Healing brokenH are ts · Tap into an alumni network that’s more than 823,000 strong by joining...

Emilio Parga, MAED/ECN ’03Owner, Solace TreeReno, Nevada

Your Alumni Magazine | November / December 2013 PhoenixFocus.com

Healing broken Hearts

THE MAKE A DIFFERENCE ISSUE

Make a difference every day

Small steps, big career changes

Beware of charity giving scams

All orders are subject to approval and acceptance by Dell. Offers subject to change, not combinable with all other off ers. Taxes, shipping, handling and other fees apply. Valid for U.S. DellMember Purchase Program/Dell University new purchases only. Dell reserves right to cancel orders arising from pricing or other errors. *Best Price Guarantee does not apply to retail or reseller offers, Dell Outlet, affiliate websites, coupons, auctions or quotes from Dell sales representatives. You must present a valid E-value code or saved cart image with lower price to a Dell Member Purchase Program sales specialist on day of purchase prior to your transaction. *Electronics and Accessories: Offer does not apply to the following products categories: All Non-Dell Electronics and Accessories. 5% savings may be combinable with other offers. *Promotional eGift Card: Ships separately from purchase and typically arrives in 10–20 days from ship date via email; expires in 90 days (except where prohibited by law). Terms and conditions apply. www.dell.com/giftcard/promoterms. *Free 2nd business day shipping: Not available on televisions 40” or larger.

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PHOENIX FOCUS is produced monthly by University of Phoenix Alumni Association.Visit us at phoenixfocus.com.

Chief Marketing OfficerArra Yerganian

Vice PresidentKathleen Fern, MBA ’99

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Make a difference

Giving back is in your DNA.

I see it every year at our various Alumni Association events and gatherings. University of Phoenix Alumni are giving back to their local communities in hundreds of different ways. Some give back to local children’s causes, literacy, animal shelters, women’s groups and veteran’s charities. And many are mentors for the Alumni Career Mentor Program.

On Page 44, we celebrate 150 alumni across the globe who were named 2013 Alumni Community Service Award recipients for their outstanding community service activities of the past year.

Alumni also give back by being volunteer Alumni Chapter leaders. Recently, I attended the inaugural Alumni Chapter Leadership Conference in San Diego, California. Alumni flew in from all over the country to meet with one another and share the very best of what they’re doing to support their fellow Phoenixes. The chapter leaders volunteer countless hours to make a difference in the quality of support and networking available to graduates.

Your kind actions are benefiting countless people today and inspiring the next generation. Thank you to those who are wired to make the world a better place!

NikkiNikki Sandoval, MBA, Class of 2003 Executive Director, Alumni Association University of Phoenix

LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Hardwired to give back

Alumni Association BenefitsTake advantage of the complimentary resources the University of Phoenix Alumni Association offers you. Visit alumni.phoenix.edu to customize your account and confirm your profile.

Built-in career networkingTap into an alumni network that’s more than 823,000 strong by joining the Alumni Association.

Career resourcesDiscover tools and resources to help you market your skills to potential employers.

Discounts and savingsFind discounts on everything from computers and electronics to insurance products, travel and more through University Marketplace.

Homecoming and eventsReconnect with fellow alumni at Homecoming each fall or attend special events throughout the year.

ScholarshipsApply for scholarships to return to school or nominate someone you know for the chance to attend the University.

Get involvedBecome a mentor, join an Alumni Chapter or share your story through Phoenix Focus alumni magazine.

Get started nowalumni.phoenix.edu

Michelle Hubbard, MM-I ’10

Julius Achon, BSB/COM-CC ’11

Paola Moneymaker, MAED/TED-E ’09

Mario Bruno, MBA ’06

phoenixfocus.com 5

Ask Nikki Editorial team

Arra Yerganian Chief Marketing Officer

Kathleen Fern Vice President MBA ’99

Nikki Sandoval Executive Director MBA ’03

Jenifer King Editorial Director MBA ’11

ASK NIKKI

Amanda Flatten Senior Editor

JoBeth Jamison Features & Online Editor

Amy Wilson Online Community Manager

Each month, I receive dozens of emails inquiring about resources available to alumni through University of Phoenix. Here are a few of the more frequently asked questions.

Julie Wilson Senior Writer

Q: I heard University of Phoenix now has a way for top employers to search for UOPX graduates when they have jobs available. How can I get my resume into their hands?

A: You are correct. Through the University’s Phoenix Career Services™ portal, you can import your LinkedIn profile directly to upload your resume where hundreds of employers are looking for qualified candidates. Go to bit.ly/18V3SFt to login, and then you’ll be able to click “upload.” It’s that simple.

Q: ’Tis the season to volunteer. I’d like to give back to my community by volunteering my time. Any ideas for creative ways I can give back?

A: You can give back to your University of Phoenix community by becoming a mentor to students or alumni through the Alumni Career Mentor Program. Becoming a mentor is the perfect way to share your career expertise with someone in a similar field. It’s also an opportunity for you to develop your coaching, communication and leadership skills. As a mentor, you can contribute to the success of University of Phoenix students and graduates, and you will gain personal satisfaction by engaging in a meaningful volunteer opportunity. Find out more at alumnimentors.phoenix.edu.

Dana Anthony Marketing Specialist

Results from our recent online polls


Do you consciously try to make a difference each day?

How did you start volunteering?

55% I’ve always looked for ways to help people.

21% I don’t volunteer.

13% A personal or community tragedy led me to it.

5% I needed something to occupy my time.

5% I was inspired by a story in the media.

54%46%

Absolutely. It’s part of my makeup.

Sometimes. It depends on how

much time I have after fulfilling all of my

commitments.

Which charitable cause pulls at your heart and purse strings the most?

53%

ANIMAl welFARe 16%

VeTeRAN welFARe 10%

DISeASeS 8%

DISASTeR 8%

OTHeR

6%

CHIlD welFARe

6 PHOENIX FOCUS | November / December 2013

contents

Features

8Make a difference in everyday life Simple ways to make giving back a part of your daily routine.

24On the cover: Healing broken hearts Emilio Parga, MAED/ECN ’03

Nearly a decade ago, Emilio Parga established the nonprofit Solace Tree, an organization that has helped more than 5,000 bereaved children and teens and spawned six books, an award-winning documentary and national speaking engagements. The organization is helping children, teens and adults heal from the loss of a loved one through peer support groups, where death and loss are not taboo topics.

12How to use Phoenix Career Services Find out what Phoenix Career Services’ enhanced offerings can do for you, wherever you may be on your career journey.


phoenixfocus.com 7

In this issue

CONTENTS

14Your Career

14 Small steps, big career changes

16 Avoid charity giving scams

20 The internship: Test-drive your dream job

36 Extra! Extra!

24Alumni Profiles

24 Emilio Parga, MAED/ECN ’03 Healing broken hearts

28 Scott Kuch, MBA/TM ’03 An open book

32 Kristy France, MSN ’10 The nurse advocate

38The Buzz

38 Published by alumni 40 Recognition

42Your University

42 University News 43 Campus News 44 2013 Alumni Community Service Award recipients

Opportunities

2 Dell alumni discount 4 Alumni benefits 19 Phoenix Career Services 23 In Focus blog 39 University Marketplace 41 Alumni Career Mentor Program 52 Subscribe to Phoenix Focus


Simple ways to make giving back a part of your daily routine.

“’Tis the season,” is ringing in your ears as you amble down the street clutching bundles of purchases that you snatched up at the last minute for loved ones.

By Jenny Jedeikin

Make a difference in everyday life


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FEATURE | Make a difference in everyday life

When you hear the jingle of the Salvation Army bell and glimpse the weary face of the volunteer in the Santa suit out of the corner of your eye, you can’t help but turn your head sharply in the other direction to avoid his request for a donation.

The truth is, you’re no grinch, and you’d love to help, but after buying everyone on your list gifts and mustering the energy to go shopping after work, you’re just tapped out.

If this scene is familiar, don’t lose heart, say the experts. “A lot of people have the misconception that in order to give back meaningfully you have to act like Mother Teresa or Gandhi all the time,” says Adam Grant, professor at Wharton and author of Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success. “But that’s not the case.” There are numerous opportunities to give in your daily life that take little, energy or money, but still can make a meaningful impact.

Engage in random acts of kindness Grant likes to talk about a successful entrepreneur and mentor he knows who makes it a point to do five-minute favors for people numerous times a day. “A five-minute favor is essentially a way of adding high value to another person’s life, and it’s of low cost to you,” says Grant.

“This entrepreneur is constantly looking for ways that he can connect people who might benefit from knowing one another,” says Grant. “He also goes out of his way to recognize other people who are generous, but aren’t getting credit for it, by writing spontaneous recommendations and sending them to an unwitting boss or putting a recommendation on LinkedIn.”

Grant not only believes that demonstrating these behaviors will impact others, but that exhibiting prosocial behavior will also benefit you, as you will become energized and motivated by the “good” you are causing.

Do what is meaningful to you Stephen Post professor of Preventative Medicine and author of The Hidden Gifts of Giving, says it’s important not to do just anything, but to find something

meaningful that you are called to do, which gives you a sense of purpose, and then do that activity, even if it’s just for one or two hours a week.

“When we are engaged in activities where we are giving back, the brain is active in certain ways that create a sense of calmness and happiness, and the mind’s attention is deflected from the problems of the self and the anxieties of the self,” says Post.

You don’t have to be directly making a difference in a person’s life, he says. “Studies have shown that simply writing a check to an organization that has meaning to you can increase the ‘feel good’ chemicals in your brain.”

Individuals without a lot of time or resources could decide to forgo their gourmet coffee or chai habit all month, for example, and instead spend that time looking at nonprofit projects on Crowdfunding sites like Indiegogo, Crowdrise, DonorsChoose.org or Network for Good and give that money to a different charitable organization that is meaningful to them.

Give back to the planet For Carleen Cullen, director of Cool the Earth, a nonprofit that encourages families to take environmental actions, giving back to the earth is an easy way to incorporate making a difference into your daily routine.

“There are more than 70 different basic recommendations suggested on cooltheearth.org, from recycling all your bottles and cans to having a car-free weekend, where you purposely only bike or walk and then tell your friends about it to build community support for your action,” says Cullen.

“Getting civically engaged about something you care about is an important way to give back,” says Cullen. “People think, ‘Does it really matter if I write a letter to my congressman or to the local newspaper supporting an initiative?’ But those things really do matter.” Or, even easier is to spend time signing petitions, she says. “It takes about one minute to sign a petition online about something you care about.”


Share your knowledge or what you already have Even if you don’t have a lot of time to do weekly volunteer work where you show up at an organization, there are ample opportunities to volunteer your skills in small increments to nonprofits in need, suggests Amanda MacArthur, vice president of PYXERA Global, an organization that helps place skilled business volunteers with organizations that can utilize their talents.

Virtual volunteering has become really popular, says MacArthur. “Sparked.com is one organization that uses micro volunteers, who can volunteer online for just 30 minutes at a time to come up with everything from writing social media posts for a nonprofit, or review a business plan for a charitable organization.”

“Hosting someone in your home who is traveling internationally is another great way to volunteer, which many people don’t consider,” says MacArthur. Her organization helps connect people who are traveling abroad as students or teachers to families or individuals who are willing to host them. “Sharing your culture with someone is a very significant way to give back.”

Create lasting benefits all around Giving back to another person, or to the planet, even when our lives are hectic, can satisfy our need to deepen our lives and add satisfaction. “If you can find simple ways to make a difference that are not overwhelming to yourself, by doing things you enjoy, the net result is going to be positive,” says Post.

Similarly, Cullen says the effect of her program on participants always proves beneficial, and not just on the environment. “After families start taking earth-friendly actions, just by doing something as simple as changing their light bulbs to energy-efficient ones, they often say how much better they feel because they’re doing something that is larger than just themselves, for the greater good of future generations.”

