Excellence in Undergraduate Studies Awards

Tess Connolly, Bachelor of Liberal Studies

An exceptional student in the online Undergraduate Degree Completion Program, Tess worked full-time while also taking care of her elderly mother. Thanks to excellent communication and planning skills, Tess was able to navigate her tricky schedule while staying on top of her studies with enthusiasm and a positive attitude.

What’s Next? After graduation, I plan to continue in my career in the Financial Services industry, as the chief compliance officer at EverBank, NA.

Acknowledgments: Deepest gratitude to my family and friends who supported me and cheered me on. A special call out to my husband, Dan Connolly, who provided copy editing services for each and every paper and essay I submitted. Thank you to my fellow students and professors who challenged and encouraged me to be my very best. We made it! This one is for Pat, who would have loved to see this day.

Gaston Longhitano, Bachelor of Science

Gaston has excelled academically while also enriching the learning experience of those around him. As a teaching assistant, his commitment both to his studies and to supporting his peers has been unparalleled. He is a shining example of dedication and excellence in the Computer Science bachelor’s program.

What’s Next? After graduation, I plan to further my education by pursuing a master’s degree in computer science or engineering at BU. Metropolitan College has provided me with an excellent foundation, preparing me well for graduate studies. Career-wise, I aim to advance to a senior role in software development and foster research initiatives within the private sector.

Acknowledgments: I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Reza Rawassizadeh, whose transformative guidance has significantly shaped my academic journey. Under his mentorship, I had the privilege of participating in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, delving into diverse technologies such as mobile development, battery-efficient algorithms, and the deployment of conversational agents and machine learning on mobile devices. This experience also led to my role as a researcher assistance and contributed to several publications.

Additionally, I am grateful to Dr. Yuting Zhang and Dr. Madani Naidjate for their outstanding teachings, which have profoundly influenced my academic path.

Lastly, I owe a special thanks to Geena Tortorella, whose invaluable support as an academic counselor has helped me navigate my academic journey successfully.

Excellence in Graduate Studies Awards

Derek Jung, Actuarial Science

From the first day he joined the Actuarial Science program, Derek has demonstrated a deep knowledge of actuarial concepts as well as a singular focus on succeeding in the program. He has been a teaching assistant in several of our courses and has received high praise from both faculty and students. He is a great representative of the Actuarial Science program.

What’s Next? I am pursuing a career as an actuary and continuing on the ASA track.

Acknowledgments: All faculty members including Professors Tepfer, Patashnick, Horwitz, Weiner, and Johnson.

Putranegara Riauwindu, Applied Business Analytics

One of the top performers in the rigorous Applied Business Analytics program, Putra is creative and persistent in his work and has a natural curiosity and enthusiasm that are indispensable for acquiring new knowledge. In addition to his exceptional academic achievements, Putra contributed substantially as a research assistant, codeveloper, and implementer of our ABA@BU Employability Consultation Services. In 2023, as team leader, he won the award for Best Team from North America in the United Nations Datathon and was recognized with the Second Place Graduate Cohort on the COVID Information Commons. He also participated in two conferences and coauthored several academic articles and posters.

What’s Next? I am dedicated to pursuing a career in the technology and finance industries, while also founding my own tech company. My long-term goal is to retire early and transition into a career in academic teaching or consulting.

Acknowledgments: I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Professor Vladimir Zlatev for his exceptional support throughout my academic journey, which has been immensely beneficial.

Additionally, my sincere thanks go to Professor Krystie, Professor Page, Professor Athaide, and Professor Cansu for their generous and unwavering support during my academic year.

Marline R. Ogunjobi, Enterprise Risk Management

Marline is an example of what Metropolitan College has traditionally stressed—adults returning to the classroom to enhance their career prospects through part-time education. Every instructor in the Enterprise Risk Management program reports that Marline has been a consistent and solid classroom contributor. Her excellent grades show that her efforts extend to a dedication to completing assignments at a high level, even while holding down a demanding full-time job and supporting her family. Not only will Marline make a contribution to the risk management profession, but she has and will continue to make a contribution as an audit manager at Boston University.

