB is developing relationships with the American College of Healthcare Executives, the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center and the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association through speaker engagements and formal sponsorship. Reciprocal visits to Toronto Metropolitan University have taken place to explore potential avenues for collaboration, as well as presentations at a global summit.

GREAT Expectations

Bentley’s Great Benefactors Society envisions the future they’ll build together.

“ Bentley’s a really special place to me and I couldn’t be here without your support.”

“ You recognize our innovative spirit and have given it life.”

“ Thanks for giving me a welcome home where I can be myself.”

The Great Benefactors Society — those who have given $1 million or more to Bentley over their lifetime — gathered last fall to celebrate and induct new members. These generous donors, an esteemed group of more than 50 and growing quickly, are visionary leaders who have helped build Bentley into what it is today.

In 2017, as part of Bentley’s centennial celebration, a tribute was installed in the heart of campus — behind the library, where knowledge is cultivated and the seeds of future leadership are sown. A fitting home, since the impact that Great Benefactors have made is at the heart of Bentley itself.

From being the driving force behind the move from Boston to Waltham in the 1960s to investing in the latest innovative programs, Bentley’s Great Benefactors know what it takes to continually propel the institution forward.

“This is really about Bentley: celebrating its past, honoring its present and embracing its future,” says Rob Alan ’91, trustee and one of the seven Great Benefactors inducted. “I’m blessed to have been in the position to honor Bentley in this way and I look forward to more years to come.”

Chris Smith ’91, MBA ’92, P ’19 ’24 agrees: “It’s about family, generational giving and being part of a community.”

The sentiments were emphasized during a warm celebration — honoring one another, fostering friendships and looking forward to continued growth together.

CLASS NOTES

Alex Yuan ’17 and Eshita Shah ’17, MBA ’23

1973

Elizabeth “Betty” Critch ’73, Morgantown, W. Va., reports that she and several colleagues were published in the Journal of Public Policy & Marketing.

1980

Ed Burt ’80, Hopedale, Mass., has been elected as a board member to the Hopedale Charitable Corporation and as a trustee to the Hopedale Foundation and Hopedale Community House.

1981

Heather Brown Colbert ’81, MBA ’87, Windham, N.H., was selected as the REALTOR® of the Year from the Granite State South Board of REALTORS® (GSSBR). Colbert started in real estate 26 years ago with Pater Real Estate Management Co. Inc. and is involved in the management team, property management and leasing, while maintaining board commitments to GGSBR and volunteering for the Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains.

Jill (Greenstein) Greene ’81, Delray Beach, Fla., has opened a full-service interior design build firm called Sand Castle Kitchens & More, LLC. Learn more: sandcastlekitchens.com.

1987

Jim Sano, MBA ’87, Medfield, Mass., recently released his sixth novel and the fifth in the Father Tom series, Fallen Graces His Catholic novels have received 17 book awards and have been endorsed by several archdioceses for adult faith programs. Sano has been busy pursuing a master’s degree in Evangelization and Catechesis at Franciscan University. He proudly walked his daughter, Emily, down the aisle for her wedding to Jon in Portland, Oregon, this past summer.

1989

Diana (Ragusa) Franchitto ’89, MBA ’97, Foxboro, Mass., was elected to serve as vice chair of the 2023-2024 board of directors of CareLink RI, a nonprofit health care network of post-acute and communitybased providers serving older adults and adults with disabilities. Franchitto is president and CEO of HopeHealth in Providence, R.I.

1992

Dave McLaren ’92 , Shrewsbury, Mass., is proud to set a new standard in the accounting industry by introducing an innovative work-life balance benefit at McLaren & Associates, CPAs, PC that is simply unprecedented. He reports that during tax season, employees will only need to work 50 hours a week. “Attracting and retaining talent was our motivation for this change, and [preventing] burnout,” the alumnus writes. “If you would like additional information about our culture, our team and the firm, please reach out directly to Grzeg Wenc at grzegorz@dmclarencpa.com.” The firm was also honored with the Best Forensic Accountant Award from the Worcester Business Journal ’s Best of Business Awards for the sixth consecutive year.

1994

Traci (Wilson) Pozerski ’94, Boston, Mass., reports that she and Michelle Logan Hatch ’95 have joined forces to create their own public accounting firm, Pozerski Hatch & Company. “After working together for many years, we decided to give it a go on our own in 2020,” the alumna writes. “Our firm has grown significantly since inception, and we look forward to continued growth in the coming years.” The duo urges fellow alumni in the audit or tax area who are thinking about making a move to give them a call.

Tom Condon ’65 (second from left), Plymouth, Mass., celebrated his 80th birthday surrounded by fellow Falcons including (from left) Lauren (Swindler) Eldredge ’87, Lou D’Arpino ’65, Sean MacDonald ’87 and Condon’s granddaughter, Caroline Lyndon ’26.

