Bryant Magazine | Summer 2025

The Magazine for Bryant University I Summer ’25

Beyond the Archway Exploring campus legends, landmarks, and little-known lore.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

DISCOVER

18

26

32

Exploring the university’s legends,

How Bryant students guided one of

From campus romance to intergenerational

landmarks, and little-known lore.

the world’s oldest companies through

legacies and business relationships, read a few

unprecedented change in international trade.

stories from Bryant’s connected community.

Beyond the Archway

Global Alchemy

Bulldog Bonds

BY EMMA BARTLETT, BOB CURLEY, AND STEPHEN KOSTRZEWA

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BY STEPHEN KOSTRZEWA

BY BOB CURLEY, STEPHEN KOSTRZEWA, JACOB MARROCCO, AND CASEY NILSSON

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DISCOVER

SUMMER 2025

09

INNOVATE

Editor-in-Chief Casey Nilsson

Managing Editor

05 Applied Intelligence

Stephen Kostrzewa

06 Ganges, Gangnam, and Grad

Associate Editors Emma Bartlett Bob Curley

08 Mead's Mission 09 Rising in Demand

Creative Direction & Design Eric Meier Rives Matson University Photographer Pamela Murray Bryant Editorial Advisory Group Inge-Lise Ameer, Ed.D., Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Michelle L. Cloutier, ’05MBA, Vice President for Enrollment Management

41 02

IMPACT 41 What I’ve Learned: Mikayla Nogueira ’20 42 A Vision for Leadership 43 Animal Magnetism 44 Voice through Verse 44 Life of Purpose 46 Stepping Up for Access 47 Board Bound

Chuck LoCurto, MBA, Vice President for Information Services and Chief Information Officer Donna Ng, MBA, Vice President of Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer Tim Paige, Vice President for Human Resources and Secretary of the Corporation Rupendra Paliwal, Ph.D., Provost and Chief Academic Officer Bill Smith, J.D., Vice President of Athletics and Recreation Edinaldo Tebaldi, Ph.D., Vice President for Strategy and Institutional Effectiveness and Interim Head of Marketing and Communications David Wegrzyn ’86, P’23, M.Ed., Vice President for University Advancement

IN EVERY ISSUE 03 Letter from the President 04 What’s Online 10 Insight 12 Pulse 14 Playbook

Bryant magazine is produced twiceannually by the Office of University Marketing and Communications.

Questions, comments, or stories to share?

Reach the editor at cnilsson@bryant.edu.

For more news from Bryant, visit news.bryant.edu. To give back to Bryant, visit Bryant.edu/giving.

Follow us on social media: @BryantUniversity 1150 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI, 02917 Bryant.edu

38 Vision 2030 in Action 46 Agenda 48 Ideations

COVER ARTIST: Rives Matson

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Leading Forward: The Bonds that Power Bryant Dear Reader, Bryant

University’s

its edge: expert faculty who go above

What sets Bryant apart is not just the

and beyond to mentor students with

excellence of our academic programs,

remarkable

passion and purpose, alumni who

but the community and people who

momentum is not accidental. It is the

exemplify the enduring impact of a

bring them to life. Here, our network

result of strong relationships, shared

Bryant education (page 41), students

is dynamic, driven, and committed

purpose, and a collaborative culture

who challenge and inspire each

to making meaningful impact. It is

that distinguishes our community

other to be their best, and supporters

a space where ideas are sharpened,

and drives our continued rise in

whose belief in our mission inspires

relationships are strengthened, and the

reputation and rankings. In this

bold ideas and drives innovation.

next generation of leaders is cultivated.

issue of Bryant magazine, I invite you

the

As we build toward an even stronger

behind the scenes to learn about the

partnerships behind major campus

future, we are proud to recognize and

people, partnerships, and traditions

initiatives,

fueling

celebrate that which makes Bryant

driving

athletic achievements (page 14), and

extraordinary. Thank you for being a

the stories behind some of our most

part of our community and helping us

meaningful

transform vision into reality through

the

institution

and

its

growing reputation.

These

stories

capture

the

Read

on

to

the

discover

teamwork

traditions

(page

18),

connections that are often unseen but

like passing through the Archway at

powerfully felt: those leading with

Commencement.

influence and impact, the industry

Throughout these pages you will meet

partnerships that prepare students to

a few members of Bryant’s community

be day one ready, and the key moments

who bring insight, initiative, and

that shape our success and define who

integrity to everything they do. Their

we are as Bulldogs.

work reminds us that meaningful

Explore the bonds that give Bryant

Photograph by James Jones

2025_Bryant_Magazine_Summer.inddc 3

progress is a shared endeavor.

03

the bonds that matter most.

With Heartfelt Thanks,

Ross Gittell, Ph.D. President

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WHAT’S ONLINE

Commencement Relive the excitement of Bryant’s 2025 Commencement ceremonies and read profiles of standout graduates including first-gen student-athlete Elijah Infante ’25, undergraduate researcher Ramsha Gul ’25, and ESPN+ announcer Zeke Kransdorf ’25. news.bryant.edu/commencement

Summer Research From breakthroughs in mental health and antibiotics to data-driven accounting solutions, Bryant faculty and students are digging deep into big questions. See how experiential learning comes to life across campus labs and global datasets. news.bryant.edu/research

04

Global Advisory Council This summer, Bryant’s Global Advisory Council convened for the first time in London to discuss its vision for the university’s future on an international scale.

Learn more about the council and its mission to elevate Bryant’s brand around the world. news.bryant.edu/bryant-global-advisory-council

Inside the New Salmo Take a first look at the newly renovated Salmanson Dining Hall — a reimagined, inclusive space designed with student wellness, sustainability, and community in mind. See how the revamped dining experience will shape campus life. news.bryant.edu/salmo

Read the latest on Bryant News, which features daily coverage of the Bulldog community — including faculty research, student profiles, alumni stories, major announcements, and more.

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INNOVATE Applied Intelligence A transformative moment calls for transformative action.

At this spring’s Bryant AI Summit, more than 70 members of the university’s faculty, staff, and leadership gathered to rethink higher education amidst the continuing artificial intelligence revolution. “All of you in this room will be our pioneers,” said Bryant University Provost and Chief Academic Officer Rupendra Paliwal, Ph.D. The summit included hands-on brainstorming on how faculty might apply AI across the curriculum in a way, Paliwal said, that

“encourages curiosity in our students and in each other.” It’s a bold move that doubles down on Bryant's mission to educate and inspire students to become innovative leaders with character around the world.

“This is a moment for humility as well as discovery, says Paliwal. “As the world changes around us and we have to rethink everything we do, no one person has all the answers. We can all learn from each other.” ­—Stephen Kostrzewa

“We are not just looking to reimagine what we teach and learn; we are looking to transform the entire university.”

—RUPENDRA PALIWAL, Ph.D., PROVOST AND CHIEF ACADEMIC OFFICER

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Ganges, Gangnam, and Grad Global Immersion Experience takes MBA candidates to India, South Korea

06

From the fishcake factories of Busan

clad in parkas for much of the trip. But

live octopus, and met with leaders of

to the white marble halls of the Taj

the winter chill on the Korean Penin-

Korean companies, including a fam-

Mahal, Bryant MBA students got a

sula did nothing to cool their enthusi-

ily-owned restaurant in Busan called

firsthand education in international

asm for the country and its people.

Samhun, where students pitched mar-

business and culture during 2025

Fishcakes are popular snacks in

Global Immersion Experience (GIE)

South Korea, and between noshing on

trips to India and South Korea — both

western fast food like Korea’s unique

first-time destinations for the uni-

spin on KFC (customers can bring

segments,

versity’s graduate experiential learn-

their own beer to drink, for example)

and a digital marketing strategy all

ing program.

students brainstormed about how

tied together with a mock influencer

Americans could be sold on the idea

video,” says Paige Zuber-Weishaus

of fishcakes the way they’d learned to

’25MBA, who was interviewed by the

embrace Korean barbecue and kimchi.

city’s largest newspaper on her group’s

Strategy in Seoul Led by faculty advisors Associate Professor of Marketing Kacy Kim, Ph.D.,

The GIE group also visited a local

and Professor of Marketing Sukki

bakery, mingled with locals while shop-

Yoon, Ph.D., the 48 MBA students who

ping in Busan, explored the royal Gyeo-

landed in South Korea in February were

ngbokgung Palace in Seoul, nibbled on

keting strategies on how the restaurant could enter the U.S. market.

“Ours consisted of strong target a

distribution

strategy,

findings.

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INNOVATE

Bollywood to business Bryant’s annual Research and Engage-

Satyagraha, a 24-day protest march

Gulski Alumni Service Award, at his

ment Day (REDay) in April was equal

against Great Britain’s colonial rule

home in Delhi.

parts presentation and celebration

that was a pivotal step in India’s road to

for the 36 MBA students who shared

independence.

Exploring India and meeting with Bryant alums in their homes were

tales of Indian elephant rides, visits to

Bryant’s India-based alumni com-

highlights for Maximus Villar ’24

temples, healthcare facilities, and Par-

munity welcomed the students with

’25MBA, captain of the Bulldogs’ foot-

liament, and other experiences from

open arms. Shivaan Sahni ’15, man-

ball team, who earned his undergrad-

a packed itinerary ranging from New

aging director at Panorama Exports,

uate degree in Finance at Bryant after

Delhi to Jaipur to Rajasthan.

took them on a tour of a Panorama

transferring from Georgetown University as a sophomore.

Students clad in shimmering saris

garment factory where they learned

and flowing sherwani jackets chan-

about supply chain management, effi-

“We got to see a culture I've never

neled the energy of one of the trip’s

ciency optimization, bottleneck iden-

been around,” he said. “The people

highlights,

Bollywood-

tification, and waste minimization.

were so nice: they would come up to us

inspired video in traditional Indian

They also attended an alumni recep-

and take pictures and were super per-

clothing at the Taj Mahal. The Bryant

tion hosted by Chander Agarwal ’01,

sonable. I’ll remember my MBA as my

group also walked in the footsteps of

managing director of TCI Express and

favorite year in college.”

Mahatma Gandhi on the famous Salt

the recipient of this year's Nelson J.

making

a

07

­—Bob Curley

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INNOVATE

while handling the level of tragedy that rolled in and out of the clinic was inspiring,” Mead says. “The medical personnel don't have the same level of technology that we have at our fingertips in every United States emergency room, so watching them home in with their physical assessment skills, think on their feet, and make decisions quickly was impressive.”

Following his return to the states, Mead began interning at Boston’s Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. As

Mead’s Mission

an endocrinology intern, he worked on two projects: the first took him to

Undergrad’s firefighting past, EMS work, and research inform desire to help others 08

the ocean where he helped researchers catch a 400-pound Atlantic bluefin tuna to examine how the heat generated in their cells could reveal

Luke Mead ’26’s fascination with sci-

classroom. Working with Bryant Bio-

information about humans’ thermo-

ence, and the many ways in which it

logical and Biomedical Sciences Pro-

genesis process; the second project

can contribute to a better world, took

fessor Christopher Reid, Ph.D., during

involved fetal blood vessel research.

root at a fire department down the

his sophomore year, Mead created a

“We looked at different metabo-

street from his family’s home in sea-

pooled library of streptococcus pneu-

lites and how they either promote or

side Charlestown, Rhode Island.

moniae cells to test against Reid’s

inhibit angiogenesis, which is blood

The town’s emergency medical

novel antibiotic, masarimycin. Using

vessel formation in the human umbil-

services (EMS) and fire department

a CRISPR gene-editing program, he

ical vein,” Mead says.