What’s Next? I plan to continue working for BU and hoping to become involved in the ERM process for the University. I will use the concepts learned from my graduate studies to enhance my current work as an internal audit manager and wherever there is an opportunity to add value and make a difference at BU and in my local community.

Acknowledgments: Tara Kelly, who was the student coordinator when I enrolled in the fall of 2020, was very instrumental in answering all my questions and getting me all set to begin the ERM certificate program, and again when I switched to the master’s degree. I would also like to thank all my professors, and especially Professor David Weidman for his encouragement to work hard and stay on the path for the MS degree. Finally, I would like to thank all the administrative staff and advisors for work they do daily to keep us informed and on track to completing our course work.

Amir Alamir, Financial Management

Amir has demonstrated excellence in all parts of his Metropolitan College journey, from his outstanding Financial Management coursework to his curiosity and eagerness to always learn and understand more. He has distinguished himself as a teaching and graduate assistant, which opened the door to a summer internship at the firm of one of his instructors. Last, but not least, for his master’s thesis Amir tackled an original research problem on option markets which he defended with flying colors.

What’s Next? I want to compound my knowledge of finance, leveraging dividends of experience to build a high alpha portfolio of life goals and investment in personal growth.

Acknowledgments: I am deeply grateful to my parents for their unwavering support. Their encouragement has meant the world to me. I also want to express my appreciation to my great advisor, Professor Becker, whose guidance and mentorship have been instrumental in my academic journey, and to Professor Julio for his sincere help and support. Additionally, I appreciate the wonderful faculty at Boston University Metropolitan College for their valuable insights and encouragement.

Andreana Ursini, Global Marketing Management

Showcasing an unparalleled commitment to academic excellence, Andreana’s significant contributions as both a teaching and research assistant have enriched the Global Marketing Management program’s learning environment and led to the development of a scientific paper, in collaboration with two faculty members, currently under peer review. These achievements underscore her clever approach and dedication to pushing her boundaries of knowledge in global, neuro, and digital marketing management. We are confident that Andreana will continue to profoundly impact the academic discipline and the broader industry, leveraging her skills, knowledge, and creativity to address complex global challenges and drive the digital and neuromarketing field forward.

What’s Next? I want to apply the knowledge and passion gained throughout the program into the real world. My goal is to find a career path that not only utilizes my skills but also brings me happiness and a sense of fulfillment. I’m also committed to continually growing, because I think that by staying curious, open-minded, and proactive, both professionally and personally, I can improve not just my skill set but also my perspectives and understanding of the world around me.

Acknowledgments: I am grateful to all the professors I’ve crossed paths with, as each has given me valuable knowledge that has enhanced my educational journey. Above all, I would like to extend special thanks to Professor Goncalves for the opportunities he provided me throughout the year. His commitment and confidence in my abilities have played a crucial role in my achievements within the program.

Dustin Paul Fornoff, Insurance Management

Dustin joined our Master of Science program in Insurance Management in spring 2021 and completed it with distinction. He was active in discussions, original and creative in his assignments, and a trusted friend and team leader in completing and presenting group projects. He consistently achieved outstanding results in exams—all of which ensured that Dustin was among the students who set the standards and reinforced the reputation of our program.

What’s Next? As a director at USAA, I plan to use my degree to pursue an executive role at my company. This degree has fulfilled a personal goal of mine, and I am pleased my children can see this achievement to understand better what it takes to succeed through perseverance and commitment.

Acknowledgments: I wish to thank my wife Melissa; my children Christopher, Kaitlyn, and Kinley; and my mom and dad for their support and inspiration along my academic journey.

