Alumni Association Board of Directors 2023 Elections
Vote Now
Please vote by Friday, May 26th midnight.
Candidates
Sean Reilly
Class Year: MS 2019
Returning to Southern as an adult learner, Sean earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from SCSU as a non-traditional student, whilst being a partner in a prominent Fairfield County business. As a graduate student he was awarded the Harriet Applewhite Award for Excellence in Graduate Studies in Political Science, was a member of the graduate student affairs committee, and worked as a University Assistant in the School of Graduate and Professional Studies where he oversaw market research and program development for the Dean’s office. He credits the completion of both degrees to his experience with the faculty, staff, and students of Southern. That it was only through their mentorship was he able to successfully navigate the challenges of working multiple jobs, going to school full-time, and getting involved, a circumstance like many of SCSU’s students. Recently he has re-located to Florida with his wife and young son where he works as a business consultant for an HR firm. With his entrepreneurial spirit, integrity, and a service first mindset he is thrilled for the opportunity to serve on the board and give back to the Institution and its alumni which have given so much to him.
Leah Secondo
Class Year: 1984
Southern CT State University set me on the proper path for a successful future. 2024 marks my 40th year in Sports Broadcasting. My longevity and success in the business is due largely in part to my SCSU education. Following graduation in 1984, I broke ground in the industry, hired in Western MA and CT as both markets' first female television sportscaster. The power to preserve each day through many challenges has been the catalyst in my growth. I am proud to have lent my voice to the burgeoning success and diversity of all sports from college, professional and Olympic levels, especially as it pertains to women's sports. A 29 year resident on Florida’s Gulf Coast, I have also developed a successful real estate business in Bradenton FL with Michael Saunders & Company. Philanthropic work is especially important; I am the Co-Founder of “Bailey’s Buddies”, a 501c3 foundation in the loving memory of my dog Bailey who passed away from Canine Cancer. Giving back to our school is a way to say thank you. It would be an honor to work alongside fellow alumni, sharing our life experiences and knowledge to move Southern into the next phase of successful progress. Through your vote, I am ready to serve our Owl Community. Sincerely, Leah Secondo
Sarah Belden
Class Year: BS 2014, MS 2016
I am a proud two-time Southern graduate of the Department of Recreation, Tourism, and Sport Management (BS 2014 and MS 2016) and was a four year member of the women's volleyball team. I was fortunate to have received both academic and athletic scholarships and know my Southern experience wouldn't have been the same without this support. Professionally, I have been involved in fundraising/development since graduation and have been in the higher education sector for the past seven years. I have worked for North Carolina State University, Harvard Business School and currently Rutgers University Foundation in the areas of Annual Giving, Donor Relations, and Advancement Operations. I find great joy in this work and being able to help others receive an education that otherwise might not be possible. Originally from Connecticut, I currently reside in New Jersey with my husband Rob and our two children, Cal and Bridget. I am excited for the potential opportunity to join the Alumni Association to give back and help continue to grow the Southern experience for current and future students along with the ever-growing alumni base.
Antoinette Badillo
Class Year: 2015
Antoinette Badillo is a licensed clinical social worker with nearly a decade of professional experience. She currently works for the Juvenile Justice Mental Health Program at Yale University. Throughout her career, Antoinette has developed a unique set of skills, working both in the public school system and in various clinical settings. In addition to her profession, Antoinette’s passion for social justice and civil rights advocacy has been equally as important as her life’s work. She became a member of the SCSU NAACP College Chapter in 2012 and has remained an active member serving the Greater New Haven area ever since. In 2023, after attending several SCSU alumni events, she joined the programming committee and assisted in organizing campus events such as Alumni Family Day. She is committed to strategizing and executing initiatives and/or gatherings aimed at involving alumni from various generations. Antoinette is a 200-hour Certified Yoga Teacher and Social Emotional Learning Facilitator. She’s also an entrepreneur who uses her social media platform to inspire women to embrace their individuality and increase their confidence while providing a sense of empowerment through her brand More Than A Wrap. Antoinette is a proud member of the illustrious Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Donald Snyder
Class Year: MBA 2016
Joining the Southern Connecticut Alumni Board presents an opportunity to leverage my expertise in higher education and eCommerce to foster recent graduate talent within high-growth business communities. With a background deeply rooted in scaling ventures and nurturing teams, my aim is to assist graduates with success tips that drive sustainable growth, innovation, and career development. My experience in scaling two high-growth companies can be helpful in educating alumni on organizational dynamics and developmental strategies, making it a valuable asset to the Southern Connecticut Alumni Board. This knowledge can be instrumental in designing programs that equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills necessary for success in dynamic business environments. Likewise, my eCommerce expertise brings invaluable insights into leveraging technology and digital platforms for business expansion. Understanding the nuances of online marketplaces and customer engagement can inform strategies to help recent alumni entrepreneurs thrive in the digital landscape. By facilitating access to resources and mentorship, alumni will be empowered to harness eCommerce tools and strategies to accelerate their growth trajectory in the fastest-growing retail channel. At the heart of my approach is a steadfast commitment to learning and adaptation. By fostering a culture of curiosity and resilience, I aim to inspire alumni to embrace innovation and overcome challenges. Through collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships, I believe an alumni board can cultivate a vibrant ecosystem where recent graduates flourish and drive economic prosperity. I hope to bring knowledge and contribute effectively to this vision.
