Extraordinary Women at CCRI
We are fortunate to work alongside inspiring women every day at CCRI – role models who inspire others to be more, do more, inspire change, roll up their sleeves and fight for change, and fearlessly step outside of their comfort zone to pave the road for others to follow. To honor these extraordinary women, please nominate a woman at CCRI that embodies those qualities and who serves as an inspiration. We want to know who inspires you!
Below are the Extraordinary Women at CCRI who've been nominated by their peers as leaders and inspiring figures within our community.
Taiwo Adefiyiju: Dean of Students
"She works tirelessly often late in the night and early hours of the day dedicated
to the students of CCRI. She works with all employees of the college for fair and
equitable treatment of students. She is an advocate for strong processes and quality
services. She inspires me with each conversation to bring the community back into
the Community College of Rhode Island."
– Michelle Dargon, Associate Director for Labor and Employee Relations
Lauren Webb: Director Academic Program Review & Accreditation
"Lauren is an excellent example of the values and tenacity of CCRI. Lauren was the
leader for our 10-year accreditiation and handled the stress and pressure with grace.
She truly goes above and beyond in her role every day and inspires me to continue
to work hard in my role."
– Adriana Wilding, Assessment Coordinator, Academic Affairs
Julie Galleshaw: Dental Hygiene Professor
"She has consistently demonstrated her total commitment to her students and their
success no matter the circumstance. Always in her natural kind demeanor, she shares
her own expertise with the students so they will gain the skills needed to become
Dental Hygienist. Julie is always driven by what is going to help the students become
the best they can be while always abiding by the true example herself of what a teacher
should be. Julie also demonstrates her commitment to both the college and the Dental
Health Program by dedicating her own time serving on numerous committees, and pursuing
any opportunities available that benefit our students and the program."
– Susan Hook, Information Service Technician II, Dental Hygiene Clinic
Naglaa Gaafar-Rego: Coordinator of SAP Initiatives
"Naglaa is a woman that goes above and beyond for anyone. She is super welcoming and
always reminds others of their greatness and opportunities to grow and learn. She
has inspired me with her confidence, dedication, and willingness to help students
and colleagues alike. She is very educated and ensures that others understand their
power through education and learning. She embodies the mission of CCRI and works to
identify areas of improvement while dedicating herself to any skills that may assist
her in accomplishing her goals."
– Tinecka McKenzie, Financial Aid Officer
Karen Kortz: Professor of Geology (Physics and Engineering)
"Karen is a phenomenal teacher, colleague, and is a CCRI asset. However, it is her
commitment to the students at CCRI that shine out beyond her profound accomplishments.
She tirelessly supports student success in STEM and actively engages with other STEM
faculty to improve their teaching, like me. All of the teaching success I have enjoyed
can be largely attributed to Karen Kortz. We are lucky to have Karen in our department
and at our college."
– Roger Hart, Assistant Physics and Engineering Professor
Rachel Rogers: Center of Teaching Excellence Director/Psychology Professor
"There are so many things about Rachel that inspire me! Rachel stepped out of her
comfort zone to run CTE. She has developed that position to one that not only inspires
change, but she is a key leader in making that change happen. She is innovative and
resourceful. Rachel makes things happen. She makes time for herself. She is successful
and accomplished yet still works to continuously improve. She is reliable. She is
passionate and fights to bring equity-mindedness to everything she does. In short,
Rachel is amazing and an inspiration and role model to everyone works with her."
– Karen Kortz, Professor of Geology
Gail Yanku: English Department Office Manager
"Gail's commitment to CCRI, our students, faculty, and staff truly inspires me! When
I started at CCRI as a part-time faculty member, Gail was starting her position as
an info tech for the English Department and we very quickly began supporting one another
as we learned the (sometimes rather complicated) CCRI ropes!
"Over my 21 years at CCRI, I have observed Gail helping students, faculty, and staff
in countless ways. Whether she's assisting an English faculty member with a scheduling
issue, helping a part-time faculty member navigate the many intricacies of CCRI technology,
or walking a lost student to class, Gail never fails to do it all with a smile and
a few words of encouragement. During my time as English Department chair, Gail made
sure I never missed a meeting or a deadline, even if that meant working well past
quitting time.