John Taylor ’77, Danvers, Mass., reports that Kappi Pi Alpha Fraternity held its annual golf outing at Sterling National Country Club in Sterling, Mass., on August 4, 2023. “We played in memory of our recently departed brother, Andy York ’73,” Taylor writes. From left: Mike Swiech ’80, Chuck Doolittle ’80, MSFP ’13, Scott Williams ’79, Mike Duffy ’79, Dave Riesmeyer ’79, Bob Tobias ’78, MBA ’92, Bob Rice ’77, MST ’87, Rob Warwick ’80, Paul Parshley ’78, Tom Vassallo ’78, Steve Donnelly ’75, John Taylor ’77, Rich Fink ’77, Hank Bornstein ’77, Bill O’Neil ’77, Mike Zack ’77, MST ’85 and Joe Farragher ’79 (not pictured).

1995

Michelle (Logan) Hatch ’95, Boston, Mass., and Traci Wilson Pozerski ’94 have joined forces to create their own public accounting firm, Pozerski Hatch & Company.

1996

Brian Collins ’96, Quincy, Mass., has been hired by Synergy, a prominent real estate investor, operator and manager in Boston. With over two decades of institutional real estate investment

management experience, Collins joins Synergy as the executive vice president, head of asset management. In his new role, the alumnus will oversee the asset management and leasing teams responsible for Synergy’s Greater Boston portfolio.

1997

Margaret (Crabb) Kerouac ’97, Concord, N.H., was accepted as a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) in October 2023, putting her in the ranks of the top matrimonial and family law attorneys in the U.S.

1998

Phil Drapeau ’98, Arlington, Mass., is the assistant coach of the Bentley Golf Team. The former two-year Falcon golf captain is a four-year letter winner who helped Bentley earn NCAA Division II North regional berths annually from 1996-1998.

Johnathan Zsittnik ’98, MBA ’10, Andover, Mass., is a business broker at Transworld Business Advisors, helping owners navigate the process of buying and selling a business. He reports that he had the pleasure of selling a sizable sign franchise to a fellow Bentley alumnus.

I wanted to work in the game I love — that was my goal.”

SPOTLIGHT CLASS OF 1985

A Ticket to the Career of her Dreams

BY MARY K. PRATT

For Joanne Borzakian Ouellette ’85, P ’20 ’23, a love of the Boston Celtics has been a lifelong affair.

Joanne Borzakian Ouellette attended her first Boston Celtics game as a baby. And a few years later when she and her father went to pick up season tickets, she got to meet legendary Celtics leader Red Auerbach.

“He hugged little me and shook my dad’s hand and said, ‘Welcome to the family.’” Borzakian Ouellette did, indeed, join a family — both as a fan and a professional.

In fact, she became a basketball powerhouse whose smart marketing plays put up big points for her career and many NBA players, including Shaquille O’Neal (pictured at left with Borzakian Ouellette at TD Garden, home of the Boston Celtics) and Dominique Wilkins.

“I wanted to work in the game I love — that was my goal,” Borzakian Ouellette says. Her experiences as a lifelong basketball fan and preteen player at Celtics summer camps set her up for a job in the sport. However, Borzakian Ouellette credits her rigorous Bentley business education and diligent work ethic for her success at building a standout career.

After graduation, Borzakian Ouellette joined Reebok, eventually becoming global marketing director for NBA Basketball. While there, she boosted Reebok’s brand recognition, increased product sales and created unique marketing initiatives to help players engage in community endeavors aimed at positively impacting lives in the U.S. and around the world.

Borzakian Ouellette left Reebok in 2001 and started her own sports and entertainment marketing and events firm, JBO Marketing, but she is still very much part of the basketball family. She works and remains friends with many players and continues the decades-long family tradition of holding Celtics season tickets.

“I was blessed with the career of my dreams,” she says, “and I’m so thankful to have been able to touch so many lives doing that work.”

LEARN MORE about Bentley’s partnership with the Boston Celtics on page 5.

2000

George Roadman ’00, Northbridge, Mass., founded accelant, a HubSpot solutions partner focused on accelerating growth — top and bottom line. Roadman serves as the CEO to the Massachusetts-based company with employees and clients throughout the country.

2001

Greg Kwak ’01, Attleboro, Mass., is the vice president of business and product development at Diversified Biotech, Inc., a company in Dedham that specializes in temperature-resistant labels and novel products focused on making the daily work of researchers in the life science industry easier. He reports that the company developed a 100% plant-based line of labware marketed under the Planet-Safe® brand. He writes: “All products under this brand are made from PLA (polylactic acid), which is made by extracting starch from sugarcane plants. During development, it was discovered that there is a benefit to the use of PLA for cell culture applications that led to U.S. Pat. No. 11,279,909.”

2003

Jason “Jay” M. D’Entremont ’03, Norwell, Mass., has been recognized as a top financial advisor by Northwestern Mutual for his commitment and drive to help families and businesses plan for and achieve financial security. As part of this recognition, D’Entremont was inducted into the company’s elite membership, the 2023 Forum Group. The alumnus is affiliated with the Northwestern Mutual Boston office.

2004

Schnelle Shelby ’04 and husband Carrington Moore, Boston, Mass., welcomed son Langston Atlas on September 4, 2023.

2005

Brett Pelletier ’05, Tiverton, R.I., is now the chief administrative officer at Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation (RI Housing). He is responsible for the physical and support functions of the agency, ensuring that the overall mission of RI Housing is fulfilled, and will be responsible for advancing corporate efforts in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

2006

Timmy Donahue ’06, MSMA ’07, Maplewood, N.J., has joined the Office of the Federal Public Defender in Newark as an assistant federal public defender. He represents indigent clients facing criminal prosecutions brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of New Jersey. He is now one of only 30 such public defenders in the state of New Jersey.