— all of which are volunteer oper-

mutated bacteria and treated it with

These experiential opportunities,

ated — ran a junior firefighter pro-

masarimycin to see if any of the sam-

paired with his classroom education

gram and junior rescue program that

ples were resistant to the antibiotic.

in anatomy and bodily function, have

taught youth basic responsibilities in

abroad,

set him up for success, Mead says.

each respective field. Mead signed on

Mead hopped on a plane last summer

Recently taking an online EMT course

as a junior firefighter at age 14 and

to South Africa for Senior Lecturer of

on top of his academic and athletic

joined the EMS program a year later.

Biological and Biomedical Sciences

schedules, Mead passed the national

Stephanie

Health

exam in March. He returned to his

personnel going through patient

Challenges” course. During the 17-day

beach hometown this summer — but

assessments and helping provide the

trip, students toured hospitals, heard

not, as many might do, to catch a

best care in pre-hospital settings to

from healthcare professionals, and

break and a wave before the next aca-

people of different cultures and back-

engaged with local history and cul-

demic year. Instead, he headed back

grounds throughout the town stood

tural experiences. For Mead, shad-

to the rescue that inspired his mission

out to me,” Mead says.

owing Roland Kroukamp, M.D., at a

to help others — this time, as a leader and a lifesaver in his own right.

“Seeing the patient care and EMS

Taking

his

education

Mott’s

“Global

Recruited to play lacrosse for Bry-

24-hour community health clinic in

ant, Mead came in as a Biology major

Cape Town was an eye-opening and

and has furthered his science and

memorable experience.

healthcare expertise in and out of the

­—Emma Bartlett

“Watching how upbeat he was

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INNOVATE

Rising in Demand Insurance companies are withdrawing from climateimpacted markets. Studentdriven research is exploring alternative solutions

where they met with local partners.

“It’s easy to get lost in the data after looking at it for so long. Seeing the human side by interacting with people who live there was sobering,” says Conor Kincaid ’25, an Applied Economics and Team and Project Management double major.

09

From visiting a mobile home park where students spoke with a resident who’d elevated her trailer onto a dirt mound to viewing an apartment building that was raised one-story high on concrete stilts to avoid flood damages, students learned about emergency response actions and how low-income community members are at the highest risk for flooding repercussions.

Niu notes that the students’ work is part of a broader project on how communities can support each other when

The building was tall.

But that didn’t stop the flood from submerging its first

private insurance companies and sectors are withdrawing from the market.

story and encroaching one foot into the second level, a local

“There’s too much risk for them, so people are in shortage

inn owner shared with Bryant undergraduates during a recent

of coverage or protection,” says Niu, adding that the Bryant

visit to Guerneville, California.

research team is working with InnSure, an organization

North of San Francisco, Guerneville is one of several towns along the Russian River. Built on a floodplain, Guerneville has

focused on finding insurance solutions to help with climate change risk.

experienced major floods in the past; however, these events

The information the students collected, which they are

are increasing in frequency and severity. Under the direction

turning into a report with recommendations, could help

of Mathematics and Economics Department Chair Gao Niu,

insurance companies and business sectors develop innovative

Ph.D., and Economics Lecturer Allison Kaminaga, Ph.D., six

ways to help those impacted by climate change. Niu plans to

students spent the spring semester exploring the economic

extend this work in the future by examining neighborhoods

impacts of repeat flooding by the Russian River. Sponsored

along the Russian River and focusing on different risks,

by Bryant’s Student Research Grants, undergrads followed up

including wildfires, earthquakes, and hurricanes.

their quantitative research with a visit to the town in April

­—EB

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INSIGHT

machine learning, and mental health

new ways of examining it, could lead to

— and has led to a flurry of key publi-

a sea change in how we approach health

cations in prestigious journals includ-

issues,

ing IEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health

“You’re able to look at a person in com-

Informatics and Proceedings of the ACM on

parison to the population as a whole.

Interactive, Mobile, Wearable and Ubiqui-

But you can also look at the person in

tous Technologies, many written in col-

relative comparison to themselves over

laboration with psychologists, computer

time,” Tlachac says. “Right now, a lot of

scientists, and other cross-disciplinary

our health standards are set at the pop-

experts.

ulation level rather than the individual

ML Tlachac is discovering the patterns that make us who we are We’re on the edge of a healthcare rev-

health.

level. And I see a lot of this research as

potential to do so much good — and I

helping to move it towards more of an

see so much research that needs to be

individualized, personalized medicine.”

Tlachac’s

10

mental

“This is a new field that has the

done,” Tlachac notes.

The Human Algorithm

particularly

most

The right signifiers could be used to recent

research

pre-program wearables to alert care

includes a review of datasets utilized to

teams when certain criteria are met —

assess depression using smartphone use

or inform users of issues before they

information, published in IEEE Transac-

become crises. “If it notices you're

tions on Affective Computing. An analysis

socially isolating yourself, it could call a

of perceptions of AI chatbots within the

pre-programmed care team for you, or

Bryant community, conducted alongside

provide context-sensitive interventions

other Bryant researchers and collected

such as suggesting: ‘Maybe this is a good

as part of a multi-center collaboration

time to take a few deep breaths or write

led by Ithaka S+R, was just accepted for

down three things you're grateful for or

publication by the Journal of Computer

go on a short walk,’” Tlachac offers. “It

Information Systems.

could help empower people to take more

Powerful artificial intelligence and

control of their mental health wellbeing.”

machine learning tools assist Tlach-

There are still mysteries to solve

ac’s efforts by helping to pluck out and

though. Every person is different, mean-

discover key mental signifiers across a

ing that every person’s data is differ-

range of sources, from studying text logs

ent; generalizations can be dangerous,

to examining audio.

Tlachac notes, which motivates the need intelligence,

for personalized medicines or interven-

tant Professor of Information Systems

we’re able to find patterns in the data

tions. And as powerful and sophisticated

and Analytics ML Tlachac, Ph.D. — and

that we as humans would not necessar-

as AI has become, it still requires a data

data science is leading the way. Amidst a

ily be able to find — or even ever think

scientist at the helm.

global mental health crisis, new advances

of,” Tlachac says.

olution, says Bryant University Assis-

“By

using

artificial

“We are using sophisticated models,

in how we see ourselves, and the tools

This work is also aided by the rise of

but there still needs to be a skeptical

we use to look, could be a lifesaving

wearable technology: smartphones and

human in the loop to interpret them, and

gamechanger.

watches, fitness trackers, and other per-

to question them,” says Tlachac.

“It’s incredible to watch history

sonal devices that generate vast quanti-

unfold — and to be able to help shape it,”

ties of information about our health, our

Tlachac notes.

habits, and how we live. “It's opened up

Tlachac’s research focuses on affective computing, which spans the intersection of human-computer interaction,

­— SK

so many avenues and opportunities for researchers,” Tlachac notes.

This new information, coupled with

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INSIGHT

Faculty Findings Scholarly breakthroughs from Bryant’s thought leaders in 2025 Interpreting the American Presidency: In his new book, What Does the American Presidency Mean?: The Need for Interpretation in Political Science, published in June by Routledge, Associate Professor of Political Science Richard Holtzman, Ph.D., delves into the evolving meaning of the U.S. presidency, emphasizing the importance of understanding its symbolic and practical dimensions in contemporary politics.

Consumer Expectations in AI-Human Collaboration: The study "High Hopes, Hard Falls," co-authored by Marketing Associate Professor Kacy Kim, Ph.D., and Marketing Professor Sukki Yoon, Ph.D., and published in International Journal of Advertising, examines how consumers form expectations about AI-human collaborations in creative fields and their reactions when outcomes don't meet these expectations, highlighting the psychological impacts on brand perception.

CSR Strategies and Stock Prices: Published in Managerial Finance, research by Assistant Professor of Finance Sonal Kumar, Ph.D., and colleagues analyzes the effects of responsive versus adaptive corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies on stock prices, revealing that while responsive CSR yields immediate positive reactions, adaptive CSR leads to long-term gains, especially for family-owned firms.

Grunting and Athletic Performance: Research led by Associate Professor of Exercise and Movement Science Jason Sawyer, Ph.D., published in Scientific Journal of Sports and Performance, demonstrates that grunting during explosive movements, such as punches and jumps, can significantly increase power output and vertical jump height in trained martial artists, suggesting

11

practical applications in athletic training.

Machine Learning in Auditing: Published in International Journal of Accounting Information Systems, Assistant Professor of Accounting E. Jin Lee, Ph.D., explores the use of machine learning to aid auditors in making “going concern” decisions, proposing a model that enhances the accuracy and efficiency of audit opinions through data-driven analysis.

Plant Wax as Environmental Indicator: Presented at the EGU General Assembly 2025 in Vienna, Biological and Biomedical Sciences Lecturer Robert Patalano ’08, Ph.D., and colleagues’ research utilized plant wax n-alkanes to track vegetation transitions and hydrological responses along elevation gradients in Lesotho, Southern Africa, offering insights into past climate conditions and human-environment interactions.

Female Comedians as Disruptors: In her new book, Caught in the Crosshairs: Feminist Comedians and the Culture Wars, published in July by Indiana University Press, History, Literature, and the Arts Professor and Department Chair Amber Day, Ph.D., examines not only the work of comic icons Samantha Bee, Amy Schumer, Leslie Jones, and others but also the discourse surrounding their comedy.

Social Media Feedback and Workplace Behavior: This research, led by Assistant Professor of Management Zahra Heydarifard, Ph.D., and published in the Journal of Managerial Psychology, examines how indirect feedback received through social media platforms can predict prosocial behaviors in the workplace, highlighting the role of online interactions in shaping employee conduct and organizational culture.

2025_Bryant_Magazine_Summer.inddc 11

­—CN

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PULSE

A Campus Abuzz Spring and early summer at Bryant was rife with activity, from daylong symposiums dedicated to faculty and student research to summits, performances, athletic victories, and visits from prominent alumni.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: First-year students complete the balloon challenge during Innovation and Design Experience for All (IDEA); Vimbai Masiyiwa '17, CEO and creative director of Batoka Hospitality Group, speaks with students as a Presidential Executive in Residence; the Bryant Players perform CryBaby; more than 1,000 attendees gather for Bryant's 28th annual Women's Summit; students present research at REDay.

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PULSE

THIS

PAGE,

CLOCKWISE

FROM TOP: The Class of 2029 enjoys the sun during Orientation; Trustee Professor of Management Michael Roberto, DBA, snaps a selfie with graduating seniors at Commencement; Bryant University's 2025 Healthcare Summit explores the implications of AI in healthcare; Men's Basketball captures the America East title and heads to March Madness.

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P L AY B O O K

Dawg Mentality Teammates’ “one-two punch” powers a breakout season for women’s lacrosse Before

a

lacrosse

game,

Emily

against Stonybrook in the team’s home

DeGeorge ’26 goes inward, locking

opener, her first thought was to credit

in with a time-tested pregame ritual

her teammates. “They were setting

that includes a peanut butter and jelly

me up and we were bouncing off each

sandwich and an energy drink. The

other all day,” she reflects.

more extroverted Kaelynn O’Brien ’27, though, goes all in on the team’s psych-up dance parties — and notes

The pair call it “dawg mentality,” a

with pride that she can usually draw

collective drive among the Bulldogs to

DeGeorge in.

do the hard work and to do it together.

DeGeorge and O’Brien — “Georgie”

Beyond practices, the squad remains

and “K.O.B.” to their teammates —

intact — for team dinners, or study

have been called the “one-two punch”

sessions, or just hanging out between

of Bryant women’s lacrosse. But to

classes.

hear them tell it, it’s really more of a

14

A week later, they helped her break her record again.

dance: an intuitive give-and-take that allows the team to move as one on the field, and all the way to this year’s America East Championship game.

“We find a reason,” says O’Brien.

When you’re that close, the bond pays off on the field.

