Feature Stories 2017

The campus quad at sunset - campus quad renovations
Year in Review: 2017

Top news stories

Student playing hockey
Brandon Berkley '18: Corsairs Hockey & Business Management

Through athletics and internships, Brandon has developed the discipline that will translate into a successful business career.

Deborah Dele-Oni in research lab
Deborah Dele-Oni: Research in immunology

Deborah Dele-Oni '18 conducted research during her internships at UMass Medical and Brown University.

Sarah Riecke
Sarah Riecke '18: Leadership and community engagement

Sarah, a management information systems major, is founder of the Big Data Club at UMassD

Greg DeCelles
Greg DeCelles '14: Living Marine Resource Science and Management

Alum Greg DeCelles talks about SMAST's collaborative environment and the added value of working with faculty, peers, and local fishermen

Marcos Sastre-Cordova on a boat on the water
Marcos Sastre-Cordova '14: PhD, Marine Observation Technologies

Alum Marcos Sastre-Cordova talks about his work as a systems engineer and explains how pursuing his doctorate degree at SMAST helped advance his career path.

Lum-bih Tashi
Lum-Bih Tashi: a political science alumna and activist

Political science alumna works at the Union of Minority Neighborhoods as a project administrator and dedicates time to young kids and teens.

Mike Rocha
Music and medicine helps local cardiologist connect to his patients

Dr. Michael Rocha ’98 uses music and medicine as a way to connect himself to the local community.

Art History student Mariah Tarentino
Mariah Tarentino Working for Art Journal Open

Art History student Mariah Tarentino

Valerie Hall
Valerie Hall '14: PhD Marine Science: Living Marine Resources Science/Management

Alumna Valerie Hall talks about her studies at UMassD's School for Marine Science & Technology and the Intercampus Marine Science Program, which allows students to take courses anywhere in the UMass system.

BS in Mechanical Engineering - Semirah Dolan '18 outside eBay sign
Semirah Dolan '18: Internship at eBay

Semirah Dolan '18 views her software engineering internship in Silicon Valley as a priceless opportunity.

UMass Dartmouth Professor Jenny Howe
First-year English professor considers how the use young adult literature in gender studies can improve student learning.

Professor Jenny Howe argues that asking students to explore their own understandings of gender through texts that they see as accessible builds a strong foundation in analysis and argumentation.

Amanda Prescott
Amanda Prescott '18: pursuing a career in reliability engineering

Physics major forges her own applied physics track.

Ceramics alumna receives award from American Craft Council

Jennifer Ling Datchuk, MFA '08, is the winner of the American Craft Council 2017 Emerging Voices Artist Award.

Taylor Centeio
Crime and Justice Studies alumna begins graduate study at Suffolk University

Taylor Centeio '17 came to UMass Dartmouth in the fall of 2014 with a deep and unrelenting passion for the field of social work and criminal justice. She learned more than she bargained for.

Students at African American Day Parade
UMassD students experience the heart of Black culture

In celebration of Black history, legacy, and culture, UMassD students intersect with a crowd of thousands of participants and viewers during the African American Day Parade – one of the country’s most distinguished national processions.

Tia Martineau - NSF REU program
Summer research for senior physics majors

Tia Martineau' 18 & Kiersten Nunes '18 participated in NSF-funded summer research programs.

Fold Unfold Exhibition Catalogue cover
Student work Published in Exhibition Catalog

Textile Design/Fiber Arts weaving students woven coverlet included in Fold Unfold: A Project by Susan Falls and Jessica Smith

Welcome, Class of 2021

The Class of 2021 is made up of 1,351 first-year students from 16 states and 5 countries.

Biology alumna becomes involved with science research at MIT and Harvard

Ashley Ciulla '15 has partnered with and works alongside talented scientific researchers at two prestigious institutions.

From legislative fellow to legislative correspondent

After a summer-long fellowship with a New Hampshire senator, Thalia Valkanos '18 just received an exciting job offer on Capitol Hill.

Shaunia Bronson
Shaunia Bronson '19: art education

Finding inspiration and encouragement as she grows as an artist and educator.

Chancellor Robert E. Johnson greets students, faculty, staff.
UMassD's new chancellor, Dr. Robert E. Johnson

Embracing innovation with an agile mind.

Claire T. Carney Library
Building a better future

Thoughtful renovation nurtures innovation.

Roxanne Leone '94, right, and husband Michael Leone '94, and their children - on the UMass Dartmouth campus
Roxanne Leone '94: a leader in marketing

Roxanne Leone's accomplishments include winning the 40 Under 40 Leader Award from Dealerscope Magazine.

Michael Leone
Michael Leone '94: master of illusion

Playing with your mind and your heart in the fast-evolving field of visual effects.

