Invention Fall 2024

invention WH AT’S INSIDE FA L L 2024

1 > Message from the President

14

GRADUATE PROFILES 2

4

2 > Brothers and Sisters in Arms: Kristal DeJesus, M.S. ’24 4 > Mastering Balance: Michael Serra, M.A. ’24 6 > Guarding the Code Pipeline: Emily Barnes, M.S. in Cybersecurity ’24 8 > On the Right Track: Alexandr Domansky, B.A. ’23 10 > Leadership in Action: Raymond Heck, B.S. ’23, AAS ’22 12 > Nursing Care Close to Home: Maisha Jeffers, BSN ’24 18 > From Ground Ops to Graduation: Frank Orlando, BSBA ’23, A.S. ’22 22 > Charting a New Course: Naomi Fox, DNP ’24, MSN ’19 24 > On Course for Success: Keene Franco, AAS ’24

18

COMMENCEMENT PHOTO SPREADS

14 > Scenes from Commencement GRADS BY THE NUMBERS

21 6

22

> Grads by the Numbers

UNIVERSITY NEWS

26 > TESU and NJSL Launch Artificial Intelligence Task Force to Drive Strategic Innovation

> Student Receives Scholarship from Nurses Educational Funds Inc.

> In-State Tuition Rates Extended to Pennsylvania Residents

FOUNDATION NEWS 8

24

27 > New Foundation Board Members 28 > Donor Cords Make the Difference: Amanda Movelle, DBA ’24 MEET A TESU GENIUS

Inside Back Cover > Bo Crochet, B.S. ’23, A.S. ’23

26

10

Invention is published biannually and is produced by the Office of Communications at Thomas Edison State University.

12

Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D. PRESIDENT

Kelly Saccomanno CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Victoria Monaghan MANAGING EDITOR

Sara Stricker COPYEDITOR

Erin Grugan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ayleen Gontz Beth Fand Incollingo WRITERS

Jaime R. Escarpeta Erin Grugan Chris Miller Michael Paras PHOTOGRAPHY

28

M E S S AGE

F ROM

T H E

PR E SI DE N T

Dear Alumni, Students and Friends, It is with immense pride that we celebrate this year’s graduating class. Each time I witness the positive groundswell from the audience as our graduates make their way across the Commencement stage, I am reminded of the tremendous power of a support system.

It takes committed partners, spouses, children, parents, extended family members, friends, colleagues, donors, supporters, dedicated educational and clinical partners and a devoted University community to help propel our students to that moment. Our graduates often balance their coursework with their careers and military service, in tandem with family and community responsibilities.

Each has a singular story of initiative, determination and resilience.

Maisha Jeffers is one of them. The 2024 Accelerated BSN Program graduate who used her military GI Bill benefits to finance her nursing education noted, “The key is to be driven, overcome the challenges and understand the commitment required.” The 97% pass rate achieved by her and the program’s graduates who sat for the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses is among the highest pass rates in the country this year and underscores that commitment. I know you will enjoy her story.

“JetBlue is where I found my passion,” remarked Frank Orlando in an alumni profile that chronicles the vast potential of educational partnerships. Launching his career with JetBlue Airways Corporation as a Ground Operations team member, Orlando is now a senior analyst for CoBrand Digital Acquisitions.

The 2023 Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program graduate, who recently celebrated his 10th year with the airline, recounts his transformation through the JetBlue Scholars partnership with TESU. Launched in 2016, the program has enabled more than 400 employees like Orlando to fulfill their dream of a college education.

You will also meet Keene Franco. The 2024 School of Science and Technology AAS in Applied Electronic Studies graduate received credit toward his degree for prior learning and a leg up through GO-TESU grant funding from New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and the State Legislature. Additional support from the PSEG Military and Veteran Scholarship Fund ensured that he could continue his studies. Franco, a U.S. Navy reservist, is now enrolled in the University’s B.S. in Electronics Systems Engineering Technology program.

Commencement is much more than a cyclical celebration; it is a monumental occasion in the lives of TESU graduates and those who played a role in helping them reach their milestones. Thank you for the parts you play in our TESU support system.

I hope you enjoy this issue of “Invention.”

Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D. President

InventionFall2024

1

Brothers & Sisters in Arms

Kristal DeJesus, M.S. ’24

From Trauma Care to the U.S. Air Force: A Journey of Service and Resilience Kristal DeJesus has embraced several roles on her way to becoming a medical administrative officer in the U.S. Air Force, and all of them have shared a basic requirement: nerves of steel.

As a nurse associate and, later, an administrator in a busy New Jersey trauma center, DeJesus assisted patients who were victims of a crime or a violent event. In a subsequent role with the U.S. Air Force, she served as an aircrew flight equipment specialist where she focused on keeping troops safe both during deployments and stateside by ensuring that critical gear such as helmets, oxygen masks, parachutes and survival kits were in working order and ready to go at a moment’s notice.

DeJesus has built a career around her knack for taking care of people and her attention to policies and procedures.

Those same motivations drew her to Thomas Edison State University (TESU), where she earned a Master of Science

in Homeland Security and Emergency Management in March 2024.

“The program allowed me to combine my interests and learn about the overarching

need to protect infrastructure, resources and, most importantly, people,” said the Egg Harbor, N.J., resident. “TESU also allowed me to earn my degree while being fully remote. I looked at countless schools that offered master’s programs, but given the nature of my work, an in-person or hybrid program would not have been feasible.”

DeJesus began her career as a certified nursing assistant at Cooper University Health Care, a Level 1 trauma facility in Camden, N.J., where she spent sixand-a-half years as a nurse associate before becoming a clinical operations coordinator.

“The role molded me into the administrator I am today,” she said.

“Working in civilian healthcare through COVID taught me to readily adapt to the needs of the situation.”

The time she devoted to patients who had been victims of crimes also sparked

Images in uniform do not constitute Department of Defense endorsement of the University or its programs..

2

her interest in studying prelaw and justice. She earned a bachelor’s degree in those disciplines from Rowan University — summa cum laude, with a 4.0 grade point average.

Increasingly drawn to the ethos of serving her country, DeJesus joined the 177th Fighter Wing of the New Jersey Air National Guard in Atlantic City, N.J.

unit members are healthy and rapidly deployable.

“There is no job more rewarding than serving those who serve,” said DeJesus.

“Although I wear the uniform myself, it is extremely meaningful that the patients

“I was looking for a change of pace and something that would keep me on my toes,” she said. “Although I loved my previous career in healthcare, I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself.”

Now that she has earned her master’s degree, DeJesus wants to continue her studies.

In 2018 she joined the U.S. Air Force to serve as a part-time flight equipment specialist, starting as an Kristal DeJesus, M.S. ’24, attends TESU’s 52nd Annual Commencement in Trenton, N.J., on Oct. 5. airman first class before being promoted to staff sergeant. we see in our clinic are our brothers and She advanced to a full-time role as a sisters in arms. The opportunity has commissioned medical administrative allowed me to pursue higher education officer for the 177th Fighter Wing in at no cost. I always wanted to go back January 2023 and was recently promoted to school but did not have the financial to the rank of first lieutenant. means to do so.”