Jenny Farrell ’06, MSA ’07 tied the knot with Erik Christensen on November 19, 2022, at The Commons 1854 in Topsfield, Mass. The couple lives in Waltham.

2008

Paul Turner, MSHFID ’08, Matthews, N.C., reports his first narration of a full-length audiobook was published on Audible. The book, by Jerry Madden, is called Steel Valley: Coming of Age in the Ohio Valley in the 1960s: A Love Story.

Thirty-seven years ago, Mary Jean Agostini ’86, Niantic, Conn., and longtime friends from the Class of 1986, took a trip to California (top photo). In 2023, the quartet traveled together to Maine (bottom photo) where they’re pictured from left: Lynda (Pomeroy) Russo ’86, Heather (Huot) Stachtiaris ’86, Mary Jean Agostini ’86 and Liz (Donlan) Ioffredo ’86.

Six members of the Class of 2003 got together in the Turks and Caicos for four days of fun and sun to celebrate their 20th reunion! Caren Feldman ’03 MSA ’04 reports, “We were roommates throughout our four years at Bentley — actually meeting freshman year as residents of Oak Hall 2nd floor (affectionately referred to as ‘O2’). We came from as far away as Texas, Iowa, Florida and Massachusetts, and it took a LOT of planning and a village of support back home to make it happen. It was a truly epic time that we won’t soon forget!”

What I experienced at Bentley gave me something more than a diploma.”

SPOTLIGHT CLASS OF 1992

He Once was Homeless. Now 26 People

Call him “Boss.”

BY MARY K. PRATT

David McLaren ’92 arrived at Bentley in 1988 already filled with ambition and hard-won victories.

His 11-year-old sister had died from cancer when he was nine. Her illness and death destabilized his family, leading to poverty and eventually his own homelessness.

But McLaren says he “knew there was a better way to live” and saw hard work and college as the keys.

So, at 11, McLaren worked mowing lawns. At 14, he sorted recyclables at a store in his native Worcester, Massachusetts. He quickly moved up to store manager. After the owners saw his talent for numbers, he became their bookkeeper.

His paycheck went straight to essentials, one of which was a car — a 1980 Chevy Monte Carlo that became his home when he was 17.

Despite such hardships, McLaren continued with school, where a bookkeeping class helped him with his job and pointed him toward Bentley.

On campus, he took a full load of classes while working in the accounting lab as well as at a full-time job at a Worcester-area business. “I learned grit from my sister. She never complained while she was fighting leukemia,” he says.

McLaren also credits the late Richard (Dick) Cross, an accounting professor, who guided him through his college experience and his career options. “I don’t know if I would have made it through without his support,” he says.

McLaren succeeded: He passed the CPA exam six months after his graduation, embarked on his career and in 2005 started his own firm, McLaren & Associates. The award-winning firm now employs 26 professionals and is expanding in both numbers and locations.

McLaren says Bentley was instrumental in his life: “What I experienced at Bentley gave me something more than a diploma.”

2009

Kevin Johnson ’09, MSA ’12 , Durham, N.H., is now executive vice president for Adrenaline, an end-to-end brand experience company serving the financial industry that positions, designs, builds and implements change for companies so they can grow. The alumnus is also an adjunct professor at Bentley.

Kim (Rush) Kelley ’09 and husband Mike, Westbrook, Maine, welcomed son Caleb on August 3, 2023. He joins big brother Noah.

Kiersten Martin ’09 and David Wawrzonek were married on July 29, 2023, at Maple Shade 1785 located in Delhi, N.Y. Surrounded by a few Falcons, and many friends and family, it was the “best day ever!” The couple planned a honeymoon to Chile and Argentina for fall of 2023. They reside in Weehawken, N.J.

Thanh Than ’09, MSF ’10, Orange, Mass., has joined Brown University as a lead financial analyst in the Office of Financial Strategy and Planning (OFSP), after almost 10 years at Harvard University.

2010

Lindsay (Sauve) ’10, MSA ’11 and Ted Wiedemann ’10, MST ’13, Westwood, Mass., welcomed their latest future Falcon, Henrik Michael, in May 2023. He joins big brother Theo and big sister Sienna.

2011

Andrew ’11 and Christy (Draicchio) ’12 VanderPloeg, Exeter, N.H., welcomed daughter Madeline in June 2023.

2012

Christy (Draicchio) ’12 and Andrew VanderPloeg ’11, Exeter, N.H., welcomed daughter Madeline in June 2023.

After eight years of dating, Joe Frantel ’12 and Michaela Superson tied the knot on June 10, 2023, at Flanagan Farm in Buxton, Maine. Many fellow Falcons made the trip north to celebrate. Tyler Champagne ’13, Kevin Costello ’12 and Luke Mason ’15, MBA ’23 stood by Joe’s side as groomsmen. The couple, who had an adventurous honeymoon to Egypt and Greece, currently resides in East Boston, but plans to buy a home in southern Maine in the near future.