Grant, whose website, giveandtake.com, includes a self assessment where people can measure their style of giving, couldn’t agree more. “If you look at where people derive a sense of significance and purpose from, it’s usually always less about ‘what have I done for myself?’ and more about, ‘what lasting contributions have I made for others?’”

Jenny Jedeikin is a writer based in Northern California whose writing has appeared in In Style, Rolling Stone and The San Francisco Chronicle.


“A lot of people have the misconception that in order to give back meaningfully you have to act like Mother Teresa or Gandhi all the time.” Adam Grant, author of Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success

Sources: 10 reasons to make a difference (page 11)ssc.wisc.edulivescience.commoney.usnews.comgreatergood.berkeley.eduThe International Journal of Person Centered Medicine

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FEATURE | Make a difference in everyday life

Volunteering & Giving•Employeeswhodevotemoreoftheirprofit-sharing

bonus to others report greater overall happiness than those who spend the windfall on their own needs.

•Childrenwhovolunteerbeforetheyareadultsaremore likely to become adults who volunteer, including unwilling children who are forced to volunteer.

•Scientistssaythemoreconsistentlyyouvolunteer—fromtwohoursperweekupto100hoursperyear—the better the benefits.

reasons to make a differenceNot only do you benefit the lives of others when you engage in behavior that gives back, but there is overwhelming evidence that you are also helping yourself. Here are some statistics about the lasting benefits of giving:

68% of people who volunteer agree that volunteering has made them feel physically healthier

92% say giving back enriches their sense of purpose

89%

say it improves their sense of well being

73% say it lowers their stress levels

STRESS 96% say “It makes me happier”

find it improves their

emotional health

77%say it improves their recovery from loss and disappointment

79% of Americans say they

would rather have a charitable gift made in their honor than receive a gift they won’t use

Teens that volunteer have a 50% lower rate of school dropout

When a recovering alcoholic mentors another person in recovery, they have an 18% better chance of recovering themselves

78%

10


How to use Phoenix Career ServicesFind out what Phoenix Career Services’ enhanced offerings can do for you, wherever you may be on your career journey.

In its effort and commitment to support graduates’ and students’ pursuit of career success, the University’s Phoenix Career Services™ can help you identify your career goals, create an action plan and support you in your efforts to fulfill your professional dreams.

By Julie wilson


“Phoenix Career Services has something to offer every one of our alumni and students, regardless of where they may be on their career path,” says Negin Kamangar, vice president of strategy for the University’s Education to Career initiative. “Our wide range of tools and resources are designed to help those just starting out, those who are looking to advance in their current career and those who are looking to start fresh in a new field or industry. There really is something for everyone here.”

Check out the following resources available through Phoenix Career Services at alumni.phoenix.edu/career-resources.html.

Find your fit The following tools can help you explore your interests, research the current job market and evaluate your finances. Career Interest Profiler

Find out what kind of work inspires you.

Job Market Research Tool Explore what the job market looks like in your desired industry and location.

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FEATURE | How to use Phoenix Career Services

Boost your skills Whether you’re looking for a promotion with your current employer or seeking something new, honing your skills and learning new ones may give you the edge you need to succeed. Phoenix Career Services offers the following tools to help enhance what you already know.

Alumni Career Mentor Program Whether you’re looking for career assistance or for the opportunity to share your expertise, the Alumni Career Mentor Program is a great way to connect. The program is open to all University of Phoenix students and alumni. Visit alumnimentors.phoenix.edu/about.

Personalized coaching for every stage Many of the career-building services available on Phoenix Career Services serve multiple purposes, but this one does most of all:

Career Coaching Have you ever wanted your very own expert career advisor to give you personalized coaching based on where you are in your career? Now you can. Phoenix Career Services offers two hours of one-on-one remote career coaching for each alumnus. What are you waiting for? Take advantage of these complimentary resources today at careercoaching.phoenix.edu/alumni.

Learn more about Phoenix Career Services and all of its offerings at alumni.phoenix.edu/career-resources.html.

Resume Builder Tool This tool helps you create a polished resume so you can put your best self forward to potential employers.

Employer Portal The portal helps connect you with companies actively seeking to hire University of Phoenix graduates. Upload your resume or simply upload your LinkedIn profile so employers can find you today.

Communities and Groups Build your personal network by communicating with other job seekers who are among the 823,000-strong University of Phoenix community.

Military transitions If you are transitioning from military to civilian life, the Military Skills Translator Tool can help you discover how your military experience can translate into new opportunities. Simply plug in the positions you’ve held in the military to see how your skills match up to the right civilian careers. You can then review your career matches based on the military occupational specialty code, and understand the typical salary ranges of these jobs. Visit careers.phoenix.edu/military.

Pursue your passion Phoenix Career Services offers tools and resources to help you in your search for your dream job.


Small steps, big career changes To make it big, sometimes you need to think small. Here are some little things that can make a great impact on your career.

We often hear that it’s the little things in life that matter. The same could be said for your career.

By Julie wilson

While grand gestures like moving to an undesirable location for a important assignment or leading a long-term project that no one else will touch might help you get ahead, there are smaller measures you can take to impress those who are in a position to help you move up. Here are some little things you can do that may add up to a big difference in your career.

State your intentions You may have the greatest boss in the world, but that doesn’t mean he or she can read your mind. “Your boss has to know your intentions,” says Donald Asher, career consultant and author of Who Gets Promoted, Who Doesn’t, and Why. This means being up-front about your career ambitions, professional development goals and general expectations of your employer.

“I think straightforward works great,” says Asher, who believes that managers appreciate this approach, too. When a position becomes available, “If you’re the boss, you go to the people who want to move up first,” he asserts.

Curb poor speech patterns and tame heavy accents You may be the smartest member of your team or the most experienced one working on a given project, but if your words are obscured by irritating speech habits (like, um, you know) or a thick accent, it won’t matter.

“That can really hurt [a] career,” says Marty Nemko, career coach and author of seven books, including How to Do Life: What They Didn’t Teach You in School. “The great manager inspires his or her employees,” he says. But if your team can’t understand what you’re saying, they may only be motivated to tune you out.

Nemko advises working with native speakers to help neutralize an accent. First, record them speaking words you especially struggle with. Then listen closely to how they pronounce those words and practice saying them yourself. The same can be said for other speech patterns. Listen to yourself, or have a friend listen to you, and take note of how many times you’re inclined to use “um,” “you know,” “like” and other filler words, then go back and try again. It’s a simple—and inexpensive—measure you can take that can make a big impact on how well you communicate with colleagues. “This is a pretty easy way to make a big difference in your career,” Nemko says. For more extensive help in this area, look into joining a Toastmasters group in your area.

Seize any and all opportunities to learn “When you need to learn something, one way, of course, is to take a class,” says Asher, “but there are some other [ways that] people often overlook.”

Like what? Vendors can often offer educational resources for new technology, such as hardware, software, equipment or new ways of doing things that they may be selling to your company. “You can often get vendors to pay for your training,” he explains. “It’s the easiest, quickest, fastest way.”

If that doesn’t work, he suggests attending professional association lectures or workshops to get up to speed quickly on a hot topic that might be relevant at the moment in your field or industry. “You can go to a 45-minute class at a conference and get almost everything you need to know” about the subject as it relates to your job.

Embrace online networking Not everyone is a natural-born networker. While some people can glide into a room full of strangers and charm them with their smile, handshake and pithy elevator pitch, others are so awkward at these gatherings that their discomfort is palpable to everyone around them.


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YOUR CAREER | Small steps, big career changes

Luckily, technology has blessed introverts with a painless way to schmooze. “The best thing you can do if you’re an introvert is to learn the art of online networking,” advises Nemko.

How? Nemko recommends searching online to find articles that will teach you how to use professional networking sites to your greatest advantage. It’s not only easy to do, but it’s quick and efficient, too. “An article is the distilled wisdom of an expert that you can read in five minutes,” he says.

Doing so can teach you, among other things, “how to make great posts on forums on professional association [websites] and the art of becoming a LinkedIn ninja,” adds Nemko. With a little effort and an Internet connection, it turns out you can make a great impression on the outside world without even putting on a suit or fumbling your way through small talk.

Find allies Keeping your nose to the grindstone and focusing on your work is great, but if that’s all you do at the office, you risk isolating

yourself in your organization or industry. This can backfire if you ever find yourself in need of guidance or assistance. Asher’s advice? “You need to make friends before you need friends,” he says. “A lot of people have a career crisis before they reach out to their network.” If you haven’t taken the time to build one, that may leave you to go it alone when you really could use the support of colleagues to navigate any hurdles.

Reaching out doesn’t need to be complicated or intimidating. It can be as simple as eating your lunch in the break room one day a week instead of at your desk or walking down the hall to speak with a co-worker sometimes rather than sending them a quick email. Over time, these acquaintances may become useful allies at work, which benefits all parties.

Making connections at work may also help you get the plum promotion you’re after. “Every organization has key influencers,” says Nemko. This isn’t necessarily a C-suite executive. “Sometimes it could be the admin who gets all the inside information,” he says.

The important thing is to identify these influencers and find ways to make connections with them. Take the time to ask someone about their day, discuss an industry-related article you read or inquire about a project they’re working on.

“If [it’s an individual] four levels higher than you are, it’s still fine,” insists Nemko. “Make a point of running into them in the hall or the elevator.” Then introduce yourself, express interest in their work and offer your assistance should they ever need an extra pair of hands during an especially busy time. “Do what you can to build relationships with them,” Nemko urges.

With a little effort, a lot of resourcefulness and a dash of common sense, you can take everyday interactions and turn them into major career boosters.

KEY INFLUENCERSIdentify key influencers in your company and and make connections with them.

“Every organization has key influencers. Sometimes it could be the admin who gets all the inside information.” Marty Nemko, career coach and author of How to Do Life: What They Didn’t Teach You in School.


Not everyone is helping others this holiday season. Some are just out to help themselves. Here’s how to give wisely.

Avoid charity giving scams

The email looks legitimate enough, with the logo of the charity you support and the heart-rending plea you’re used to reading. But then you notice something is off: Maybe it was sent by the “Red Cros,” the second “s” mysteriously absent, or the letter itself is full of typos.

By Cynthia Ramnarace

to hang up the phone and ask for time to go directly to the source online,” says Thompson. “So researching the charity is key.”

Also, odds are that if the solicitation is being done by phone, the telemarketing firm is taking a portion of your donation, says Sandra Miniutti, vice president of Charity Navigator, which evaluates the credibility of the country’s largest charities. Because of this cost sharing, you’re much better off donating directly through the charity’s website or directly by check. “There’s no legal restriction on how much of your contribution they can keep,” she says. “It could be as high as 95 cents of every dollar.”

Texting scams are another popular holiday-season tactic. Scammers often use social media, such as Twitter and Facebook, to encourage donors to make a quick donation by texting a five- or six-digit number. But the number could be a fake, so Thompson

Trust your instincts, say fraud experts, because otherwise you’re likely walking into a scam. Email solicitations are a favorite route of con artists who prey on people’s propensity to give more to charities during the holiday season.

“They might lead you to a website that is not legitimate and asks you for your personal information, your credit card number, and that money will never reach the actual intended charitable organization,” says Felicia N. Thompson, spokesperson for the Better Business Bureau (BBB). “Or, you could wind up downloading a virus onto your computer.”

Types of scams Phone solicitations are a common holiday-time scam, Thompson says. The caller might say he is from the “American Cancer Group,” and you think he means the reputable “American Cancer Society.” But he’s not, and the only person you’re helping with your donation is the person who is essentially robbing you.