From a clinic on base, DeJesus oversees facilities and programs sponsored by the Air Force Medical Service. Her work encompasses organizational tasks related to medical operations, patient care, resources, policies, budgets, regulations and standards to ensure that

“I made a strict schedule for myself so that I could earn my degree within the timetable I envisioned,” said DeJesus, who found TESU’s combination of online courses, learning materials and discussion board assignments made for a fruitful learning environment.

“They were extremely understanding of my deployments. There were times I had to submit assignments early or late due to travel-related constraints, and all my professors were very accommodating.”

Once she had that financial support, DeJesus enrolled at TESU, where she relied on her organizational skills and willpower to juggle work and school responsibilities and “enjoyed support from my dog, Brody,” during late nights completing papers.

“While maintaining my focus on my military training, I am considering earning my doctorate and am strongly considering TESU because of the flexibility it offers me as a military member. My biggest tip to adult learners is to make sure you take time for yourself,” said DeJesus, who enjoys trips to the beach and relaxing in nature. “Working a full-time job and being a full-time student is not easy, so take the longer route on your walk, take a deep breath and stay focused.”

To learn more about the programs available in the John S. Watson School of Public Service, visit tesu.edu/watson.

InventionFall2024

3

Photo by C&M Sangiovanni Photography

Mastering Balance Michael Serra, M.A. ’24

Juggling graduate studies, career, fatherhood and coaching with finesse Balancing master’s degree coursework and a 300hour internship with a vibrant teaching career, fatherhood and varsity basketball coaching may seem like wizardry, but it is second nature to Michael Serra.

“Thomas Edison provided me with exactly what I was looking for in a degree program,” said Serra, a 2024 graduate of the Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Leadership program who serves as a high school mathematics and computer science teacher at Morristown High School in Morris County, N.J. “I was taking one course a year before I earned my New Jersey Supervisor Endorsement in 2020. Once I earned that certificate and became tenured, I was able to close in on my M.A. degree goal faster.”

Serra’s professional endorsements include

4

K-12 Mathematics, K-12 Psychology, K-6 Elementary School and Students with Disabilities (Special Education) certificates from the New Jersey Department of Education. He has also served as an adjunct professor at Kean University and an elementary school teacher in Budapest, Hungary.

Undaunted by learning Hungary’s notoriously complex language, he launched a basketball program for middle and high school students while there.

Stateside, Serra has been a high school basketball coach for more than 15 years. He has coached and developed all-conference, county and state players.

In 2022, the New Jersey Athletic Conference selected him as the National Division Coach of the Year.

“I am proud to be a head high school varsity coach,

as well as founder and director of the Morris Basketball Academy program,” he stated. “I also coach and develop fourth grade through college basketball players and run basketball summer camp programs.”

members of our district’s leadership team in fulfilling my internship requirements.

The experience helped me to enhance my effectiveness in the classroom and expand my network of professional contacts,” Serra said.

Before attending TESU, Serra earned his master’s in psychology from Kean University and his bachelor’s in psychology from East Carolina University.

Serra’s degree is already helping him to expand his professional collaborations.

Thomas Edison’s master’s degree in educational leadership with a concentration in building leadership is one of three 36-credit program tracks that prepare aspiring educational leaders to earn school district supervisor and principal endorsements. These realworld learning experiences provide collaborative opportunities on projects, theories, research, applications and best practices with the program’s students, course mentors and peers.

“My TESU internship mentor was Brian Young, supervisor of STEM in the Office of Curriculum & Instruction for the Morris School District. He helped to transform my view of the 21st-century classroom — especially the mindset that learning is the goal in education with the grade serving as the ‘carrot’ for students.

This ethos aligns with the collaborative classroom setting that I advocate and helped me to reimagine my approach to teaching math. My TESU course mentors also embraced this model, and I was able to collaborate with other

He was recently published in “Educational Viewpoints” in the Journal of the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association. The article, “Literacy Instruction in Mathematics: A Conversation Between Two Content Area Specialists,” was co-authored by his colleague Kara B. Douma, Ed.D., a K-12 supervisor of English language arts for the Morris School District.

“There are many master’s degree programs in educational leadership that students must complete within five years. That was not the case with TESU, and I needed that flexibility,” he said. “In addition to my time commitments, my wife, Michele, is an adolescent trauma counselor, so her schedule is demanding and variable. Despite our responsibilities, we are ‘family first’ proponents devoted to our 6-year-old son and 11-year-old daughter. I needed to find a program that would accommodate my schedule and support me in my long-term goal of becoming a school principal.”

“Any time I had questions, TESU academic advisors were an immense help. Cindy Strain, the assistant dean of the Heavin School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education has also been ultra-responsive and phenomenal in her support. Even though my courses were online, I felt connected to the staff and course mentors. I also found a validating and supportive environment in my online courses. From a collaborative standpoint, it is valuable to share experiences among fellow educators, observe leadership challenges and pedagogical approaches across multiple academic models, explore best practices and examine current trends together.”

Serra said that he could not have managed as a student without the support of his family.

“My wife has been beyond supportive throughout and has unselfishly covered for me on weekends or during family vacations when my assignments were due. As a student, you desperately need that support system and, as an adult learner, it’s as if everyone in your household earns that degree.”

Learn more about the master’s in educational leadership program by visiting tesu.edu/heavin/maedl.

Serra said that TESU also provided the high-touch support system he needed to succeed.

Serra has been a high school basketball coach for more than 15 years.

InventionFall2024

5

Guarding the Code Pipeline

Emily Barnes, M.S. in Cybersecurity ’24

Breaking new ground in cybersecurity and inspiring the next generation Emily Barnes has plied her skills as a software engineer, developer and test engineer in the fields of aviation, aerospace, defense and healthcare. She gravitated to cybersecurity as an undergraduate student in computer science and has been expanding her expertise since.

Someone near and dear was a significant role model for her continuing education.

“From the beginning, my goal was to earn a technologybased master of science degree. My grandmother, Carol, earned her Ph.D. and has been my inspiration for continuing my education. I originally took a cybersecurity course that was built into my bachelor’s degree program and found it fascinating. Just three weeks into the term, we were hacking Windows passwords during lab simulations. It was an eye-opening experience. “It also proved to me that no one should ever use the term ‘password’ in their passwords,” she added.

Today, Barnes is a systems engineer and development security operations (DevSecOps) engineer focusing on cybersecurity for Thunderbolt Solutions. The Moorestown, N.J.-based company specializes in advanced engineering and system designs for defense and commercial markets.

An application development practice, DevSecOps is a

6

On left, Emily Barnes on stage at TESU’s 52nd Annual Commencement on Oct. 5. On right, Barnes and her husband, Phil.

collaborative approach that embeds security measures and practices during each phase of the IT lifecycle – from the initial design phase through development, testing and deployment to maintenance.