“We start to get a sense of each other’s tendencies, and you know

It’s a major feat, given that pre-

what everyone else is thinking,” says

season polls ranked them as serious

O’Brien. “We’ve always had the talent,

classmates — and to see that this

underdogs. The team took that as more

but this year we’ve really locked in with

could happen on our field— was

than a challenge; they saw it as an

our mindset.”

amazing,” O’Brien recalls.

affront. “It fired us all up,” DeGeorge

Call it camaraderie, call it esprit de

While the team fell short of being

reflects. “We wanted to prove them

corps; they call it their secret weapon

crowned champions, that just means

wrong.”

— and they used it to shock the America

there’s unfinished business to take

East Conference this year.

care of.

“We took it personally,” O’Brien agrees with a slight nod.

A decisive 10-goal victory over

O’Brien, who was named America

Binghamton University, last year’s

East Defender of the Year this season,

America East champion, marked their

points to the draw — the face-off at

arrival. “That’s when people started

the start of every half and after every

taking notice of us,” says DeGeorge.

goal — as an example of how the team

“We showed them what we could do.”

works together. “Georgie will be in the

Their winning season took them

center making the first move, but I’ll

to the program’s first championship

be at the edges waiting to move in,”

game, a triumph made all the sweeter

she explains. “It all flows together.”

because the tournament was hosted

DeGeorge is on the same page.

by Bryant. “To see everyone out there

After scoring a career-high six goals

in the crowd, all of our families and

“There’s more for us out there,” says Georgie.

“We’re coming back next year,” K.O.B. agrees. ­— SK

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P L AY B O O K

Field House of Dreams Two alums contribute to the next bold chapter in Bryant athletics Mary Choquette ’99 beams with pride

connect the two.”

will be the accountant on site.”

True to her word, Choquette handed

Fountain, who was an Accounting

a hard hat to Fountain when Gilbane

and

was selected in February 2024 to build

major at Bryant, is responsible for

the three-story, 45,000-square-foot

all financial aspects of the field

field house at the David M. '85 and

house project, including budgeting,

Terry Beirne Stadium Complex.

forecasting, and billing.

“If you told me in college that I

would

be

walking

around

a

Applied

Analytics

double

“Along with that, I deal with the project

manager,

engineers,

and

construction site in a vest, I wouldn’t

superintendents to make sure all are

have believed it,” says Fountain.

aligned with the financial forecast I

Fountain

produce,” she says. “I’ve had to learn

mixed with nostalgia as she introduces

impressing her as being adaptable as

this whole new construction industry

Laura Fountain ’18, who is working

well as personable. “Bryant prepares

language.”

as the lead accountant for Gilbane

you in the sense that the university

Fountain and Choquette say the

Building Co.’s construction of Bryant’s

makes you resourceful, to ask once and

completed field house will enhance

new Navigant Credit Union Field

not go back and ask again,” she says.

the Bryant experience for athletes

House, slated to open this fall.

Choquette

recalls

Fountain says her jobs, including

and fans alike. Designed to support

It’s a bit of deja vu for Choquette,

the field house project, have involved a

Bryant’s Division I football, soccer, and

vice president and controller of

high level of collaboration. “At Bryant,

lacrosse programs, the building will

Gilbane’s New England Division, who

every class I took had group projects,

provide a range of facilities, including

held the same position as Fountain

which taught me how to be a team

modern

when she was a recent Bryant graduate

player,” she says.

therapy areas, club level seating and

and supporting construction of the

At Gilbane, Fountain periodically

university's George E. Bello Center for

trades her desk for a seat inside a

Information and Technology.

trailer within the fences of the field

“I was two years into my career at

house construction site.

locker

rooms,

15

physical

concessions, press boxes, and coaches’ viewing areas.

Fountain says she loves being part of a major campus expansion.

Gilbane, and they knew I was a Bryant

“What I appreciate most is that the

"It’s amazing to see the field house

grad,” Choquette recalls. “When we

superintendent will walk me around

get built from the ground up,” she

won the Bello project, I was told there

for an hour every week so I can see

says. “Having something new and

was no other accountant in New

what's going on,” she says. “It’s one

shiny on campus is exciting and helps

England better suited for this project

thing to sit in our Providence office

build community and a sense of pride

than me. Fast forward 24 years, we’re

and see the invoices come in from

about Bryant.”

interviewing Laura, and I told her the

the trades. It's another thing to see

next project we win for Bryant, she

what's happening on site, so I can

­—BC

BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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P L AY B O O K

Jamion Christian coaching Pallacanestro Trieste in Italy.

16

Power Play New men’s basketball coach brings passion and power to Bryant’s next season Bryant new men’s basketball Head

Christian takes over a Bryant team

Coach Jamion Christian says his teams

riding the high of an America East

that

wherever you go, and that’s just not

you

are

the

environment

have a distinctive style on the court.

championship and March Madness

the case,” he says. Still, Christian

“We play fast, hard, and aggressive,”

appearance, with the promise of

takes pride in the fact that his George

says Christian, whose path to Bryant has

making a successful team even better.

Washington team beat two squads

included coaching at both the collegiate

He arrives with an impressive track

led by Hall of Fame coaches during

and professional level.

record. After

for

his tenure. “I learned that our system

Off the court, however, Christian

Mount St. Mary's, Siena, and George

helming

teams

works well enough that we could do

weighs “soft skills” equally with work

Washington University, Christian led

that, so that gives you confidence,” he

on things like practicing jump shots and

Italy's Pallacanestro Trieste to a Serie

says.

setting up screens.

A2 championship and a return to the

Christian’s success was earned

builds

country's top league, Serie A, for the

through sacrifice: his wife and young

collaborative, supportive, competitive

2024-25 season. He posted a 41-24

children remained in the United

teams,” he says. “Everybody wants to

record in his two seasons in Trieste.

States while he coached abroad, and

“I'm

a

person

who

be empowered as a person. Everybody

At times when success was elusive –

a desire to reunite with his family

wants to be part of something bigger

George Washington struggled to a 29-50

played no small role in his decision to

than themselves. And everybody wants

record in three seasons under Christian’s

accept the Bryant position.

to know how they can be better. It

leadership – he was able to walk away

works whether you’re coaching pros or

with important lessons.

college kids.”

“You can fool yourself into thinking

“I'm happy to get a chance to come back home and kiss my kids in the morning before I go to work,”

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P L AY B O O K

GOALS From the field to the office, meet four studentathlete alums who turned their passion for sports into athletics-related careers:

Ronald Hill ’14 A hurdler, sprinter, and jumper for the men’s track and field team, Hill graduated Bryant with a Communication degree. Today, he is a three-time Emmy awardwinning video editor who works at ESPN.

Tom Kennedy ’18, ’19MBA

he says. “Honestly, I’ve always loved

he says. “That’s a strong blueprint.”

Kennedy played four years of lacrosse and three years of football at Bryant. Earning his undergraduate degree in Accounting and obtaining his MBA a year later, he is now a wide receiver for the Detroit Lions.

Bryant. When I would come up here,

Christian wants his team to use

I would always tell my wife, ‘This

that physical stature to rebound

place is growing so much.’ I'd come

better and take more three-point

to a Bryant home game and see these

shots. He also wants to build a team

incredibly passionate fans dressed in

of “really good basketball players

Julia Ayres ’22

all white going crazy and all the new

who are appreciative of being at

buildings being built on campus.”

Bryant, have an ambition to grow

Graduating with an Actuarial Science degree, Ayres — a cross country and track and field athlete — is now the senior manager of football administration for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Christian’s undergraduate degree in communications and rhetoric is an asset in team building and leadership,

Bryant, and have a desire to grow the basketball team.” ­—BC

17

but he also takes a businesslike approach to his job.

“Every time I've come into a program, I've done a 60-day SWOT

Veronica Wallace ’23, ’24MBA

assessment to get a sense of weakness

Wallace, a former member of the women’s track and field team, was a triple jumper and long jumper. A double Bulldog, she earned her undergraduate degree in Marketing followed by her MBA. Today, she is the corporate partnerships coordinator for Rhode Island FC — the state’s first pro soccer team.

and opportunities,” he says.

Christian’s evaluation of Bryant basketball remains in progress, but he’s already figured out one important thing: size matters, both tactically and in the heart of his players.

“The team we’re putting together will probably have only one guy in the

­—EB

rotation that’s below six-foot-three,”

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Beyond the Archway EXPLORING THE UNIVERSITY’S LEGENDS, LANDMARKS, AND LITTLE-KNOWN LORE.

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BY EMMA BARTLETT, BOB CURLEY, AND STEPHEN KOSTRZEWA PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED BY BRYANT ARCHIVES, PAM MURRAY ILLUSTRATION BY SHAW NIELSEN

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The Traveling Arch Bryant

original

’62, ’92HMBA, then vice president of

archway was the South Hall portico of

University’s

Business Affairs, and Robert Hillier

its Providence campus on College Hill,

’92HMBA, architect of the Smithfield

which community members marched

campus, relocated it to where it is

through before commencement and

today; the Class of 1968 also had a

other celebratory events. Too big to

trust fund earmarked for moving

students avoided passing through it.

move to Smithfield, it stayed behind

the archway to the new campus.

A rumor started that walking through

when the building was acquired by

(Unofficially, the archway arrived

the arch before graduation jeopardized

Brown University. Instead, a wrought

after a group of students, wanting

your chances of graduating, which

iron archway embedded in South

a physical reminder of their days

resulted in worn paths on the ground

Hall’s main entrance was extracted and

on the former campus, uprooted it,

around the arch — inspiring a tradition

moved to the new Tupper campus.

loaded it on a truck, and planted it by

that continues today. After 17 years of

Bryant Pond.)

ruts, the Class of 1987 funded a brick

Officially, it’s said that a rigger moved

20

the

archway

at

Bryant’s

Immediately after the arch was

request, and that Frank Delmonico

transferred from the old campus,

pathway around the revered arch as their gift to Bryant.

­—EB

For Whom the Bell Tolls From 1977 to 2005, a 40-foot triangular clock and bell tower with a three-faced dial clock and pre-recorded chime system towered over campus between the Unistructure and the Koffler Center and Communications Complex. The structure, veneered with brown brick, was a gift from the Class of 1976.

Featuring a bell from the homestead of Earl Tupper ’68H, who donated the land for the Smithfield campus to Bryant, the carillon played Westminster Chimes at regular intervals throughout the day — bringing back a tradition from the university’s Providence campus where a bell on the roof of South Hall would mark when classes began and were dismissed.

The tower had several unique quirks when it was erected. For starters, its clockwork was not tied into the university’s master clock system, causing it to display a different time than the rest of the clocks at Bryant. Additionally, an amplifier change was necessary so the chimes, which would sound on the hour, didn’t ring in the middle of the night.

The tower was removed in 2005 during the Koffler Center expansion and plaza renovations. Today, the bell is silent, but it has been preserved and is now held in storage by Bryant’s Office of Facilities Management. ­—EB

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If These Walls Could Talk

Candy was dandy The Candy Store, located on the Unistructure’s main level where Faculty Suite A is now, was well-known to students, staff, faculty, and even presidents with a sweet tooth. From 1974 to 1986, you could buy candy bars, penny candy, munchies, and cigarettes at the shop.

Where the Good Times Rolled

Floating on a memory A swimming pool was one of the most requested

Bowling was a popular campus activity throughout the 1970s

items for the new Smithfield campus. Rather than

and ’80s with intramural teams such as the Alley Kats, Gutter

a full-sized pool in the gymnasium that would be

Dusters, and Billion Dollar Bowlers filling up rosters.

used primarily by the varsity team and for classes,

When constructing the Smithfield campus, Bryant built four

Dean Lionel Mercier ’30, ’71H proposed a smaller

tenpin bowling lanes within the Unistructure, which were

one in the Unistructure that would be accessible for

used by the varsity bowling team as well as leagues formed by

everyone. Though it was filled in during renovations

the university’s students, administrators, and secretarial staff.

and replaced by the Chace Wellness Center pool,

Known as Bryant Lanes, the venue was a campus hotspot, and

the skylight remains — now welcoming visitors to

fraternities and sororities regularly touted their scores in The

Bryant’s Office of Admission.