With Brockton Beer Company, Eval ’99 and LaTisha (Stewart) ’99 Silvera are helping to add diversity to the craft brewing industry while supporting their city.

Hoppy Days

BY MICHAEL BLANDING

Eval ’99 and LaTisha (Stewart) ’99 Silvera launched their brewery, Brockton Beer Company, three years ago with a diverse group of friends, and on any given day, their brewpub might be playing R&B, ’80s pop or Cape Verdean music. “Our founding team is Jamaican, Irish, Trinidadian, Mexican, Filipino,” says LaTisha, who grew up in the city of Brockton, which is almost 51% nonwhite — a majority-minority city. “We want anyone when they enter our taproom to breathe, relax and feel included, regardless of their professional and cultural backgrounds.”

The couple met at Bentley, where they both majored in Computer Information Systems (CIS), and they dated and got married after graduation. LaTisha bought Eval a home-brewing kit shortly after the birth of their second child in 2008. The idea to create a brewery came over

board game nights with other parents, during which they’d take turns sharing new craft beers. At the time, the city was undergoing a revitalization and welcoming new businesses, and the friends jumped at the chance to participate with a new brewery. “It was all about creating a community that just didn’t exist in that space,” Eval says.

LaTisha and Eval were both working in tech jobs, but when they dipped their toes into the craft brewing industry, they put their full Bentley experience — in marketing, finance and systems thinking — to use, reaching out to others in the industry for help. “CIS taught me the ability to look at any problem and understand it to make an informed decision,” LaTisha says, “or to seek out more information to ask more questions.”

The craft brewing industry embraced

them from the beginning, they said; those who were established in the field were excited to help get a more diverse operation off the ground in an industry that is overwhelmingly white. Among those offering assistance was Trillium Brewing owner Esther (Rothstein) Tetreault ’99, MBA ’03, who shared startup stories and lessons learned and helped them procure brewing equipment.

The beers that Brockton Beer offers are as diverse as their founders, including Yasuke, a Black Kölsch made with dark malts that won a silver medal at the Denver International Beer Competition last year; and Soul Maker, an Imperial IPA with South African hops made in collaboration with Widowmaker Brewing for Black History Month. Furthering the sense of community, the brewery has spearheaded the Culture on Tap festival, bringing visiting breweries from all over Massachusetts together with diverse assortments of local restaurants and musicians. “For those from outside who might not know Brockton, we want to show you what it’s all about,” Eval says. “And that we’re proud of it.”

Connor Benjamin ’14, Boston, Mass., captains the sport-fishing vessel Jackpot out of Gloucester. Connor and his crew landed a 700-pound bluefin tuna in the 2023 North East Bluefin Showdown, beating out 52 competing boats for first place.

On October 14, 2023, Emily Weiner ’20 and Timothy Fay ’20 got engaged on the Bentley campus during Falcon Weekend. Both were members of the Bentley Swim and Dive Team.

(Class of 2012, continued)

Taylor Grant ’12, MBA ’20, West Chester, Penn., had much to celebrate in 2023! On June 16, 2023, he and wife Sarah welcomed son Maverick Walter to the world. On October 21, 2023, the new parents tied the knot in Miami Beach, Fla., and celebrated with fellow Falcons, including Sam Carter ’12, Erika Christensen ’12, Parker Kotuby ’11, Mina Manalova ’12, Dan Weidel ’12, Lauren (Hatchouel) Wetherald ’12, MSA ’13, and Mason Wetherald ’12, MSF ’13.

Jonathan Rockett ’12 and Ashley Donohue ’13 never would have met without Bentley’s Centennial! On June 3, 2017, on the dance floor at the Centennial Finale Party, Ashley introduced herself to Jonathan. That date became even more meaningful when, six years later to the day, the couple said “I do” at The Cottage at the Milleridge Inn in Jericho, N.Y. Many fellow alumni were in the wedding party and among the friends and family in attendance. The couple resides in Boston, Mass., and honeymooned in Banff National Park.

Holly (Selvitella) ’12 and Spencer McKenna ’12 , Charlotte, N.C., welcomed Wesley James on April 3, 2023. The new parents met during freshman year seminar at Bentley and were married in 2017.

2013

Armen J. Chakmakjian, MBA ’13, Arlington, Mass., was promoted to vice president of software development, messaging security at Sophos, Inc. Sophos is a worldwide leader and innovator of advanced cybersecurity solutions, including managed detection and response (MDR) and incident response services, and has a broad portfolio of endpoint, network, email messaging and cloud security technologies that help organizations defeat cyberattacks.

Justin D’Angelo ’13, Palm City, Fla., reports that he is the founder and CEO of Printed Patio, a concrete 3D printing business that he spent the last year and a half building. “Although just a startup, Printed Patio is now one of the most advanced concrete printing companies in the country,” the alumnus writes. “And we just made a big splash printing an artificial reef for the Florida Oceanographic Society!”

Ashley Donohue ’13 and Jonathan Rockett ’12 never would have met without Bentley’s Centennial! On June 3, 2017, on the dance floor at the Centennial Finale Party, Ashley introduced herself to Jonathan. That date became even more meaningful when, six years later to the day, the couple said “I do” at The Cottage at the Milleridge Inn in Jericho, N.Y. Many fellow alumni were in the wedding party and among the friends and family in attendance. The couple resides in Boston, Mass., and honeymooned in Banff National Park.

