Alumni News & Updates
Kim Storfer, senior manager of operations for HEALTHeLINK, the regional health information organization in Western New York, has been named program developer for the health care informatics program at Trocaire College. Her office is based in Lancaster. Storfer, a registered dental hygienist, has more than 20 years of health care experience. She received her bachelor’s degree in administration management from Houghton College and a master’s degree in health care administration/informatics from the University of Phoenix.
Alfred State announces the appointment of Greg Sammons to the position of Vice President for Student Affairs. Sammons, who joined Alfred State in 1996, was appointed chief of police in 2005. In 2012, he became interim vice president for student affairs. With this appointment, he will oversee departments including Athletics, Civic Engagement, Greek Life, Health and Wellness Services, Judicial Affairs, Multicultural Affairs, Residential Life, Student Activities, and University Police. Earlier this year, Sammons was awarded the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Professional Service. He has an associate's degree in applied science degree in criminal justice from Finger Lakes Community College, a bachelor's degree in organizational management from Houghton College, and a master's degree in justice administration from Norwich University. Copyright Targeted News Services
Theresa Osgood, Cohort V5, (2007), completed her MBA with a 4.0 GPA through Kaplan University on August 30, 2011. Theresa is now in the process of obtaining her CPSM Certification in the Supply Chain Management profession. Having obtained CPM certification in 2009 and will now be taking a bridge exam and complete 80 credit hours over a five-year period for the CPSM certification. Theresa states, "The education received at P.A.C.E. really prepared me for the challenges in the business world. Many lessons I learned in P.A.C.E. were applied to the MBA program - if it wasn't for such a sound education with inspiring professors, I would not have returned to school."
Darren Anderson, Cohort Z6, (2010), has been promoted to the position of Process Quality Engineering Supervisor at Titanx Engine Cooling, Inc. where he has been working since 1997. Darren credits the P.A.C.E. course work and completion of his degree as one of the stepping stones for earning this promotion.
Randy Glenn, Cohort S6, (2010), has been promoted to Sales Manager at Buffalo RV.
Tahmikia Autry, Cohort F6, (2011), passed the PHR certification exam for human resource professionals.
Kris Whitaker, Cohort N6, (2009), has been hired by the Rouse Estate in Youngsville, PA as the Administrator for the Suites at Rouse which is a personal care home which houses 60 apartments for those who require some type of assisted living. Since becoming the administrator at the Suites, Kris has completed the PA Department of Welfare, Personal Care Home Administrator's certification classes and passed her licensing exam. Kris states, "My Houghton education was a determining factor in my eligibility for this position. Many of the concepts that I learned in class have been a huge help in managing this building and a staff of 42 and the residents who live here."
Scott Curren, Cohort Z6, (2010), has accepted a new position in the Investment Management and Trust Services Department at Northwest Savings Bank in Warren, PA. This new position involves working closely with brokers, monitoring accounts, posting trades, etc. Scott has begun studying for the Series 7 exam to become a licensed broker. He states, "The Houghton P.A.C.E. program provided me the education and background to get this new position."
Melissa Gruin, Cohort F5, (2008), has accepted a new position as a Compensation Analyst in the corporate headquarters of CarMax, a Fortune 500 company based in Richmond, VA. CarMax was named as a Fortune 100 Best Companies to work for in 2010.
Michelle Fiebelkorn, Cohort A3, (2002), has been promoted to Director of Purchasing for Kaleida Health, the largest health care facility in Western New York. Michelle holds credentials of Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM) from the National Association of Purchasing Managers and is an active member of the organization.
Wendy Cocca, Cohort J6, (2009), has been appointed the executive director of Love in the Name of Christ in Springville, NY.
Marie Bialy, Cohort W2, (1998), has been appointed director of medical management in the quality health care management department for Fidelis Care, the New York State Catholic health plan.
Jim Gibson, Cohort M6, (2006), has recently been promoted to a Director of Operations and Merchandising in Buffalo for Tops Markets. Jim will complete his MBA from University at Buffalo in May of 2010.