In addition to her M.S. degree in cybersecurity from TESU, Barnes earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Rowan University in Glassboro, N.J. She also possesses CompTIA Security+ and Amazon Web Services Cloud Practitioner professional certifications. She is now preparing for her CompTIA CySA+ certification designed specifically for cybersecurity professionals with a focus on incident detection, prevention and response.

“I help manage risks for government defense projects, specifically our Navy,” noted Barnes. “In this role, I assist in identifying issues and collaborate with fellow technical staff in resolving or mitigating any obstacles,” she said.

“I also complete static application security testing and other scans during project completion to find and eliminate vulnerabilities in the code pipeline.”

Barnes was recently promoted to a lead position on the job where she said she is further developing her leadership and collaboration skills. She said her TESU coursework expanded her skill set as well as her ability to meet emerging challenges.

“My courses have helped my understanding of the National Institute of Standards and Technology frameworks, and the many facets related to cybersecurity,” she noted. “My studies also helped my career progression, increasing my knowledge of the field and helping me complete work-related tasks while preparing for cyber-related certifications. I enjoy that every project I work on is a little different. Technology and cyber are rewarding fields because of the variety in these fields and opportunities to explore.”

She maintains that public universities like TESU offer the most value for the cost.

“I did not want to have to finance my education or take out loans. The TESU program allowed me to work fulltime throughout my degree pursuit,” she noted. “As a transfer student, I appreciated that TESU made the process easy. All the courses I had previously taken were slotted into my new academic program. Our professors challenged us but were always helpful and I appreciated their mentorship throughout.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics “Occupational Outlook Handbook,” employment of information security analysts and adjacent careers are projected to grow 32% through 2032 — much faster than other occupations.

Concurrent with the escalation of digital

threats, there is a growing percentage of women entering the cybersecurity field and filling leadership roles.

“I am looking forward to mentoring women as I progress in my career, and it was wonderful to note that 50% of the students in my courses at TESU were women. That is an exciting development, but that percentage is still not reflected in the workforce. Offering more technical classes as an introduction to elementaryage girls is a way to introduce them to the field while they are young,” said Barnes. “My grandmother was a significant role model from a generation in which it was unusual for women to attend college, but she was successful in her penchant for lifelong learning and earning her doctoral degree.”

Barnes is a member of Women in CyberSecurity, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to recruit, retain and advance women in the field and build a robust and diverse cybersecurity workforce. Her favorite pastime is running half marathons and “the occasional triathlon for fun.” A proud cat owner, she is also an avid reader who enjoys discovering, exploring and traveling U.S. cities with her husband, Phil.

To learn more about cybersecurity programs and other areas of study in TESU’s School of Science and Technology, visit tesu.edu/ast.

7

Alexandr Domansky, B.A. ’23

TESU graduate leverages education to break career barriers and achieve professional growth

Alexandr Domansky became intrigued by TESU’s online, adult-centric academic model when he served as a manager, and later, a director for Hudson Community Enterprises. The Jersey City-based nonprofit, focused on training and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, provided services for the University. Already pursuing his associate degree in criminal justice at Passaic County Community College, he vowed that his next educational venture would include TESU. In keeping with that plan, Domansky earned a B.A. in Liberal Studies (general management track) from TESU’s Heavin School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education in December 2023. Continuing his studies, he earned his master’s degree in business administration from Western Governors University in May 2024.

“I was a member of management for years, but I had reached a ceiling for advancement,” he said. “Hiring managers are consistently looking for a college degree as a prerequisite, and it may not matter how experienced you are.”

That reality became unacceptable to Domansky, whose goals have always included professional development.

8

“I like the saying, ‘the only way is up,’” said Domansky, a father of two daughters — Diana, 23, a high school art teacher, and Paula, 14. “I never wanted to stagnate in my career, but rather to learn, improve and advance.”

“I WAS A MEMBER OF MANAGEMENT FOR YEARS, BUT I HAD REACHED A CEILING FOR ADVANCEMENT. HIRING MANAGERS ARE CONSISTENTLY LOOKING FOR A COLLEGE DEGREE AS A PREREQUISITE, AND IT MAY NOT MATTER HOW EXPERIENCED YOU ARE.”

After spending 10 years with Hudson Community Enterprises, he joined New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJT) in 2020 as the supervisor of facility services.

The state-owned public transportation system is the nation’s third-largest provider of bus, rail and light-rail transit, linking New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. After becoming an acting manager for one of NJT’s facilities, he advanced to the role of manager of Engineering and Construction for Corporate Facilities in 2021.

On the job, Domansky’s overarching goals are to provide seamless operations and customer satisfaction — efforts he finds as rewarding as they can be complex. His work encompasses a yearly capital improvement program, overseeing an operating budget and managing maintenance programs for mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. He also administers service and project management contracts and supervises construction projects.

“Approximately 2,000 employees occupy the facilities I manage, which means I have 2,000 customers. Our team’s function is to provide them with a safe and healthy working environment,” said Domansky, who had become adept at juggling multiple responsibilities, but along the way began to worry about how he would find the time and capacity to oversee the startup of emerging projects.

“One day, I was sharing my concerns

ALEXANDR DOMANSKY, B.A. ’23

with one of my coworkers, and he responded, ‘You’re a manager — don’t just do, manage!’” Domansky recalled.

“That was when I devised a plan to delegate duties, schedule staff and organize the workload. Sometimes it is important to take a step back, breathe and think instead of rushing to try to do it all.”

That philosophy has served Domansky well, not only on the job but also in his volunteer work.

“I always wanted to serve the community,” he said. “As a deputy sheriff and, later, as senior deputy sheriff in Essex County, I have served the people for more than 11 years,” said Domansky, who is now a special police officer in his hometown of West Milford.

Fluent in Russian, Domansky was born in Ukraine and moved with his family to Bloomfield, N.J., after facing antisemitism in their homeland.

“We immigrated in 1996 on my 16th birthday,” he noted. “We came in search of a better life. Ultimately, we were chasing the American dream, which I believe I’m now living.”

He remains grateful for his opportunities, which explains his commitment to his education and career.

At TESU, he found that being extremely organized helped him stay on top of his coursework.

“I would create a schedule and stick to it,” said Domansky, who received the Arnold Fletcher Award designated for graduates who earn most of their degree credits at TESU while maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher. “I scheduled my assignment submissions a day before the actual due date, so if I ran into an issue, I still had time to submit my coursework. I felt a profound sense of accomplishment when I received the award. It is nice to be recognized for balancing school, two jobs, a family and my hobby of riding and refurbishing motorcycles.”

Domansky said he chose TESU for its value and the structure of its programs.

He became adept at managing the course requirements and assignments and enjoyed interacting with fellow students through course discussion board assignments. He was also pleased to find staff members were “helpful, accessible and willing to provide constructive feedback.”

To others considering pursuing degrees at TESU, Domansky recommends jumping right in.

“Take the plunge. It will not always be easy, but the satisfaction is worth it. You are doing it for you, to improve yourself and grow,” he noted. “If you plan it out and stick to a schedule, you will finish sooner than you think.”

To learn more about the Heavin School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education, visit tesu.edu/heavin.