Max Rick ’13, MSA ’14, Sharon, Mass., reports that he is the head coach of the Bentley Women’s Ultimate Frisbee team, Freeze. “I hope to build up a competitive Freeze team and return to compete in the National Championship tournament,” Rick writes. After winning a National Championship with the Bentley Men’s Ultimate Frisbee team in 2014 as a student, the alumnus continued his playing career in the semi-professional league following graduation, playing for teams in Montreal and Boston.

2014

FOLD

Stefanie (Gorman) ’14 and Tyler Durant ’14, Abington, Mass., welcomed their daughter Evelyn on August 14, 2023.

Eduardo Villarreal Holguera, MBA ’14, Mexico City, Mexico, has been named vice president of operations at Walmart Mexico.

2015

FOLD

Patrick Clarke ’15 and Casey Noonan ’16, MSA ’17 exchanged vows on June 10, 2023, at the Waveny House in New Canaan, Conn. “It was a beautiful evening surrounded by family, friends and many fellow Falcons,” the alumnus writes. The newlyweds live in Milton, Mass.

Johan Ekelund ’15 and Allison

Kelly ’16 got married on July 1, 2023, in Montepulciano, Italy, with many fellow Falcons traveling to celebrate with the couple on their big day. The newlyweds honeymooned in Italy, at Lake Garda and Lake Como. They reside in Stockholm, Sweden.

Kimberly (Martinelli) ’15, MSA ’16 and Brian Pedersen ’15, MSA ’16, Midland Park, N.J., are proud parents to son Mason Joseph, born on July 18, 2023.

Callee Roscoe ’15 married Jeffrey Perkins in Austin, Texas on May 13, 2023. Fellow Falcon Alicia Ix ’15 officiated the ceremony with other Bentley classmates in attendance. The couple resides in New York City.

2016

FOLD

Amanda Calderone ’16, MSA ’17 and Joseph Simonini ’16 said “I do!” at Cruiseport Gloucester in Gloucester, Mass., on September 16, 2023, surrounded by nearly 30 fellow Falcons. The newlyweds traveled to Hawaii — Maui, Oahu and the Big Island — for their honeymoon. The couple lives in Reading, Mass.

Emily Frederick ’16, MST ’17 married Danny Wojtak ’16 on September 16, 2023, at Greenhouse Loft in Chicago, Ill., surrounded by friends, family and many fellow Falcons. The couple calls Chicago home.

Allison Kelly ’16 and Johan Ekelund ’15 tied the knot in Montepulciano, Italy, on July 1, 2023. “We were so fortunate to have so many fellow alumni travel to attend the wedding,” the bride writes. In addition to friends, attendees included former Bentley lecturer and the bride’s mother, Doris (Bourgeois) Kelly ’85, MST ’92; the bride’s father, William Kelly ’83; the bride’s brother, Brendan Kelly ’14; and the bride’s uncle, Joseph Crehan ’84. The couple honeymooned in Italy, at Lake Garda and Lake Como. They reside in Stockholm, Sweden.

Cameron McCarthy ’16 and Jennifer Colombo ’17 got married on July 8, 2023, in Beverly, Mass. Ted Houseknecht ’16, MBA ’17 officiated and led a beautiful ceremony while several other alumni from the Classes of 2015, 2016 and 2017 were in attendance. The couple resides in New York City.

Casey Noonan ’16, MSA ’17 and Patrick Clarke ’15 exchanged vows on June 10, 2023, at the Waveny House in New Canaan, Conn. The couple celebrated with family and friends, many of whom were fellow Falcons. The newlyweds live in Milton, Mass.

It was time to innovate and fix a historically broken process.”

SPOTLIGHT CLASS OF 2010

Using Technology to Improve Health Care

BY MARY K. PRATT

Michelle Higginson ’10, MBA ’11 saw a broken system. She set out to fix it.

Higginson co-founded Inlightened, which connects client organizations to the health care experts they need to advance their business objectives. Inlightened’s platform enables organizations such as pharmaceutical companies to identify and contract with health care professionals including clinicians and researchers or key opinion leaders for research, consulting and even clinical trials.

“The platform makes collaboration easier on both sides,” says Higginson, whose inspiration for Inlightened came from her own observations working at Boston Children’s Hospital as a group marketing manager. In that role, she saw firsthand the challenges clinicians and the business community face in making connections, Higginson explains.

After moving to her next marketing leadership role at software maker Avant-garde Health, she met Shelli Pavone, her future Inlightened co-founder, who shared her view of a system in need of disruption. “We knew we could change it,” Higginson says. “It was time to innovate and fix a historically broken process.”

They got to work in 2019, first building a network by identifying, vetting and onboarding a diverse pool of clinicians and health care professionals. They hired a development agency to build the platform and the supporting technologies. They officially launched the company in 2020.

Higginson evangelized the company, onboarded key opinion leaders to the network, wrote their profiles and sold organizations on Inlightened. The innovation and hard work paid off. The network and the company grew. Higginson and Pavone sold Inlightened to LocumTenes.com in 2023, although they continue to operate it as an independent entity.