Danielle Czarnowski ’15 mentors Gina Tigano ’17, a UMassD bioengineering student
Danielle Czarnowski '15: encouraging women in STEM

Giving back to her alma mater and helping women succeed.

Sheri McCoy '80, CEO of Avon, poses with an Avon representative
Sheri McCoy '80: Reviving a brand that empowers women

Sheri McCoy '80 is chief executive officer and director of Avon Products, Inc.

LaDonna Christian
LaDonna Christian MSN '07, PhD

Associate professor and director of the Dotson Bridge and Mentoring Program at Simmons College.

Elizabeth Talerman
Brand new: Elizabeth Talerman '85

Elizabeth Talerman is an innovator in marketing and brand strategy.

UMassD Magazine Summer 2017 Dr. Robert E. Johnson on the cover.
Meet the Chancellor

Chancellor Robert E. Johnson introduces himself--and the summer issue of UMassD Magazine.

Tianna Edwards '18: Internships with a focus on medical research

Tianna shared her experiences and advice at an Internship Showcase sponsored by the Career Development Center

Jerry Laakso - photo
Jerry Laakso '18: Recruited from Finland to play Corsairs hockey

Mixing hockey with studies in entrepreneurship and small business

Shelby Quill: Dual major in digital media and graphic design

Inspired by her love of video games, Shelby Quill '18 hopes to create art in the gaming industry.

Mollie Madigan posing with Arnie
Mollie Madigan: Preparing for a career as a veterinarian

After visiting campus, Mollie Madigan '18 knew UMassD was where she'd accomplish her goals.

Jarell Samuel
Jarell Samuel: Preparing for a career as a microbiologist or genetic counselor

Jarell Samuel '18 chose to major in MLS to fulfill his lifelong dream of being a scientist.

Tia Martineau: Theoretical cosmologies, dark matter & design

Combining her interests in physics and art, Tia Martineau '18 designed the mural for Prof. Khanna's supercomputer trailer.

Shaad Mahmud: PhD in Computer & Electrical Engineering
Shaad Mahmud: PhD in Computer & Electrical Engineering

Shaad Mahmud PhD '18 won first place at the Sigma Xi research exhibition for his research on a portable NICU for premature infants.

dec 2nd, 2016
Rachael Buchanan: Goal of bringing healthcare to developing nations

After gaining lab experience as an MLS major, Rachael Buchanan '18 is focusing on the healthcare side of lab medicine.

Rachel Allen at work
Rachel Allen: PhD in Nursing

Rachel Allen, PhD '18 is the first UMass Dartmouth recipient of a Jonas Center Nursing Scholarship.

Madison Boucher
Madison Boucher '18, three-time scholarship recipient

Political science and crime and justice major Madison Boucher talks about how receiving scholarships has allowed her to focus on academics, athletics, and community involvement.

Tori Carter
Victoria Carter: Future in clinical psychology

Victoria Carter '18 found her passion for psychology after taking elective courses.

Matthew Najarian '17
Matthew Najarian '17: Shared Voices

Senior design project promoted campus diversity and dialogue.

Callie Nunez '17: advocate for recovery

Callie Nunez '17 has been recognized for her efforts to raise awareness around combating the ongoing opioid crisis.

Brandi Bass, 2017 Undergraduate Commencement Speaker
Brandi Bass '17: Management training at Aetna

The next step for Brandi Bass '17 is the management development training program at Aetna, Inc.

Frankie Romeo '17 - Graphic Design, Digital Media
Frankie Romeo '17: graphic design & digital media

An internship in design provided the opportunity to work on brochure, poster, and visual identity projects.

Dahlia Medieros '12
Dahlia Medeiros ’12: Environmental scientist and engineer

UMassD alum joins Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's Waterway Protection Program to help address Commonwealth's statewide concerns

Tharima Ferdausi
Tharima Ferdausi ’19, scholarship recipient

Mechanical engineering major Tharima Ferdausi talks about how receiving scholarship support has allowed her to focus on her career path.

Quinn Harris
Quinn Harris ’18, scholarship recipient

Illustration major Quinn Harris talks about how receiving a scholarship has enabled him to pursue his studies, develop as an artist, and engage in community service.

Matthew Phou
Matthew Phou ’18, two-time scholarship recipient

Bioengineering major Matthew Phou talks about the inspiration behind his interest in the engineering and medical fields, and the benefit of scholarships.

Jared Louf-Woods 2017
Captain's Corner: Jared Louf-Woods '18

A perspective on practice, training, and success at meets during the winter intersession.

Seth Rainville
Seth Rainville '96: ceramics artist, educator, storyteller

Dedicated to his craft, with a passion for promoting the arts and artists.