9

Raymond Heck, B.S. ’23, AAS ’22 Finding a way to balance public service duties and education Through decades dedicated to public service, including his years as a police officer, Raymond Heck has incorporated himself into the fabric of his community.

In addition to spending 29 years working in New Jersey law enforcement, Heck is a firefighter and emergency medical technician (EMT) for the Millstone Valley Fire Department, a member of the state’s Fire Safety and Police Training commissions and the mayor of Millstone Borough. He was named New Jersey Mayor of the Year in 2015 and inducted into the New Jersey Elected Official Hall of Fame in 2018.

10

“On paper, ‘mayor’ is a part-time job,” said Heck, who is also the borough’s

emergency management coordinator.

“However, any mayor will tell you that the role becomes an integral part of your life. While you have your standard office hours and scheduled meetings, you manage the functions of the town 24/7. Unscheduled events, unexpected emergencies and community interaction are just part of the experience.”

Dedicated to becoming an even more effective volunteer and serving his community, Heck decided to continue his education at TESU. “What is most enjoyable about the positions I hold is that I can help people and effect positive change,” he said.

“I pursued academic studies because

I wanted the tools to honestly debate issues and understand other people’s interpretations on a subject. Almost every action — from planning to enforcement to budgeting — requires stakeholder input, and the ability to actively listen to all parties and craft a decision based on everyone’s contributions. These abilities make a good plan even better.”

With that goal in mind, Heck earned an Associate in Applied Science degree in criminal justice from TESU in 2022, followed by a B.S. in Homeland Security and Emergency Management in 2023. Now, he’s completing an M.S. in Homeland Security with a concentration

in counterterrorism coursework at the school.

The knowledge Heck gained at TESU has supported his work as a police officer.

his master’s degree. Along the way, he won the Arnold Fletcher Award, which recognizes TESU bachelor’s degree

“When your daily activities revolve around law enforcement, firefighting and emergency management, you center your perspective on one goal: Protecting the community by integrating the principles of homeland security,” he said. “My coursework has provided me with the tools to apply those principles in real-world scenarios, including redeveloping emergency operation planning in Millstone.”

Heck joined law enforcement in 1995 after working for Edison Township in parks and maintenance. A decade later he became a firefighter, an EMT and Millstone’s emergency management director, also serving on his town’s Borough Council before becoming mayor. More recently, Heck joined the boards of the New Jersey Conference of Mayors Raymond Heck, B.S. ’23, AAS ’22 and the New Jersey League of Municipalities and is a past recipients for graduating with a gradepresident of both. He also serves as a point average of 3.5 or higher. trustee of the New Jersey Police and Fire In addition to benefiting from easy-toRetirement System and the Middlesex navigate programs with clearly outlined County Joint Insurance Fund. expectations, Heck credits his success to Heck started his education more than “the opportunity to network with some two decades ago by earning professional of the brightest minds in the field, from certificates from Rutgers University mentors to fellow students.” in public sector labor relations, He appreciated TESU staff members for employment law and government putting students first and was inspired and union leadership and additional by his professors. certifications from Fairleigh Dickinson University in public management.

“Being in a career where the criminal Now, as Heck nears retirement from his justice component law enforcement duties, he expects that is evident his education will help him become more involved in the political arena.

every day, you tend to have a good working knowledge of the subject,” Heck said. “However, many of the professors were able to hit areas that I was unfamiliar with and truly expanded my skill set in this area. They were very receptive to questions and able to address real-life applications for what they were teaching.”

When he first added classes and homework to his schedule of working and volunteering, Heck struggled to find a balance.

“The best survival tip I can give is to schedule your studies as if you were going to the university in person,” he said. “For example, I schedule three two-hour blocks of time each week.”

Heck is grateful to his wife, Wendy, an elementary school teacher, and his daughter, Kaitlyn, who recently graduated from Rowan University with a degree in biology, for respecting his need to focus during those hours.

To fellow TESU students, Heck advises “sticking with it no matter what. If you have a scheduling conflict, reschedule it on the spot so you know where you stand. And always remember that part of the college experience is your commitment to succeed.”

To learn more about the programs available in the John S. Watson School of Public Service, visit tesu.edu/watson.

He chose TESU for his advanced studies because of its reputation for offering a quality education that fits into the lifestyles of students with careers.

As busy as he is, Heck appreciated the chance to take advantage of TESU’s Bachelor’s-to-Master’s degree completion route, which allowed him to earn 12 credits during his undergraduate program that also counted toward

InventionFall2024

11

Nursing Care Close to Home Maisha Jeffers, BSN ’24 The key to choosing a career in nursing began with a measure of self-reflection Maisha Jeffers came into her own while earning a bachelor’s degree in sports science and fitness management from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

“I learned a lot about myself, my culture, the world around me and becoming a young adult,” said Jeffers.

Four years and a bachelor’s degree later, Jeffers joined the U.S. Air Force where she learned to weave structure, service to others and the value of teamwork into her belief system.

She found that being in the military afforded her even more opportunities for growth, including travel, financial freedom and the advantages of being a service member. After some self-reflection and leveraging her GI Bill benefits to finance her education, Jeffers began to consider a career in the nursing profession.

“I’ve always had a compassionate nature. Through life experiences, I found that I am naturally empathic, relate easily to others and feel most comfortable doing a million things at once,” noted the 2024 W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions’ Accelerated BSN Program graduate.

Those traits would soon serve her well.

Of the nursing schools Jeffers considered, she selected TESU for its accelerated nursing program structure and consistently high NCLEX-RN pass rates. Clinching the deal was the University’s location.

“The TESU campus is part of a community I consider home,” she noted. “I grew up in the Trenton, N.J., area, so not only are my commutes short, but I also have a chance to inspire and recruit others who share my dream — and they do not have to go far to do so.”

Before entering the program, Jeffers was determined to become a labor and delivery nurse. However, during the program’s on-

12

ground clinical experiences at Capital Health, she discovered her true calling.

credentials meant so much to me,” she said. “I often stop to think, ‘Wow I am a registered nurse,’ and fully grasp the implications of that goal. I will always mean something to my patients and the care I provide can make a difference — I never take that for granted,” said Jeffers. “Many people come through the Accelerated BSN Program from a range of circumstances. Some fellow students had children, some held down jobs and others focused solely on the 15-month program. The key to succeeding in the program is not being the smartest or the fastest. The key is to be driven, overcome the challenges and understand the commitment that nursing care requires.

Having a support system can also make a world of difference.”

“I am now a huge supporter of clinical rotations to gain a better understanding of opportunities and areas of specialty that nursing students may not have previously considered. Even though I had exposure to labor and delivery, I suddenly connected with emergency department (ED) nursing care, and I could not be happier! My clinical rotations continuously reinforced my choice of nursing as a career and ED nursing as my focus,” noted Jeffers. “The experience exposed me to aspects of nursing care that I previously assumed I would not have the capacity for. Another significant clinical rotation was my time in the OR. Though I missed the patient interaction, I was able to see how OR nurses, surgeons and techs work together.”

According to Jeffers, time management and balance are the keys to succeeding in the program.