"In the most difficult of circumstances, I always had Gail to help me set things to
right and I honestly can't imagine what it would have been like to serve as chair
without her by my side. We will all miss Gail as she retires this spring, but we wish
her many happy, healthy, peaceful years enjoying a well-deserved rest from her many
years of service. We love you, Gail!– Dina Levitre, Associate English Professor– Luis Paz, Higher Education Admin Assistant III, Communication and Media
– Julia Conway, Professor, English
Yohanna Gomez: RI Education Opportunity Center (EOC) Coordinator/Counselor
"Yohanna is the epitome of someone who regularly goes above and beyond for her students.
She is a shining example of compassion, empathy and kindness. I have seen first hand
the connections she makes with each student, making them feel comfortable and welcomed
in our department. There are no unanswered questions for Yohanna, just opportunities
to learn something new to assist the student. During Covid, students contacted Yohanna
everyday, regardless of "office hours" and she would get back to them as soon as possible.
She is always available to her colleagues for questions and guidance. Her warm smile
and ready laugh make her an indispensable member of the team."– Gail Mance-Rios, RI Educational Opportunity Center Assistant Director
Jo-Ann Albro: Office Manager, BSTM Division (Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics and Engineering)
"Ms. Albro has an incredible work ethic and is a role model for everyone. Faculty
and administrators tend to be in the limelight and the worker bees, who make this
college run smoothly, are not always seen. Ms Albro has proven time and time again
to be a crucial member of CCRI.
"I cannot think of anyone who works harder for the good of the college and students.
She is not driven by the clock, she puts in considerable time after normal working
hours. She truly cares about our students. She goes above and beyond to contact students
and assist them making the correct choices on math courses. She works closely with
faculty to achieve this goal. Her organizational and leadership skills are exceptional
and she uses these to make the Math Department and all the other departments for which
she is the office manager, run smoothly. Her winning personality motivates people
to go the extra mile as she does. She is an indispensable asset to the department
and college.
"It may seem minor but she has voluntarily become the resident expert on full-time
and adjunct contracts. This knowledge prevents small problems from becoming major
problems and grievances. It also ensures all faculty are treated fairly.
She does not do all this extra work for recognition, she does it because she feels
it's the right thing to do. She takes considerable pride in her (flawless) work.
She is not just a role model for women but for all people. Ms Albro inspires all of
us to be the best we can!"
– Ken Wilkinson, Assistant Professor, Mathematics
– Rachel Nichols, Assistant Professor, Mathematics
– Monica Ferris, Advisor/Counselor
– Melinda Couture, Professor, Mathematics
Heidi Warner: Nursing Lab Coordinator
"Heidi Warner is patient with everyone. She is always going above and beyond to help
students to succeed at CCRI. She is intelligent, intellectual, giving, kind, and
an inspiration to me to be more like her. I have learned so much from Heidi being
in the Nursing Department over the last several years than I had in my 15 years at
CCRI. Heidi is an integral part of our team and her dedication and commitment to her
work have been nothing short of exceptional!
– Jodi Peters, Nursing Technical Staff Assistant
Liz Giordano: Director of Career Services and Experiential Education
"Liz is one of the hardest working individuals at the college. She is a student-centered
educator who has spearheaded the work-based learning initiative, collaborating across
departments and divisions, listening to the many voices involved, and making sure
all concerns are fairly addressed. She does all this while leading Career Services
in the department's many other duties, including bringing successful job fairs to
campus. She is committed to equity, and to providing meaningful career opportunities
to our students and alumni."
– Beth Anish, Dean of Learning Commons
Eileen James: Associate English Professor
"Eileen is the sort of scholar whom I have always found inspiring, but when I was
young, and in my technical field, those intellectual points of light were almost always
men. Eileen is brilliant, loves her field, loves her students, and is steeped in knowledge.
Most importantly, she comports herself with grace and humility. She is open to tackling
challenging questions and she can express ideas that others might find challenging
with clarity, honesty, and empathy. Eileen is an inspiration to me and I'm grateful
that she's my colleague."