Vinita Mehta, Project Management

Vinita is an extraordinary Project Management graduate whose relentless dedication and innovative spirit have profoundly impacted the global stage. At Rotaract Club of Mumbai, an expansive network with 10,000 members and more than 150 clubs, Vinita received accolades as the Best Community Service Director and Best Secretary in consecutive years. Her projects “Zariya” and “Pranali” earned recognition, respectively, as the most impactful project of the year and the “Innovation of the Decade.” Vinita’s remarkable talents extended into project leadership roles at UNICEF and SRMD. As a teaching assistant in our program, she mentored students and worked with professors conducting research in AI and productivity gain. As the Boston University Project Management Club secretary, she organized events promoting social and educational causes. Even as a student, Vinita’s achievement in earning the prestigious Project Management Professional (PMP)® Certification speaks volumes of her dedication to personal growth and professional excellence.

What’s Next? After graduating, my immediate focus lies in leveraging my educational background and extensive skill set in project management to advance my career to a more senior level within the field. I aspire to take on challenging projects that not only allow me to apply my expertise but also provide opportunities for further development in leadership and strategic planning. Concurrently, I am keen on pursuing additional certifications and executive education programs to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and best practices. Beyond professional growth, I remain committed to making meaningful contributions to nonprofit initiatives, drawing from my past involvement. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or offering project management expertise, I aim to continue making a positive impact on society. Additionally, I recognize the importance of networking and collaboration in career advancement and plan to actively engage with professional associations and industry events to expand my network and exchange insights with peers and experts. Throughout this journey, I am mindful of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, nurturing personal interests, and prioritizing physical and mental well-being, as I believe this holistic approach is essential for sustained success and fulfillment in both professional and personal spheres of life.

Acknowledgments: Firstly, I extend my deepest thanks to Professor Kanabar, Professor Maltzman, and Professor Wong for their guidance, encouragement, and invaluable insights throughout my master’s program. Their expertise and mentorship have been pivotal in shaping my understanding of project management and leadership principles. Additionally, I extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues Yashvi, Keval, and Mohit for their collaboration, camaraderie, and shared learning experiences. Their support and camaraderie have enriched my academic journey and made it all the more fulfilling. Furthermore, I am thankful to my family—Mom, Dad, Devarsh, Mama-mamis, and friends like Yukti, Meeti, Jay, Rishabh, and Maitri for their unwavering support, understanding, and encouragement during the demanding phases of my studies. Their belief in my abilities has been a constant source of motivation and strength. Overall, I am truly grateful to all those who have played a role, big or small, in supporting me on this educational endeavor.

Yerkin Nygmetov, Supply Chain Management

Standing out as one of the best students to have graduated from the Supply Chain Management program, Yerkin came to Metropolitan College with degrees in marketing, management, and oil and gas business. With more than 15 years of work experience in the supply chain field, he helped enrich the discussions in our classes. In addition to his superior academic achievement, Yerkin has been very active in extracurricular activities. He established an online platform designed specifically to aid Kazakh students moving to Massachusetts, which eases new students’ transition to Boston and Metropolitan College. We are thrilled to welcome Yerkin into our alumni community.

What’s Next? I have been employed in the national shipping company of Kazakhstan.

Acknowledgments: Thanks to my parents.

Sebastian Lehner, Administrative Studies, Innovation & Technology

Sebastian excelled not only in his academic performance, but also in his leadership, teamwork, innovation, and internship pursuits. Working as a graduate assistant and teaching assistant in the Innovation & Technology core course, Sebastian rapidly mastered all the intricacies of our course projects and assignments and also provided a lecture to the class on his internship and innovation project experiences. In his work with others, he consistently demonstrated highly forward-thinking and collaborative approaches. During his internship—which he did in addition to his coursework and assistantship work—he impressed the company with his investment proficiencies, work ethic, and client outreach skills. Indeed, he made such an impression that he will be opening their Hamburg virtual office in Germany. We wish Sebastian much continued success in all his endeavors.

What’s Next? I am embarking on the entrepreneurial journey.