Graduation from a respected nursing program and the ability to write “RN” after her name was a pinnacle moment for Jeffers.

“

Jeffers credits God, family, friends and her study group — which included Nadia Boye, Khadijat Oloritun and Monsurat Aminu — for keeping her grounded and operating at her full potential.

“I am thankful for the journey, but it’s not something I would want to do twice,” she said with a laugh. “Now that it is over, I have more time to spend with those I love and plan my next group of goals. I’ve refocused on leisure reading, spending time with the people I love and taking naps! The key to your goals is endurance and knowing you can overcome the challenges!”

To learn more about the Accelerated BSN Program, visit tesu.edu/nursing/ programs/bsna.

The key to succeeding in the program is not being the smartest or the fastest. The key is to be driven, overcome the challenges and understand the commitment that nursing care requires. maisha jeffers, BSN ’24

“

“After completing my studies and passing my NCLEX-RN exam, the

“Time management is the answer for balancing lectures, online courses and clinical experiences,” she said.

“Throughout the program at any given time, I had at least three calendars: one

dry-erase board and one huge desk calendar in addition to the calendar on my phone. Although I felt like there was always work to be done, time management allowed me to prioritize what needed to be done immediately and what could wait.”

InventionFall2024

13

14

15

On the evening of Friday, Oct. 4, the CURE Insurance Arena in Trenton, N.J., stood in quiet anticipation. Nearly 500 empty chairs faced a stage adorned with banners and flowers, all set for the coming transformation. By Saturday, Oct. 5, Thomas Edison State University’s 52nd Commencement ceremony would be in full swing. Jubilant families would fill the seats, and the strains of Sir Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance” would fill the air, presaging the completion of a significant journey.

16

ALL WE NEEDED WAS YOU. InventionFall2024

17

from

GrounD OPS

to Graduation

18

Frank Orlando, BSBA ’23, A.S. ’22 How Persistence and a Partnership Took Frank Orlando to New Heights at JetBlue Frank Orlando bypassed college at 18 to attend acting classes in New York City while marketing and promoting nearby clubs and event venues. Though he eventually garnered years of on-ground experience and college credits, he had no degree to show for it.

All that changed in January 2024 when Orlando stood before fellow JetBlue Scholars during their commencement ceremony in Florida and described the journey that sparked the flame that brought him to that moment. Both inspired and inspiring, he was invited to the dais again — this time, to address fellow graduates during TESU’s 52nd Annual Commencement ceremonies on Oct. 5 at the CURE Arena in Trenton, N.J. “Delivering the two commencement speeches — the first among my JetBlue colleagues, and the second to fellow TESU graduates — represented a significant triumph, not just in terms of academic achievement, but also in personal growth,” noted Orlando, who marked his 10th year with JetBlue Airways Corporation in May 2024.

“JetBlue is where I found my passion.”

organizational culture and employee morale. Once I was promoted to the role of Station Operations coordinator, the initiative grew companywide, and leadership offered me the chance to manage its execution and growth,” said Orlando, who now serves as a senior analyst, CoBrand Digital Acquisitions, in the airline’s Long Island City Support Center.

participating in the JetBlue Scholars program. Launched in 2016, the TESU partnership with the airline offers crew members flexible degree opportunities and options to convert their professional training to credit toward a degree through its Corporate Choice

During his career trajectory, a family tragedy prompted him to take the pivotal step of enrolling in the JetBlue Scholars program.

“The tragic and untimely loss of my brother, Vito, motivated me to pursue endeavors that would honor his memory,” noted Orlando. “Ultimately enrolling in the program enhanced my credibility and provided me with strategic planning skills and analytical abilities that are directly applicable to my job.”

The University is among a select group of institutions

Frank Orlando at the JetBlue Scholars graduation in January.

His first role with the airline was as a Ground Operations or “GO” team member. GO team members prepare aircraft for departures, load passenger baggage, stock provisions and safely guide aircraft movement during arrivals and departures.

“My experience on the GO team gave me a profound appreciation for my fellow crew members’ dedication and the physical work they perform every day,” said Orlando. “I always yearned for a workplace where I could make a measurable impact on deserving employees. JetBlue leadership encouraged me to pursue that objective and implement my ideas as companywide initiatives.”

One of those opportunities came in spearheading the BlueUnity initiative, which fosters collaborations between the airline’s leadership team and its frontline employees.

“For four years, I dedicated myself to developing and managing the initiative while witnessing its influence on

19

Program, with their employers absorbing the bulk of the tuition.

“JetBlue’s partnership with Thomas Edison State University is invaluable and we could not have developed our JetBlue Scholars program in 2016 without this collaboration,” said Margo Moaremoff, manager of Academic Programs Frank Orlando, BSBA ’23, A.S. ’22, speaks on behalf of students at TESU’s 52nd Annual Commencement Ceremony in Trenton, N.J., on Oct. 5. for JetBlue.

“The University’s focus on experiential learning and willingness to allow students to transfer credits from a wide range of learning paths make it a perfect fit for us. Through the partnership with TESU, we have enabled more than 400 employees to fulfill their dream of secondary education. President Hancock and the TESU team have fully supported our mission to provide our crewmembers affordable and achievable access to higher education through flexible learning opportunities and alternative credit providers.”

Credit pathways at TESU chosen by JetBlue employees encompass courses evaluated by the American Council on Education and credit-by-exam options as well as Federal Aviation Administration certifications and JetBlue training programs that have been evaluated for credit by the University’s Office of

Professional Learning Reviews.

Orlando found that his courses and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Capstone project provided the academic foundation he needed to thrive.

“Each course offered a wealth of resources covering diverse topics alongside detailed rubrics outlining the grading criteria. This not only facilitated a clear pathway to success, but it also demonstrated the University’s commitment to supporting student learning outcomes,” he noted. “Moreover, the course mentors were genuinely dedicated to our success. My Capstone project allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge to real-world business challenges in my field. During project completion, I composed an analytical report including summary recommendations based on my research,

He said that he has been fortunate to receive support, particularly from his parents and siblings who have been an enduring source of motivation and encouragement.

“Their sacrifices and guidance have helped immensely, and I owe them so much for their love and support.

Additionally, I am incredibly thankful for the support of my wife, Marianna, who has been my rock throughout this journey. Her understanding, patience, encouragement and belief in me have been a driving force.”

Interested in maximizing your organization’s employee educational options? Contact TESU’s Office of Strategic Partnerships at corporatechoice@tesu.edu. Discover the pathway from workplace training and professional credentials to a degree through TESU’s Professional Learning Review process by visiting tesu.edu/ academics/oplr.

Former JetBlue Exec and Aviation Leader Receives TESU Spirit of Edison Award Bonny Simi, B.S. ’19, has worn many hats during her vibrant career.

A former airline pilot, Olympic athlete, journalist and venture capitalist, she is currently the president of operations at Joby Aviation. Simi previously served as president of JetBlue Technology Ventures and was head of talent for the airline. It was during her tenure that she launched the JetBlue Scholars program.