“If it’s a true charity and they want your donation, they’ll be more than happy to supply you with written information or allow you


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YOUR CAREER | Avoid charity giving scams

recommends you verify first by checking with the texting directory at The Mobile Giving Foundation (bit.ly/M-Giving). Do your research To ensure that your donation is secure and going toward the right cause, never click through on a link in an email. Instead, type the charity’s URL directly into your browser. And if it’s a charity you haven’t heard of, research them first on a website such as CharityNavigator.com or the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance (bbb.org/us/charity/). Charity

Navigator uses a four-star ranking system to rank the 7,000 largest of the nation’s 1 million public charities. For charities it doesn’t rank, the site provides a link to the organization’s 990 form, which is the tax form charities must file with the Internal Revenue Service.

“You want to look at a charity’s financial health, their commitment to being accountable and transparent, and their reporting on their results,” Miniutti says. “You want to make sure that they’ve posted their financial documents on their website and that, if you call them, they’re willing to answer your questions.”

“You want to look at a charity’s financial health, their commitment to being accountable and transparent and their reporting on their results.” Sandra Miniutti, vice president of Charity Navigator


Itchingtohostyourownwalk-a-thonorspaghettidinnerfor your favorite cause? Technology has made community fundraising easier than ever.

If you’re raising funds for an established charity, contact them directly before you start. Many large charities, such as the AmericanHeartAssociation,havehow-towebsitesdedicatedtomakingsmall-scalefundraisingeasy.

If you’re fundraising for a local cause, such as to help a friend who suffered a tragedy, there are many online resources that make it easy to spread the word and collect funds safely and reliably. Microgiving.com, eventBrite.com and GiveForward.com allow you to set up web pages, share the request via social media and email and collect funds via credit card.

Many charities are very small, hyper-local and might only have an immediate purpose, such as to help out the neighborhood family whose child has cancer or raise money for a new football field. In these cases, it’s often best to get your money as close to the source as possible.

“If it’s for a neighborhood family in need, contact them directly and donate to them rather than to one of their representatives,” says David Bakke, philanthropy expert at MoneyCrashers.com. “If you’re still in doubt about whether your funds are actually going to someone truly in need, see if the charity is registered at the Attorney General’s office of your state or at the website of your local BBB.”

Saving face when you’ve been scammed If you’ve already fallen for a fake charity scam, report it to the BBB. “If we find out something is going on, we can alert the media and do what we can so that more folks won’t fall for the scam,” says Thompson. “Because unfortunately, these sites pop up overnight and can disappear just as quickly.”

If you donated by credit or debit card, call your bank and ask two questions: 1) Can they stop the payment or issue a refund?

2) Have there been any fraudulent charges on your account? Unfortunately, scammers might be looking to steal more than just the amount you donated.

Keep on giving Don’t be discouraged from giving. While there are charitable pitfalls out there, there are many more honest-to-goodness organizations and people out there who adhere to their humanitarian missions and play by the rules. If you take the time to research a charity and make sure that your money is going exactly where you want it to go, you’re not only making the best use of your resources, you’re ensuring that those in need get the help you intend to help provide. And you’re ensuring that your gift will give you peace of mind.

Cynthia Ramnarace is an independent journalist based in Rockaway Beach, N.Y. She specializes in personal finance, health and older adult issues. Find out more at cynthiaramnarace.com.

If you decide to host an event where proceeds will go directly to a family in need, keep in mind that Internal Revenue Service regulations prohibit donors from deducing contributions to individuals on their taxes. However, if the money is going to a recognized charity or religious organization, that contribution is deductible. And if you host an event where a portion of the donation goes toward goods orservices,suchassellingT-shirtsoraspaghettidinner, your donors can only deduct the amount that exceeds the value of the benefit.

For more information, visit bit.ly/community-fundraising.

Fundraising in your community


Find your next career opportunityon the Phoenix Career Services portal.

Top U.S. companies are interested in University of Phoenix graduates. Help them find you.

Upload an existing resumé, transfer over your LinkedIn© profile or simply build one from scratch with the easy-to-use resumé writing tool.

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Get a leg up in your chosen career field.

The internship: Test-drive your dream job

Lauren Berger got a career break in Hollywood that usually only happens in the movies.

By lori K. Baker

Fresh out of college with an organizational business communications degree, the ingénue packed up her belongings in Clearwater, Florida, and headed to Tinsel Town on a quest to land her dream job in the entertainment industry. “I had a little bit of savings, and I knew I had little over a month to find a job,” Berger says. She escaped a long stint of waiting tables by quickly landing a high-glam job with Creative Artists Agency, a large talent agency with a full roster of movie stars.

Her secret? As a self-proclaimed “intern queen,” she had built a vast professional network during her 15 internships as an undergraduate at University of Central Florida. She called a contact she met at her FOX internship, and he put in a call for her at Creative Artists Agency that landed her a job interview. She aced the interview, got the job and a decade later, she’s an evangelist for the “hire power” of college internships as CEO of InternQueen.com and author of All Work, No Pay: Finding an Internship, Building Your Resume, Making Connections and Gaining Job Experience.

Whether you’re starting your first job or taking on a new career, whether you’re 20 or twice that, internships can be an ideal way to get your foot in the door of your chosen field. Here are tips on how you, too, can use internships to land your dream job.

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YOUR CAREER | Theinternship:Test-driveyourdreamjob


Turning degrees into dollars Internships wield clout in today’s competitive job marketplace because companies look for more than a high GPA in their new hires. A recent survey by the National Association of College and Employers reveals seven out of 10 organizations prefer to hire candidates with relevant work experience. “Getting an internship is critical because it is often the deciding factor on who gets the job or who gets the interview, says Mark Lyden, a recruiter for Boeing, a Fortune 50 company, and author of College Students Do This! Get Hired!

“Internships are the easiest ways for companies to try before they buy,” he adds. “It’s a great strategic business decision because the company can try you out and test your performance and see if you fit in their environment and corporate culture. The cool thing is it gives students the same advantage. It’s a win-win,” he says.

Beyond the opportunity to test-drive a brand-new job, internships can provide you hands-on experience, face-to-face connections with professionals to grow your network and important bullet points on your resume that illustrate you have real-world experience, understand corporate culture and can work with groups of people of diverse ages and backgrounds.

Internship seekers, beware! Along with good internships, positions transparently advertised, focused on education and training and serving as steppingstones to full-time jobs, are exploitive and even illegal ones. “You really have to do your due diligence,” Lyden warns.

To find out if an internship is legit, first do a deep dive into the company’s website. Granted, a website may be nothing more than a façade. That’s why it’s important to take your cyber sleuthing one step further with searches on Google, LinkedIn, Twitter and Glass Door, where people post their experiences and salaries at various companies across the country. Next, get it straight from the source’s mouth—talk to people who’ve actually worked at the company. “Use your network to ask questions,” Lyden says. “You’ve got a powerful network through the University of Phoenix.”

Smart moves When you apply for internships, make sure you incorporate key phrases listed in the job description into your resume to show you’re a great match for the job, Lyden advises. After you land the interview, the next important fact-gathering phase begins.

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be a bit more aggressive and assertive,” says Yair Riemer, vice president of marketing for CareerArc Group, whose website, Internships.com, lists 75,000 to 80,000 active internship offers.

The Phoenix Career Services™ job portal also lists a number of internship opportunities at phoenix.edu/alumni/career.

To find out what an internship can offer you, ask: Is there potential for full-time employment at the end of this internship or after graduation? What is the corporate culture like? Can you describe a typical day as an intern at your company? “If they don’t have a specific answer for you, it’s really a red flag,” Berger warns. “Companies with structured internship programs will have a lot more information to share than companies that aren’t putting a lot of thought behind their programs.”

The 40-year-old intern The movie The Internship starring Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn pokes fun at the notion of interning in your forties, but embarking on an internship as an experienced professional actually offers real-life career benefits if you’re changing professions. “An internship is worth it any time you have the opportunity to gain experience in a brand-new field,” Lyden says. “It’s human nature for the hiring manager to always go with the person with the most relevant experience.”

After all, it’s never too late to follow in the footsteps of highly successful people such as media mogul Oprah Winfrey, legendary director Steven Spielberg, award-winning journalist Brian Williams and fashion designer Betsey Johnson, who all got their first career breaks as interns. “The one common thread I hear when I talk to successful people is one sentence: ‘It all started with an internship,’” Berger says.

Lori K. Baker is an award-winning journalist who specializes in human-interest profiles, business and health. Her articles have appeared in Ladies’ Home Journal, Family Circle, Arizona Highways and Johns Hopkins Health.


FEATURE | Top 5 new business venturesFEATURE | education outlook

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Emilio Parga, MAED/ECN ’03Owner, Solace TreeReno, Nevada


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Healing broken Hearts

Emilio Parga is helping youngsters deal with grief through his nonprofit, Solace Tree.

Nearly a decade ago, Emilio Parga, MAED/ECM ’03, decided to follow his dreams and ignore naysayers. He established the nonprofit Solace Tree, an organization that has helped more than 5,000 bereaved children and teens and has spawned six books, an award-winning documentary and national speaking engagements. Turns out, ignoring critics has its merits.

By lori K. Baker Photos by Bruce Racine

ALUMNI PROFILES | emilio Parga


Based in Reno, Nevada, Solace Tree helps children, teens and adults heal from the loss of a loved one through peer support groups, where death and loss are not taboo topics. Parga’s experiences inspired his book, No Child Should Grieve Alone, along with journals written with children for children that sell around the world. He teamed up with the Reno PBS affiliate to produce the Solace Tree documentary, You’ll Always Be With Me, a 2011 Silver Communicator Award winner. Meanwhile, he spreads his message of the importance of explaining death to young children as a speaker for the American Counseling Association, Cancer Treatment Centers of America and National Association for the Education of Young Children. He also is a member of the National Alliance for Grieving Children.

Parga didn’t set out to prove his critics wrong, but to act on a deep inner conviction. Good-intentioned people warned him: “Don’t waste your time. You’ve got to raise money, and you’re going to have a hard time.” Others asked: “It’s about death—who is going to talk about death?” He acknowledged the risk, but didn’t let it dash his dreams. “I just kept trusting the process and knowing it wasn’t about me—it was about helping children and their families,” he says.

A life-changing moment Flash back to 2002, when Parga worked as an elementary school teacher while finishing his master’s degree in school counseling with the University of

Phoenix. Outside of the classroom, he often helped youngsters cope with turmoil from losing a parent to suicide, accidental death or cancer. Sadly, by the time children are school-aged, many have lost a beloved family member or pet. But because death is such a taboo topic in society, many young children lack an understanding of what it means when someone they know dies, making it difficult to deal with the loss.

“I could identify with these kids because I lived it,” says Parga, who lost his father at age 10. He recalls hiding his feelings, convinced that adults wouldn’t listen. Later, in his early teens, he briefly turned to drugs and alcohol to help him cope with repressed emotions. “It’s a good thing I was in sports because that’s what saved me,” he says.

Seeing the plight of children with unresolved grief, he delved into research to find resources in the community to help them, but found nothing. Meanwhile, Parga, who is a father himself, was diagnosed with early-stage cancer, a pivotal, life-changing moment that led to his decision in 2004 to quit his day job as a school counselor and launch Solace Tree with $40,000 of his own inheritance money.

“Once I was diagnosed with cancer, I knew I wanted to start doing something different with my life,” says Parga, whose education career included counseling, teaching mainstream and special education students


phoenixfocus.com 27

“I’ve always been honored and privileged to be in the lives of children, teens and adults—to hear their stories of love and loss, grief and anger.” Emilio Parga, MAED/ECN ’03

WEB EXCLUSIVES Visit phoenixfocus.com to explore additional content related to this article.

ALUMNI PROFILES | emilio Parga

and volunteering with the Special Olympics for more than 10 years. “I love working with children, and it was a good life,” he says. “But I wanted to work in the nonprofit sector.”