.jpg)
James Norman
Class Year: 2017
James "Jimmy" Norman is an enthusiastic candidate for the Southern Connecticut State University Alumni Board of Directors. Graduating in 2017 with a B.S. in Secondary Education English, Jimmy's dynamic SCSU experience was marked by significant achievements in athletics, performing arts, and student leadership. As a cornerstone of SCSU's history-making 2005 NCAA playoff football team, the first in team history, Jimmy started as free safety and led the team in tackles during that pivotal season. His athletic prowess was paralleled by his artistic contributions to the university's Crescent Players, where he was not only a three-year member and leading man, but also starred as the lead in a one-act play that was performed Off-Off Broadway in New York City and Boston. In addition to his contributions to sports and arts, Jimmy was an active participant in student governance, notably through his role in the NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), where he advocated for student-athlete welfare and helped shape athletic policies during his senior year. His engagement extended into journalism, contributing an article to The Southern News, and inspiring two student films about his dual passions—“Making The Play” explored his football and acting careers. Since starting his teaching career in 2018 at Greenwich High School and moving to Classical Studies Magnet Academy as the ELA Teacher Leader, Jimmy has made significant contributions to education. He has consulted on district-wide curriculum development and designed a nationally recognized professional development workshop on integrating AI in the classroom. In 2023, he was honored at Fairfield University as a National Writing Project National Fellow. Running for the Alumni Board, Jimmy aims to enhance SCSU’s legacy by fostering a supportive network that reflects the enriching experiences that shaped his own path, blending tradition with innovation to benefit current and future students.
Tiffany Delevante
Class Year: 2001
Tiffany (Mendes) Delevante ‘01 Tiffany has more than two decades of marketing and communication experience within the industries of consumer products, CT tourism, and asset management for nonprofit organizations. Tiffany has worked at Commonfund in Wilton, CT for more than 18 years and currently serves as a Director in Marketing overseeing marketing events and campaigns, including creation and execution of digital marketing initiatives. Tiffany also serves on the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee at Commonfund where she oversees digital components of heritage month acknowledgements and helps coordinate internal corporate initiatives. As an undergraduate student at SCSU Tiffany lived and worked on campus for all four years, including working and living on campus through two summers. During one of those summers on campus she had the unique opportunity to work on the paint crew, which turned out to be one of her most memorable and enjoyable experiences at SCSU. In addition, she worked for the Department of Housing for three years and worked as a Resident Advisor for two and a half years. Deeply rooted in the campus community, Tiffany also wrote for the SCSU newspaper, Southern News and at one point had a slot on the campus radio station. Tiffany earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Southern Connecticut University, as well as a master’s in communication from Fairfield University. Tiffany is looking forward to reconnecting with her alumni to give back to the community that undoubtedly contributed to her professional success and introduced her to lifelong friends.
Malaysia Young
Class Year: 2016
Malaysia was an active volunteer for the Alumni Association for two years and is excited to serve on the Alumni Association Board. Before graduating in 2017 with her Bachelors in Psychology, Malaysia served as the Treasurer of F.A.C.E (Fashionably, Artistic, Creative, Elegance), the Vice President of Schwartz Hall, and a Resident Advisor. Malaysia later joined another local University to obtain her Master’s Degree in Human Services and now works in compliance at a mental health care. Malaysia volunteers her time to her New Haven clubs/organizations and looks forward to being of service to past, present and future owls.
Patrick Madley
Class Year: 2016
Pat has decided to give back to the community that started his post-secondary education. While at Southern, Pat served on the executive boards for many organizations including, but not limited to, several honor societies at SCSU, Psychology Club, Colleges Against Cancer and more. In these roles, he led initiatives and managed collaboration with SCSU faculty and staff. Pat is currently a registered nurse and has just obtained his masters degree where he will now become a family nurse practitioner. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Southern, a Bachelors of Science in Biology from Southern, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from University of Connecticut and a Master's of Science in Nursing from Sacred Heart University. Outside of Southern and work, he has served in many different capacities including helping charities, assisting soup kitchens and serving in local offices. He currently serves on Uconn's School of Nursing Alumni Board. He is eager to serve on Southern's Alumni Board and bring his knowledge and experience to the team.
Please vote by Friday, May 26th midnight.
Contact Alumni Relations
Gregory J. Bernard, 04
Director of Alumni Relations
Email: bernardg2@southernct.edu
Doreen Cammarata-Gilhuly, '89
Associate Director of Alumni Relations
Email: gilhulyd1@southernct.edu