John Ferguson, admissions ambassador, 2017
John Ferguson '17: From admissions ambassador to counselor

John Ferguson '17 gained professional experience in marketing & social media.

Hannah Blount '08 - jewelry designer & entrepreneur
Hannah Blount '08: jewelry designer, entrepreneur

With a design studio in Boston, Hannah Blount sells her jewelry in boutiques and galleries across the world.

Recent graduate bridges her science and liberal arts education to expand her understanding of the world

Madison Bailey-Schofield '17 found a way to blend her passion for biology with her skills as an English major to critically understand the world around her and to relate the work she's done as a biology student to those outside of the scientific community.

Justin March '14, Newton PD, Boston Marathon 2017
Justin S. March '14: dream job in law enforcement

As a crime & justice studies undergraduate, Justin interned for the United States Marshals Service in Washington, DC.

headshot of nick santavicca
American Language and Cultures Institute (ALCI) provides smooth gateway for international students

Dr. Nicholas Santavicca is the Director of the American Language and Cultures Institute (ALCI), which works to provide academic preparation, English language and cultural instruction, and promote global citizenship among all from the UMass Dartmouth and surrounding communities.

Rebecca Purchase '17 - Illustration, Biology
Rebecca Purchase '17: a passion for art & science

A dual major in biology & illustration, Rebecca is adapting a scientific article into a graphic novel format.

Michael Savaria, 2017 Graduate Commencement Student Speaker
Michael Savaria, PhD '17: Graduate Student Commencement Speaker

Graduating with a PhD in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies, he has previously earned three other degrees at UMassD.

Sheyla Lors
Sheyla Lors, JD '17: UMass Law Student Commencement Speaker

After taking the New York Bar Exam, JD candidate Sheyla Lors plans to provide pro bono legal services in South Africa.

Kevin Delaney - Portugal
Kevin Delaney '17: Student Trustee

From student leadership to study abroad, Kevin Delaney '17 has participated in many of the experiences and opportunities available to UMassD students.

Ethan Dazelle, JD/MBA '17
Ethan Dazelle: Editor-in-chief of the UMass Law Review

While at UMass Law, Ethan Dazelle, JD/MBA candidate '17 gained practical law experience in the Human Rights at Home Clinic and on the Jessup Moot Court team.

Eve Kuzmech with Beth-Anne Guthrie, 29 Who Shine ceremony, 2017
Eve Kuzmech '17: One of "29 Who Shine"

Peer health educator Eve Kuzmech '17 took on leadership roles and conducted research to improve student health and safety.

Elisandra Pereira
Ellie Paris-Miranda, MBA, PhD '17: Doctorate in Luso-Afro-Brazilian Studies & Theory, MBA in International Entrepreneurship

Ellie Paris-Miranda's vision of the "Afro-shentrepreneur" focuses on the empowerment of African women and women of the African diaspora.

Talia DAmbruoso
Talia D'Ambruoso '17: bioengineering to improve lives

Well-rounded: Talia D'Ambruoso '17 combined her studies in bioengineering with women's soccer, study abroad, and two internships.

Heather Davis, MFA '17, Artisanry/Ceramics
Heather Jo Davis, MFA '17: creating social commentary through visual art

Ceramics artist Heather Jo Davis, MFA '17 champions the value and preservation of wilderness areas.

Fold Unfold exhibition
The Vernacular Coverlet

Intro to Weaving students participated in a national exhibit at Lyndon House Arts Center in Athens Georgia titled Fold Unfold.

Mabel Tejada
Mabel Tejada '17: working for change

Mabel Tejada '17 envisions a career that will be driven by her values and beliefs.

Vanda Depina
Vanda Depina '17: achieving goals, caring for fellow students

As the founder of C.A.R.E., Vanda Depina '17 created a supportive environment for students who are on their own.

Sofia Reppucci speaking at the podium, MLK Breakfast 2017
Sofia Reppucci '17: President, Student Government Association

As a student leader, Sofia Reppucci '17 has learned the "true power of change."

Etienne Niyonsaba - Share The Dream Senior Speaker
Etienne Niyonsaba '17: journey to education & achievement

From school days in a refugee camp to the pursuit of a degree in accounting, education has been a constant for Etienne Niyonsaba '17.

Danielle Tinkham '09
Danielle Tinkham '09: award-winning teacher of physics

Physics alumna Danielle Tinkham was a regional winner of a PhysTEC Teacher of the Year Award.

Photograph of Molly Harrington - large
Alumni Feature: Molly Harrington '12

Photography major Molly Harrington '12 is a photographer and photo editor for a Boston-based online fashion retailer.