Healing broken hearts He faced the usual hurdles that come with launching a nonprofit—building awareness, finding sponsors and enlisting the help of volunteers. “It was hard at first to go from door to door, business to business, foundation to foundation, looking for sponsors to support children who are dealing with death,” Parga says. Solace Tree receives no government funding and relies solely on private donations and professional training fees for support.

Today, with the help of 58 volunteers and three paid staff members, Solace Tree provides open-ended peer support group meetings to more than 250 children and teens, ages 2 to 18, and more than 100 adult family members or caregivers each month. The groups are ongoing and meet every other week for 75 minutes, free of charge. Divided by age, the groups offer children and teens a mix of opportunities to share their experiences of grief and loss. Children may choose to paint or draw a picture of their heart using colors and shapes to depict how their heart feels, write a story or draw a picture of

a special time they shared with the person they lost, or draw before and after pictures of their home, family or themselves related to the loss of a loved one.

The organization also hosts Camp Solace, a summer bereavement camp for children and teens, ages 5 to 18, on Lake Tahoe’s north shore. Along with the usual camp activities—swimming, kayaking, playing volleyball, making crafts and participating in group skits—children and teens are given time to write in journals, share memories and memorabilia, hold a luminary ceremony and do other reflective activities that symbolize the memory of their loved one.

“I’ve always been honored and privileged to be in the lives of children, teens and adults—to hear their stories of love and loss, grief and anger,” says Parga, who is now cancer-free. “A death turns anyone’s life upside down. But we’re seeing more joy than sorrow because we’re commemorating and memorializing our loved ones.”

Lori K. Baker is an award-winning journalist who specializes in human-interest profiles, business and health. Her articles have appeared in Ladies’ Home Journal, Family Circle, Arizona Highways and Johns Hopkins Health.


Scott Kuch believes that instilling a love of reading in kids is the key to readying them for success throughout their lives. Through his work with Page Ahead, this Boeing executive is bringing the simple magic of books to Washington-area children who may not otherwise have that opportunity.

“We Read, We Succeed!,” repeats Scott Kuch after seeing a library’s slogan for the first time. “I love that. It’s exactly my mantra.”

By Julie wilson Photos by Bruce Racine


an open book

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ALUMNI PROFILES | Scott Kuch

Scott Kuch, MBA/TM ’03IT director, Boeing’s PDM SystemsSeattle, Washington



As a child, Kuch was fortunate enough to have aisles of library shelves to wander through and piles of books to get lost in and inspired by. Now, this Seattle-area Boeing executive is working with nonprofit Page Ahead to make sure local kids who lack their own resources have the opportunity to read—and succeed—in all they do.

A career built on self-teaching A reader from the start, it’s no wonder that Kuch sort of created his own career by exploring available tools and processes and figuring out how to improve them. Before his senior year of high school began, Kuch began working as a teller at Seafirst Bank, a position he held while he earned his undergraduate degree in history from University of Washington and following graduation.

In his next job, he worked for an operations organization doing general accounting work. There, his employer introduced desktop computers into the workforce. “I just took to it naturally,” he says. “I started automating jobs that took 10 to 12 hours to complete down to 45 minutes to complete. People took notice.”

His contributions to the organization were rewarded. His responsibilities grew by leaps and bounds because of his innate curiosity and initiative.

A career takes flight at Boeing In 1990, Kuch was offered an opportunity to continue to grow in his career at the world’s leading aerospace company, and he jumped at the chance. Initially at Boeing, he was hired to work on the


company’s new 777 airplane program, providing digital design IT support.

Kuch’s career was also exploding. Over the next few years, he was promoted from one new challenge to the next. Kuch decided to bolster his skills by earning his MBA in Technology Management from University of Phoenix, which he completed in 2003. “I was able to take what I was learning straight from the book and map it to work in my IT organization,” he explains.

His initiative, commitment and unwavering passion for learning ultimately led him to his current role at Boeing. Today he’s serving as IT director of PDM Systems, a role in which he provides computing solutions that support standardizing business practices across a wide range of business units that each have their own sets of goals and priorities. Success means a seamless transition for all parties. “When we get it done and we get it done right, we never hear from [our internal clients],” he says with good humor. Of course when things go awry, it’s another story.

Time to give back With his executive-level responsibilities comes a desire to give back to the community. Kuch has honed in on one area to which he is dedicating his time and skills: literacy.

Children wrote thank you letters to Page Ahead for books they received through the literacy program.

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A colleague asked him to participate in a Books and Backpacks back-to-school-drive program. Through this event, he became connected with the executive director of Page Ahead, a children’s literacy program designed around the belief that reading as a child translates to reading, learning and succeeding as an adult. When a six-year position opened on the board of directors of Page Ahead in 2008, he was thrilled to join.

“Reading is one of those things I feel really strongly about,” says Kuch. “If you don’t get children started reading early enough, they never recover. You have to learn to read to read to learn.”

He’s working to get this message across to the community at large and to his colleagues at Boeing. He’s created opportunities for Boeing employees to make contributions to literacy improvement programs, and includes his co-workers in on-site book fairs for which half of all proceeds benefit Page Ahead. “We can make a difference for these [under-resourced] children by giving them this start at being successful so they can keep up with their peers who do have access.”

In his various roles on Page Ahead’s board, including vice president and board president, Kuch has overseen program direction and policy decisions. Kuch is proud to be able to contribute to Page Ahead’s efforts, which

include a Community Partnership Program in which more than 50 corporations and community organizations hold book drives and adopt program sites. It also includes connecting volunteers with children to share their love of reading. In 2012, more than 400 volunteers read with almost 4,000 children at various partner sites. In addition, Page Ahead collected and distributed more than 100,000 books to children who might otherwise not have the opportunity to own one.

Kuch is bolstered by success stories from children who participate in Page Ahead’s programs. Though his six-year term is up soon, he will continue to volunteer his time to promote literacy, whether in an advisory role with Page Ahead or with other literacy-focused organizations. After all, his personal passion is what has helped him succeed in his own life. Now it’s his passion to help others have this same opportunity, regardless of whatever resources they have at their disposal.

“We know that if we get books into the hands of kids, they’ll read them. If they read them, they’ll learn,” insists Kuch. “I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be where I am today if I hadn’t had access to books.”

Since 1990, Page Ahead has placed more than 2.3 million new books into the hands of 650,000 at-risk children through collaborations with schools, social service agencies, preschools and early childhood centers across Washington State. Find out more at PageAhead.org.


“Reading is one of those things I feel really strongly about. If you don’t get children started reading early enough, they never recover. You have to learn to read to read to learn.” Scott Kuch, MBA/TM ’03


Kristy France is a Veterans Administration nurse and serial volunteer who enjoys doing what comes naturally to her: helping others.

France, MSN ’10, follows a simple credo that explains much of her life philosophy. “I do what I think is right and that happens to involve me in a lot of things,” says the 33-year-old Veterans Administration nurse and prolific volunteer.

By leo w. Banks Photos by Bruce Racine

The nurse advocate


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Kristy France, MSN ’10Veterans Affairs Central Texas Home Telehealth Nurse Manager Temple, Texas

ALUMNI PROFILES | Kristy France


Even though she recently cut back somewhat on community service work, she is still involved in projects close to her heart. France oversees Girl Scout troop leaders throughout central Texas and serves on the Board of Directors for District 7 of the Texas Nurses Association. She also volunteers, through her job, in a national program that teaches health care workers how to manage disruptive behavior among patients and others.

France has won a number of awards. This year alone, she was named Woman of the Year for the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System and received an Alumni Community Service Award from the University of Phoenix.

But talking about public recognition makes her uncomfortable. “I’m honored, but I don’t think I’m doing something so wonderful,” says France, who is

also the mother of three girls. “There are plenty of others more deserving. I guess I don’t think about it because helping people is part of my nature.”

Her most memorable activity was the three years she spent counseling victims of sexual abuse. The work was especially rewarding because she served alongside her mom, who was an abuse victim as a young girl.

Early influences France was born in the Puerto Rican town of Ceiba, east of the capital of San Juan. Following her parents’ divorce, she moved at age 8 to Killeen, Texas, where her mom took a nursing job.

As often happens in families, her mother’s abuse had a cascading effect, impacting France’s life as well. At Killeen High School, she was part of the volleyball team, the marching band, the honor society, the Spanish club and the student council.


phoenixfocus.com 35

The high activity level was partly an outgrowth of France’s curious and friendly nature. But she was also avoiding going home, where her mom, fearful for France’s safety, kept her daughter on a tight rein. “My mom was carrying scars when I was growing up, and her trauma was my trauma,” says France. “I think that’s part of what motivates me today.”

Paving a new road After graduating from high school, France attended Central Texas College on an academic scholarship. She stayed close to home to help her mom raise her younger sister. Her mother was a single parent working the night shift, so France helped get her sister off to school in the morning, drove her to day care and then fed her at night.

After earning an associate degree and her certification as a lab tech, France enrolled at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, in Belton, Texas. She graduated with a nursing degree and later enrolled at the University of Phoenix to study for her master’s degree in nursing.

The effort was grueling. During the day, she worked as a care coordinator for the VA’s home telehealth program and at night, she fed and put her daughters to bed. She didn’t begin studying until 10 p.m. “If I had a sick child, I’d do schoolwork while taking care of my child,” says France, who completed her master’s in nursing 2010. “There was never a dull moment, but it’s what I had to do to move ahead.”

Moving ahead Today, she is the VA’s Central Texas Home Telehealth Nurse Manager in Temple, Texas. She oversees the program’s day-to-day operations, including making sure staffers meet performance standards. She also acts as a kind of advocate for patients, with the ultimate goal of delivering appropriate, timely and quality medical care.

Whether in her day job or her volunteer work, she sees herself as a kind of fixer. “If a program is struggling and needs to be

“If a program is struggling and needs to be kick-started with fundraising or other help, and nobody is doing it, that’s where you’ll find me. If I believe in the cause, I’ll go for it.” Kristy France, MSN ’10


kick-started with fundraising or other help, and nobody is doing it, that’s where you’ll find me,” says France. “If I believe in the cause, I’ll go for it.”

She applied for her previous job at the VA as veteran’s health educator and diabetes self-management program coordinator because nobody else was available, and France considered the work too important to leave to chance. “There aren’t many certified diabetes educators in central Texas, and it’s something our veterans need,” says France, whose husband, William, is an Iraq War vet. “I had a job I loved, but I jumped in because I wanted the program to continue to thrive.”

As for the future, France plans to get her doctorate, but she is taking a break to allow William time to complete his bachelor’s degree. France’s relationship with her mom is on solid footing, too, especially after the time they spent together volunteering at Families in Crisis, Inc., a Texas nonprofit that helps families experiencing sexual violence. The two worked as a team, one responding to calls when the other was unavailable. Although France still helps the group—her Girl Scouts donate clothing and food, as well as deliver meals to shelters—she took a step back, partly due to the emotional strain it put on her. “The children’s calls tore me up because all I’d see was my kids’ faces,” she says.

But she plans to return to advocacy work when her daughters get older. “I’ll never lose that desire to help, especially domestic violence victims,” says France. “I want to make sure that women and girls are safe and empowered, and always have the tools to go forward on their own.”

Leo W. Banks is a writer in Tucson.

ALUMNI PROFILES | Kristy France


Extra! Extra!

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Must-reads and online resources to help you make a difference.

By Paula Boon

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4

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BOOKS

1. The Difference You Make: Changing Your World Through the Impact of Your Influence By Pat Williams This inspiring book about using personal relationships to change the world for the better can help you recognize how you influence others and learn to do so more intentionally and strategically.

2. Giving 2.0: Transform Your Giving and Our World By Laura Arrillaga-Andreessen Take your gifts of time, expertise or money to the next level by harnessing the power of technology, innovation, collaboration and advocacy with the help of this resource.