Acknowledgments: Very special thanks to Professor Brian Arffa and Professor Kathleen Park.

Cassandra B. Pearson, Arts Administration

Cassandra entered the Arts Administration program as a dedicated arts manager, having started in her high school years as a director and choreographer for a youth theater in rural New York. She continued her professional training at Boston College, as a senior box office associate for the Robsham Theater Arts Center, where she received the director’s award. Following graduation, she worked as communications manager for the Berkshire Music School before enrolling at Boston University. Cassie has excelled at her Arts Administration studies. As one instructor commented, “as a student, she was diligent, engaging, and respectful. She was a top student and there is no doubt that she will excel in whatever she chooses to pursue.” Cassie served as a graduate assistant for the program and even took on the role of interim program manager when that person went on maternity leave. As noted by one instructor, Cassie “is a credit to the program, the school, and the university as a whole.”

What’s Next? After graduation I plan to pursue a career in development, raising funds and supporting programs for arts organizations to continue spreading the positive impact the arts have on people’s lives.

Acknowledgments: I am extremely grateful for all of the support from the Arts Administration program, as well as the knowledge and guidance provided by the wonderful faculty members. I am also eternally grateful for all of the love and support from my family and friends, all of whom inspire me every day.

Venkata Sandeep Yerra, Applied Data Analytics

According to Professor Farshid Alizadeh-Shabdiz, Sandeep was eager to learn and maintain a high standard in his work. He is a great team player and always ready to help other students. Professor Reza Rawassizadeh also had high praise, noting that Sandeep did an excellent job, turning in three projects when assigned two—and they were not easy projects. He has collaborated on interesting research that compresses neural network models of activity tracking for fitness trackers, which saves massive amounts of electricity daily. We are sure the result of this research will be a paper in one of the top conferences in the field.

What’s Next? I am excited to leverage my master’s degree in applied data analytics by entering the tech industry, where I aim to specialize in data-driven strategies and deep learning applications. My immediate goal is to secure a position where I can effectively apply and further enhance my analytical and technical skills. I am particularly drawn to roles that encourage innovation and problem-solving in areas such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Simultaneously, I intend to maintain a strong connection with the academic community to continue my research in deep learning under the guidance of Professor Reza Rawassizadeh. This dual focus will enable me to stay at the forefront of advancements in AI, while applying cutting-edge research to solve practical, real-world problems.

Acknowledgments: First, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my wife, whose patience and understanding made it possible for me to balance my family responsibilities with my academic pursuits. Her support was especially crucial during the challenging times of welcoming our newborn daughter into our lives. Her strength and encouragement have been my pillars.

I also owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to my parents, whose constant belief in my abilities and sacrifices have always motivated me to pursue my dreams. Their unconditional love and advice have been invaluable throughout this journey.

Additionally, I would like to express my appreciation to Professor Reza Rawassizadeh and Professor Farshid Alizadeh-Shabdiz, whose guidance and mentorship were pivotal in shaping my academic and professional perspective. Professor Rawassizadeh’s experience and insights into GenAI and deep learning have been particularly influential in shaping my thoughts and research experience at BU MET.

Thank you all for your part in this significant chapter of my life. I am fortunate to have such a supportive circle as I transition into the next phase of my career.

Chen Han, Computer Information Systems

After earning her bachelor’s degree from Communication University of China, Chen entered Boston University, where she earned a master’s in media science from the College of Communication in 2022. She then continued on to complete her master’s in Computer Information Systems at Metropolitan College.

What’s Next? My educational journey, culminating in degrees in television journalism, marketing communication research, and computer information systems, has uniquely positioned me for a career as a marketing/data analyst, with a dream of contributing to leading companies like Netflix and Disney. Currently, as a media data analyst in Boston, I’m gaining hands-on experience in media analysis and consumer behavior, laying the groundwork for achieving my career objectives. I am eager to leverage my multidisciplinary background and practical insights to drive data-driven strategies and innovations within the dynamic landscape of digital entertainment.