– Maggie Burke, Computer Studies Professor
– Kate Costantino, Facilitator, Adult Education
Kelly Morrissey: Dean of Student Financial Assistance & Scholarships
"Kelly is the busiest person I have ever known, someone dedicated to her work and
to those she works with. She is always prepared to assist staff and students at any
time of day, willing to answer any number of questions about complex regulations and
policies. It is because of her dedication that our students receive the assistance
they do through the many programs she has implemented. Her guidance and strong leadership
demonstrate qualities of a true role model for everyone who seeks to facilitate a
student's success."
– Quinn Tucker, Financial Aid Officer
Sandra Luzzi-Sneesby: Professor and Department Chair of Communication and Film/Media
"If the solution doesn't exist, Sandra will build it. She is a passionate organizer,
a doer, a person who makes connections and builds support from the ground up for the
projects she knows are right for our students and our community. With others, she
led our union to a successful contract, she formed the faculty senate, and she formed
a new department at the college. And Sandra doesn't just build things – she sees
them through. She holds her vision through the complications and the setbacks and
she creates success."
– Maggie Burke, Computer Studies Professor
"I’ve been writing and erasing this nomination for about an hour now trying to find
the right words to describe Sandra and her inspiration to not only me but all of those
around her.
"Sandra is spirited. She has an infectious positive energy that can make you feel
excited about the world and the opportunities in your reach, even giving a gentle
nudge to push you in the right direction (like getting my Master’s – thank you!)
"Sandra is a visionary. She not only can construct the big picture, but she knows
exactly how to achieve it. There are many initiatives here at CCRI whose existence
is thanks to Sandra’s determination, grit, and drive.
"Sandra is passionate. She puts 110% of her energy into whatever she is working on,
striving for the best every time. Whether it’s working long hours, the weekends, or
her free time, Sandra will always give you her all.
"Sandra is kind-hearted. She has an empathetic ear paired with wise advice. She’ll
give you encouragement, guidance, connections, share experiences… anything to help.
"There is so much more to Sandra but just know this, if you need the recipe for Italian
stuffed artichokes, go to her.
"And Sandra if you’re reading this, thank you."
– Stephanie Cabral, Senior Digital Content Strategist/Adjunct, Communication and Media Department
– Luis Paz, Higher Education Admin Assistant III, Communication and Media
– Arthur Sepe, Student Development Counselor
Shanna Wells: Program Director, Benefits Hub
"Shanna is a great advocate for the CCRI student community but, because she works
alone and behind the scenes, you might not know about everything she does . As the
Director of Benefits Hub, she is very passionate about her work and is tireless in
her effort to obtain resources for students in need.
"The CCRI Community should take advantage of the intelligence, compassion, knowledge,
skills and experience that she brings to our organization. Shanna is a valuable worker
for the Community College of Rhode Island and an amazing role model for myself and
all the women of the CCRI community."– Candelaria Danicher, Coordinator/Counselor, Educational Opportunity Center
Leigh Martin: Professor of English
"Prof. Leigh Martin has spent a large part of her personal life and professional career
at CCRI. We have all benefited from knowing her.
"As a graduate, Writing Center tutor, director of the Charles Sullivan Fund, Flanagan
Campus coordinator, expert at meeting protocols, and a dedicated professor, she is
a tireless supporter of colleagues, staff, and students. She is a problem solver,
innovator, and genuinely nice person who enriches every environment she is in."
– Gina Santoro, Chair, English Department
Roldyne Pierre Louis: Senior Payroll Manager
"I would like to nominate Roldyne Pierre Louis for her exceptional contributions as
Senior Payroll Manager at CCRI. Roldyne came to the college and assumed the leadership
role of the payroll office during the Pandemic. Roldyne’s resilience, adaptability,
and unwavering commitment to her role have been truly remarkable.
"In the face of significant changes brought about by the pandemic and the evolving
operational functions in a complex role, Roldyne has not only managed to ensure the
smooth functioning of payroll operations but has also gone above and beyond to support
her team and colleagues.