21

Archway student newspaper’s “Greek News” section.

In 1976, the bowling lanes were moved from the Unistruc-

A high bar for success

ture to the new Koffler student center, which later became

The Country Comfort began life in 1971 as a

the Koffler Center and Communications Complex. Due to the

coffeehouse where students could relax, listen to

building's circular shape, however, it was not wide enough to

music, and grab a snack — and, later on, alcohol (it

fit the entire length of the bowling alley — resulting in a square

also enjoyed a brief second life as The Cornerstone

extension to its basement, where the alley was to be located. The

Pub). Today, its spirit lives on as the Art Barn, a forum

underground extension also incorporated a second alteration,

for creating and appreciating art.

a tunnel adjacent to the bowling alley that included a walkway between the Unistructure and student center.

Bryant's original bar, The Rathskeller offered libations to thirsty students for less than a quarter

Bryant's student center eventually moved to a new building in

from 1971-1975. It would go on to have several other

1986, and when the previous site was transformed into a tech-

occupants, including a branch of the Small Business

nology center, the bowling alley was removed to make way for a

Administration and the John H. Chafee Center for

classroom with 31 IBM Personal System/2 computers.

International Business, and is now home to the

Students continue to use the underground route today, though — even if bowling is no longer up their alley.

­—EB

Office of Counseling Services and Department of Public Safety.

­— SK

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Wading into Shenanigans • In 1983, pranksters emptied detergent into Bryant Pond, creating a huge bubble bath.

• In the 1980s, a student waterskied across the pond using a car, tow rope, and a fiberglass water ski.

• In 1977, one student’s car mysteriously ended up in the water.

• During the winter, students ice skated and played hockey on the pond when it froze over; on warm spring days they wiled away the hours floating on inflatable tubes. ­—EB

22

Once Upon(d) a Time What and who has been in the pond?

• Bryant students: Being thrown into the pond for your birthday or taking a dip prior to graduation were time-honored traditions.

• Fish: Bass and sunfish live in the pond today; however, one student reported bumping into an eight-inch-long white goldfish during a plunge, according to a 1983 Archway article.

• Rubber ducks: An annual duck race takes place each year during Family and Friends Weekend. The rubber ducks make their way across the pond and under the bridge that bisects it; the first 20 to cross the finish line win their patrons a prize.

• Ronald K. Machtley ’21H: The former Bryant University president announced that he would jump in Bryant Pond if 50 percent of the Class of 2009 contributed to their senior class gift. He fulfilled his promise and made a splash at the end of the academic year. ­—EB

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The Case of the Campus Cat Tracking down Bryant's decades-old feline mystery

that once called Bryant home. She told me that he had once been in Sweetie until she passed.

And she told me that Goofy

He appears like a ghost by Bryant Pond,

real name: “Goofy.”

silent, sleek, and dark. The elusive black cat

Because the cat lived by the Interfaith

who stalks the campus has been a subject of

Center, all signs pointed to Director of

speculation across Bryant’s community for

Campus Ministry and Jewish Chaplain

years. Despite his celebrity, however, his

Rabbi Steven Jablow as my next lead.

black rumpled fur, amber eyes, and high-

Unfortunately, he had little information

pitch meow are his only calling cards.

but promised to keep on the case.

I saw it as a mystery to be solved.

–

although decidedly feral – has forged bonds with her and others over the years.

He wasn’t a mystery, just a good kitty who mostly kept to himself.

With the case closed, I now wonder what Goofy thinks about

The trail went quiet for a few weeks

Bryant — how its grown, the rotation

I started my investigation by rounding

until there was a breakthrough. Rabbi

of students, and our fascination with

up the usual suspects, including Bryant

Jablow had discovered that someone

him. Maybe for Goofy, the university

University Photographer Pamela Murray,

from Bryant’s Facilities Management

is the mystery: one he ponders as he

a known associate of the cat who’d

department had been taking care of

sits on the hill by the Fisher Student

miraculously managed to capture him

Goofy.

Center,

looking back and forth,

on film. She led me to the Ronald K. and

His tip brought me to custodian

Kati C. Machtley Interfaith Center’s back

Rachel Lepore, who says she’s been

sinks beneath the horizon.

entrance, where she revealed his hideout

feeding Goofy for 20 years. She also told

Then he trots to Lepore’s

— which someone had furnished with a

me his story.

plush cat bed, three bowls of dry cat food, a dog-sized water bowl, and toys.

Murray also tipped me off to the cat's

Lepore said Goofy got his name from the quirky way he walked and that he

23

love and caught birds for his partner

back and forth, until the sun

car as she arrives for third shift and greets the person he calls home.

­—EB

had been part of a large group of cats BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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Timeless Artifacts 4. Aerosmith ad: $3 got students a front row ticket to an Aerosmith concert in

1. Golden Bulldog: Seniors gifted a golden bulldog to the university in 1999.

the Bryant gym on February 22, 1974, as advertised in The Archway. The 2001

The life-size representation of Tupper, Bryant’s beloved mascot — weighing

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees

approximately 125 pounds, base included

had just released their debut studio

— is currently housed in the Bulldog

album the previous year and were about

Room of the Elizabeth and Malcolm

to launch their nationwide Get Your Wings Tour following the release of their

Chace Wellness and Athletic Center.

second album.

2. JFK telegram: John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the 35th President of the United

5. Berlin Wall fragment: Before he was

States, sent a telegram to Bryant Col-

Bryant University’s seventh president,

lege President E. Gardner Jacobs ’21,

Ronald Machtley served as a U.S. Con-

’23MBA , ’69H congratulating the insti-

gressman, and his role on the Armed Ser-

tution on its centennial in 1963. The tele-

vices Commitee took him to Berlin, Ger-

gram was sent four days before Kenne-

many, in late 1989. Seeing that others had

dy's assassination in Dallas, Texas.

taken pieces of the recently fallen Berlin Wall as souvenirs, Machtley wanted to

24

3. Bryant medallion: Bryant's president

secure a piece of history for himself.

wears the Bryant University medallion

Two military escorts brought him to a

during academic ceremonies. One side

hole in the wall outside of the city proper,

of the medallion bears the University seal

where he climbed through to the East

and the other lists the names of Bryant's

Berlin side and, using a sledgehammer,

presidents. The Latin phrase on the seal,

removed a few pieces of the wall. Macht-

“Cognitio Virtus Successus,” translates

ley would go on to donate them to Rhode

to “Knowledge, Character, Success.”

Island schools — including Bryant. ­—EB

Famous Words of Wisdom Prominent visitors have shared their insights with the Bryant community over the years.

1945

1996

Thomas J. Watson ’45H, president of

Maya Angelou, author, poet, activist,

IBM: “This college, entering the field

and performer: “There's a world of

of business education in 1863, is truly

difference between being educated

a pioneer institution and deserves

and being trained. The most noble

great credit for the contributions it

cause in the world is the liberation of

has made…”

the mind and spirit — beginning with our own.”

BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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Stories in Stone

Glory, Grit, and Mud

Bryant’s campus is home to six known historical cemeteries,

Little-known

tended by students who also visit to study local history and take

community:

facts

from

Bryant’s

athletic

rubbings of gravestones. The more prominent lots include:

• Several members of the Bryant community

Dr. Simeon Brown Lot

have competed in the Olympic Games. Ben-

This small family plot outside the Business Entrepreneurship

jamin Schulte ’18 swam for Guam in 2012 and

Leadership Center includes the final resting place of Brown,

2016, Natalia Kuipers ’24 swam for the U.S. Virgin

his wife, and their son.

Islands in 2020 and 2024, and former men’s and women’s cross country and track and field head

Daniel Mowry Lot

coach Stephanie Reilly ran for Ireland in 2012.

A lot containing 69 graves, including that of Judge Daniel Mowry, Jr., a Revolutionary War veteran and Continental Con-

• The New England Patriots held their training

gress delegate, can be found near the Facilities Management

camp at Bryant from 1976 to 2002, including the

building.

year they won their first Super Bowl! During the team’s down time, team owner Robert Kraft ’97H

Nathan Aldrich Lot

and his wife fed the fish in Bryant Pond, and play-

Located between the rugby and field hockey fields and Rogler

ers caught bullfrogs.

Farm Road is a stone-walled cemetery with 20 graves, including that of Nathan Aldrich, Jr., a member of a prominent

• Oozeball – a volleyball tournament played in

Quaker family.

12 inches of mud – became a popular annual campus activity starting in 1983. Played on

Thomas Smith Lot

a 30-by-60-foot mud court, the pit was con-

Bryant’s most easily located cemetery is just off the main

structed with the aid of a local swimming pool

entrance to the Tupper campus on the right as you drive in.

company and 7,000 gallons of water.

This lot includes the grave of Thomas Smith — a descendant of the settlers who lent Smithfield their name.

25

­—EB

­—BC

Learn more about famous visitors on Bryant News.

2008

2010

George H. W. Bush ’08H, 41st Pres-

Elie Wiesel, author, professor, politi-

Special thanks to Adriana Minacapilli, library

ident of the United States: “Here at

cal activist, Nobel laureate, and Holo-

assistant for collection management and digital

Bryant, to their everlasting credit,

caust survivor: “Indifference is the

services at Bryant University, and the staff of

they’ve taught you that character

greatest sin... My commandment is,

the Douglas and Judith Krupp Library for their

matters as much as knowledge. No

‘Thou shall not stand idly by.’”

assistance with Beyond the Archway.

amount of fame or fortune is worth

­—SK

losing your very soul.”

BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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Global Alchemy How Bryant students guided one of the world’s oldest companies through unprecedented change in international trade.

BY STEPHEN KOSTRZEWA PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAM MURRAY & KERRI RUBINO ’25 MBA

Metalsmith Avedis Zildjian was a student of change. A maker of musical instruments for the court of the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, he also dabbled in alchemy: the art of transmutation and transfiguration.

Yet it was through science and the labor of his own hands that Zildjian achieved a very different kind of magic. Since 1623, his business has kept the rhythm of the world. The Avedis Zildjian Company is the oldest manufacturer of percussive musical instruments — from cymbals to drumsticks to drumkits to, more recently, e-kits — and is one of the oldest continuously operating global companies.

Zildjian, still family-owned, has withstood international conflicts, the rise and fall of empires, and more than four centuries of innovation and upheaval. They’ve made their own mark on the world as well. The Zildjian family name — which means “son of a cymbal smith” — is etched, literally, into the history of art and culture.

This spring, Andrew Smetana ’25 added his own name into that history.

As Smetana, a self-taught musician who can play the piano, the guitar, the bass, and, of course, the drums, wandered through the showroom of Zildjian’s Norwell, Massachusetts, headquarters, he marveled at the legends brought to life around him with each step.

Passing through the company’s many showcases, he was met by a new icon every few feet: the drumkit used by Gene Krupa to bring the house down with “Sing, Sing, Sing (with a Swing)”; a replica of the Ludwig Super Classic that helped Ringo Starr power Beatlemania; even the set Animal the Muppet, thrashed alongside Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem, much to Kermit the Frog’s dismay. >>

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A collection of musicians’ photos and autographed cymbals line the walls, each with their own wild story and important legacy, and each paying tribute to the Zildjian instruments that helped them find their groove.

“I saw some of the coolest things I’d ever seen in my life,” Smetana admits.