Her vision to make the educational journey more personalized, affordable and achievable for crewmembers began with her own experience. With undergraduate and graduate degrees from Stanford and Regis Universities, Simi test-drove TESU’s educational platform by completing a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Flight Technology program in 2019.

20

Her husband and daughter are also TESU alumni. Simi was presented with the TESU Foundation’s Spirit of Edison Distinguished Alumna Award on Oct. 10, 2024.

my knowledge of global policy and the resulting business strategies I developed. The ability to apply what I was learning in my courses was instrumental in deepening my understanding of key concepts and enhancing my career performance.”

#TESUgrad

37

years old AVERAGE AGE OF GRADUATES

GRADS FROM EVERY COUNTY IN NEW JERSEY

71

years old OLDEST GRADUATE

InventionFall2024

21

Charting a New Course

Naomi Fox, DNP ’24, MSN ’19 From EMT to doctoral graduate, Naomi Fox inspires and empowers future nurses.

Naomi Fox found a rewarding nursing career and the ability to abandon her comfort zone by chance. Now, her focus is on helping others realize the same potential.

“I entered the nursing field by accident. I wanted to become a firefighter and was hired into the New York City Fire Department’s program to prepare for that role,” said Fox, a Thomas Edison State University 2024 Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program graduate. “When they trained me to become an Emergency Medical Technician, I fell in love with patient care.”

Inspired to enter the profession, she earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing with a dual major in sociology from Rutgers University, Newark, in 2008 before devoting herself to rigorous clinical experiences in burn intensive care and cardiac surgery units at Saint Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston, N.J. (now Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center).

22

“An opportunity presented itself to transition to a clinical nurse educator role.

I took both a professional and personal risk, stepped outside of my comfort zone and quickly discovered that the specialty of nursing

professional development was my destiny,” said Fox. Nursing professional development practitioners serve as educators, preceptors, change agents, advocates, mentors and ‘go-tos’ for clinical staff and new nurses. Those prospects were exhilarating to Fox but also necessitated continuing her education. When she discovered the W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions, she knew she had found a home for her graduate-level studies.

“The School set me up for success by offering a rolling admissions and enrollment structure. Once I decided to begin my master’s degree in nursing, I did not have to wait months to get started,” Fox said. “Alternatively, if I needed a break or to take a term off, I could easily resume my studies.”

As career responsibilities expanded, Fox became inspired by the doctoralprepared nurses who entered her sphere.

“I began to consider the broader impact I could have on patient care, patientcare teams, my organization as a whole and policy and regulatory matters,” she said. “While it was not an easy decision at the time, I was driven by the idea of extending my reach and increasing my knowledge of systems-level nursing and best-practice methodologies. I had been working long hours before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. I also have two school-age children and a busy household, so I needed a program that would allow me to be a mother first.”

Once Fox earned her master’s degree in 2019, she recognized how well the School’s DNP program in systemslevel leadership could correlate with her professional aspirations while accommodating her lifestyle.

implement and evaluate project improvement programs, quality initiatives and evidence-based practice,” she noted. “My favorite DNP program component was the opportunity to collaborate with my peers. Those interactions provided perspective on nurse leadership across multiple practice settings and helped improve my understanding of the roles of senior staff I work with every day.”

Her culminating DNP Practicum project centered on patient falls and developing a nurse-led, patient-centered fall prevention tool.

“Falls are a huge concern in patient care and my project focused on patientcentered care strategies,” said Fox. “During project completion, I was able to have face time with the nurses and patients on the unit while implementing a strategic approach to fall prevention.”

The unit has continued to use the evidence-based fall prevention tool that Fox implemented.

“One of my career aspirations was to collaborate with fellow professional development practitioners and nursing leaders at a national level,” she said. “I was given that opportunity while I was completing the DNP program.”

Flexing her entrepreneurial muscle, Fox launched her own limited liability company, Top Level Nursing LLC, in 2022. Under its auspices, she has been contracted as the director of Education for the Association for Nursing Professional Development and its 8,000 members, including international nurses. She is also an adjunct clinical instructor at Rutgers School of Nursing in Newark, N.J. Fox holds certifications in Nursing Professional Development and Critical Care Nursing.

She has experience as both a primary and co-investigator in several research studies and evidence-based practice initiatives. She has also served as an individual or panel presenter at national conferences and research symposiums and as a primary and contributing author in a series of publications focused on professional development in nursing.

Off the clock (but on a timer), Fox is an avid long-distance runner who completed the Abbott World Marathon Majors in Tokyo this year.

“I have two children, ages 15 and 11, who take up most of my spare time along with a devoted husband, two dogs, a cat and many beloved houseplants. I also have a new Cricut obsession — although I need to perfect that skill,” Fox related. “I am a member of the American Nurses Association, the New Jersey Nurses Association and the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses and a volunteer with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation which recently changed its name to Breakthrough T1D. This is a community near and dear to my heart as my son is a Type 1 diabetic, and I hope to expand my volunteer work with Breakthrough T1D in the future.”

To learn more about the programs available in the W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions, visit tesu.edu/nursing.

“The program focused on clinical leadership and served as a knowledge base in enhancing my ability to design,

InventionFall2024

23

on course for Success Keene Franco, AAS ’24 Balancing dual commitments to education and military service Each student-support interaction validated to Keene Franco that he had found the right place. New Jersey state grant funding and corporate donor support helped to minimize any remaining obstacles to his degree.

“Thomas Edison State University’s academic model was distinctive because of its flexibility, credit transfer options, career-focused areas of study and ABET accreditation in the program I was interested in,” said Franco, an electronics technician with the U.S. Navy Reserve and a 2024 Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program graduate. “My motivation to continue my studies is fueled by my interest in military technologies and the opportunity to apply that skill set in my professional life.”

Naval electronics technicians are trained in computer, aerospace and electrical engineering to maintain combat readiness across a variety of complex ship and aircraft systems. Franco and fellow reservists regularly train to maintain U.S. military readiness and primacy in a host of environments. When mobilized, Franco supports full-time Navy operations, whether aboard naval vessels or on shore-based installations.

“Earning my AAS in Applied Electronic Studies was a significant commitment, given my other responsibilities,” he noted. “The coursework has challenged me to improve my

24

Keene Franco completed TESU coursework around duties to his unit and the broader mission of the U.S. Navy. (Images in uniform do not constitute Department of Defense endorsement of the University or its programs.)

time management and problemsolving skills, but since day one, I have felt completely supported in that pursuit.”

Whenever he can grab leisure time, Franco enjoys reading science fiction novels and articles focused on technology advancements, tinkering with gadgets and hiking or camping to stay active, connect with nature and unwind. He has been a member of professional associations focused on electronics and engineering and volunteers with veteran support groups whenever possible as well as local organizations that promote STEM education among youth.

As a School of Science and Technology associate degree recipient transitioning to bachelor’s degree studies, Franco received a leg up through a GO-TESU grant provided by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and the state legislature.

He also received a $1,000 in scholarship made possible by a philanthropic gift from PSEG Military and Veteran Scholarship Fund.