Jason Ladd, Cohort R6, (2009), has recently been promoted to Portable and Gas Apparatus Product Manager at Koike Aronson, Inc. This will include sales and distribution in North and South America. Jason will report directly to the company President. Congratulations Jason!
Derah Black-Day, Cohort K6, (2009), since graduation has accepted a position with the Seneca Nation of Indians Health Department as Addictions Manager/Unit Supervisor in the Behavioral Health Department.
David Shenk, Cohort C4, (2005), was by Business First as one of the forty individuals chosen in the region in the 2009 class of their "40 Under Forty" class. The goal for Business First is to identify 40 men and women under the age of 40 who are successful in their professions and heavily involved in community activities. Congratulations David!
Joshua Randle, Cohort M5, (2007), is the COO and Director of National Service Operations of WNY AmeriCorps. Josh was responsible to recruit and coordinate volunteers in the massive Buffalo Extreme Home Makeover that took place the week of November 9, 2009.
Sarah Johnston, Cohort K6, (2009), has taken a position as an Intake Coordinator for the Department of Community Services. Sarah states that without my bachelor's degree she would not even have had an interview for the position and getting her bachelor's degree has opened up more opportunities that would not have been available.
Annette Bliss, Cohort N5, (2007), in October 2008 Annette was promoted to a Vice President for Lane Enterprises, Inc., and then in January 2009 relocated to Saratoga Country in New York to replace the retiring Area Manager for New York and New England.
Lori Adams, Cohort G5, (2008), received an Outstanding Citizen of the Year award by the Judges & Police Conferences of Erie County for her work surrounding the crash of Flight 3407. During the days that followed the crash Lori was appointed as the Town Hall Task Coordinator where she lead a team of over 500 volunteers that controlled the lobby and served 50-100 meals for each meal.
Brenda Van Horn, Cohort K3, (2000), has joined the U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade as a Foreign Service Officer. Brenda is assigned to the Buffalo Export Assistance Center and will assist businesses in Western New York (including the Southern Tier) with exporting their products.
Eileen Pirson, Cohort M5, (2007), has been promoted to Group Vice President at M&T Bank, and its holding company, M&T Bank Corporation. Eileen joined the bank in 1997 and is responsible for managing M&T Bank's Check Processing Servicing and Support departments. Eileen is also a member of the SVPCO Business Committee.
Jay Peterson, Cohort D2, (1998), was promoted to Design Drafting Manager, Space and Defense Group, of Moog Inc. Jay credits his Houghton College degree through P.A.C.E. as being instrumental in opening the door for this advancement.
Sally King, Cohort G4, (2006), has been promoted to Internal Training Coordinator for Erie 1 BOCES. Sally is responsible for the coordination and training of all Erie 1 BOCES personnel on web based portal developed applications and MS Office software applications. Sally sates, "I could not have succeeded without the awesome foundation provided in P.A.C.E. Thanks to everyone for their support and guidance, it is amazing the doors that have opened and the experiences available to me."
Joseph Weatherell, Cohort K3, (2000), graduated from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO in May 2004 with a Master of Divinity degree. As of August 2008, Reverend Weatherell is currently serving as pastor in Bound Brook, NJ.
Katie Buvoltz, Cohort V2,(1998),has had an article published in the scholarly electronic journal "New Horizons In Adult Education & Human Resource Development". The title of the article is Exploring Emotional Intelligence, Learner Autonomy, and Retention in an Accelerated Undergraduate Degree Completion Program. In January 2009 Katie received a promotion as Director of Academics for P.A.C.E. and Assistant Professor of Business and Communication for Houghton College. In 2008 Katie successfully defended her dissertation for a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership through the Regent University School of Leadership Studies.
Danielle Anderson, Cohort E5 (2008), Upon P.A.C.E. graduation, Danielle enrolled as a full time student at University of Buffalo's Library Science graduate program. Her goal is to become an elementary school Library Media Specialist.