"Her resilience, focus, and commitment to growth and improvement, as well as to her
day-to-day work at the college really make Roldyne an extraordinarily inspiring woman."
– Peter Bardsley, Assistant Director of Continuous Improvement
Dr. Alyson Snowe: Associate Professor of English
"Dr. Snowe's presence throughout my academic journey has been transformative. She
challenges me to think critically and carefully, which has fundamentally changed how
I approach the world. Her engaging lectures and open office hours are not only informative,
but fosters a love of learning that transcends the classroom.
"Her unwavering support and belief in my potential pushed me to achieve more than
I thought possible. I am incredibly grateful to have such a remarkable mentor and
role model.
– Kat Taylor, Student
Maya Geraldo: Manager of Academic and Faculty Initiatives
"Maya inspires me because she is guided by her values in all the work that she does
at the college. Maya is results-oriented and finds solutions that help the college
improve our effectiveness.
"This was on display during her work in the planning for the NECHE visit, particularly
around navigating all of the financial aspects of the visit. Maya collaborates well
with faculty and staff in her work within Academic Affairs and her work that spans
the college, such as representing the division in the Staff Assembly or advancing
the college's equity goals through the DEI Council.
"Finally, I admire that Maya balances work at CCRI and life while continuing her educational
growth – she found time during the pandemic to earn a leadership certificate and is
currently enrolled in a master's degree program! Maya is an exceptional colleague."
– Lauren Webb, Director of Academic Program Review and Accreditation
Maya Geraldo is an extraordinary woman and an inspiration within our college community.
Her unwavering dedication to our college mission is evident through her exemplary
work ethics and commitment. Maya’s contributions to our Staff Assembly as a member
of the inaugural cohort have been nothing short of invaluable.What truly sets Maya
apart is not only her impressive professional acumen but also her remarkable character.
Her wisdom and welcoming demeanor create an inclusive and supportive environment for
all. Despite her busy schedule, Maya is consistently willing to “say yes” to opportunities
that serve our CCRI community, showcasing her selflessness and dedication to the greater
good. Maya serves as a shining example for us all, inspiring others to emulate her
tireless work ethic, unwavering commitment, and profound sense of service. Thank you,
Maya!"
– Naglaa Gaafar Rego, Coordinator of SAP Initiatives
Laura Ryan: Library Professor/Librarian
"As a season librarian with immense expertise and passion for the Providence students, staff and faculty, Laura exemplifies the mission of CCRI every day. She assists students beyond the normal reference interview to assure that they have the necessary resources to complete their assignments and that they understand how to use the library databases to do so. "Laura has often gone over and above when necessary to provide students with directions to find housing, meals, clothing, etc. as she directed them to the college’s support services and other community resources. Often using her own time to do so as she skipped lunch due to her concern. No, librarians are not social workers, but have the knowledge to provide information. I worked at the Liston library and watched Laura do so with ease. "One other reason I believe Laura is an extraordinary woman at CCRI is her skillset and time management skills to ensure that the library shine through the small space and staffing shortage at the Liston campus library.Due to her pioneering voice, kind spirit and willingness to persevere, I am delighted to share that Laura has inspired me because I am positive that she “fearlessly steps outside of her comfort zone.”