“The support helped significantly in covering the cost of my education and allowed me to maintain my pace and focus on my studies,” he said. “The funding also recognized my military service and eased my transition to higher education.

Thomas Edison’s online learning options and course structure accommodated my unpredictable schedule, allowing me to complete coursework around my duties to my unit and the broader missions of the U.S. Navy.”

He was proud to attract an enthusiastic group of family members and friends who cheered him on during the Commencement ceremony.

“Our military students are a valued segment of our enrolled population and are crucial to our national stability and defense.”

“Earning this degree has been a collective journey, and it means the world to them as much as it does to me. My family has been my biggest source of encouragement Craig Smith, TESU Director of Military and and always believed in Veteran Enrollment and Outreach my abilities even when I doubted myself. My parents have been pillars of support, constantly reminding me of the value Military and Veteran Enrollment and of education. Friends who attended the Outreach at TESU. “Reservists like ceremony served as my cheerleaders, Keene make up a vital standing force offering guidance, a sympathetic ear Those duties often encompassed that can be rapidly deployed to fortify and motivation. Their belief in me mandatory training and drills, active-duty personnel during conflicts, has made this accomplishment even operational support, administrative support large-scale operations or more meaningful, and I was excited to responsibilities, team collaboration respond to humanitarian missions celebrate this milestone with them.” with fellow reservists and active-duty and national emergencies. We are personnel and maintaining professional To learn more about the programs incredibly proud to assist these development benchmarks. offered by TESU’s School of Science and students in their academic goals.”

Technology, visit tesu.edu/ast.

“The University has dedicated resources Although an Associate in Applied for military students, including tailored Science degree at TESU can serve advising and assistance with navigating as a career-focused terminal degree, military benefits and transferring many of the credits can be applied credits,” said Franco. “This level of to Bachelor of Science programs support made my academic progress at the University. Franco did just far more manageable. The staff’s that and is now enrolled in the understanding of the unique challenges B.S. in Electronics Systems faced by military personnel has been Engineering Technology evident in all my interactions.” program.

The University’s Office of Military “The program is a perfect and Veteran Education has been a fit,” enthused Franco. cornerstone in an institution-wide goal “I have always been to provide comprehensive, one-on-one fascinated by how service that supports reservists, activeelectronic systems duty service members and veterans work and in across every branch of the U.S. military. harnessing their potential “Our military students are a valued to solve military segment of our enrolled population and and civilian-side are crucial to our national stability and challenges.” defense,” said Craig Smith, director of

InventionFall2024

25

university news

In-State Tuition Rates Extended to Pennsylvania Residents The Board of Trustees of Thomas Edison State University approved a significant initiative to extend the in-state undergraduate tuition rate for New Jersey students to Pennsylvania residents, enhancing accessibility and affordability of higher education for a broader range of students.

Beginning with August 2024 course registration, Pennsylvania residents began benefiting from the in-state tuition rate of $427 per credit, the same rate that applies to New Jersey residents.

Out-of-state tuition is $556 per credit. This initiative underscores TESU’s commitment to providing affordable, high-quality education to adult learners in the region.

TESU’s tuition is among the lowest in the region, providing substantial value to students seeking flexible and innovative online education.

Per-credit tuition rates do not apply to nursing students or graduate students.

Student Receives Scholarship from Nurses Educational Funds Inc.

The task force will be led by (left to right) Christina Wilson, co-chair, Stuart A. Eisenstadt, chair, and Edith Beckett, co-chair.

TESU and NJSL Launch Artificial Intelligence Task Force to Drive Strategic Innovation Thomas Edison State University (TESU), in collaboration with the New Jersey State Library (NJSL), announced the formation of a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force. This initiative aims to guide the integration of AI technologies across the university and library, ensuring these innovations align with the strategic goals and ethical standards of both institutions.

Jonathan Anotado Gapilango, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) student in the W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions, was awarded a $6,000 Jane Eleanor Knox Scholarship from Nurses Educational Funds Inc. (NEF).

NEF executive director Jerelyn Weiss said the scholarship is awarded to an exceptional doctoral student who illustrates leadership potential and a unique commitment to the nursing profession.

Gapilango’s leadership in oncology and nursing administration has earned him numerous honors, including the Excellence in Oncology Leadership Award from the Pan American Concerned Citizens Action League, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Nurse Leader Award and the March of Dimes Nurse Leader of the Year for New Jersey. Most recently, he was honored among 19 nurse leaders at the New Jersey State Nurses Association’s Diva and Don Gala for his positive influence on the profession.

26

A resident of Lakewood, N.J., Gapilango came to the United States from the Philippines in 1995. He is currently the Administrative Director of Oncology Performance Measures and Accreditation at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, N.J. From 2004 to 2021, he served as the director of the Cancer Center Administration at Community Medical Center in Toms River, N.J. Gapilango is also a National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) reviewer as well as an adjunct faculty member at Georgian Court University and the Pinelands School of Practical Nursing, Lakewood, N.J., and Central Philippine University, Iloilo City, Philippines. He is the current president of the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) of N.J., the largest subchapter of PNA in the United States.

The AI Task Force has been established to support leadership across TESU and NJSL in integrating AI into various organizational operations and enhancing the educational experiences of students.

The task force will focus on key areas such as AI-driven tools for business processes, data analytics, student services and institutional initiatives. By doing so, the team plans to ensure that these efforts are consistent with TESU’s and NJSL’s strategic initiatives and ethical principles.

The TESU/NJSL AI Task Force’s work will complement the state of New Jersey’s broader AI initiatives by focusing on the academic and operational integration of AI within higher education and public library systems. As the state gathers insights from its workforce, the task force will ensure that the university remains at the forefront of preparing students and staff for the future of work, aligning educational experiences with the evolving demands of the labor market.

foundation news

New Foundation Board Members Bruce David Garganio Regional Manager, Eastern Atlantic Regional Council of Carpenters Bruce D. Garganio has served as regional manager at the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EASRCC) since 2011, where he oversees operations in New Jersey, Delaware, the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delaware County, Pa. He is the former freeholder director of the Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders, managing a $300 million budget and 1,400 employees. From 1982 to 2011, he served as a foreman carpenter at the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 1489.

Since 1987, Garganio has held a variety of volunteer, appointed and elected positions in Burlington County, N.J., and in his hometown of Florence, where he served as a local councilmember until December 2023. Garganio is a commissioner of the Delaware River Port Authority, first appointed by Gov. Chris Christie and reappointed by Gov. Phil Murphy, where he oversees the Benjamin Franklin, Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry and Betsy Ross bridges and the Patco Transit Line. He is also the financial secretary for Carpenters Local Union 255 and a board member at the EASRCC. Garganio and his wife Linda have two grown daughters and three grandchildren.

Jeffrey Russo Portfolio Manager/Quantitative Researcher – Event Driven Strategies, Squarepoint Capital Jeffrey Russo is a quantitative researcher and portfolio manager at Squarepoint Capital in New York where he is responsible for managing event-driven arbitrage strategies at the firm. Russo worked in similar capacities at Ergoteles Capital and Blackrock, was an original member of the Quantitative Advisors group at Merrill Lynch and was a founding partner of Stone Toro Asset Management.