But he also promised himself that the grandeur wouldn’t blind him to the job that needed to be done.

This past semester, Smetana and his team of Bryant Global Supply Chain Management seniors — including Alexis Diamantes ’25, Jessica Gaskin ’25, Alexis Klein ’25, and Kelvyn Strong ’25 — all became a part of the Zildjian tradition. Tasked with helping the centuries-old company improve their supply chain efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance delivery performance, they would step into an unprecedented moment for both Zildjian and for the world.

Mid-project, the 2025 global trade war would crash down on the legendary music company.

“I came to Bryant because I wanted a hands-on education.

And that’s exactly what I got,” Smetana laughs.

transformation, as well.

Arguably more than any other field, the global supply chain runs the world. From the distribution of life-saving vaccines to securing the pipeline of parts for the latest videogame system, the supply chain courses through nearly every aspect of our daily lives.

Roethlein aims to prepare his pupils to be masters of that universe.

Over the last eight years alone, the senior practicum program, through which undergraduates serve as professional consultants for real companies, has saved corporate partners an estimated $270 million. Roethlein’s client list includes a long tally of household names and other, quieter, organizations that keep the country and the world running.

More than 660 students have collaborated on 128 projects for more than 100 different companies since the practicum was first introduced. This past semester alone, supply chain practicum teams collaborated with National

Grid, Edesia Nutrition, Large Construction Company, Pratt & Whitney, and Hayward Holdings in addition to Zildjian — advising them on issues ranging from waste reduction to facility expansion to supplier performance reporting.

The practicum has become a signature program at Bryant and a unique resource for companies in every industry — one with a reputation for, and track record of, success.

“We are the only college in the United States that has a program like this,” states Roethlein with the quiet confidence of a man who has spent his life sweating the details. Tested by industry before dedicating his life to teaching — and known for both his attention to precision and ability to put the pieces together — Roethlein considers the practicum the purest extension of himself.

The program’s success is founded on an uncompromising commitment to excellence, matched by a dedication to

Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management Chris Roethlein, Ph.D., who founded Bryant’s Global Supply Chain Practicum in 2010, has been preparing his students for moments like this his entire teaching career. In a way, his business is BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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ensuring that students are ready to lead from their first day on the job, no matter the industry they choose. “Our role is to elevate our students and bring them to a higher level,” shares Roethlein.

“We expect more from the supply chain capstone students because they can do a little more.”

So, whether they’re helping global leaders discover new ways to stay ahead of the game, or supporting a legend like Zildjian as they weather a global sea change, disruption isn’t a problem. It’s an opportunity.

“One of the things that I really push is creating a sense of urgency,” reflects Roethlein.

“Students need to appreciate that, in the business world, you have to have a sense of urgency to get things done. You have to be organized and you have to be able to plan ahead — but you also have to be able to adapt quickly.

“When they confront something unexpected,” he says, “it gives them a chance to rise to that challenge.”

Each member of the Bryant practicum team had specifically selected the Zildjian project; some for the challenge it presented, others because they aimed to work in a related industry. For Smetana, it was more personal. “This is a company that means so much to so many people,” he notes. “I wanted to help make a difference for them using the skills I had developed.”

Advised by Roethlein and Marketing Professor Michael Gra-

“The Zildjian story is an unusual one in the annals of long-standing family businesses in that it blends old-world traditions and new world opportunities,” Bryant President Emeritus William T. O’Hara ’90H noted in his book Centuries of Success, a study of some of the most enduring family-run companies in the world.

vier, Ph.D., who spent more than a decade as an Air Force logistics officer, the team immediately set to work by meeting with company leaders and collecting data.

It took a moment for the undergraduates to build the rapport needed to do their jobs as trusted partners, the students admit, but their dedication and acumen won the company over. “I feel like they respected us as colleagues,” says Diamanates.

That trust also gave the team license to innovate. Bill Lawrence, Zildjian’s senior vice president of operations, says the company initially presented the consultants “with a general idea, a disjointed dataset of suppliers, and a hope that they would be able to find some meaningful supply chain improvements.”

Though they had no background in instrument manufacturing, the students applied what they had learned through their supply chain coursework to dissect its nuances. They discovered that while Zildjian’s cymbals are manufactured in Norwell, and

its drumsticks are crafted in Newport, Maine, the company sources the raw materials for its products both domestically and internationally before selling them around the world.

“We got a behind–the-scenes look at manufacturing, artist work, and product development,” notes Klein.

From there, they devised ways to streamline logistics and vendor management to support Zildjian’s growth across its business units. By drawing together data from a variety of sources, they developed a full picture of the company’s needs and practices and used that knowledge to evaluate vendors — analyzing everything from price to product scope to international shipping routes — and guide sourcing decisions.

A spend analysis helped them identify cost-saving, efficiency, and purchasing opportunities.

For Smetana, the project added a new dimension to his respect for Zildjian’s products. “Working with them gave me a deeper appreciation for how a company

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30

can preserve its heritage while still remaining competitive,” he says.

The cost of success, and of change, he notes, does not have to be one’s soul.

With the supply chain vendor consolidation process now in hand, the team decided to add a second element to the project.

Led by Gaskin and Strong, they would also investigate mitigating tariff risks — a key concern for the international company, which has raw materials coming in, and finished products going out, constantly.

But when the Trump administration announced a sudden, and unprecedented, wave of global tariffs in April, even a company as time-tested as Zildjian was thrown for a loop.

Jason Kelly, the director of Bryant’s John H. Chafee Center for International Business, was at the State International Development Organization’s 2025 Washington Leadership Forum, which assembles U.S. trade directors and top federal and international officials to discuss

critical trade policy and legislative issues, when the tariffs were announced. “It was chaos,” he recalls. “Suddenly, people who had built their careers on knowing every detail had no answers.”

Global trade relies on stability, notes Kelly, a former consultant for the U.S. Department of State who, before coming to Bryant, served as executive vice president for Moran Shipping Agencies. Any sort of change has reverberations that extend to every industry — from baby products to electronics to, yes, even cymbals produced in the United States.

So when the world’s greatest superpower announced unexpected and sweeping tariffs, it set the word ablaze — and sent companies large and small scrambling in ways that will extend far into the future.

The events of April 2025 might serve as a wake-up call, says Kelly: Every business is an international business and no one can afford to ignore the global landscape. It’s also part two of a primer on the intricacies and importance of the global supply chain — an education that began with empty shelves at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yet amidst the chaos, this was the sort of moment where Bryant thrives, Kelly notes. Not only is it an incredible teaching tool for students, he says; it’s an opportunity to leverage the talents of the university’s faculty and students to benefit the greater community.

“If you’re a problem-solver,

this is the business for you, and Bryant is full of problem-solvers,” Kelly reflects.

With the introduction of the tariffs, the Bryant team pivoted to helping Zildjian ride new waves in the international commerce scene. They recruited Bryant Executive in Residence June Youngs, who has helped solve national and international supply chain issues for Hasbro, Nabisco, Ocean Spray Cranberries, and, most recently, CVS Health, as their in-house expert.

“She was pretty incredible to talk to,” Smetana notes. “She’s seen just about everything.”

But no one had seen anything quite like this before. It meant rethinking their work to date, and a more intensive project, but the Bryant consultants weren’t complaining. “I loved how we had the chance to respond to real-world events and pivot,” says Strong.

The group returned to basic principles, taking the concepts they learned in the classroom and finding ways to apply them in new ways. They examined the ins and outs of international commerce and formulated creative solutions that complied with both Zildjian’s best practices and international law.

In short, the Bryant student consultants did a little alchemy of their own.

Working together and with Zildjian’s teams, they developed a comprehensive plan for the company to limit tariff-associated risks, including refining sourc-

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ing strategies. They also drafted proposals to take advantage of free and foreign trade zones in the United States that are considered outside of Customs jurisdiction, as well as duty drawback programs — government initiatives that refund certain duties, taxes, and fees paid on imported goods used to manufacture products that are then exported.

Even tweaks to how Zildjian manages and packages its products could help reduce exposure to duties and tariffs. “Especially now, with tariffs being a hot topic, our findings could be useful for numerous companies that may not be on top of the legalities that come with international business,” notes Strong.

Ultimately, the Bryant consulting team was able to identify potential savings opportunities for Zildjian in the range of $500,000 to $1 million over a three- to fiveyear window — an impressive result for a semester of work.

Some of their recommendations are currently being implemented, while others continue to be refined, but the students’ efforts have already made a difference.

“They uncovered new approaches to our supply chain, new avenues to recover previous costs, and ways to save costs going forward,” says Zildjian’s Lawrence. “The ideas and strategies developed by the Bryant team have made a significant and lasting impact on the Zildjian supply chain.”

Practice makes perfect, notes Smetana — but nothing beats performing live. "Working with a globally recognized brand like

Zildjian has strengthened my problem-solving skills, analytical abilities, and confidence in working with industry professionals," he says.

The team also learned something about their serious, focused professor: Roethlein is a closet music geek. “Almost every day before class, I’d stop by his office and we would talk about music,” recalls Smetana, from the Grateful Dead to Metallica to Kiss.

As a token of their thanks, Zildjian gifted a pair of cymbals to the Bryant Global Supply Chain Management program, which Roethlein proudly placed on the wall of the university’s new Global Supply Chain Lab. They’re a reminder of a tough job well done — and their own symbol of a unique moment in history.

The team had not only survived their trial by fire; they excelled.

And they’d undergone a transformation of their own.

Avedis Zildjian was only 22 when he began to perfect his cymbal-making methods — about the same age as Bryant’s practicum students. Defying 3,000 years of tradition and convention, he discovered a new way of forging metal so flexible it could be repeatedly heated, rolled, and hammered into the finest instruments.

His innovation changed the world — and became a gold standard for excellence that would reverberate throughout history.

More than four centuries later, five Bryant practicum students continued that legacy amidst a

globe in turmoil. While necessity may be the mother of invention, its lasting impact is forged in the fires of dedication and tempered by experience, knowledge, and adaptability.

Even legends evolve, they learned, as they meet the world around them — offering new wisdom with each passing generation while still retaining the truth, and beauty, at their core.

It’s a feat of alchemy and performance that Avedis would applaud.

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Additional reporting by Bob Curley

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Bulldog Bonds From campus romance to intergenerational legacies and business relationships, these are a few stories from Bryant’s connected community.

33

BY BOB CURLEY, STEPHEN KOSTRZEWA, JACOB MARROCCO, AND CASEY NILSSON

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Compounding Interest: Joe wasn’t dissuaded, however. “I told her to ask her sorority sister about me,”

They laugh now at the chaos of their

he says. “I had a job, wore a suit to class,

early marriage — including a hon-

carried a briefcase. I thought that might

eymoon mishap involving a forgot-

help my case.”

ten wallet, missing travelers’ checks,

He asked a third time and offered to

and a locked vintage suitcase — but

take her to dinner at Capriccio, one of the

those years set the tone for what would

nicest restaurants in Providence. Joe had

become a full life together with their two

100 hard-earned dollars in his pocket

kids and many beloved dogs.

and a plan to spend every dime.

Joe’s career took them from Rhode

“I said yes,” Kathi says. “I mean, it was

Island to Ohio, California, Michigan,

Capriccio. But also, I realized he wasn’t

and Minnesota. He held executive roles

like the others. He was thoughtful, kind.

at AlliedSignal and Honeywell before

He paid attention.”

becoming CEO of Apogee Enterprises.

Their first date was Valentine’s Day, 1980. By April, they were engaged.

34

feel completely protected.”

“We were walking in the trees behind

Persistence pays

the Unistructure,” Joe remembers. “I told

“He gave me butterflies,” says Kathi (Jure-

her I wanted to marry her.”