Marci Barker, Cohort J5 (2006), While enrolled at P.A.C.E. Marci was employed at United Refining Company in Warren, PA as Administrative Retail Marketing Manager. Upon graduation Marci worked at the Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry as the Director of Workforce Development. Finding a love for education Marci has begun the pursuit of her teacher's certification in secondary education and will be certified to teach business and technology in April 2009.
Heidi Carlson, Cohort Q5 (2007), is the Human Resource Manager for Lowe's Home Centers in Warren, PA. Responsibilities include recruiting talent and talent management, benefits, payroll, and public relations events in the community. Heidi states, "Houghton College P.A.C.E. is an unforgettable experience. I acquired so much valuable information and loved my time in the program."
Janet Will Halliday, Cohort K2 (1997), is working as a Science and Math Teacher in an Alternative Education Program in Dover, DE. In addition adopted their 8 year old daughter Kallie in October of 2008.
Kelly Morgan, Cohort B5 (2008), has just been appointed as the Executive Director of The American Red Cross for Allegany County.
Deborah Watts, Cohort R3 (2001), has just completed teacher certification from University of Georgia and been a IRR teacher for Middle School the last two years. Deborah is currently enrolled in the UGA Masters program for teaching. Is also certified to teach Business to Middle and High School Grades.
Joshua Randle, Cohort M5 (2006), has been accepted into the Harvard Business School receiving a full scholarship for the SPNM Program (Strategic Perspectives in No-Profit Management) and will begin studies in July.
George & Sharon Polarek, Cohort M5 (2006), have accepted an appointment with The Salvation Army National Headquarters in Washington D.C. George is now the Assistant Director for Salvation Army World Service Office meeting the needs of people impacted by disasters around the world. Sharon part of National Liaison for Disaster Services working with those impacted by disasters in the states.
Diane Hewitt, Cohort J5 - Jamestown (2006), has been named the new Administrator/CEO of Operations at Tanglewood Manor in Jamestown, NY. Tanglewood Manor is an adult living facility which has an Assisted Living Program which allows the residents to enjoy independent living while accessing various levels of care. Diane is charged with assisting the owner of Tanglewood Manor in moving the organization in a strategic direction with a plan to better serve the residents and community as a whole while focusing on continued growth.
David Roy, Cohort F2 (1999), has accepted a position at PCB Machining Solutions, Inc, a division of PCB Piezotronics as the Quality Assurance Manager. PCB Machining Solutions is an Aerospace machining corporation.
Tawny Carle, Cohort N5 (2006), has been promoted twice since completing her degree. Tawny is now an auditor for the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmentally Disabled for NYS Finger Lakes DDSO.
Sara Bialy, Cohort M5 (2006), has been hired as the Media and Special Events Coordinator for the Salvation Army in Buffalo.
Joanne George, Cohort L5 (2006), has been appointed to the role of manager of finance for the Holland Central School District. Joanne will also serve in the role of financial coordinator for all federal and state grants, and district representative to the School & Municipal Energy Cooperative.
Cathy Fabiatos, Cohort F2 (1999), has completed two Master's Degrees at Canisius College since graduation from Houghton's P.A.C.E. Program. She has also earned NYS School District Administrator Certification, in addition to NYS Permanent Teacher Certification. Cathy is currently the Jr/Sr High School Principal of the Pine Valley Central High School.
Timothy Abbey,Cohort B4 (2007), recently accepted a Facilities Manager position with the Dunkirk Housing Authority. He previously served as a Maintenance Supervisor in the Jamestown School District. Tim says the Facilities Manager position, "...looked like the natural next step from what I was doing... The job required a bachelor's degree and previous maintenance supervisor experience. I could not have obtained the job had it not been for completing my degree."
Laura Witter, Cohort L5 (2006), has been appointed director of the newly formed Debt Management Solutions Bid Team for Sallie Mae and Pioneer Credit. Laura will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of strategic proposal design, working hand-in-hand with regional vice presidents to ensure the effectiveness of bids to secure new business. Laura will also direct several related functions, including new market and core business research, competitive analysis, and high-level editing of bid and marketing materials.