Now executive vice president, Higginson has a clear view of how the company she helped create makes a difference: “We are making sure we’re inviting more diverse voices to the conversation and fueling the future of health care innovation.”

PHOTO BY KEVIN MAGUIRE

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ALUMNA

Maria Kucinski, MBA ’20, Woburn, Mass., attended the SpaceX launch of the Falcon Heavy carrying the largest commercial communications satellite, the Hughes JUPITER 3. As a vice president at integrated PR agency MikeWorldWide, she was onsite to support external communications on the launch. “It was a triumphant success that will usher in a new era of connectivity,” reports the alumna.

2017

FOLD

Tim Bolick ’17 and Ellie Shuman ’17, MSA ’18 were married at Pinehills Golf Club in Plymouth, Mass., on August 25, 2023. The wedding party and guests included father of the groom Paul Bolick ’87 and best man Jacob Carvalho ’17, MBA ’23, along with Erik Alatalo ’17, Ben Baron ’17, Katie (Wood) Carvalho ’17, Kathleen Gillespie ’18, Meg Greco ’17, Dan Hergott ’19, Seamus Higgins ’18, Julia (Kenney) Holler ’17, Greg Karpacz ’17, Kelly (Colleran) Lemieux ’17, Tim Lemieux ’17, Tom O’Donnell ’17, MSA ’18, Sean Nee ’16, Jen Nickson ’19 and Jeff Wallin ’18. The happy couple honeymooned in Greece and currently resides in Boston, Mass.

Maddie Brandts ’17 and Jordan van Wezel ’17 got married in Boston, Mass., on October 27, 2023. The couple resides in Boston.

John Casassa ’17, MST ’18 and Rachel Palumbo ’18 tied the knot on October 8, 2023, in Spencer, Mass., with nearly three dozen Falcons in attendance. The couple were married by former Sociology professor and Bentley Service-Learning and Civic Engagement (BSLCE) faculty member

Shawn Hauserman, while current faculty member Bria Milbery did a reading during the ceremony. The newlyweds are planning to honeymoon in Greece in 2024 and intend to visit a fellow Falcon in Egypt, who was a roommate of John’s and a groomsman in the wedding. The Bentley lovebirds reside in Hopkinton, Mass.

Jennifer Colombo ’17 and Cameron McCarthy ’16 got married on July 8, 2023, in Beverly, Mass. Their officiant, Ted Houseknecht ’16, led a beautiful ceremony, and several other alumni from the Classes of 2015, 2016 and 2017 were in attendance. The couple resides in New York City.

Save the Date

Get ready to celebrate Falcon Weekend: September 27 to 29

Visit campus this fall to enjoy the best that Bentley has to offer! With the homecoming football game on Saturday and plenty of activities for alumni, parents and families, and students, you’ll love a walk down memory lane and exploring what’s new on campus. Plus, Reunion celebrations for classes ending in 4 or 9 will take place during Falcon Weekend. Stay tuned for more details!

LEARN MORE at bentley.edu/falconweekend

Cait Napoli ’17 and Cam Parrino ’17 exchanged vows on June 9, 2023, at Castle Hill Inn in Newport, R.I. They celebrated with their closest friends and family, including many fellow Falcons. The couple honeymooned in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and are now happily celebrating married life every day with their dogs, Sammie and Jojo. They call Nashville, Tenn., home.

Eshita Shah ’17, MBA ’23 married Alex Yuan ’17 on July 8, 2023, in Princeton, N.J. They were able to celebrate with many of their fellow Bentley alumni. The couple lives in the Boston area and is looking forward to planning many trips around the world.

Emily Tu ’17 and Thomas Yung ’17 tied the knot on August 26, 2023, at Newport Beach House in Newport, R.I. Many fellow Falcons celebrated with the newlyweds on their big day, including the groom’s grandfather, Walter Spencer ’48! Fun fact: Walter is 100 years old, and the couple graduated in Bentley’s centennial class. They live in South Boston and plan to travel to Greece for their honeymoon in 2024.

2018 FOLD

Rachel Palumbo ’18 and John Casassa ’17, MST ’18 tied the knot on October 8, 2023, in Spencer, Mass., with nearly three dozen Falcons in attendance. The couple were married by former Sociology professor and Bentley Service-Learning and Civic Engagement (BSLCE) faculty member Shawn Hauserman, while current faculty member Bria Milbery did a reading during the ceremony. The newlyweds are planning to honeymoon in Greece in 2024 and intend to visit a fellow Falcon in Egypt, who was a roommate of John’s and a groomsman in the wedding. The Bentley lovebirds reside in Hopkinton, Mass.

2019

FOLD

Oluwaseun Bayode, MBA ’19, San Francisco, Calif., released his first book, As in Little Things: Finding Answers to the Great Questions of Life from Everyday Experiences. The book simplifies the seeming complexities of life and brings us back to the little things in nature and in our everyday lives that reveal great truths.

2020

FOLD

Tess Anderson ’20, Stow, Mass., is a new associate attorney focusing on land use, zoning and licensing for McDermott, Quilty, Miller & Hanley, LLP, a Bostonbased law firm and government affairs practice founded in 1998.