Kathi, a shoe buyer turned volunteer guide dog trainer, adapted through each move.

Eventually, they drifted away from Bryant. “Life just moved on,” Joe says.

wicz) Puishys ’81 with a smile.

Kathi said yes, but not before making it

That changed, though, after a call

But it wasn’t always the case.

clear that she wanted to finish her senior

from the university’s alumni office. One

Joe Puishys ’80, who serves as vice

year at Bryant.

shared story led to another, which led

chair of Bryant’s Board of Trustees, first

Joe was career-focused, already jug-

to a renewed sense of connection. “It

spotted Kathi in Bryant’s Rotunda in the

gling school and a demanding job. Kathi

reminded us of what Bryant meant to

fall of 1977 and, for a long time, she didn’t

was the more studious of the two. “He

us,” Kathi says.

even know he existed.

never went to the library until he started

The Puishys have since established a

“He says we met,” she laughs. “But I

dating me,” she laughs. “And even then,

scholarship fund for students from mil-

didn’t meet him for another three years.”

he’d show up with a book, sit next to me

itary and first responder families. Their

for ten minutes, and fall asleep.”

most visible contribution to Bryant —

Joe, a sophomore, was immediately struck. “She had this long, blonde hair

“I studied her,” Joe says. “Not the books.”

the Puishys Residence Complex, which

down her back and I just thought, wow.

He won her over with small, consis-

will open for juniors and seniors this fall

That’s the one,” he says. “But I was in a

tent displays of kindness and humor. He

fraternity, working a corporate job, and

showed up to her dorm with little gifts,

“We wanted to do something mean-

honestly not looking to settle down.”

— cements their legacy on campus.

taught her how to shift gears in his man-

ingful,” says Joe. “A place where students

Kathi was busy, too, joining a sorority,

ual Toyota Corolla, and once left a bot-

could build the kinds of friendships and

digging into her coursework, and navi-

tle of her favorite perfume in his glove

memories we did.”

gating her first year at Bryant.

compartment. He even gave her a giant

As for those butterflies Joe gave her so

Joe kept his distance until his senior

stuffed bear, nearly her size, named "The

long ago — the ones that didn’t miracu-

year. “I figured, it’s now or never,” he

General" after his fraternity nickname.

lously appear but were earned?

There was also the cowboy hat. “He

“They’re still there,” she says.

says. “So I asked her out.”

She turned him down. Twice.

used to wear this big brown hat, like

“I knew he was a Delta Sig,” Kathi says.

Clint Eastwood,” Kathi recalls. “When he

Turn to page 39 to learn more about the

hugged me, I’d stand under the brim and

Puishys Residence Complex.

“And that was a no-go for me.”

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Bryant Romances

Risk, return, romance

An old-fashioned love song

You belong with me

For Jonathan and Tiffany (Carter) Manheim,

Brooke Barchard '02 and Randy Rossi ‘01

Kimberly (Doell) and Gabrielle Alicia Wil-

both ’16, an Intro to Finance course was an

tuned into love at WJMF, Bryant’s radio sta-

lette, both ’12, ’23MBA, met as undergradu-

introduction to love. Jonathan says he found

tion, where Randy was the general manager

ates and fell in love. But their Bryant story

himself “absolutely captivated” by Manheim

and Brooke had her own show. One day,

hadn’t quite reached happily ever after

from early on, but their romance officially

Randy asked Brooke to play one of his favor-

yet; the pair later re-enrolled in the part-

began when they reconnected at a mutual

ite songs, which led to their first date on Val-

time MBA program together. “We planned

friend’s birthday a few years after gradua-

entine's Day. The couple recently celebrated

our wedding and did our MBA at the same

tion — and shared their first kiss. The two

their 22nd wedding anniversary and have

time,” says Kimberly, who married Gabri-

got married in 2023, surrounded by friends,

two daughters "who never tire of hearing

ella in October 2022. Seven months later,

family, and, of course, fellow Bryant alumni,

how much we love Bryant because it brought

the pair celebrated again at their graduate

and welcomed a daughter in 2024.

us together," they say.

commencement before taking off for a Tay-

35

lor Swift concert.

Signed, sealed, delivered Kathy (Anter) Orovitz ’04 was working a day job at a bank and paying her way through night classes at Bryant when a friend asked her to bring a letter to a tall, dark-haired man in her oceanography course. Kathy hadn’t noticed him before and, after delivering the note to Dan ’00,

Read Orovitz's story on Bryant News.

’08MBA, she didn’t give it much more

I wanna dance with somebody

thought. But Dan, now a VP at Washing-

When Emily Baez ’08 and Daniel Willis ’08

ton Trust Company, was taken with her.

danced the night away at a Bryant party,

After the two developed a friendship as

sparks flew. The evening created an "insepara-

study partners, she invited him back to

ble bond between a southern boy from Geor-

her brother’s house and the rest is history.

gia and a Dominican girl from Massachusetts,"

“I still don’t know what was in that letter,”

says Emily. The pair tied the knot in 2009 and

Kathy, who is now CEO of Navigant Credit

have since welcomed three daughters to their

Union, says with a laugh. They’ve been

family — who they can’t wait to take to Bryant

married since 2001 and have one daughter.

football games.

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Family Holdings: Bryant

To Bryant and back again

Accounting for legacy

When the Hart Zarozny family gets together, it’s more than a fam-

“I always tell people, if it weren’t for Bryant, I wouldn’t be here,”

ily reunion; it’s a Bryant reunion. Ten members of their extended

laughs John “Jack” Renza Jr. ’70. He’s not just talking about the

family have passed under the Smithfield campus’s Archway.

success he’s found in his accounting career; his parents John

“It was the drive onto campus that first sealed the deal,” remem-

36

bers Sheryl (Hart) Zarozny ’86, who transferred to Bryant College as a sophomore in the fall of 1983.

Renza Sr. ’43 and Marie (Teigue) Renza ’43 met and fell in love as Bryant students.

After serving in World War II, John Sr. married Marie and

Sheryl moved onto campus alongside her brother Dan Hart ’87,

was hired on as a professor of accounting and mathematics

who was starting as a first-year; it was through Dan that Sheryl

at Bryant, a position he would hold for 23 years. “My father

met her future husband, Bruce Zarozny ’86. Dan was rushing

loved this school so much,” says Renza Jr., noting that the elder

Bruce’s fraternity and the two hit it off at the campus’s Country

Renza was awarded the key to the University in 2009. “They

Comfort pub. At that point, Bruce was already part of a Bryant

gave him a job where he came to make a difference in so many

legacy of his own, including his brother Wayne ’79, sister Karen

lives.”

’75, and brother-in-law Richard McGrath ’75.

Bruce and Sheryl fell in love, graduated, and got married. But that wasn’t the end of the Zarozny family’s Bryant connections.

Their three children Adam ’16, Alicia ’18, and Alexa (Lexi) ’22

From an early age, Renza Jr. received his own education in all things Bryant . When it came time to choose a college, it was no choice at all. Both he and his brother Gerald ’80MBA were the next threads in the family’s longstanding Bryant ties.

all chose to attend Bryant, as did their niece, Wayne’s daughter

Renza Jr. forged his own path at Bryant, both as a student

Brittany ’13. The Zarozny’s encouraged their son and daughters to

and post-, including as a member of the Board of Trustees

visit a number of schools across the country but, in the end, they

and as president of the Alumni Association. Along the way, he

all decided to go to school at Bryant for some of the same reasons

picked up his father’s love of the accounting profession and

their parents did, including the close-knit community.

teaching.

The Zaroznys continue to make new Bryant bonds, as well.

As favorite Bryant moments go, however, he ranks as one of

Sheryl, Adam, and Bruce have all returned to campus as alumni

the highest seeing his son John Renza III ’08MBA receive his

mentors for Bryant’s Innovation and Design Experience for All

own degree from the university.

(IDEA) program and Sheryl has mentored students through the

Today, the Renza legacy continues on through the Mary E.

university’s Women in Leadership course, which pairs Bryant

and John S. Renza Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship, which

seniors with accomplished professionals.

aids new generations of Bryant students in pursuing a career in accounting — and their own dreams.

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Legacies Capital Gains: Bulldogs in Business THINK GLOBALLY, ACT WITH FRIENDS

GOOD FRIENDS MAKE GOOD NEIGHBORS

When Ryan Letourneau ’11 decided he

“I'm thrilled to be here representing two

wanted to help change the world, he

institutions that mean a lot to me,” noted

knew who he had to turn to. He had

Adam Joffe ’93, ’95MBA, head of asset man-

first met Jason Dodier ’09 as student

agement compliance, risk and business

senators and they remained connected

operations at Fidelity Investments, at the

when they both joined the multina-

grand opening of the university’s Business

tional energy management company

Entrepreneurship Leadership Center.

Schneider Electric.

Strength in numbers

“He’s the best salesperson I ever met,” Letourneau marvels.

Access to Bryant students is one of the reasons Fidelity came to Smithfield in the first place and, today, more than 700 Bryant

When Hannah O’Brien ’25 walked under

So, as he developed Grain Ecosystem,

grads are employed by Fidelity. It was this

the Archway at this year’s Commence-

a tech-based sustainability startup that

powerful relationship that led Fidelity to

ment, she carried an important legacy

streamlines the carbon offset process

gift Bryant their building adjacent to cam-

with her. The third generation of Dykas

for project developers, Letourneau knew

pus where the BELC now resides — just the

family women to attend Bryant, she cel-

that Dodier was the right choice to help

latest expression of a strong shared bond,

ebrated under the Commencement tent

launch the eco-friendly start-up. Now,

suggested Joffe.

with both her mother and grandmother.

together, they’re working to make a

Lorraine (Fitleau) Dykas ’72, who

global difference in the climate space.

recalls being the only woman in the

TAKES ONE TO KNOW ONE

Nobody knows the value of an education

Accounting program at the time and even

A TOUCH OF INSPIRATION

better than Bryant grads. Accounting firm

having to convince the dean of admis-

Both first-generation college students,

PwC US and its partners who are Bryant

sions to let her in. “I sat in his office and

Alexia Brandao ’24 and Julia Di Natale ’22

University alumni recently funded the $1.5

just stayed there until he said ‘Okay,’

formed an immediate bond when they

million PwC AI in Accounting Fellowship

because he wanted me to take another,

met on Bryant’s Honors Council.

program,

more traditional major for womn.”

a

cutting-edge

experiential

When Brandao began applying for

learning initiative that offers undergraduate

Colleen O’Brien ’96 followed in her

jobs, an analyst position at Goldman

students a unique opportunity to explore

mother’s footsteps, only she pursued

Sachs, where many Bryant grads have

artificial intelligence within the accounting

Finance and Marketing. After graduation,

built long careers, was of immediate

profession.

she went on to Suffolk University Law

interest. But securing the position would

“This program further illustrates the

School, worked in some of Providence’s

be big leap, she worried. In need of sup-

strong relationship between PwC and

largest law firms, and is now in-house

port, she turned to Di Natale, who worked

Bryant University, where so many of our

counsel at property management firm

at the firm as a senior analyst. “She would

partners and staff began their career

Gatehouse Management Inc.

always tell me ‘Just be yourself and you'll

journey in accounting,” says Bob Calabro

be perfect,’” Brandao recalls.

’88, a Bryant University trustee and PwC

“I feel like I'm a little bit of a combina-

37

tion of the two of them,” says Hannah,

After graduation, Brandao started

who studied Finance and Applied Analyt-

her dream job just a few desks down

ics. “I'm so grateful to have such a strong

from Di Natale.

US partner who helped to spearhead the development of the program.

line of successful and independent females in my life who are such great role models.”

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VISION 2030

Top 5% in the U.S.