– Ida D. McGhee, Adjunct Librarian
Dina Levitre: Associate Professor of English and Pathway Navigator
"Dina is a consummate professional, a caring educator, and a good friend to so many of us at CCRI. She has served as Department Chair of English, Interim Assistant Dean of AHSS, a leader in our Faculty Senate, and Pathway Navigator for the Arts & Humanities and Communication, Film, and Media pathways. Her number one professional priority, always, is serving our students. She keeps them at the center of everything she does, which is why she does so much for the college!"– Beth Anish, Dean of Learning Commons
Nancy E. Stone, PhD, RNP: Nursing Professor
"I have had the distinct pleasure of knowing Dr. Stone for many years, first starting since my days as a nursing student at CCRI in the Evening/Weekend program. Nancy has been an educator at CCRI for over 25 years and the majority of that time teaching in the Evening/Weekend program, which is where we first met. Nancy is devoted to academia and educating countless nursing students. She has not only been a mentor to me, motivating, and pushing me to exceed expectations, but has provided never ending support, wisdom, guidance and encouragement throughout my nursing career. Nancy continues to inspire me with her many accomplishments which include obtaining her certification as a Critical Care Nurse Specialist, receiving a Post Masters Certificate as an Adult/Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, followed by a Ph.D in Nursing, as well as conducting research and publishing many articles on a variety of topics including chronic CHF, cardiac defibrillators, pacemakers and pulmonary hypertension, in addition to being a speaker at various NP conferences on the national level. "As an NP she has been instrumental in the development of the advanced nurse practitioner role in the acute care setting in Rhode Island. Nancy was one of the first acute care NPs, paving the way for her NP colleagues. We have since continued to work together in many capacities in the RN and Nurse Practitioner role. She demonstrates outstanding qualities of leadership and possesses superb clinical skills in caring for her patients. Not only is she an exceptional clinician caring for patients, what makes her unique is that she truly cares about them. More recently working together as educators and colleagues at CCRI. "Nancy is truly a remarkable person, not only as a dedicated clinician, educator, researcher, publisher, and healthcare provider but as a human being and friend. She continues to pursue excellence in the nursing arena making contributions that will only enhance our honorable profession of nursing. Dr. Stone possesses a never ending desire for knowledge and has been an extremely important influence in my nursing career. Nancy consistently acts as a mentor, not only for myself but to all nurses in general. She has truly been inspiring and has made an overwhelming impact on my life. I have been so fortunate to work alongside this extraordinary woman. Dr. Nancy Stone is truly a JEWEL in the crown of our nursing profession."– Karin O'Rourke, Associate Nursing Professor
Krista Wilhelmsen: Assistant Performing Arts Professor
"She is one of the most hardest working professors I know. She is also very compassionate and genuinely cares about each and every student in her classes. I would not be where I am today without her!"– Makayla Dean, Student
– Amaiya Winter, Student
Maggie Burke: Computer Studies Professor
"I believe Professor Burke deserves to be nominated because of the immense work she puts towards her craft of teaching fundamental programming principles. You can tell she truly cares about her students' and their drive to learn more about variables, a program's structure, repetition, functions, and data structures. She produces YouTube videos on her channel called "DesignCodeDebugRepeat", where she uploads videos on a consistent basis for students across all her classes. In these videos, she is clear, concise, and preemptively prepares students for common programming mistakes before they are made. She has a slow speaking pace and explains concepts and problems thoroughly. This is the first time I have ever had a teacher make a YouTube channel with so much content to learn from. I can see myself learning from these videos for years to come, especially since there are new videos every week! "Not only does she have a YouTube channel in which she uploads regularly, but she also has written two textbooks for two of her classes. She understands her students, and how tricky it can be to afford textbooks, so she provides her textbook free-of-charge for students on BlackBoard. Her introduction to programming textbook is well-written with many practical examples, illustrations, and conceptual applications in which I can see myself applying in more challenging-to-learn programing languages. I think it is very humble of Professor Burke to distribute PDF copies of chapters from her textbook. Professors who have written textbooks can require students to purchase that textbook so they can receive royalties. However, Professor Burke did not require us to do this at all, instead caring more about equal access and opportunity. Furthermore her textbooks are written to encourage her students to successfully solve problems by defining the problem, identifying a solution, selecting a solution, implementing the solution, then evaluating the result. She consistently spirals back to this problem-solving method in her textbooks, videos, and lectures, and makes it a point to encourage her students think in the same way when faced with a problem or a puzzle. The name of her YouTube channel "DesignCodeDebugRepeat", harkens back to this five-step methodology for problem-solving as well. "She teaches an elective beginning game programming class, which expands upon the programming language, Python, that I am learning with her this semester. I am very likely going to take this class with her, even though it is not a requirement for me. Professor Burke also teaches both the beginning and advanced "Java" programming classes. I very much look forward to taking these three classes with Professor Burke because she makes learning programming methodical, engaging, and extremely clear. Even though "Java" is a significantly more challenging programming language to learn than "Python", the CCRI Computer Science Department made the right decision in having Professor Burke teach the beginning and advanced sections of Java Programming."– Tyler Vanable, Student
Brenda Pacheco: Program Coordinator, Student Engagement
"Each and everyday Brenda goes above and beyond to service our students. As an Alumni
of CCRI Brenda knows what students need to be successful.