Acknowledgments: I am deeply grateful to several individuals for their unwavering support throughout my academic journey. Firstly, I must acknowledge my own perseverance in relentlessly pursuing my goals, a testament to the importance of self-belief and determination. Equally important, my parents deserve immense gratitude for their financial support, enabling me to complete two master’s degrees—a foundation I could not have built without their sacrifice.

I also owe a debt of gratitude to Professor Elasmar, who not only introduced me to the data analytics program during my time at BU’s College of Communication but also inspired me to pursue a second master’s degree at MET. His guidance, along with the encouragement of other professors like Professor Farshid Alizadeh-Shabdiz, was instrumental in my academic development.

Last but not least, I cannot express enough appreciation for my roommates, JiaNi and JunFeng. During one of my life’s most challenging periods, when my mom underwent cancer treatment in China and I was unable to be with my parents, JiaNi and JunFeng provided me with an unparalleled level of support and companionship. Their kindness during those trying times highlighted the irreplaceable value of true friendship.

Love you BU MET!

Yang Xing, Computer Science

Yang has displayed remarkable academic strength and growth in his Computer Science journey. His strong background in math helped him achieve an outstanding performance in machine learning coursework, showcasing a deep understanding of complex concepts and a keen ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. He successfully finished an object segmentation project with the collaboration of Boston University’s School of Dental Medicine and submitted a paper to a prestigious journal and two conferences. He is pursuing his PhD at the University of Florida.

What’s Next? PhD program.

Zi Tian Zhen, Health Informatics

Zi Tian worked part-time as a pharmacist assistant from 2014 to 2020 and earned a bachelor’s in biology from the University of British Columbia, Canada, in 2021. While pursuing his master’s in Health Informatics at Metropolitan College, he joined the Health Informatics Lab. For his master’s thesis, he applied machine learning algorithms to predict major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-peptide binding, a critical step in the antigen processing pathway and T-cell mediated immunity. This project aims to develop an online computational system based on machine learning techniques for the prediction of binding peptides to the two MHC class I molecules in C57BL/6 mice. In the summer of 2023, Zi Tian presented his work, “Deep Learning Models for Vaccinology: Predicting T-cell Epitopes in C57BL/6 Mice,” at the CSECS conference. He is applying for PhD study in bioinformatics. His dream is to solve the intricate mysteries of biology through computational means.

What’s Next? PhD study.

Acknowledgments: I would like to thank Dr. Guanglan Zhang for her continuous support and mentorship during my graduate study.

Keith Gutfreund, Software Development

Keith boasts a remarkable record of academic achievement across all Software Development program subjects. This exceptional performance serves as a testament to his deep expertise in the field. Keith’s true strength lies in his sincere learning attitude and strong work ethic. He actively participates in class, asking insightful questions that spark engaging discussions. His assignments consistently go above and beyond expectations. This dedication to excellence sets a powerful example for all Metropolitan College students. Keith is a truly outstanding student who embodies the values of intellectual curiosity and a relentless commitment to excellence.

What’s Next? One day I hope to teach at BU!

Acknowledgments: As I reflect on my journey to this moment, I am filled with gratitude for the support and guidance I’ve received along the way. While my 40-year path to completing my master’s degree at BU has been a little unconventional, it’s been enriched by the kindness and encouragement of many individuals and organizations.

First and foremost, I extend my deepest appreciation to my wife, Myrna, and to my daughter, Olivia, whose steadfast love and encouragement mean the world to me. Their courage and resilience inspire me every day.

I am also grateful to my parents, who nurtured my curiosity, put me on the right path, and provided me with many opportunities that they didn’t have. I am grateful as well to my siblings, who were my first partners in mischief and reminded me of the importance to find joy along the way. I thank my dear and closest friends, and of course my niece Ashley, who never failed to encourage me.