3. The Volunteer Traveler’s Handbook By Shannon O’Donnell Looking for an ideal volunteer travel experience based on ethical and informed decisions? Check out this book’s practical advice, anecdotes, interviews and resource lists.

4. An Invisible Thread: The True Story of an 11-Year-Old Panhandler, a Busy Sales Executive, and an Unlikely Meeting with Destiny By Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski This uplifting story describes how a successful sales executive’s decision to “pay it forward” in 1980s New York changed her life and that of the young panhandler she took to lunch.

5. 1: How Many People Does it Take to Make a Difference? By Dan Zadra and Kobi Yamada An engaging reminder of how a single person can make the world a better place, this volume is an ideal way to inspire—or thank—the volunteers and philanthropists in your life.

6. Walk in Their Shoes: Can One Person Change the World? By Jim Ziolkowski In this inspirational memoir, the creator of a service-oriented program describes how he transformed from a thrill-seeker to an idealist with a focus on serving the poor and underprivileged.


phoenixfocus.com 37

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MAGAZINES and MAGAZINE ARTICLES

1. Success magazine, May 2013 “The Power of One: One Person, One Idea to Make a Difference” By Diana Booher An explanation of how just one powerful message or image can spur people to take action.

2. Inc. magazine, September 2012 “The Power of Small Moments” By Jeff Haden A reminder that what seems like a small moment to you can make a huge difference in someone else’s life.

3. Time magazine, March 27, 2013 “Is Giving the Secret to Getting Ahead?” By Susan Dominua An overview of the ideas of Adam Grant, a researcher who says focusing on service to others makes us more creative and productive.

ONLINE RESOURCES

4. Huffington Post Impact huffingtonpost.com/impact Visit this website to be inspired, find out about worthy causes and hear from experts how to take action.

5. 25 Ways to Make a Difference in the World Every Day bit.ly/25WaysEveryDay This blog shares wisdom from Tiny Buddha readers about how to capture every opportunity to make a difference for yourself and others.

6. A Pep Talk from Kid President to You bit.ly/KidPresident A 10-year-old YouTube sensation’s 3.5-minute pep talk, including gems like, “Time to get on the road to awesome.”

e X TR A! EXTRA!


The BUZZWe want to celebrate you in our alumni announcements. Share your story and be part of “The Buzz.” Email us at [email protected].

Published by Alumni

Love’s Second Chance By R.M. James

Written by Reina Gonzales, MHA/ED ’09, this book tells the tale of love lost and found again between teenage sweethearts Ley and Willie after 22 years.

The book is available through amazon.com.

The Dissertation Process That Works: A Doctoral Guide to Success By Dr. Scott Glen and Dr. Norma Turner

The dissertation process is the most arduous and lengthy part of the graduate experience. Scott Glenn, EdD ’10, and Dr. Norma Turner, MAMHROB ’89, help to simplify the process for success.

The book is available through amazon.com.

Death Angel By Clifford L. Linedecker and Zach T. Martin

True crime writer Clifford Linedecker and radio personality Zach Martin, MAED/TED-E ’07, deliver the true story of nurse Charles Cullen, a serial murderer who used his medical skills to kill as many as 40 patients in nursing homes in New Jersey and Pennsylvania from 1988 to 2003. Martin’s mother was one of Cullen’s victims.

The book is available through barnesandnoble.com.

Finding Annie: My Journey of Overcoming Obstacles By Annie G. Walker

Aspiring writer and senior financial analyst Annie Walker (now Saunders), MBA ’10, grew up dealing with abusive situations. She now deals with those situations by sharing her first-hand experiences.

The book is available through barnesandnoble.com and Amazon Kindle.


Spend less, give more.

How to use University Marketplace1 Set up your account at uopxalumnimarketplace.com.

2 Shop alphabetically, by category or by current deals negotiated just for alumni.

3 Once you have accrued a minimum of $20 in cash back, you can request your cash back via PayPal or check.

Preview the latest deals at bit.ly/UOPX-Marketplace

University Marketplace uopxalumnimarketplace.com

*Student and alumni deals may vary.

10% cash back

3% cash back

7% cash back

9% cash back

9% cash back


Recognition

FloridaOrlando Paul Manion, MBA/MKT ’08, a current UOPX doctoral student was nominated for a 2013 Emmy Award for his work as an executive producer at NBC Sports. Manion’s current role is devising, developing, implementing and managing all aspects of Madfish Television Programming, which encompasses the shows of four-time Emmy winner Charlie Moore, a fisherman and television personality. Manion also recently received 501c3 status for his nonprofit organization, The Friends of Mr. D, which he started with a fellow UOPX alumnus.

LouisianaLafayette Jennifer Jackson, EdD ’08, recently presented her University of Phoenix School of Advanced Studies graduate research at the Association of Leadership Educators national conference in New Orleans. Her presentation was titled, “The Chefs of Gumbo University: The Experiences of Women Who Are Senior-level Higher Education Administrators in Louisiana.” Dr. Jackson is associate vice chancellor of Institutional Advancement at South Louisiana Community College in Lafayette.

NevadaReno Richard Swanberg, MAED/ADM ’99, was recently named Distinguished Principal of the Year for Nevada by the state affiliate of the National Association of Elementary School Principals for his work at Kate Smith Elementary School. Earlier this year, he was named as an area superintendent for the Washoe County School District, a role he began this fall.

North CarolinaCharlotte The Umanah Healthcare Institute, a state-approved school for nurse aide training founded by Patricia Umanah, MBA/HCM ’06, has been chosen by the North Carolina Board of Nursing as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CAN) II Assessment Site. It also holds the highest certification passing rate (98-100 percent) in the Charlotte region. Umanah came from Nigeria as a registered nurse and decided to further her career with her master’s from University of Phoenix before creating the accredited and independent post-secondary school. Visit umanahinstitute.com for more information.

TexasDallas TDIndustries, a leading mechanical construction and facility services company, recently announced that Randy Heidrich, BSB/A ’03, has joined the firm as sales manager for Building Systems Integration in its Dallas office. Heidrich has 26 years of experience in sales and marketing in the construction and building automation systems industries. His experience includes executive sales positions with Building Controls and Services, Inc., Siemens Building Technologies and Honeywell. Heidrich is a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and holds a Level III designation from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICETIII).

WisconsinPewaukee Becky’s Blissful Bakery, the small business owned and operated by Rebecca Scarberry, BSB/M ’08, won a silver award at the 2013 Chocolate Salon Awards competition. The bakery won in the division of Top Caramels, Best Ingredient Combinations category. Honoring excellence in chocolate and confection, the competition received submissions from across the country and highlighted the best in show at the event.

THe BUZZ THE MAKE A DIFFERENCE ISSUE

Help someone soar.

Be a mentor.

Alumni Career Mentor Program

Give someone’s career a lift by sharing your knowledge and expertise.

Become a mentor todayalumnimentors.phoenix.edu800-795-2586

Benefits of participation

– Extend your network and develop relationships with up-and-coming University of Phoenix talent– Share valuable knowledge gained as result of your experience– Develop coaching, communication and leadership skills– Exchange ideas and perspectives on issues in your field– Contribute to the success of other University of Phoenix students and graduates– Gain personal satisfaction by engaging in a meaningful volunteer opportunity


University News

The University’s VP of Corporate Social Responsibility shares how UOPX is making a positive impact across the country.

T aking a break from what she calls “the best job in the company,” Vice President of Corporate Social

Responsibility Pat Gottfried sat down with Phoenix Focus to discuss University of Phoenix’s efforts to make a positive impact outside the classroom in communities across the country.

Phoenix Focus: You started your career in the nonprofit world, eventually holding high-profile leadership positions at Special Olympics and the Arthritis Foundation in Colorado. Now, you have an exciting role at University of Phoenix. You get to help give back to organizations like the ones for which you used to work. What is the University’s philosophy on philanthropy?

with Pat Gottfried

We also have a great relationship with the National Park Foundation. We sponsor teachers so they can spend the summer in a National Park studying a particular subject. They then build a curriculum around their findings and return to the classroom to teach their students about what they learned.

In terms of facilitating career readiness, we support Road Trip Nation (RTN), a unique nonprofit organization. Selected students and a few RTN staff members travel the country videotaping interviews with people in all different lines of work and walks of life. The videos are then used to help people define where they want to go in their lives.

PF: What advice do you have for alumni who are interested in creating social responsibility programs in their own organizations?

Pat Gottfried: You can’t really accomplish much unless your organization’s culture embraces social responsibility. If it does, I would encourage alumni to start by creating a team to determine what the focus areas of giving will be. Make sure there is a clear tie between what you envision and the company’s goals, which will help you get buy-in from leaders. Once you have the green light, dig in and get started. Then enjoy the fruits of your labors, knowing that you are indeed making a difference in your community.

Pat Gottfried: The University was founded by Dr. John Sperling on the philosophy that education should be accessible to all who seek it. Naturally, we focus our investments in the community on education. In fact, all three of our focus areas—education, career readiness and sustainability—come from issues Dr. Sperling is passionate about.

PF: What are some of the most inspiring initiatives the University is supporting right now?

Pat Gottfried: We are fortunate to be involved in so many great opportunities in our communities, which you can learn more about by reading the Apollo Group 2012 Social Responsibility Report at csrreport.apollo.edu.

Because of the University’s large footprint and generous employees, faculty members, alumni and students, we’re able to offer our time and expertise on a grand scale.

We also often make financial and in-kind contributions. For example, we have an exciting partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). We support the Be Great: Graduate program, which works to provide children with the academic, emotional and social skills they need to succeed in school. We also provide 30 scholarships to the BGCA’s national office so employees can continue their education and continue to grow as leaders.

QA&THE MAKE A DIFFERENCE ISSUE

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YOUR UNIVERSITY

Campus News

Campuses contribute to Boys & Girls Clubs of America School Supply Drive Over the summer, University of Phoenix hosted a national Virtual School Supply Drive encouraging donations to local Boys & Girls Clubs. The Back-to-School Drive is one of the most significant community efforts that University of Phoenix supports, with a mission of sending kids nationwide back to school, ready to learn. Funds raised in the drive were used to purchase much-needed items such as markers, scissors, backpacks, calculators and much more.

In addition to the virtual drive, campus locations across the country conducted onsite drives for which staff, faculty and students contributed items, including calculators, pencil cases, notebooks, writing utensils, rulers and much more. The Detroit Campus community outreach team visited the local BGCA to hand over items collected so children would be prepared with their “Tools for School.” The El Paso Campus generated more than 600 school supply items for its local BGCA chapter and the Southern California Campus reported collecting more than 1,300 supplies in its drive.

In addition to campus staff, faculty and students participating in the national Virtual School Supply Drive as part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America School Supply Drive, 13 alumni chapters also participated, including Detroit, Cleveland, Houston, San Antonio, Salt Lake City, Tucson, Chicago, Sacramento, Memphis, San Jose, Baton Rouge, Seattle and San Diego. The chapters collected more than $500 worth of supplies.

CHAPTER NEWS

Southern California Campus collected more than 1,300 school supplies in its back-to-school drive.

The San Diego Alumni Chapter Leadership Council with 2013 Chapter Leader of the Year Dr. Tony Lopez, MBA ’93 (front row, center).

The inaugural Alumni Chapter Leadership Conference recently took place in San Diego. Thirty-eight Alumni Chapter Council leaders flew in from all over the country to meet with one another and share the very best of what they’re doing to support their fellow Phoenixes. During the conference, leaders worked on planning upcoming conferences, creating new ways to network within chapters and exploring opportunities to mentor new leaders to prepare for tomorrow.


2013 Alumni Community Service Award recipientsIn keeping with University of Phoenix’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, the Alumni Community Service Award celebrates the generous spirit of its alumni. This year, 150 alumni were recognized for the outstanding contributions they make in their communities. Here are the 2013 recipients and the organizations with which they are involved.