#6 Best University

5 Stars Excellence QS Stars 2025

TOP 1% Return on investment Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce

U.S. News & World Report 2025

38

#16

Most Innovative Schools U.S. News & World Report 2025

#6

Best Colleges for Business Majors Money.com

99%

of Bryant graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months

$76,000 median starting salary

BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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VISION 2030

“CLT acts as both structure and finish. It’s durable, beautiful, and, most importantly, it helps sequester carbon for the lifespan of the building, which is potentially 100 years or more.”

The complex includes high-efficiency mechanical equipment including a dedicated outdoor air system for optimal ventilation, sophisticated controls, and monitoring. This is the first building on campus to feature public energy-use displays to increase students’ awareness of energy consumption, says Mann.

An

Greener Living

underground

stormwater

detention system, a pedestrian connector, outdoor gathering spaces, and

Sustainability finds a home in new residence complex

new electric vehicle charging stations round out the sustainable site features.

Bryant also prioritized land pres-

Bryant University’s newest apart-

fireplace lounge, gaming room, well-

ervation in selecting a site that was

ment-style residence hall, the Puishys

ness room, outdoor patios, sweeping

proximate to existing utilities and

Residence Complex, is not only expand-

treetop views from every bedroom,

within primary walking sheds. By

ing housing options for upperclass stu-

and 24/7 study spaces create an envi-

building vertically on a compact 1.3-

dents; it’s also setting a new standard

ronment that provides both privacy

acre footprint, the university signifi-

for sustainable campus development.

and social engagement.

cantly reduced land disruption while

Slated to open this fall and sup-

But what lies beneath — and above

increasing capacity in the most com-

ported by a $10 million investment

— makes this building a milestone in

pact housing development on campus,

from Joe ’80 and Kathi (Jurewicz) ’81

eco-conscious construction.

and preserving land and surrounding

Puishys, the five-level, 85,000-square-

“We’re especially excited about

foot complex, consisting of two wings

our use of cross-laminated timber, or

connected by glass-enclosed bridges

CLT,” says Thomas Mann, assistant vice

land-efficient,” Mann notes. “And it’s

on three levels, offers modern living

president for the Office of Planning,

walkable from everywhere students

in the heart of Bryant's campus. A

Design, and Construction at Bryant.

need to be.”

39

wetland jurisdictions.

“It’s

two-and-half

times

more

­—CN

Inside the BELC The lobby areas of Bryant’s College of Business, located inside the university’s new Business Entrepreneurship Leadership Center, are abuzz with activity during the academic year. The spaces, designed by Ayers Saint Gross, sit at the intersection of labs, classroom spaces, and offices for professors and executives-in-residence and features work and conversation areas for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

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IMPACT What I’ve Learned: Influencer and Entrepreneur Mikayla Nogueira ’20

When the pandemic foiled her grad school plans and she was furloughed from a role at Ulta Beauty, Mikayla Nogueira ’20 picked up her iPhone and began posting. In five short years, Nogueira has become one of TikTok’s most prominent beauty influencers, amassing more than 16 million followers and earning spots on Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list in 2024 and Time's The 100 Most Influential Creators of 2025.

Known for her thick Boston accent and vibrant personality, Nogueria has also grown into a global entrepreneur, launching her own skin prep brand, Point

41

of View, in March just before Bryant honored her with an Emerging Leaders Award.

Here, she shares lessons learned from her whole-life makeover:

LEAN INTO YOUR PASSION

KEEP YOUR AUDIENCE IN MIND

FIND THE RIGHT SUPPORT

“The only thing keeping me going

“When I was working at Ulta Beauty,

“I have my communication, marketing,

during the COVID-19 pandemic was

there was this one question I would get

and media background but, for Point

makeup. I thought, ‘I love to create, and

every single shift: ‘Why can't I get my

of View, I now have a CEO and people

I love creative direction, so why don't

makeup to look good?’ I found myself

working in finance. That's the thing

I take everything I learned at Bryant

having to maze throughout the store

about

and from working at Ulta, and put it on

to put together a skin prep routine for

person can handle every single piece

social media?’”

people. There wasn't a brand that was

of the puzzle. So having people on my

straight to the point.

team that help me curate everything

BE PERSISTENT

“That’s why I created my own skin

“I made videos with no income for

prep brand, Point of View. I want

six months before I had my first

people to feel inspired to be their own

meeting with a brand. A big reason

makeup artist at home and to discover

why I'm sitting where I am in my life

their own point of view on beauty.

today is because I've always believed

My products are simple, clean, and

in dreaming big, even if the dream

exceptionally effective.”

entrepreneurship:

No

one

to make sure it's perfect has been a saving grace.” ­—Emma Gauthier

seemed stupid to other people.”

Photograph by Kerri Rubino ’25 MBA

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IMPACT

nies he invested in ultimately went out of business.

“That's the hardest part, because you’re working with somebody for three or four years, and sometimes it doesn't pan out,” he notes. “It's heart-wrenching because people lose their jobs. You’re super invested, not just monetarily but emotionally.”

Sometimes, the drive to keep a company afloat has meant taking over dayto-day operations, like Bertrand did after acquiring a New York post-production firm in 2007. When a bid to merge the bankrupt, family-owned company with a related firm failed, he stepped in as CEO and eventually guided it to a strategic acquisition.

“When I was in private equity, I probably reviewed 5,000 business plans, so

42

I've been exposed to literally every type

A Vision for Leadership

of business model,” Bertrand says.

Being on the board of companies like

Venture capitalist and CEO Eric J. Bertrand ’94 understands companies inside and out

U.S.Vision, Inc., has also helped prepare him to lead businesses, whether out of necessity or desire, such as when he founded the angel investment and financial consulting firm Lincoln Road

Over the last 30 years, Eric J. Bertrand

“It was entrepreneurial in the

Advisors in 2005, and when he launched

’94 has founded, acquired, merged, and

sense that you got to work with these

the company he currently leads, the

rescued companies. When necessary,

early-stage companies, helping them

marketing and communications firm

he’s even stepped in to run them himself.

to grow and create value,” he says.

Mod Op, in 2017.

come

As CEO of Mod Op, Bertrand says he

straight line, but it has always arced

from being an entrepreneur or go on

has a more singular focus than he did

toward success. And while Bertrand’s

to become an entrepreneur at some

in his venture capital days. Still, acqui-

diverse background allows him to view

point.”

sitions are very much part of the com-

His career path hasn’t been a

“Venture

capitalists

either

companies through a range of lenses,

Over the years, Bertrand, who was

pany’s growth strategy as Mod Op seeks

at his core he retains the entrepre-

honored with the CEO Forum Group’s

to bring together an array of AI, data

neurial ethic he learned as a Finance

Transformative CEO Award in Leader-

science, creative, and media assets — a

and Actuarial Mathematics double

ship for digital transformation in 2024,

convergence that’s also explored in Ber-

major at Bryant.

has invested in everything from soft-

trand’s 2024 book, Getting Digital Done:

ware as a service (SaaS) firms to a large

An Executive Guide to Growth and Trans-

chain of optical retail stores.

formation.

Bertrand’s first job out of college was with Aetna's private equity group, before he left to join an upstart venture

Like all entrepreneurs, he has learned

“I love the fact that we’re trying to

capital and private equity practice at

to live with failure: Bertrand estimates

make a difference in the way the model

Palisade Capital Management.

that 25 percent of the early-stage compa-

works in this industry,” he says.

­—BC

BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

2025_Bryant_Magazine_Summer.inddc 42

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IMPACT

abuse and mistreatment.

work, from representing talent at

“We’re disruptors in the space and

the World’s Ugliest Dog competition

we’re working to change things indus-

to hosting an animal fashion show

try-wide,” she says.

featuring a pig who couldn’t help but

Empathy has always been Wilson’s

Animal Magnetism Colleen Wilson ’10 works to bring “pawsitive” change to the animal talent industry

indulge his natural ham.

superpower, and it also underpins the

“It can be a strange business some-

origin of Pets on Q. While working as a

times,” Wilson admits. “But it’s a

private mortgage banker, she rescued

booming one.”

Charlie, a deaf dog who was sched-

Pets on Q’s stable of animal clients

uled to be euthanized because he was

included everything from bunnies to

thought to be untrainable — until

birds to tortoises. One group, though,

Wilson taught him American Sign

is especially close to Wilson’s heart.

Language.

“I think my favorite animals to

When brands and the media began

work with are the rescues and the

to reach out about her story, Wilson

adoptables,” she says, “because by the

realized she could help other pet own-

time we’re done with a project every-

ers navigate the animal talent busi-

one has fallen in love with them, and

ness and left her banking job to devote

just about all of them get adopted.”

her full energies to Pets on Q.

­— SK

“People kept telling me I was crazy, and I would say to them, ‘You don’t understand: this is a massive indus-

43

try,’” Wilson recalls.

It’s also an industry that has changed over time. In addition to ani-

We all have a favorite celebrity animal,

mal actors, Pets on Q now has a client

whether it’s the heroic Lassie or the

roster of over 20,000 pet social media

irascible Grumpy Cat. But sometimes

influencers.

we forget that behind every star pet

“This is an area that’s really taken

there’s a human who cares for them

off; many of the influencers we repre-

— or at least there should be, says Col-

sent are making $100K and up,” says

leen Wilson ’10.

Wilson.

As founder and CEO of Pets on Q,

Wilson has even found an unex-

the largest animal talent agency in the

pected starring role of her own. In

world, Wilson, who majored in Mar-

2021, Netflix’s “Pet Stars” series took

keting at Bryant, makes sure her furry,

viewers behind the scenes of her

finny, feathery, and scaly friends are treated with the respect they deserve.

Her company has partnered with brands from Purina to Nissan, but her vision extends beyond helping Dalmatians discover the spotlight or finding the perfect parrot to deliver a product pitch. Through Pets on Q, Wilson aims to create a more humane

CLASS NOTES Have an update for the Bryant community? Share your successes by submitting a Class Note.

industry in a field with a history of BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

2025_Bryant_Magazine_Summer.inddc 43

7/24/25 1:24 PM

I M PACT

Voice through Verse José B. González ’89’s prizewinning poetry elevates Latino stories José B. González ’89, Ph.D., earned a 2025 Pushcart Prize for his work, “A Skillet Poem,” which delves into themes of heritage, memory, and the everyday objects that connect people to their roots. This recognition places González among the year's most esteemed voices in independent literature.

González’s journey from a young immigrant from El Salvador to a celebrated poet has been marked by resilience and dedication. Arriving in the U.S. at age

44

eight without English proficiency, he pursued a Bachelor

speaking. His previous poetry collections, including Toys

of Science in Business Communication at Bryant, where

Made of Rock and When Love Was Reels, have garnered

he discovered his passion for literature and storytelling.

critical acclaim, and he also founded LatinoStories.com, a

He continued to nurture this calling during advanced

platform dedicated to promoting Latino literature.

studies at Brown University and the University of Rhode Island.

“A Skillet Poem” appears in The Pushcart Prize XLIX: Best of the Small Presses 2025 Edition and is available via all

Now a distinguished professor of English at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, González continues to inspire

major booksellers. A new poetry collection by González will be published in 2026.

others through his teaching, writing, and public

­—CN

REELING IN SUCCESS Learn how Zack Richardson ’21, owner of Zack’s Custom Rods, translated an early love of fishing into a thriving business making custom fishing rods.

BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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I M PACT

Life of Purpose Ann-Marie Harrington ’86 gives back while moving forward Anyone can be a philanthropist, says Bryant University trustee and recently

appointed

Rhode

Island

Foundation Board Chair Ann-Marie Harrington ’86.