To the esteemed faculty at BU, you have challenged and inspired me to overcome obstacles and to strive for excellence. I am especially indebted to:

  • Mr. Raj Heda, where I learned how we can enable teams to accomplish great things together.
  • Mr. Jack Polnar, who taught me that highly technical information can be clearly communicated with the proper presentation, form, and detail.
  • Dr. Jae Young Lee, from whom I learned the very important lesson that we should take the time to quantify how hard a problem is before trying to solve it.
  • Dr. Yuting Zhang and Mr. Ed Matthews whose boundless exuberance and sober perspective introduced me to our shared responsibility for keeping the Internet safe for everyone.
  • Dr. Reza Rawassizadeh and Dr. Xiaozhong Liu for introducing me to new approaches for solving real-world problems.
  • Dr. Eugene Pinsky, who reminded me of the fun you can have writing software.

I remember the artificial intelligence class that I took in 1984, where the professor booted out all the engineering majors on the first day of class as he didn’t think they had the right temperament for computer science. And I think fondly of Dr. Mark Karpovsky, who became my mentor and friend, and whose 1985 engineering class with our combined notes was taught for many years.

I would be remiss not to acknowledge the generous support of my employer, Elsevier, whose financial assistance and investment in people made pursuing my degree a reality.

Finally, to my classmates, thank you for sharing your intellect, camaraderie, and kindness, all of which have greatly enriched my time at BU.

Sanaika Nityananda Shetty, Criminal Justice

An excellent student, Sanaika has helped create a vibrant academic environment in the Criminal Justice program and has shown great promise in her field. Sanaika’s coursework is outstanding, whether she is conducting simulated cyber investigations, designing evaluation studies, or analyzing the implications of crime theory for practice and policy. Under Professor Kyung-shick Choi’s supervision, she has engaged in her own research project examining the latest AI tools and how cybercrime offenders could potentially use them in cyber-attacks. Sanaika presented this work at the American Criminal Justice Society conference in Chicago this past spring. She is working as a research assistant with Professor James Silver, helping to code information about mass homicide events to better understand the causes of these tragedies. Sanaika is always engaged and positive in class—an excellent project team member always willing to support and assist her peers. She expects to apply to doctoral programs that blend criminology and cybercrime fields.

What’s Next? After graduation, I’m aiming to dive headfirst into the dynamic world of corporate cybersecurity, specializing in threat intelligence. It’s a field that continually challenges and evolves, and I’m eager to contribute my skills and knowledge to enhance organizational and data security.

Alongside my professional journey, I have a fervent desire to explore the globe, immersing myself in different cultures and landscapes. Documenting these experiences would not only be a personal passion but also a way to contribute to the broader narrative of global connectivity and understanding.

Looking ahead, my ultimate goal is to become an entrepreneur and lead a Fortune 500 company. I envision myself founding and scaling a tech-driven venture that revolutionizes the industry. It’s an ambitious path, but I’m dedicated to seizing opportunities, fostering innovation, and making a lasting impact on the business landscape.

Acknowledgments: I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family—my parents, sister, and grandmother—for their unwavering support and belief in me throughout my academic journey. Their encouragement has been my rock during both triumphs and challenges.

I am incredibly fortunate to have had the guidance and mentorship of Dr. Choi, who saw potential in me and provided invaluable support every step of the way. His mentorship has been transformative, offering invaluable advice and guidance that I will carry with me always. I am also deeply grateful to Dr. Silver, whose teaching and guidance have played a pivotal role in my academic and personal growth. Their dedication to fostering knowledge and critical thinking has been instrumental in shaping my educational experience.

I extend my thanks to Dr. Cadigan for unwavering support and encouragement and to Dr. Cronin for immense guidance throughout this program. Their expertise and dedication have been instrumental in helping me achieve my academic goals.

I am truly grateful for the support and mentorship I have received from these individuals, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to learn and grow under their guidance.