THE GIVING BACK ISSUETHE MAKE A DIFFERENCE ISSUE

ALABAMA

Willie Henderson, AAFB ’11Birmingham, ALEmployer: Arby’sTitle: Certified Training ManagerCharities: Big Brothers Big Sisters

Jessica Peoples, MBA ’09Birmingham, ALCharities: Pilgrim United Church of Christ, Inverness Elementary School

ALASKA

Lawrence Camp, BSB/ACC ’11Anchorage, AKEmployer: State of AlaskaTitle: Accounting Technician IICharities: Lions Clubs International, American Cancer Society

ARIZONA

Elizabeth Acosta, BSB/M ’10Yuma, AZEmployer: Yuma CountyTitle: Human Resources SpecialistCharities: Adopt-A-Block Program, Foster Care

David Barraza, MBA/HRM ’06Tucson, AZEmployer: City of TucsonTitle: Environmental Project ManagerCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Susan G. Komen, Boy Scouts of America

Bennett Burke, BSB/A ’91Tucson, AZEmployer: United Way of Tucson and Southern ArizonaTitle: Associate DirectorCharities: Liberal Catholic Church International, Job Path Connects!

Lynette Christian, MAED/DL ’98Tucson, AZEmployer: Marana Health CenterTitle: Behavior Health Child and Family Case ManagerCharities: Make-A-Wish Foundation, Flowing Wells High School Alumni Association, Pima County Community Justice Board of Directors

Leslie Dalton, MSN ’02Yuma, AZEmployer: Yuma Regional Medical CenterTitle: Director of Clinical EducationCharities: Make-A-Wish Foundation, Yuma Community Food Bank, Salvation Army

Chianon Gatewood, MBA ’12Phoenix, AZEmployer: Texas Capital PartnersTitle: Marketing DirectorCharities: American Diabetic Association, Big Brothers Big Sisters

Lou Ann Smith, MBA ’13Phoenix, AZEmployer: John McCainTitle: InternCharities: Multiple Veterans Charities

Quitman Warren, MBA ’01Phoenix, AZEmployer: BoeingTitle: Senior ManagerCharities: United Food Bank, Greater Phoenix Urban League, Canaan Missionary Baptist Church

ARKANSAS

Shirley Walker, BSB/EB ’10Little Rock, AREmployer: Complete Provider ResourceTitle: PresidentCharities: Center for Women in Transition, Boy Scouts of America, Cub Scouts of America

Lou Ann SmithPhoenix, AZ

Quitman WarrenPhoenix, AZ

Shirley WalkerLittle Rock, AR

Jeff BenachSacramento, CA

Amber CarraLancaster, CA

Giselle Angeles CastilloLos Angeles, CA

Susanna ConstantinoSacramento, CA

Jason GilbertSan Jose, CA

Willie HendersonBirmingham, AL

Jessica PeoplesBirmingham, AL

Lawrence CampAnchorage, AK

David BarrazaTucson, AZ

Bennett BurkeTucson, AZ

Lynette ChristianTucson, AZ

Leslie DaltonYuma, AZ

Chianon GatewoodPhoenix, AZ

2013 Alumni Community Service Award recipients

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YOUR UNIVERSITY | 2013 Alumni Community Service Award recipients

Scott BellColorado Springs, CO

Crystal GriffinColorado Springs, CO

Corinne Reed-WattMonument, CO

Jennifer Statham-HejsekPueblo, CO

Brian TarverDenver, CO

John WetheringtonDenver, CO

Peter WilmsDenver, CO

Deena WilliamsonFairfield, CT

Arthur JueSan Francisco, CA

Vivionne KeliMurietta, CA

Andrea “Drea” LandryBakersfield, CA

Kimberly Lopez Lancaster, CA

Joel NelsonSacramento, CA

Sarah OurySan Diego, CA

Karin StormLos Angeles, CA

Laseanda WessonLos Angeles, CA

CALIFORNIA

Jeff Benach, MBA/TM ’03Sacramento, CAEmployer: University of PhoenixTitle: InstructorCharities: Dry Creek Fire Company, Wagontown Volunteer Fire Company

Theresa Brill, BS/P ’12San Francisco, CAEmployer: Contra Costa Crisis CenterTitle: Crisis CounselorCharities: Berkeley Food and Housing Project, Contra Costa Crisis Center

Amber Carra, BSHA ’08Lancaster, CAEmployer: Coaching SolutionsTitle: ConsultantCharities: Change Lanes, American Red Cross

Giselle Angeles Castillo, MBA ’08Los Angeles, CACharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Los Angeles County Sheriff Department, Los Angeles In-Home Support Services

Susanna Constantino, BSHS ’12Sacramento, CAEmployer: Kaiser PermanenteTitle: Medical Sales AgentCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, AseraCare Hospice

Jason Day, BSB/M ’12Fresno, CAEmployer: Ready to Ship InspectionsTitle: CEOCharities: Our Heroes Dreams, Homes for Our Troops, Kings Community Action Organization

Jason Gilbert, BSB/C ’12San Jose, CAEmployer: Monterey Peninsula Country ClubTitle: Assistant Golf ProfessionalCharities: Freemasons, Pony Baseball, Stevenson School

Arthur Jue, DM ’04San Francisco, CAEmployer: TecturaTitle: HR DirectorCharities: Meriwest Credit Union, CreaTV San Jose, Tongan Leadership Academy

Vivionne Keli, BS/P ’11Murietta, CAEmployer: Hold Your Peace Empowerment SeminarsTitle: Executive DirectorCharities: Urban Christian Entertainment, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Downtown Women’s Center

Andrea “Drea” Landry, AAHSM ’12Bakersfield, CAEmployer: Recovery Innovations Freise Hope HouseTitle: Recovery CoachCharities: National Alliance on Mental Illness

Kimberly Lopez, BSHS ’12Lancaster, CAEmployer: The Children’s Center of Antelope ValleyTitle: Teacher and DemonstratorCharities: Paving the Way Foundation, The Children’s Center of Antelope Valley

Joel Nelson, DBA ’12Sacramento, CAEmployer: Sacramento City Unified School DistrictTitle: Substitute TeacherCharities: University of Phoenix Alumni Mentor, Sacramento City Unified School District, Amateur Baseball Development

Sarah Oury, MSC/MFCT ’12San Diego, CAEmployer: Veterans AffairsTitle: Peer Support Specialist (counselor)Charities: Association of the United States Army-San Diego Chapter

Karin Storm, EDD ’10Los Angeles, CAEmployer: United States Federal CourtsTitle: Federal Law Enforcement OfficerCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Federal Probation and Pretrial Officers Association, Police Unity Tour

Laseanda Wesson, DM ’12Los Angeles, CAEmployer: Pan American Properties/Self-employedTitle: Resident Manager/ConsultantCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Spirit Academy Athletics, Carehouse Convalescent Center Nursing Home

COLORADO

Scott Bell, MBA ’01Colorado Springs, COEmployer: U.S. NavyTitle: USAF Academy InstructorCharities: Landsharks Running Club, Cadet Squadron 21, Center for Character & Leadership Development

Crystal Griffin, BS/P ’12Colorado Springs, COEmployer: Department of DefenseTitle: Medical Support AssistantCharities: American Federation of Government Employees, National Mill Dog Rescue, Veterans of Foreign Wars

Corinne Reed-Watt, MBA ’10Monument, COEmployer: Hewlett-PackardTitle: WW Process & Capabilities Project ManagerCharities: Tri-Lakes Care, Care & Share, Smile Train

Jennifer Statham-Hejsek, BSIT/ISS ’12Pueblo, COEmployer: Veterans AdministrationTitle: InternCharities: Veterans Administration, Colorado Ethics in Business Alliance

Brian Tarver, BSM ’12Denver, COEmployer: Denver Public SchoolsTitle: Restorative Justice Coordinator and CounselorCharities: The Manny Foundation, The Love Foundation, Colorado H.A.W.K.S.

John Wetherington, DBA ’10Denver, COEmployer: International Association for the Study of Lung CancerTitle: COO and CFOCharities: Alpha Phi Omega Endowment Trust, Rotary Club of Denver Southeast


Mary Theresa IzzoOrlando, FL

Marjorie LozamaTampa, FL

Julie McAdooTampa, FL

Rashe MalcolmAtlanta, GA

Robert ModrallChattanooga, GA

Helen PranaSavannah, GA

Patricia TaylorHonolulu, HI

Diana DuncanBoise, ID

Stephanie BeautonFairfield, CT

Nick KellyWashington, D.C.

Robin MartinezWashington, D.C.

James WilsonWashington, D.C.

Kevin BarrettOrlando, FL

Roy BozarthJacksonville, FL

Marcia ChampionSt. Petersburg, FL

Jeannie FerraraMiami, FL



Peter Wilms, MBA ’99Denver, COEmployer: Sysco FoodsTitle: Business Review ManagerCharities: Student Mentoring

CONNECTICUT

Deena Williamson, MSN/MBA/HC ’08Fairfield, CTEmployer: Saint Francis Hospital and Medical CenterTitle: Executive Director of Behavioral Health ServicesCharities: Connecticut Hospital Association

Stephanie Beauton, MHA ’12Fairfield, CTEmployer: New Haven HealthTitle: Program CoordinatorCharities: Papa Joe Fund, United Way, American Red Cross

DISTRICT OF COLUMNBIA

Nick Kelly, BSCJA ’09Washington, D.C.Employer: SourcefireTitle: Security EngineerCharities: Enough is Enough, The House Inc., Teach For America

Robin Martinez, BSN ’06Washington, D.C.Employer: Providence HospitalTitle: Diabetes Nurse SpecialistCharities: Angelwycks

James Wilson, DM ’10Washington, D.C.Employer: SLOFLT GroupTitle: PrincipalCharities: Boy Scouts of America, Trinity United Methodist Church

FLORIDA

Kevin Barrett, MAOM ’04Orlando, FLEmployer: Florida-Med Network CorpTitle: Founder/CEOCharities: Three Angels Clinic, Inc,. Marion County Health & Medical Preparedness Coalition, Florida Board for Respiratory Care

Roy Bozarth, AAIT/N ’11Jacksonville, FLEmployer: Department of Military Affairs, Florida Army National GuardTitle: Facilities Services ConsultantCharities: Southern Off Road Bicycle Association Jacksonville

Marcia Champion, MHA/GER ’11St. Petersburg, FLEmployer: Neighborhood FitnessTitle: Owner/Personal TrainerCharities: Parent Teacher Student Association, Meals on Wheels, Paws for Friendship

Jeannie Ferrara, BS/COM-MS ’11Miami, FLEmployer: Thy Word Public RelationsTitle: Owner/FounderCharities: Visionary School of Arts, SafeSpace, The Woman’s Club of Stuart

Andres Gonzalez, MBA ’07St. Petersburg, FLEmployer: AT&TTitle: Executive Deal LeadCharities: Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Susan G. Komen

Mary Theresa Izzo, MSN ’04Orlando, FLEmployer: Family Practice West YolusiaTitle: Nurse PractitionerCharities: Good Samaritan Clinic, Junior League, Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority

Marjorie Lozama, MSN/ED ’12Tampa, FLEmployer: CoventryTitle: Field Nurse Case ManagerCharities: Haitian American Nurses Association, Man Dodo Humanitarian Foundation, New Hope Ministry

Julie McAdoo, MBA ’12Tampa, FLEmployer: Navigate Social and Mosmac LLCTitle: OwnerCharities: Project Transition USA

GEORGIA

Dianna Black, MIS ’09Augusta, GAEmployer: U.S. ArmyTitle: System AdministratorCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Boy Scouts of America, American Legion