“Philanthropy is literally ‘the love of

rington leaned further into charitable

humanity,’” says Harrington, referenc-

and philanthropic works, joining the

ing the Greek playwright Aeschylus,

Rhode Island Foundation board in 2015

who coined the term in the 5th century

and becoming a Bryant trustee in 2020.

B.C. “You don't have to be super wealthy

She has also volunteered as a mentor

to give back to your community.”

for startup companies and as a judge

As Harrington has demonstrated in the nearly four decades since she passed

45

for Bryant’s Innovation and Design Experience for All (IDEA) program.

under Bryant’s Archway, charity and

The Rhode Island Foundation is a

personal success often go hand-in-hand.

community foundation with $1.5 bil-

“If you look at some of our most suc-

lion in assets and awards more than $80

keynote discussion featuring WNBA

cessful Bryant grads, they are all giving

million in grants annually. Community

superstar Lisa Leslie, Harrington was

back to their community,” she says.

foundations are “a vehicle that anyone

“They’re serving on a board, they're vol-

can use to turn their generosity into

unteering, they're sharing their wealth

good,” and are especially attractive to

and contributing financially.”

the next generation of philanthropists,

ter-educated, upwardly mobile, and

says Harrington.

more diverse state creates a welcom-

A native Rhode Islander, Harrington

After moderating a 2024 Women's Summit

spotted giving the Nike Dunk Low LX Lisa Leslie sneakers she wore to Central High School student Rexella Bishop.

grew up in Providence and North Kings-

“Generation Z wants to give back,”

ing environment for new businesses

town. She earned a Bachelor of Science

she says. “They want to be successful.

and entrepreneurs, including Bryant

in Business Administration from Bry-

They want to be heard. But all of them

alums, notes Harrington.

ant and a master’s degree in social work

are community- minded. It is embedded

from Rhode Island College. Among her

in them at the ground level.”

“Success to me isn't just wealth,” she says. “Success is giving back to the

many career highlights was founding

Education, health, and economic

community and living with purpose.”

Embolden, a digital marketing and tech-

mobility have traditionally been the

­—BC

nology firm whose clients included 200

three pillars of the Rhode Island Foun-

community foundations, nonprofits,

dation’s work, but their current five-

and Fortune 500 companies.

year action plan focuses on new prior-

After selling Embolden to a pri-

ities like climate action and civic and

vate-equity company in 2014, Har-

cultural life. Building a healthier, betBRYANT | SUMMER ’25

2025_Bryant_Magazine_Summer.inddc 45

7/24/25 1:25 PM

I M PACT

Stepping Up for Access

Agenda

Clinical services director ensures Rhode Islanders receive needed care

Join fellow Bulldogs at these Bryant events, on campus and beyond:

Joseph Desrosiers II ’18 MSPAS, PA-C,

foot facility in Providence is equipped

has made it his mission to expand

with 10 exam rooms, a teaching class-

access to healthcare, whether by

room, and a behavioral healthcare

serving on the Rhode Island Commis-

suite. The nonprofit offers primary

sion for Health Advocacy and Equity

health services and a walk-in clinic

(CHAE), teaching physician assistant

during the day, and a dozen other

students at Assumption University,

volunteer-led clinics at night.

or working at Clínica Esperanza/

Offsite, Clínica Esperanza con-

Hope Clinic, a nonprofit providing

ducts outreach programs such as

medical services to uninsured adults

vaccination events, general health

in Rhode Island.

screenings, patient education ses-

“When people don't have access to

46

sions, and food and clothing drives.

care, they are either forced to suffer

A lifelong Rhode Islander, Des-

the pain and outcomes of their dis-

rosiers worked in biotech research

ease or the long-term side effects of

and vaccine development prior to

not caring for themselves,” says Des-

pursuing his Physician Assistant

rosiers, a general practitioner and

Studies degree at Bryant.

Clínica Esperanza’s director of clin-

“Bryant’s robust program appealed

ical services. “Coming to this clinic

to me with its emphasis on complete

allows people who truly have no other

training in general medicine, the

option to access healthcare, which

number of rotations offered, and its

motivates me every day.”

involvement with many services and

Clínica Esperanza’s 6,500-square-

clinics throughout the state,” says Desrosiers, who later taught within

AUG. 17 Bryant Brunch on Cape Cod Join President Ross Gittell, Ph.D., and Dean of the College of Business Todd Alessandri, Ph.D., for brunch at Chatham Bars Inn, hosted by Jason ’92 and Laurie (Barron) ’92 Fromer P’22.

OCT. 3–5 Reunion@Homecoming Join us for a weekend full of football, friends, and fun as you reconnect with classmates from graduation years ending in 0s, 5s, and beyond!

Bryant’s PA program.

In addition to their other work, Desrosiers and other CHAE commissioners work with local and state officials to develop public policies that ensure adequate and equitable care.

OCT. 22 Bryant Giving Day

“Taking part in advocacy, not just for our profession, but for access to healthcare for all people who live in America, has to be done at a higher level to have the most impact,” Desrosiers says. “It is a responsibility for all of us as members of a community

Support the Bulldog community and make an impact in the area that means the most to you. Compete against your classmates, friends, and family to unlock bonus dollars.

to ensure that everyone has the basic human right of healthcare.”

­—EB

Learn more at alumni.bryant.edu

BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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I M PACT

Board Bound Emilia Wojciechowska ’25 named Recent Alumni Trustee, advancing a signature tradition of young alum leadership Each year, Bryant University selects

that will help shape the university’s

one graduating senior to help shape

path forward.”

the institution’s future as a full mem-

Wojciechowska’s

academic

and

ber of its Board of Trustees. Emilia

leadership accomplishments span the

Wojciechowska ’25 has been named

globe. A member of the Honors Pro-

the 2025 Recent Alumni Trustee — a

gram, she explored the impact of geo-

distinction that underscores Bryant's

graphic diversification in manufac-

longstanding commitment to student

turing on U.S. imports in her senior

success and elevating student voices

thesis. She studied abroad in Seville,

in governance.

Spain, interned with an international

“It’s

a

surreal

Wojciechowska,

moment,”

an

says

International

manufacturing firm, and completed a practicum with a client in Israel.

Business and Marketing major with a

On campus, Wojciechowska was

concentration in Global Supply Chain

active in the International Business

Management and a minor in Spanish.

Association, IDEA (Innovation and

Born and raised in Queens, New

“I came to Bryant knowing no one,

Design Experience for All), Omicron

York, Wojciechowska is a first-gen-

nervous about finding my place. But

Delta Kappa, Phi Sigma Iota, and the

eration college student whose par-

I found it. And to be chosen for some-

club hockey team, where she man-

ents immigrated from Poland. She

thing like this is beyond what I ever

aged social media. At Commence-

didn’t speak English until kindergar-

imagined.”

ment, she received both the Roger W.

ten.

Bryant is among a select group of universities that offer students a

Babson Award and a Student Senate Leadership Award.

“I like doing things differently,” she says. “No one from my high

direct pathway from campus lead-

Wojciechowska also served on the

school had gone to Bryant before. But

ership to board-level service. The

Bryant Senior Advisory Council, a

the IB program stood out to me, and I

Recent Alumni Trustee is a three-year

group of student leaders who advise

wanted to forge my own path.”

appointment awarded to a graduating

the university’s cabinet and presi-

Reflecting on the opportunity, she

senior who has demonstrated excep-

dent. The Recent Alumni Trustee is

adds: “Bryant’s strength is in its peo-

tional service, strategic thinking, and

selected from this cohort. She follows

ple, its values, and its commitment

leadership.

in the footsteps of previous trustees

to real-world learning. We don’t just

Alexia Brandao ’24, Jake Williams ’23,

sit in classrooms. We experience the

and Julia Di Natale ’22.

world while we learn about it.”

“The Recent Alumni Trustee is one of the most distinctive leadership appointments a graduating student

“Julia has been a mentor to me,”

can receive,” said D. Ellen Wilson ’79,

Wojciechowska notes. “She helped

chair of Bryant’s Board of Trustees.

me grow into the leader I am now.

“We are thrilled to welcome Emilia to

Seeing how she carried herself made

the board. She brings not only a deep

me want to do the same — to speak

knowledge of the Bryant community

up, ask questions, and keep Bryant

but also a powerful sense of purpose

moving forward.”

47

­—CN

BRYANT | SUMMER ’25

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I D E AT I O N S IMPACT

IDEATIONS

The Leadership Playbook Trustee Professor of

Management

ON CREATING A CULTURE OF CANDOR:

Michael A. Roberto, DBA, has exam-

“A leader should refrain from speaking first in each

ined leadership and managerial deci-

meeting. If they set out a proposal and then ask for

sion-making from multiple angles.

input, many employees assume the decision has

He’s published case studies on com-

already been made and hold back on feedback.

panies as diverse as Planet Fitness,

Leaders also must be willing to talk about their

Trader Joe’s, and the Savannah

own mistakes and failures to make it normal and

Bananas baseball team, and co-au-

expected for people at all levels to admit errors,

thored a bestselling simulation of

learn from them, and share those lessons with

an ascent of Mount Everest that’s

others. Finally, be careful how you respond to bad

widely used to teach collaboration

news. If you shoot the messenger once, people

and communication around the

will remember that for a long time to come.”

world.

Roberto reflects below on some

ON HEALTHY DEBATE:

of the biggest failures, and wins, of

“Leaders should assign team members to play

modern leadership:

the role of ‘devil's advocate’ in meetings. Use ‘pre-mortems’ and ‘pre-parades’ to spark diver-

ON THE PERILS OF FEAR AND

gent thinking and uncover hidden risks. Imagine

AUTOCRATIC LEADERSHIP:

that a decision will result in a major failure, then

“Colin Powell once said, ‘Bad news is not

identify the likely causes. Then, imagine a highly

fine wine. It does not age well.’ When honest

successful outcome. These twin techniques

dialogue is stifled, problems often remain

have been shown to spark lively dialogue and

hidden until a crisis emerges.

debate.”

Boeing engineer Curtis Ewbank once described a ‘suppressive cultural attitude

ON THE VALUE OF CURIOSITY:

toward criticism’ at the company, where

“Frontline employees often sense new trends

engineers were reluctant to share safety

and threats before senior leaders do. The best

concerns

The

leaders create informal opportunities to engage

consequences proved catastrophic: In a

with these employees so that they can receive

matter of months, two Boeing 737 MAX jets

unfiltered information. Too often, leaders become

crashed, killing 346 people.

isolated and find themselves surrounded by

with

senior

managers.

A culture of candor allows people to share

people who tell them what they want to hear.

ideas, express dissenting views, and talk

Most leaders do not intentionally hire yes-men

openly about mistakes and failures. Too many

or yes-women. Instead, they create a culture in

leaders assume they have superior knowledge

which talented, independent-minded people

and information and rely on their old playbook,

gradually become less willing to speak up. The

even when circumstances have changed.”

most effective leaders remain ever-vigilant, never assuming that employees have told them everything they need to know.”

­—BC

Photograph by Jesse Burke

2025_Bryant_Magazine_Summer.inddc 48

7/24/25 1:25 PM

R E G I S T E R T O DAY !

On October 3-5, return to Bryant for Reunion@Homecoming!

This weekend is a chance to reconnect with fellow alumni from the 0’s, 5’s, and beyond.

alumni.bryant.edu/ reunion

S AV E T H E DAT E

givingday.bryant.edu

2025_Bryant_Magazine_Summer.inddc 49

10.22.2025

On Wednesday, October 22, the Bryant community will gather for Bryant Giving Day! Through our donations, we turn possibility into reality for our students.

7/24/25 1:25 PM

Bryant University 1150 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI 02917

Cover_Backcover_Magazine_Summer_25.indd 2

NON- PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID SMITHFIELD, RI 02917 PERMIT NO. 111

7/24/25 9:31 AM