Rebecca Crouch, Cohort L5 (2006), has been promoted to Director of Conferences for Houghton College. Rebecca oversees the coordination of all groups and their needs that utilize Houghton College facilities for special activities or conferences.
James Reger, Cohort L5 (2006), has been hired as the Emergency Planning Program Manager at the University at Buffalo. Jim over sees the writing of an All Hazard Emergency Plan for University at Buffalo (both Academic and Research).
Shelly VanOrd, Cohort J5 (2006), has been promoted to Benefits Manager for Blair Corporation that employs over 2000 people. Shelly will be in charge of a team administering and communicating benefits to associates, providing education to associates to become wise healthcare consumers and to offer information and resources to allow associates to benefit from a healthy lifestyle.
Tracy Moore (formerly Mikla), Cohort Y3, has moved back home to Columbus,OH. She has re-joined the American Red Cross at the Greater Columbus Chapter, as Director of Preparedness and Safety Solutions. Tracy oversees all community and workplace CPR, First Aid, and Aquatics education courses for four counties. She also reports that she is very involved in the small group and singles ministries at her church.
Lenora Leasure, Cohort Z3 (2002), has recently been hired by the Cattaraugus County Business Development Corporation (CCBDC) as a Business Counselor. CCBDC is a private, not-for-profit corporation whose mission is to provide services and support to new and existing micro-enterprise businesses through educations and counseling.
Greg Sammons, Cohort D4 (2005), has been named chief of University Police at Alfred State College. He enforces laws to ensure the safety and security of all campus community members, and responds to various criminal, medical, domestic, and service-related incidents.
Angela Beightol, Cohort C3 (2002), is finishing a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration at Niagara University. She will be teaching full time (a temporary assignment) this fall in the Criminal Justice Department.
Charles Castiglia, Cohort J4 (2003), recently received a position an adjunct faculty member at Erie Community College. He will be teaching a course on Business Administration in Funeral Home Management.
Molly Shotzberger, Cohort K1, September 1993, of Monsey, NY, works as the Territorial Chaplaincy Training Director of the Nyack, NY Salvation Army. Molly serves on the Emergency disaster Response Team as a counselor and chaplain. She spent October and November of 2003 in Iraq.
Thomas Hochulski, Cohort K2, of Buffalo, NY received an MS degree in Global Business from Daemen College in 2003. He has retired from the Army Reserves after 29 years of service with the rank of Major. Has volunteered for Recall and served with the Army in Iraq on a Military Transition Team in Mosul from September 2006 to September 2007. Thomas is a market development specialist at Ingram Micro, where he has worked for 10 years.
Scott Hanel, Spring 2003 graduate, Cohort G3 has most recently worked as an Electronic Banking Implementation Manager for Citibank's North American Corporate banking customers. He recently assumed the role of Relationship Manager for Citibank's Worldwide Currency Centers where he will be responsible for maintaining its financial budget, relationship, projects, relationship team and contract. Scott reports that his P.A.C.E. experience enhanced his abilities to be a better team player, leader and influence for good. He also volunteers at Roswell Park Cancer Institute mentoring new bone marrow transplant patients by sharing his personal experience with cancer. Congratulations Scott!
Congratulations to Ben Gair III, Spring 1993 grad, Cohort J1, who was recently named the 2002 Outstanding Fundraising Executive of the Year by The Western New York Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Ben has been the executive director of Meals on Wheels Foundation of Western New York since 1993. The award is based on dedication to the profession, services to the chapter and accomplishments at Meals on Wheels.
John Reinholz, Fall 2001 grad, Cohort R3, received a master's degree (M.A.) from the University of Albany, School of Criminal Justice in May 2002. John reports that P.A.C.E. provided him with "an outstanding foundation to excel at the graduate level." Congratulations to John!
Steve Lukasik, September 2002 grad, Cohort C3, upon completion of P.A.C.E. was promoted to Site Sourcing Expert in his organization. Along with increased responsibilities, Steve received monetary recognition with this promotion. Steve states, "I have prepared myself for the future in case my company or any company decides to do some downsizing."Congratulations!