Kenneth Haynes, MM/PA ’08Atlanta, GAEmployer: UPSTitle: Project ManagerCharities: Lawrenceville-Duluth Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation

Tomika Johnson, MS/AJS ’12Columbus /Atlanta, GAEmployer: Public School SystemTitle: TeacherCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Girl Scouts of America, Recreational Basketball and Cheerleading

Rashe Malcolm, MS/AJS ’09Atlanta, GAEmployer: ILSTitle: Environmental Field ScientistCharities: Clarke Advisory Council, Feed My Sheep Ministries, Rashe’s Cuisine


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Richard SedberryBaton Rouge, LA

Jonathan HobdyBaltimore, MD

Anthony ParrottaBaltimore, MD

Michael StrongBaltimore, MD

Patricia NewmanWilliamsburg, MA

Jay BumgardnerGrand Rapids, MI

Vonda BlincoeGrand Rapids, MI

Hodari BrownDetroit, MI

Dorothy Crockran Chicago, IL

Donna Jean PapineauChicago, IL

Dawn JonesIndianapolis, IN

Marie AppelCedar Rapids, IA

Shelley VelascoKansas City, KS

Lori HanleyNashville, KY

Shayla De La RoseLafayette, LA

Loretta PetitNew Orleans, LA


Robert Modrall, BSB/GBM ’11Chattanooga, GAEmployer: The Home DepotTitle: AssociateCharities: United Way, Chattanooga Area Food Bank

Helen Prana, EDD ’11Savannah, GAEmployer: Self-Compassion Help Facilitate TransitionTitle: CEOCharities: Sexual Assault Advisor, Wellness Advocate

HAWAII

Patricia Taylor, MSN/ED ’08Honolulu, HIEmployer: Kapiolani Community CollegeTitle: Nursing FacultyCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Medical Reserve Corp, Veterans Golden Age Games

IDAHO

Diana Duncan, BSB/M ’10Boise, IDEmployer: Idaho PowerTitle: Manager, IT Project & Portfolio Management OfficeCharities: Boise Gens American Legion Baseball, Timberline High School Booster Club, Idaho Public Television

ILLINOIS

Dorothy Crockran, BSHS/M ’12Chicago, ILEmployer: Joshua HouseTitle: President/DirectorCharities: New St. Peter Deliverance Center, The Joshua House Nonprofit Youth Organization

Anthony Milton, AAIT/WD ’12St. Louis, ILCharities: Cub Scouts of America

Donna Jean (DJ) Papineau, MAED/TED-E ’05Chicago, ILEmployer: Safe Harbor SchoolTitle: Special Education TeacherCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Kankakee County Fair, Kankakee County 4-H

INDIANA

Dawn Jones, BSB/MKT ’11Indianapolis, INEmployer: Indianapolis Star/Gannett Inc.Title: Inside Sales Account ExecutiveCharities: Diversity Roundtable of Central Indiana, Drug Free Marion County, Fall Creek Academy Parent Teacher Organization

Brian Rodgers, AAFB ’11Louisville, INEmployer: Roll Forming CorporationTitle: EstimatorCharities: Boy Scouts of America, Fabricator Manufacturers Association, Little Highlander Football

IOWA

Marie Appel, MBA ’11Cedar Rapids, IAEmployer: Diamond VTitle: Quality Assurance TechnicianCharities: K9COLA, K9Splash!, Critter Crusaders

Carol Greene, BSM ’12Cedar Rapids, IAEmployer: American Senior BenefitsTitle: Insurance AgentCharities: Girl Scouts of America, Davenport West Bank Parents

Robert MacDougall, MBA ’09Des Moines, IAEmployer: D&R Capital ManagementTitle: Owner/PartnerCharities: Urbandale High School, Des Moines Rowing Club

KANSAS

Willie Mead, AAPSY ’12Kansas City, KSEmployer: City of GarnettTitle: Street MaintenanceCharities: Nazarene Church

Shelley Velasco, BSCJA/HS ’12Kansas City, KSEmployer: Protection OneTitle: Subcontractor Compliance CoordinatorCharities: Just for Food, Clinton Lake, Clean Up Lawrence

KENTUCKY

Lori Hanley, MSA ’12Nashville, KYEmployer: New Providence Furniture Co.Title: Head BookkeeperCharities: Boy Scouts of America, Daughters of the American Revolution, Richardson Elementary School

Dennis Leber, MIS ’12Louisville, KYEmployer: U.S. ArmyTitle: Client Server Network ArchitectCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Job Mentoring for Kentucky Veterans

LOUISIANA

Shayla De La Rose, MBA ’11Lafayette, LAEmployer: Calcasieu Parish School BoardTitle: Speech TherapistCharities: Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Taste of Louisiana Festival, Calcasieu Parish School Board Arts Festival

Fae Hamby, MBA ’10New Orleans, LAEmployer: PepsiTitle: Account Sales Rep.Charities: Girl Scouts of America, Abita Spring, Junior Achievement

Julie Perkins, BSB/M ’07Baton Rouge, LAEmployer: Louisiana State UniversityTitle: Assistant ManagerCharities: St. Jude Catholic Church, Buchanan Elementary Parent Teacher Association, McKinley Senior High School Band Boosters

Loretta Petit, MBA ’08New Orleans, LAEmployer: Clear Channel MediaTitle: Assistant Program Director, Music Director, Morning Show HostCharities: Each One Save One, Junior Achievement, Lindy’s Place


Sherry MathenyLas Vegas, NV

Dennis StoddardReno, NV

Imelda Concepcion-PrincipeJersey City, NY

Kristan Gallo-BridgesJersey City, NY

Joanne Lapidus-GrahamJersey City, NY

Dustin BarrColumbus, OH

Melissa BairdCincinnati, OH

Tina BensonCleveland, OH

Michael O’ConnorTwin Cities, MN

Nancy CaseySt Louis, MO

PJ McClureSpringfield, MO

Jesse MonteleoneKansas City, MO

Jill BossiCharlotte, NC

Tracy Grimes-LaneRaleigh, NC

Aniya SharpeRaleigh, NC

Chris BlackburnLas Vegas, NV


Richard Sedberry, BSB/MKT ’12Baton Rouge, LAEmployer: First Access Mortgage CorporationTitle: Sales ManagerCharities: Holy Ghost Catholic School Dad’s Club, Hammon Chamber of Commerce, Tangipahoa Economic Development Foundation

MARYLAND

Jonathan Hobdy, MBA ’12Baltimore, MDEmployer: Resilient Point LLCTitle: Director, Eastern RegionCharities: Cub Scouts of America, Madrid League Baseball and Flag Football League, Immanuel Baptist Church

Anthony Parrotta, MBA ’13Baltimore, MDEmployer: General ElectricTitle: Field Service RepresentativeCharities: Combat Veterans Association

Michael Strong, AAHSM ’08Baltimore, MDEmployer: Maryland’s Veteran HomelessTitle: HMIS SpecialistCharities: Maryland Center for Veterans Education and Training, Welcome One Emergency Shelter

MASSACHUSETTS Patricia Newman, MSN ’04Williamsburg, MAEmployer: Kindred Healthcare Park View HospitalTitle: Clinical Nurse SpecialistCharities: American Heart Association, Ladies of North America Shrine

Brunilda Ramos-Perez, AAFB ’13Boston, MAEmployer: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical SchoolTitle: Administrative Coordinator to Terry B. Strom, M.D.Charities: The Steppingstone Foundation, Boston Latin School, Boston Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

MICHIGAN

Jay Bumgardner, BSB/ACC ’11Grand Rapids, MICharities: The Royal Order of the Moose

Vonda Blincoe, AAFB ’12Grand Rapids, MIEmployer: Sparta Area SchoolsTitle: Lunch Room SupervisorCharities: Fraternal Order of Eagles

Hodari Brown, MBA ’10Detroit, MIEmployer: Michigan Army National GuardTitle: Team Leader/Sgt/Motor Transport OperatorCharities: American Red Cross, Salvation Army of Michigan, Tennessee State University Alumni Association

Khadijah Shabazz, BSCJA/M ’12Detroit, MIEmployer: PESGTitle: Substitute TeacherCharities: Anointing New Beginnings COADC, Cody Rouge Community Action Alliance, Don Bosco Hall Community Resource Center

MINNESOTA

Michael O’Connor, MBA ’09Twin Cities, MNEmployer: MedtronicsTitle: Senior Compliance/Audit ManagerCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Cub Scouts of American, Project Management Institute

MISSOURI

Nancy Casey, EDD ’09St. Louis, MOEmployer: BoeingTitle: Project ManagerCharities: Homefield Homeowners Association, Homefield Community Watch

PJ McClure, MBA ’10Springfield, MOEmployer: Mindset MavenTitle: CEOCharities: Various community and philanthropic organizations

Jesse Monteleone, AAIT/PRG ’11Kansas City, MOEmployer: Independent ContractorCharities: YMCA Head Start of Kansas City

Jamie Vincent, BS/P ’12St. Louis, MOEmployer: Warren County Rural School IIITitle: Substitute TeacherCharities: Junior Warrior Cheerleading

MISSISSIPPI

Gary Bodam, DM ’02Jackson, MSEmployer: Stuart C. IrvyTitle: VP Human Resources and Organizational DevelopmentCharities: Various community and philanthropic organizations

NORTH CAROLINA

Jill Bossi, BSB/M ’03Charlotte, NCEmployer: American Red CrossTitle: VP & CPOCharities: The Institute for Supply Management, R. Gene Richter Foundation, National Minority Supplier Development Council



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Jeana AngeliniHarrisburg, PA

Larry French Sr.Pittsburgh, PA

Scott GlennPhiladelphia, PA

Natasha HarrisPhiladelphia, PA

Michael Kaskalavich IIIPittsburgh, PA

Deborah RhodesPittsburgh, PA

Jeffrey SyracuseNashville, TN

Michael WilbournMemphis, TN

Mary CornwellColumbus, OH

Majida HijaziCleveland, OH

Bill LottmanOklahoma City, OK

Roy PinderTulsa, OK

Jean WoodTulsa, OK

Jacki BebbPortland, OR

Maria SalazarPortland, OR

Mary WarinnerPortland, OR


Tracy Grimes-Lane, BS/COM-CT ’13Raleigh, NCEmployer: ButterballTitle: Customer Service RepresentativeCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, American Red Cross, American Cancer Society

Aniya Sharpe, BSB/A ’13Raleigh, NCEmployer: American Kennel ClubTitle: Operations SpecialistCharities: Boy Scouts of America, Alston Ridge Elementary School, East Cary Middle School

NEW MEXICO

Lisa Blue, MAED/SPE ’13Albuquerque, NMEmployer: Albuquerque Public SchoolsTitle: TeacherCharities: Parents Reaching Out, New Mexico LEND

NEVADA

Chris Blackburn, MM/PA ’12Las Vegas, NVEmployer: Clark County Fire DepartmentTitle: Fire Captain, ParamedicCharities: Boy Scouts of America

Peter Leresche, BSM ’12Reno, NVEmployer: ProNet RenoTitle: Business Development Director, Volunteer positionCharities: ProNet Reno

Sherry Matheny, BSHS/M ’10Las Vegas, NVEmployer: Framework EducationTitle: InstructorCharities: RISE Resource Center

Dennis Stoddard, MBA ’04Reno, NVEmployer: State of NevadaTitle: Executive Branch Auditor (also, fantasy author and artist)Charities: American Youth Soccer Organization, Cal Ripken Baseball, North Valleys Softball

NEW JERSEY

Imelda Concepcion-Principe, MSN ’05Jersey City, NJEmployer: NYU Hospital for Joint DiseasesTitle: Nurse EducatorCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, NUC Hospital, St. Sebastian Roman Catholic Church

Kristan Gallo-Bridges, MBA/HCM ’07Jersey City, NJCharities: South Orangetown Center School District