Shelby Duncan, City Planning

In the City Planning program, Shelby has demonstrated an exceptional blend of academic rigor, practical application, and remarkable dedication to her role as a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) teaching assistant. Her ability to make complex GIS concepts accessible to students, coupled with her research interest at the intersection of data, social equity, and urban development, exemplifies the highest standards of academic and practical excellence. Shelby’s role as a teaching assistant has not only enhanced her peers’ learning experiences but also emphasized her commitment to mentoring the next generation of urban planners. Her ambition to apply her knowledge and skills for the betterment of urban spaces, especially in her hometown of Houston, reflects a deep commitment to public service and community development.

What’s Next? After graduating, I plan on applying the skills learned at BU to better the world around me with data informed decision making and inclusive planning practices. That, or go back to school. Again.

Acknowledgments: I would like to extend my thanks to my wife, Karla Moreno, my family, my fellow students, and give a special thanks to Dr. Yeşim Sungu-Eryilmaz, who has been an excellent professor and advisor to me during my time at BU.

Kashia Point Du Jour, Urban Affairs

Contributing a unique and valuable perspective from her background in public health, Kashia ’s enthusiastic enrollment in the Urban Affairs program was driven by a commendable goal: to bridge the critical gap between public health and urban affairs. Kashia’s ambitious vision to design sustainable urban infrastructure that centers the needs of underserved communities showcases her potential to lead transformative changes in urban planning and public health. Her academic excellence and practical engagement with urban affairs make her a deserving recipient of this award, underscoring her role as a future leader in promoting health equity through innovative urban solutions.

What’s Next? After graduation, I hope to pursue a career that allows me to merge my passion for both public health and urban planning. This means addressing how various aspects of the built environment, such as infrastructure, transportation systems, and housing, impact the well-being of our most vulnerable communities. I hope to contribute to the creation of healthier, more equitable, and sustainable environments for all individuals. Ultimately, my goal is to make meaningful contributions towards improving the health and quality of life of populations through informed, evidence-based approaches to shaping the built environment. Personally, I hope to continue traveling as much as I can!

Acknowledgments: Thank you to my family, friends, the professors I engaged with throughout the program, and my colleagues over at BU’s School of Public Health.

Marie-Louise Friedland, Gastronomy

Marie-Louise has made truly meaningful contributions to the Gastronomy program with her original thinking and her fearless challenge of paradigms, especially in the wine world. She was an invaluable partner in planning and running the two conferences we have hosted during her time in the program. We have no doubt she will continue to shake up the worlds of hospitality and food studies and we are proud to have supported her on this journey.

What’s Next? After graduation, my goal is to continue to foster inclusivity in the wine and culinary fields. I hope to continue to work on the Chez Ardid cookbook and honoring the diversity of the San Antonio culinary scene though my historical research, work in the world of hospitality, and cooking through my family’s recipes.

Acknowledgments: I would love to thank my co-workers, parents, husband, cat, and dog for supporting me during my studies.

Sara Elizabeth Axelrod, Health Communication

Representing the excellence and impact of our Health Communication graduates, Sara’s outstanding contributions to her courses left her instructors deeply impressed by her passion for health outcomes and the impact she will have on people for years to come. Her professors describe her as “a driven and hard-working health communicator,” as well as “an intellectually curious and passionate learner who will drive positive change in healthcare.” In addition to her academic work, Sara excels as a member of the team at the Mongan Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital. Her work is dedicated to achieving health equity and improving the lives of people with complex health needs. With her master’s degree in Health Communication, Sara sets herself apart as a true leader in this vital quest.

What’s Next? Upon completion of the MSHC program, I will become the program manager for the Office of Training and Academic Affairs at the Mongan Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital. I am looking forward to expanding my current responsibilities within the Mongan Institute, as well as leading the design and development of the Mongan Institute’s upcoming certificate program in Health Care Data & Delivery Science.

Acknowledgments: I would like to thank Dr. Stephen Bartels and Jason Hagan for encouraging me to further my education and for their endless support over the last year and a half during my time in the MSHC program.