"She brings her experience at CCRI to the students so that they know that she walk
the walk. Brenda worked with the CCRI food pantry during the pandemic and realized
the need of our students. She brings in food for students in need every week, in
fact she has snacks, water, coffee and many other items when a student walks in her
office hungry.
"Brenda walks students and visitors to the office or service they need and makes certain
that there questions get answered. Brenda is often asked to translate to our students
and visitors and most times she stays after her switch to make certain the students
get answers and feel comfortable. I am blessed to have been able to work with Brenda
and my hat goes off to her."– Christine Jenkins, Associate Dean of Student Engagement
Cathy Tessier: Director of Records, Enrollment Services
"Cathy is one of the hardest working individuals I know. With her years of service
and experience in various roles at the College, she is exceedingly knowledgeable in
many areas of the college. Her unwavering dedication to the students, faculty, staff,
and the College are commendable.
"As a CCRI alum, she knows firsthand what it’s like to be a CCRI student, and she
strives every day to make the student experience positive and rewarding along with
a focus on student success. She is truly a role model, mentor, and exceptional leader.
I am grateful for all the knowledge, leadership, and mentorship she has provided and
continues to provide on a daily basis."
– Cindy Arce, Sr. Records Officer
– Cindy Arce, Sr. Records Officer
Cathy Tessier is the epitome of a successful Community College of Rhode Island graduate.
She has worked at CCRI for over 35 years, earned both her A.S. in Secretarial Science
and A.S.B. in Management from the College. Additionally, she transferred to Rhode
Island College to earn her bachelor’s degree and completed her master’s at the University
of Rhode Island. She has committed her professional life to CCRI and has risen the
role of Director of Records. In this position, she works across all divisions to support
students, faculty, and staff. She leads technological changes within the departments
and spearheads initiatives to support the mission of CCRI. She brings unique insight,
expertise and compassion to her interactions with all that work with her. She inspires
her team with dedication, creativity and an openness to brainstorm new pathways for
success. We are truly lucky that this CCRI graduate has opted to share her talents
and stay committed to the success of the College!– Jude Tomasino, Associate Director of Records
Lis Braun: Assistant Registrar/Scheduling, Records Department
"Lis is like a gardener that can turn a weed into a beautiful flower, at the same
time defending it against the elements. In a storm, Lis is an anchor, a dependable,
steady hand that keeps our schedule afloat, despite all the imperfections she is given,
in light of all the weather that an academic year can bring.
"A complex puzzle of courses, degrees, and rooms is tamed by dedication, intelligence,
patience, and grace. You know Lis because she makes our courses and programs come
alive for us: students, faculty, and staff. Lis is just as beautiful a person as her
work displays along with a keen sense of humor. Kind, helpful, and always supportive,
Lis is one of the most genuine women at CCRI and embodies what makes our College exceptional."– Sandra Luzzi Sneesby, Chair, Communication and Film/Media
Lori Davenport: Assistant Bursar
"Lori is a very hard worker and always puts the extra time and effort to get the job
done and always goes above and beyond. She is a positive person and stays calm even
in the rough times. Lori is fair and helpful to all including co workers, staff and
students."
– Karen Scallon, Bursar's Office
– Karen Scallon, Bursar's Office
Christine Jenkins: Associate Dean of Student Engagement
"I have worked with Dean Jenkins over 17 years now and I am inspired by her dedication
to all the students, staff, and student group advisors.
"She makes it an effort to come in super early and spends countless hours making sure
students have what they need before leaving her office. Her empathy speaks volumes.
She has advocated for her staff while serving in a supervisory roll. When it comes
to 'Women's History Month,' she is the true definition of what a woman who has history
with CCRI truly looks like."
– Brenda Pacheco, Program Coordinator, Student Engagement
– Brenda Pacheco, Program Coordinator, Student Engagement
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