Joanne Lapidus-Graham, EDD/CI ’10Jersey City, NJEmployer: Farmingdale State CollegeTitle: Associate Professor of NursingCharities: American Nurses Association, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, Nurses Association of the Counties of Long Island

NEW YORK

David Rodrigues, BS/P ’12New York, NYEmployer: Bank of AmericaTitle: Process Support SpecialistCharities: Lake Shore Volunteer Fire Department, First Church of Evans

OHIO

Dustin Barr, AAB ’10Columbus, OHEmployer: Big LotsTitle: AssociateCharities: Lions Clubs International

Nathan Bailey, MSA ’09Cincinnati, OHEmployer: Donohoo, CUPP & Associations, CPAsTitle: Accounting ManagerCharities: Knights of Columbus, Cincinnati Festival Alliance, Northeast Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce

Melissa Baird, MBA ’13Cincinnati, OHEmployer: Fifth Third BankTitle: Mortgage UnderwriterCharities: SHALOM—Serving the Homeless with Alternate Lodging of Middletown

Tina Benson, MM ’13Cleveland, OHEmployer: CACITitle: Change Management ExpertCharities: United Way, Wayne Center for the Arts, Toys for Tots

Mary Cornwell, MBA/TM ’10Columbus, OHEmployer: State of Ohio Office of Information TechnologyTitle: Learn it Ohio e-Learning Program AdministratorCharities: Rainbow Connection, Feral Cat Rescue and Placement, Charities Coordinator

Carolyn Gersch, MSN ’02Cincinnati, OHEmployer: Kettering CollegeTitle: Assistant Director: Division of Nursing and associate professorCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, St. Brigid Church, Beavercreek Lions

Majida Hijazi, MAED/AET ’12Cleveland, OHCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, Highland Elementary Parent Teacher Association, UOPX Scholarship Committee

OKLAHOMA

Bill Lottman, MBA ’06Oklahoma City, OKEmployer: BoeingTitle: IT Business Partner/Project ManagerCharities: Habitat for Humanity, Boeing’s Rebuilding Together, Disaster Relief

Roy Pinder, DM ’08Tulsa, OKEmployer: Save our Youth Leadership AcademyTitle: PresidentCharities: Gym Times Hoops, Athletes First

Jean Wood, MAOM ’03Tulsa, OKEmployer: Survivors of SuicideTitle: Trainer/Support Group FacilitatorCharities: Alliance for Wellness Advocacy, Recovery & Empowerment, Oklahoma Survivors of Suicide, Moveon Oklahoma


Darrell ParkerDallas, TX

Chantele Wideman-GriffinHouston, TX

N’nette WidenerEl Paso, TX

Lana PechSalt Lake City, UT

Brenda CarterRichmond, VA

Robin DeLorgeRichmond, VA

Eric HeckerRichmond, VA

Valerie HerringSeattle, WA


Eileen BauerAustin, TX

Danon CarterDallas, TX

Kristy FranceAustin, TX

Veronica GarciaEl Paso, TX

Christina HernandezSan Antonio, TX

Monica McIlwainSan Antonio, TX

Robert “Bob” MoodyHouston, TX

Teresa O’KelleySan Antonio, TX


OREGON

Jacki Bebb, BSB/M ’04Portland, OREmployer: Department of Veterans AffairsTitle: Health Information Management SpecialistCharities: Northern Nevada Health Information Management, Nevada Health Information Management Association, Maryland Pets on Wheels, Canine Companions

Maria Salazar, BSHS ’07Portland, OREmployer: American Red CrossTitle: Executive Director, Willamette ChapterCharities: The Salvation Army, Alegria Shelter, Law Offices of Raul Gomez

Mary Warinner, BSB/M ’12Portland, OREmployer: Emme’s Management, Administrative, and Paralegal Services LLCTitle: OwnerCharities: Girl Scouts of America

PENNSYLVANIA

Jeana Angelini, MBA ’09Harrisburg, PAEmployer: Susquehanna Association for the Blind and Vision ImpairedTitle: Plant ManagerCharities: Lancaster County Citizen Band Radio Club, Annville Cleona Lions Club, Calvary Chapel

Larry French Sr., MBA/TM ’05Pittsburgh, PAEmployer: Allegheny County Department of Human ServicesTitle: PC Support TechnicianCharities: USS Inferno Science Fiction Club, American Liver Foundation, Boy Scouts of America

Scott Glenn, EDD ’10Philadelphia, PAEmployer: Camden County CollegeTitle: Author/Motivational SpeakerCharities: Multiple mentoring organizations

Natasha Harris, AAHSM ’12Philadelphia, PAEmployer: Broken Wings Literacy CenterTitle: CEOCharities: Olney Charter High School, EPIC Stakeholders Group, Zion Baptist Church

Michael Kaskalavich III, BSM ’11Pittsburgh, PAEmployer: AUMA Actuators Inc.Title: Spare Parts Department Supervisor/Safety ChairmanCharities: Monaca Volunteer Fire Department

Deborah Rhodes, BSHS/M ’10Pittsburgh, PACharities: Special Olympics, Mercer County ESL Program, Sharon Baptist Church

SOUTH CAROLINA

Phyllis Cahill, AACJ ’12Columbia, SCEmployer: U.S. Department of StateTitle: Senior Passport SpecialistCharities: Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Low County Food Bank

TENNESSEE

Jamie Julien, AAHCA ’11Nashville, TNCharities: I-61 CAV D Troop

Jeffrey Syracuse, MBA/TM ’05Nashville, TNEmployer: Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI)Title: Manager, CRM Administration & eCommerceCharities: Donelson-Hermitage Chamber of Commerce, Donelson Gateway Project, Nashville Blues Society

Michael Wilbourn, MIS ’10Memphis, TNEmployer: CargillTitle: Technical TrainerCharities: Feed the Needy, Memphis City Schools At-Risk Student Program

TEXAS

Eileen Bauer, BSCJA ’11Austin, TXEmployer: Travis County Sheriff’s DepartmentTitle: Senior Corrections OfficerCharities: Hill County Bible Church

Mark Bolduc, MBA/TM ’04El Paso, TXEmployer: El Paso Water UtilitiesTitle: Business and Customer Service ManagerCharities: Boy Scouts of America

Danon Carter, DM ’12Dallas, TXEmployer: Mercedes BenzTitle: Leadership, Culture & Diversity SpecialistCharities: Junior Achievement, Make-A-Wish Charities, Habitat for Humanity

Ralph Ferguson, BSM ’11Dallas, TXEmployer: Environmental Protection AgencyTitle: AccountantCharities: Dallas Reading Partners, Arlington Animal Services

Kristy France, MSN ’10Austin, TXEmployer: Department of Veterans AffairsTitle: RN, Veterans Affairs Central Texas Home Telehealth Nurse Manager Charities: Girl Scouts of America, Families in Crisis, AgriLife Extension Services


phoenixfocus.com 51

Kevin McKenzieMartinsburg, WV

Monica SepulvedaPuerto Rico, PR

Larnell Smith Jr.Tokyo, JP

John SpillmanHessen, GE

Scott KuchSeattle, WA

Gary LindstromSeattle, WA

Bettye CobbinsMilwaukee, WI

Rebecca ScarberryMilwaukee, WI

Candace SanchezMilwaukee, WI


Veronica Garcia, BSB/GM ’10El Paso, TXEmployer: ALON Brands/7-11Title: Region TrainerCharities: Ramona Elementary Parent Teacher Organization

Christina Hernandez, BS/P ’12San Antonio, TXEmployer: USAATitle: Stock Broker/Financial AdvisorCharities: Boys & Girls Clubs, Business Careers High School Mentor, San Antonio Food Bank

Deb Lawton, DM ’10Houston, TXEmployer: Apache CorporationTitle: Senior Division of Interest AnalystCharities: Treasure Forest Elementary School, Community of Faith, Delta Mu Delta

Monica McIlwain, MAOM ’04San Antonio, TXEmployer: Wells FargoTitle: Leadership Development AssociateCharities: TYME to Empower

Robert “Bob” Moody, MBA ’08Houston, TXEmployer: CSX TransportationTitle: Senior Account ManagerCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, LDS Church Social Services, CSX Transportation Mentoring Program

Teresa O’Kelley, MBA ’10San Antonio, TXEmployer: AllstateTitle: Casualty Claims Service AdjustorCharities: March of Dimes, Meals on Wheels, South Texas Blood and Tissue Center

Darrell Parker, AAB ’09Dallas, TXEmployer: Westpark DentalTitle: Marketing and HR ManagerCharities: Court-Appointed Special Advocate, Office of the Attorney General, Christ Gospel Church of Dallas

Chantele Wideman-Griffin, BSB/M ’11Houston, TXEmployer: Bredero ShawTitle: Human Resources GeneralistCharities: Habitat for Humanity, American Cancer Society, Rotary

N’nette Widener, MBA ’11El Paso, TXEmployer: Smart Insurance SolutionsTitle: Account ManagerCharities: El Paso Playhouse

UTAH

Lana Pech, MBA ’12Salt Lake City, UTEmployer: SprintTitle: Wireless Benefits ManagerCharities: Utah Domestic Violence LINKLine

VIRGINIA

Brenda Carter, AACOM ’11Richmond, VACharities: Boys & Girls Clubs, Handson Richmond, Fairfield Library

Robin DeLorge, MPA ’12Richmond, VAEmployer: York County Social Services, Lowe’s Part TimeTitle: Eligibility CoordinatorCharities: American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Youth Career Day

Eric Hecker, MBA ’12Richmond, VAEmployer: Organization Management GroupTitle: Executive DirectorCharities: Hampton Family YMCA, One Dollar One Day One Difference, Phenix Pre-K-8 School

WASHINGTON

Valerie Herring, BSM ’12 Seattle, WA Employer: Dental officers Title: Dental Hygienist Charities: YMCA, Operation Smile, Mentor

Scott Kuch, MBA/TM ’03Seattle, WAEmployer: BoeingTitle: Director, PDM SystemsCharities: Page Ahead, World Vision

Gary Lindstrom, MM/HRM ’12Seattle, WAEmployer: AlbertsonsTitle: Store DirectorCharities: Boy Scouts of America, South Kitsap Helpline Food Bank, Boys & Girls Clubs

WISCONSIN

Bettye Cobbins, DHA ’13Milwaukee, WIEmployer: Graybar Electric CompanyTitle: Customer Service RepresentativeCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, American Cancer Society, Graybar Cares

Rebecca Scarberry, BSB/M ’08Milwaukee, WIEmployer: Becky’s Blissful BakeryTitle: President/OwnerCharities: Women’s Center of Waukesha, Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp.

Candace Sanchez, BSIT ’09Milwaukee, WIEmployer: Wheaton Franciscan HealthcareTitle: Director, Technical ServicesCharities: Por Le Gente, Junior Achievement, Gamma Alpha Omega Sorority Inc.

WEST VIRGINIA

Kevin McKenzie, MBA/GM ’01Martinsburg, WVEmployer: Pilbara Group Inc.Title: DirectorCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, USTAWI Fellowship, Consortium for Advanced Management International

INTERNATIONAL

Monica Quinones Sepulveda, MBA/GM ’03Puerto Rico, PREmployer: MSSSTitle: Senior Vice President of HRCharities: Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce, Puerto Rico Women for International Trade Association, Society for Marketing Executives

Larnell Smith Jr., MBA ’12Tokyo, JPEmployer: U.S. Air ForceTitle: Bilateral Plans ManagerCharities: Yokota Diversity Association, Yokota Middle School Diversity Club

John Spillman, MS/P ’10Hessen, GEEmployer: U.S. ArmyTitle: Lead Human Resources SpecialistCharities: UOPX Alumni Mentor, National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Adjutant General’s Corp Regimental Association

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