Kathy Roche, Cohort K3, accepted the position of Trust Operations Manager for First Tier Bank and Trust in Olean. She is overseeing the day to day operations of the trust department. She says, "I am certain I would never have qualified for this position without my Houghton degree."
Congratulations to Sandy Sleggs, Cohort V1, who was named Employment Manager at Alcas in Cuba.
Monica Cisneros, Cohort F2, May 1999, is a Sallie Mae loan representative in Indianapolis, Indiana. She also teaches English as a second language at Vida Cristiana Assembly of God Church. She plans to pursue an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University in the spring.
Daniel Pascarella, May 1997, has completed 20 years with the New York State park police. In December 2001 he was promoted to chief of police for the Allegany Region. He was supervising sergeant for the past seven and a half years. He says, "My bachelor's degree in organizational management played a key role in getting me where I am today."
Christine Genek, Cohort R2, of Orchard Park, N.Y. finished P.A.C.E. in May 1998.She was promoted to senior recruiting consultant at Systems Personnel Inc., of West Seneca, N.Y.
Anita Marciniak, Cohort K2 of Hamburg, N.Y. finished P.A.C.E. in May 1997. Anita has earned her master's in health systems administration and is establishing HealthQuest Consulting Inc., focusing on occupational health and safety.
Wanita Barnes, Cohort K3, of Hinsdale, NY finished P.A.C.E. in June 2000. On October 9, 2001 she was given the position of Office Manager for the office Dr. Martin Jacobs, M.D. in Bradford, PA. Congratulations Wanita!
Debbie Urbank, Cohort J3, September 2000, of Collins, NY, is a licensed long term care administrator and the administrator of ElderWood Health Care at Lakewood in Hamburg, NY. Debbie says the Houghton Degree on her resume clinched the position for her!
Lori Cilano, Cohort A2, May 1999, of Clarence, NY, completed her M.S.Ed in Counselor Education at St. Bonaventure University. Lori is currently working for the Catholic School System as a counselor/teacher in the abstinence program.
Joseph Ceccarelli, Cohort Z1, May 1995, of Buffalo, NY, is Chairman of the Information Technology Department, and teaches, at the Southtowns Campus of Bryant & Stratton in Lackawanna, NY. He is enrolled in an online master's program through the University of Phoenix.
Arnold Woelfel, Jr, Cohort H2, May 2000, is a Senior District Sales Manager with Takeda Pharmaceuticals America, of Deerfield, IL.
Joyce Lawrence, Cohort R2, May 1998, of Cincinnati, OH, is a Marketing Specialist for Proctor & Gamble and serves on their Diversity Team. In her spare time she is a minister's wife, Adult Sunday School teacher, United Methodist Women (UMW) board VP, UMW leader of newly formed working women's group, Coordinator of 30 & 40 Something's adult group, participates in many youth group functions (husband is sr. high and jr. high youth director), and serves on the Missions Committee.
Kathie Polychronis, Cohort F2, May 2000, of N. Tonawanda, NY, is Assistant Manager, General Merchandise Department at Wegmans Supermarket in Niagara Falls, NY.
Kathryn Harvey, Cohort S1, May 1995, and her husband, have retired to New Port Richey, FL. Kathryn created and maintains a web site for their condo community and is involved in her regional AAUW.
Ed Bujanowski, Cohort S1, May 1995, of Buffalo, NY, is Operations Supervisor for American Pharmaceutical Partners, Inc. of Grand Island, NY.
Wayne Stoner, Cohort H1, May 1996, of Louisville, CO, is Manufacturing Manager for Alpine Research Optics in Boulder, CO.
April Lolley, Cohort P3, of Belmont, NY, finished classes on 2/12/2000. Within a week she applied for and was given the position of Business Assistance Counselor for the Entrepreneurial Assistance program at ACCORD Corporation (Allegany County Community Opportunity and Rural Development).
Remember our referral incentive program!
For each enrolled referral you will receive a Houghton College sweatshirt. If you have a referral you would like us to send an information packet to, please forward their name, address and phone number to the following address: adulteducation@houghton.edu.