2022 FOLD

Molly Paré, MBA ’22 and her husband Matt, Natick, Mass., celebrated Thanksgiving in the hospital as they welcomed their first child together, Julian, on November 22, 2023.

2023 FOLD

Thomas “Tommy” Fisher ’23, MBA ’24, Stoughton, Mass., has joined The Bulfinch Group as a financial representative.

FOLD

Falcons of the Last Decade is a special group for undergraduate alumni who graduated in the last 10 years.

Send us your notes and photos!

bentley.edu/class-notes

Weddings

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Want to borrow an alumni banner for an upcoming wedding?

15.

1. Rachel Palumbo ’18 and John Casassa ’17, MST ’18

2. Joe Frantel ’12 and Michaela Superson

3. Caitlin Napoli ’17 and Cam Parrino ’17

4. Amanda Calderone ’16, MSA ’17 and Joseph Simonini ’16

5. Jenny Farrell ’06, MSA ’07 and Erik Christensen

6. Ashley Donohue ’13 and Jonathan Rockett ’12

7. Taylor Grant ’12, MBA ’20 and Sarah Smith

8. Emily Tu ’17 and Thomas Yung ’17

9. Casey Noonan ’16, MSA ’17 and Patrick Clarke ’15

10. Ellie Shuman ’17, MSA ’18 and Tim Bolick ’17

11. Emily Frederick ’16, MST ’17 and Danny Wojtak ’16

12. Kiersten Martin ’09 and David Wawrzonek

13. Jennifer Colombo ’17 and Cameron McCarthy ’16

14. Maddie Brandts ’17 and Jordan van Wezel ’17

15. Allison Kelly ’16 and Johan Ekelund ’15

In Memoriam

1934

John Crowley ’34

1941

William Harding ’41

1948

Robert Perkins ’48

1949

Oldemiro Canto ’49

Rollyn Hatch ’49

1950

James Hurlbut ’50

William Signorelli ’50

1951

Howard Craven ’51

1952

Francis Mooney ’52

1953

Joseph Krol ’53

George Robbins ’53

1954

Armand Beliveau ’54

Luella (Harris) Brown ’54

Alan Holbrook ’54

David Richard ’54

1955

Irene (Muzyka) Craig ’55

Robert Richardson ’55

Thomas Therriault ’55

1956

Frank Garvey ’56

1957

James Callahan ’57

Richard Moore ’57

Roland Parent ’57

1958

Frank Taylor ’58

Daniel Zamarchi ’58

1959

George Nathan ’59

Joseph Pisano ’59

Roland Prudhomme ’59

Richard Robie ’59

George Rodeck ’59

1960

Carol Cotino ’60

Cornelius Donovan ’60, P ’90

Robert Gustafson ’60

Donald Shutt ’60

1961

Walter Bencal ’61, P ’89

Edward Cashman ’61

Frank Dunbar ’61

1962

Caesar Fittante ’62

1963

Elizabeth (O’Brien) McNeil ’63, P ’90

John Ring ’63

1964

Ronald LeBlanc ’64, P ’87 ’89

Matthew Ryan ’64

1967

Thomas Cataldo ’67

George Collins ’67

John Costello ’67

Leonard Devoe ’67

Michael Frigon ’67

Michael Godes ’67

Ronald Higgins ’67

Gordon John McLenithan ’67

D. Dean Riley ’67, MST ’86

Lawrence Robillard ’67

1968

Robert Barry ’68

James Healy ’68

Thomas Marabella ’68, P ’93

Bruce McAfee ’68

1969

Eugene Giordano ’69

Peter McDonough ’69, MST ’85

1970

Richard Rivinius ’70

Alfred Ryan ’70

Alan Shafer ’70, MST ’89

1971

Daniel Berry ’71

Stephen Ford ’71

Richard Norkum ’71

James Parisien ’71

Glen Wright ’71

1972

Richard Sek ’72

1973

Christopher Hendricks ’73

John Madden ’73

Edgar Thomas ’73, MST ’84

1974

Frank Benson ’74

Robert Berrigan ’74

John Hulme ’74, MSA ’84

Bryce Whiteside ’74

1976

Kenneth Cohen ’76, MST ’79

Larry Scherr ’76

John Wynne ’76

1977

Daniel Munson ’77

John Pyne, MST ’77

Ed Viar ’77

1978

Nicholas Boges ’78

Robert King, MST ’78

Cynthia (Botsch) Magoon ’78

Joseph Rhatigan ’78

Scott Shoham ’78, P ’16

1979

Kimberlie Clarke ’79

Nancy (Fay) Grifone ’79

1981

Deborah (Vaccaro) Alessandro ’81

Benjamin Giacomelli, MSA ’81

Maurice Gilbert, MST ’81

1983

Sean Anderson ’83

Paul Dorn ’83

1984

Salvatore Cincotta ’84

1985

Carol (Richard) Brouillet ’85

Julie Dean ’85

Martin Falxa, MSCIS ’85

David Mindell ’85

1986

Carolyn Patten, MBA ’86

Denise (Wojtkowski) Podavini ’86

1987

Robert O’Hare, MBA ’87, MSCIS ’01

1988

Patricia (Deery) Mullaly ’88

Heidi Richardson ’88

Hugh Rooney ’88

Marie Ryan, MSF ’88

Ralph Sanford, MSCIS ’88

Kimberly Walsh ’88

1989

Michael McGreevy ’89

1990

Todd Hamilton ’90

Michael Lamoureux ’90, P ’23

Daniel McBride ’90

1991

Gina (Santa Maria) Gerard ’91

Scott Johnson, MBA ’91, P ’18

1994

Lois (Smith) Martin ’94

1995

George Agyen, MBA ’95

Carole D’Eugenio ’95

1996

Anthony Kazlowski ’96

1998

Linda Kirvan ’98

William Read, MSCIS ’98

1999

Ingrid Johanna Laine ’99

2001

Kevin Van-Stry ’01

2002

Neal Price, MSPFP ’02

2006

Susan Robertson, MSHFID ’06

2011

Cynthia Kamishlian, MSHFID ’11

2012

Michael J. Montalbano, MBA ’12

2013

Joshua Kimmel ’13

2026

Sophia John ’26

Faculty, staff and friends

