An opening window for attendee arrival, orientation, and early connection before the formal program begins.

Opening reflections to welcome attendees and frame the value of alumni–student engagement at the institutional level.

Photo TBD

University Leader · Opening Remarks

Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D.

President · University of New Haven

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Dr. Jens Frederiksen is a highly accomplished higher education leader driving the University of New Haven's rapid growth and national visibility. Under his leadership, the University has expanded its global reach, strengthened industry partnerships, and launched major innovation initiatives, including a new Center for Innovation and Applied Technology. His work focuses on preparing students for real-world success by directly connecting education to the evolving demands of the workforce.

A brief welcome introducing the purpose of ASC, the evening flow, and the theme of future-ready sustainable careers.

Welcome Address

Eyosias A. Teka

President · Career Readiness Club

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Eyosias A. Teka leads the vision, strategy, and execution of ASC, ensuring alignment across all functions and delivering a high-impact, institutionally recognized experience. He delivers the official welcome and frames the evening's intent for students, alumni, and guests.

Master of Ceremonies

Bruno Barreto de Góes, Ph.D.

Associate Professor · UNH · President, Beta Gamma Sigma Chapter

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Dr. Bruno Barreto de Góes is an accomplished scholar and educator specializing in strategic management, international business, and corporate sustainability. He serves as the Master of Ceremonies for ASC, guiding stage flow, transitions, recognitions, and formal event progression.

A forward-looking keynote on innovation, workforce readiness, and navigating career sustainability in the age of AI.

University Leader · Keynote Speaker

Paul Lavoie

Vice President of Innovation and Applied Technology · University of New Haven

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Paul Lavoie is a nationally recognized leader in advanced manufacturing and innovation, leading the University of New Haven's new R&D Park focused on cutting-edge fields like robotics, AI, and advanced manufacturing. Formerly Connecticut's Chief Manufacturing Officer, he has driven major industry and economic development initiatives at the state level.

A focused conversation on the theme "Future-Ready: Sustainable Careers in the Age of AI," highlighting alumni career paths, key decisions, and real-world industry perspectives.

Panel Moderator

Khadija Al Arkoubi, Ph.D.

Professor & Chair, Department of Management and International Business · University of New Haven

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Dr. Khadija Al Arkoubi is a distinguished academic leader and scholar specializing in leadership, human resource management, and global business education. Her work sits at the intersection of leadership, diversity and inclusion, sustainability, and the responsible use of AI in organizations. As the Founding Faculty Advisor of the Career Readiness Club, she played a foundational role in shaping its vision.

Alumni Panelist

Samantha Williams, M.S.

Founder & President, CMWP Foundation · Founder, 628 Digital Design

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Samantha (Sammi) is a distinguished, multi-award-winning entrepreneur and content engineer with over 20 years of experience. Her recognitions include the 2023 Wharton Knowledge for Impact Award and participation in the inaugural 2022 Morgan Stanley Small Business Academy cohort.

Alumni Panelist

Zachariah Picotte

Founder & Strategic Architect · Enclave Artists Agency

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Zachariah Picotte is a strategic architect and entrepreneur operating at the intersection of global culture and commerce. As Founder of Enclave Artists Agency, he serves as the principal lead for world-renowned recording artists, orchestrating large-scale performances across more than 30 countries annually.

Alumni Panelist

Tania Galindo

Administrative Program Director, CRTEC · Yale Cancer Center · Consultant, Research Logix

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Tania Galindo, MHA, is the Administrative Program Director for Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC) at the Yale Cancer Center, often leveraging AI tools to improve efficiency and streamline workflows.

Alumni Panelist

Katherine Nicholson

Business Intelligence Analyst · Gartner

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Katherine Nicholson is a Business Intelligence Analyst at Gartner, specializing in helping organizations understand and adopt emerging technologies. With backgrounds in Data Science Engineering and Business Analytics, she bridges technical concepts with real-world business application.

Alumni Panelist

Shantel Garcia-Roldán

Founder · ICS

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Shantel Garcia-Roldán is the founder of ICS, established in 2013 to help small business owners build organized, profitable, and scalable companies. A Certified Management Accountant with an MBA from the University of New Haven, she has over 17 years as a senior financial executive.

Alumni Panelist

Angela Karachristos

Human Resources Operations Manager · Tighe & Bond, Inc.

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Angela Karachristos is a strategic HR leader spanning banking, higher education, consulting, and architecture, engineering and construction. She is also adjunct faculty in the Industrial and Organizational Psychology program at UNH.

Attendees engage directly with the panel through audience questions and moderated follow-up discussion.

A formal recognition ceremony honoring faculty excellence, community contribution, and the individuals who made ASC possible.

Closing reflections drawing from tonight's themes, followed by a featured address before the event transitions to networking.

Featured Closing Speaker

David Sussman

Chief Visionary Officer · PFP Services

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Since David entered his family business in 1996, he has focused on its consistent evolution. His innovative initiatives helped grow The Family Security Plan into the nation's leading provider of supplemental life and health insurance to credit union members. In 2025, David launched the Uccountability Program with a mission of helping thousands of people get more done while enhancing their mental health.

Guests continue networking, take photos, and deepen conversations after the formal close of the event.