Russo has previous education board experience as a trustee at the Chapin School in Princeton, N.J., where he held leadership positions including treasurer and head of the investment committee.

Russo earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst and an MBA from Boston College. Additionally, Russ holds both a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Chartered Market Technician (CMT) designation.

Rick St. John, B.A. ’16 Strategic Advisor (Retired), Triad Metals International Rick St. John recently retired from a 30-year career in the steel industry, most recently serving as president of Triad Metals International, a wholesale distributor with annual sales of more than $1.2 billion.

St. John began his college education at Shippensburg University in 1986, but left school a year before graduation to join the workforce. After a long hiatus, he completed his Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies in 2016 from Thomas Edison State University.

St. John is passionate about giving back to his community through nonprofit work. He proudly serves as Board Chair of the Virginia War Memorial Foundation, on the executive committee of the Autism Society of Central Virginia and as vice-chair of Groundwork RVA. Additionally, he volunteers as a mentor for early-stage company founders through two different organizations and is a senior advisor to a software startup for the metals industry.

St. John enjoys cooking, traveling, reading, exercising and spending time with family. He and his wife Ellie live in Richmond, Va., and they have two adult children.

InventionFall2024

27

foundation news

Donor Cords Make the Difference: Amanda Movelle, DBA ’24 HOW A NONPROFIT DIRECTOR BALANCED MOTHERHOOD, CAREER AND DOCTORAL STUDIES TO ACHIEVE HER DREAM AND SUPPORT FUTURE STUDENTS As Commencement 2024 approached, there were two things that Amanda Movelle was looking forward to the most. The first was having her family watch her walk across the stage in doctoral regalia, and the second was being introduced to those in attendance as “Dr. Movelle.”

She attributes her momentum to a comprehensive support system.

“A special ‘thank you’ to my husband, Matt, for sticking by my side and helping me every step of the way; and DBA program mentor Tami Moser, DBH, Ph.D., to whom I will always be indebted for her guidance.”

“My two young sons do not fully understand the implications yet, but one day they will, and I will assure them that they fueled my efforts,” said the 2024 Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program graduate who has served as director of the BAYADA Wall Center for ABA Services since March.

For more information about the Philanthropy Cord Initiative, visit tesu.edu/alumni/support/ philanthropy-cords. To learn more about the academic programs available in the School of Business and Management, visit tesu.edu/business.

Proudly displayed among her regalia was a green TESU Philanthropy Cord.

Amanda Movelle, DBA ’24, attends TESU’s 52nd Annual Commencement in

“Obtaining a Philanthropy Cord Trenton, N.J., on Oct. 5. was important to me because of what is behind it. As a social worker University’s program percolated to the employed in the nonprofit sector my top. entire career, I give back whenever I can.

“I chose TESU because I could complete Thomas Edison made it possible for me to the DBA program online. As a working achieve my dream and now I am hopeful mom, it made it feasible to balance my that my small donation can help someone career and motherhood with earning my else achieve theirs,” noted Movelle. degree, which took me less than three The Monmouth County, N.J., resident and years to finish. I enjoyed collaborating her husband, Matt, with their dog, Penny, with members of my cohort in our study are the proud parents of two boys: Mason, groups. We all became a close working age 2, and Jack, age 9 months. unit, and it was nice to have a range of knowledgeable viewpoints inform my “It was always my goal to obtain a assignments. Our professors served as doctoral degree, but I was not positive peers and guided us at all hours of the about which degree track to target. day or night as we completed our field Throughout my career in nonprofit projects. None of us ever felt alone during administration and social work, I realized the process.” that the missing piece — and my passion — was business administration,” said Before enrolling at TESU, Movelle earned Movelle. “I have already obtained my her Bachelor of Arts in Family and Child dream job and anticipate that my DBA Studies from Montclair State University, will also provide me with the ability N.J., and her Master of Social Work in to confidently participate in decisionInternational and making at the highest levels of my Community organization.”

Development During her search for a doctoral program that would fit her lifestyle and career objectives, Thomas Edison State

28

from Monmouth University, N.J.

MEE T A TESU GENIUS

Bo Crochet, B.S. ’23, A.S. ’23 Bo Crochet served for 26 years as a nuclear machinist mate on submarines in the U.S. Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion Program. Working among personnel who design, build, operate, manage and maintain the nuclear-powered fleet, he searched for a degree program that would consider his military training and accommodate his busy schedule.

“My colleagues recommended Thomas Edison State [then] College as an ideal way to utilize my training for credits. A Navy college counselor also showed me a comparison of colleges offering credit equivalencies for my experience,” he recalled.

Thomas Edison emerged as a frontrunner among those options, and while fulfilling his duties, Crochet completed his A.S. in Nuclear Engineering Technology requirements in 2023. He returned to take additional courses to complete the ABET-accredited B.S. in Nuclear Energy Engineering Technology program the same year.

A mark of quality assurance, ABET accreditation can be a decisive factor in employment, licensure and certifications in a graduate’s respective field.

Be a TESU Genius!

Alumni and friends of TESU are invited to join the Genius Program. Simply complete five steps to be eligible for the prize!

See complete details at tesu.edu/genius .

“My first job as a civilian offered $15K a year more than I anticipated.

Also, the practical skills in writing and problem-solving I developed in my coursework enhanced my ability to quickly make good decisions in my new field as a training analyst,” he said. “Another opportunity for a government position came through, and my TESU degrees significantly influenced salary negotiations and the onboarding process.”

An American Government course also reinvigorated his sense of civic duty, inspiring him toward political activism centered on policy issues.

“I wanted to give back to the university that gave me so much, and I liked the structure of the Genius Program,” Crochet said. “I also collected Challenge coins from my decades in the military so my Genius coin from TESU was especially meaningful! The University has always been flexible and responsive to my ever-changing work schedule.

My experience was positive and kept me focused on my higher education goals and I stand behind TESU’s institutional values,” noted Crochet, who said that he is now contemplating graduate-level studies.

Want to connect with TESU in a meaningful way? Your support with referring friends and family and sharing on social media help the future of the University. Learn more about the five-step TESU Genius Program at tesu.edu/genius.

Keep Us Posted!

To connect with the Office of Alumni Engagement and fellow TESU alumni, join the conversation on social media: Alumni Facebook Group: tesu.edu/FacebookGroup Student and Alumni LinkedIn Group: tesu.edu/LinkedInGroup

Thomas Edison State

@tesu_edu

@tesu_edu

Thomas Edison State University

blog.tesu.edu

Thomas Edison State

NEW University Store

shopTESUgear.com is Thomas Edison State University’s new online store for TESU students, alumni, employees, mentors and TESU families. Declare your TESU pride with apparel and products bearing Thomas Edison State University’s logo.

InventionFall2020

29

111 W. State St. Trenton, NJ 08608

NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID TRENTON, NJ PERMIT #112

Save the Date Wednesday, December 4, 2024