Doris Assarian, P ’86, financial aid counselor in Financial Assistance

Thomas Bernheim, adjunct lecturer

Paul Clemente, MSA ’78 , vice president emeritus for business and finance/treasurer in the Office of the President

Larry Dolinsky, professor emeritus in Mathematical Sciences

Eleanor DuFour, administrative secretary in Annual Giving

Michael Epelman, P ’85 ’98, professor

Ralph Evans, assistant athletic trainer

Robert Lenington, P ’83 ’85, vice president emeritus at large in the Office of the President

Joan Salamone, secretary

Linda Senne, adjunct assistant professor in Information Design and Corporate Communication

Gordon John McLenithan ’67

As a Bentley alumnus and trustee emeritus, Gordon McLenithan ’67 had a lasting impact on Bentley during his lifetime. After graduating from Bentley in 1967, he earned his certified public accountant designation. From the East Coast of the U.S. to the Middle East, he worked as an accounting auditor and then as an audit manager, which led to his last role as the chief financial officer for Dataflex Corporation before retiring at the age of 55. In 1991, Gordon established the Gordon J. McLenithan Family Scholarship Fund for undergraduate students at Bentley with financial need. His generous support transformed the lives of many students, and his legacy continues to live on through this scholarship that allows students to thrive in the finance, accounting and business industry. Gordon served on the Bentley board of trustees from 1993 to 2002.

Michael J. Montalbano, MBA ’12

Community leader, teacher and entrepreneurial expert

Michael Montalbano, MBA ’12 was a mentor for many who had the pleasure of meeting him. He graduated from Loras College in 1975 and received his master’s degree from Bentley in business administration in 2012. The alumnus served as a business executive for 40 years focused on marketing, strategy and executive development. Mike also taught at Bentley as an adjunct instructor and senior lecturer from 2003 to 2015, served as the faculty adviser to the ultimate Frisbee team and was a chaperone for the senior class trip. He would host many students for dinner at his home, and even gave the graduating class address one year. After his time at Bentley, he went on to teach at the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business. “Mike had a lasting impact on me, and we spoke quite often after graduation,” Steve Somers ’08 said. “He was such a generous person who was willing to help anyone and ask for nothing in return. When my family business put a board together, Mike was the first person we called, and he had a huge impact on the company’s growth and development.”

Remember Bentley classmates, friends, faculty and staff by making a gift in their name. bentley.edu/memorial-gift

Future Falcons

1. Julian, son of Molly Paré, MBA ’22 and husband Matt

2. Caleb, son of Kim (Rush) ’09 and husband Mike Kelley

3. Maverick Walter, son of Taylor Grant ’12, MBA ’20 and wife Sarah

4. Wesley James, son of Holly (Selvitella) ’12 and Spencer McKenna ’12

5. Henrik Michael, son of Lindsay (Sauve) ’10, MSA ’11 and Ted Wiedemann ’10, MST ’13

6. Madeline, daughter of Christy (Draicchio) ’12 and Andrew VanderPloeg ’11

7. Langston Atlas, son of Schnelle Shelby ’04 and husband Carrington Moore

8. Evelyn, daughter of Stefanie (Gorman) ’14 and Tyler Durant ’14

9. Mason Joseph, son of Kimberly (Martinelli) ’15, MSA ’16 and Brian Pedersen ’15, MSA ’16

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A TRADITION THAT MATTERS

“Becoming a full-fledged Bentley Falcon, to me, is all in the doing. It is in mastering the accounting and finance skills I need to succeed in business so my kids won’t have to struggle the way I did. In learning why things are the way they are in the world and how to make them better. It is working side by side with faculty and students who are from different walks of growing from the experience. It is taking a breather after a hard week, knowing that my studies and this place of learning and community will be there for me. It is being thankful for valued scholarship support, and carving out a path of opportunity so that others can follow in my footsteps.”

— Vincent Lombardi ’25

Vincent is the honored recipient of the Roy W. Buck Scholarship, established by a Bentley graduate of the Class of 1936.

Join our long tradition of giving to support more Bentley students like Vincent.

bentley.edu/give