Myles Dias, Class of 2017
Myles Dias '17: business studies, social justice, professional networks

MIS major Myles Dias '17 has broadened his horizons with involvement in DECA, Unity House, and the founding of an NAACP chapter on campus.

Travis Weiland
Travis Weiland, PhD '17 accepts tenure-track position

After graduation, Travis Weiland plans on moving to Boone, North Carolina to start his tenure-track position as an Assistant Professor of Mathematics Education at Appalachian State University.

Isabel Saavedra with a sculpture of a homeless person in front of Catholic Charities in Washington, DC.
Pursuing justice for those without a voice

Acting on her passion for immigration law, Isabel Saavedra, JD ’14 has worked with detainees at the U.S. border with Mexico.

Congressman Barney Frank
UMass Law hosts Immigration Symposium

The UMass Law Review's annual symposium will focus on immigration, sanctuary cities, and the recent travel ban.

Dustin Roderigues
Dustin Roderigues ’17: motorcyclist, mechanical engineer, entrepreneur

A passion for motorcycles led Dustin to build the Tachyon, a prototype electric motorcycle.

Cape Verdean Student Association
UMass Dartmouth celebrates Cape Verdean culture

Carlos Wahnon Veiga, Ambassador of Cape Verde to the US, will deliver keynote address “Cape Verdean Communities and Belonging in Challenging Times” at the University’s 1st Annual Cape Verdean Cultural Day on Friday, April 7

elizabeth cross working in a bio lab
Elizabeth Cross '17 is planning a career as a pediatric surgeon

A research internship at Yale and her studies in biology at UMassD have prepared Elizabeth for the challenges of medical school.

headshot of alicia
Psychology student presents research at international conference

Alicia Cronister-Morais '17 presented her psychology research at the Society for Research and Child Development’s international biennial conference (SRCD) in April, which prepared her for a future in clinical psychology graduate study.

Rahul Kashyap
Rahul Kashyap, PhD, '17 pursues the rhythms of the universe

One of the first graduates of the PhD in Engineering & Applied Science program, Rahul studied supernovae using some of the largest supercomputers in the world.

Acclaimed filmmaker Clennon L. King to visit UMassD

Award-winning film Passage at St. Augustine chronicles movement that led to passage of Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Alex Siddall - internship in Washington, DC
Alex Siddall '17: Washington internship

An internship at the State Department and a semester abroad in Germany have convinced Alex Siddall '17 of the value of international education.

Headshot of Elizabeth Beshansky
Crime and Justice Studies alumna finds her calling for business

While working as an insurance underwriter for Sun Life Financial, Elizabeth Beshansky decided it was time to earn her MBA.

Jennifer Legee working at desk.
Jennifer Legee '17: Peer mentor

As the Connect program's peer mentor lead, Jennifer Legee '17 helps other students discover their potential.

Samantha Gottlich - internship at New York Life
Samantha Gottlich: learning on the job through multiple internships

For marketing major Samantha Gottlich '18, gaining hands-on experience is an important step toward her dream job in social media.

Lexie Almeida '20, Biology
Lexie Almeida: Admissions ambassador

Lexie Almeida '20 chose a biology major to prepare for a future as a physical therapist.

Share Esperanza: Haiti service mission

Students working with the service organization traveled to Haiti in January to donate clothing, food, and supplies.

headshot of Laura
Biology and French alumna joins Brown University

After graduating in 2009, Lauren Watka blended her love of scholarship with adventure and experienced many exciting opportunities.

Meaghan ONeill
Meaghan O'Neill '17: Career in animation

Planning for a career in animation, Meaghan O'Neill '17 is a dual major in graphic design and digital media.

Anna Kristina Goransson
Excellence in Fibers

An exhibition of selected works from Fiber Art Now's juried print exhibit Excellence in Fibers

Black History 4 Seasons programming begins January 15

UMass Dartmouth's Black History 4 Seasons Council announces events for 2017.

Gabrielle Monteiro
Gabrielle Monteiro '17: Future in sustainable urban planning

Gabrielle Monteiro received the 2015 Campus Compact Newman Civic Fellows Award for her commitment to community engagement.

The Master in Professional Writing Program prepared Kris Cambra to work in higher education

Kris Cambra, Director of Biomedical Communications at Brown University, used her master's degree in professional writing to help her advance in higher education.

Jenyka Gassnola '17 at Champions for Change
Jenyka Gassnola '17: Advocate for women who need a second chance

During her internship at Together We Bake, Jenyka Gassnola '17 gained new skills, was featured in an NPR article, and was invited to a White House event.

weaving yardage detail
Weaving with Light Exhibition SOFA Chicago

College of Visual & Performing Arts SOFA CHICAGO 2015 installation to be showcased at Campus Gallery