Stacey Fields '15
President
Stacey was very active in clubs and organizations during her time at Southern. She served on the executive board of the Programs Council as both the Vice President (2003) and President (2004). She also co-founded a collegiate chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and served as the Vice President (2004), Treasurer (2004), and President (2005). Her passion for serving continued as she chose a career in nursing. She currently works as an emergency room Registered Nurse and has tirelessly worked through the COVID pandemic that changed the world. Her dedication to the NAACP did not end when she graduated. She joined the Greater New Haven branch and nearly seventeen years later she is still serving on the executive board as the health committee chairperson. As the health chair, she has hosted several health fairs for the community and even organized one at SCSU! She has also worked with a program co-sponsored with SCSU and Yale to provide a variety of mobile healthcare services to the community on the Yale C.A.R.E.S. van. In sum, Stacey is the right person to serve on the alumni board because she took pride in being a Southern Owl and worked hard to make the campus experience enjoyable for all students. That same attitude will be applied to serving alumni and current students in this capacity.
Secrett Hampton '03, MAL, MBA
Vice President
Secrett Hampton completed her undergraduate degree at SCSU. After becoming a mother. And after years of service at the State of CT. Judicial Branch, Secrett returned back to a higher learning institution (Albertus Magnus College) to earn two master degrees; one in Leadership and the latter in Business Administration. Secrett believes that effective leadership brings people together.
"I am excited and honored to have a chair on the Alumni board. This creates a platform where I can remain connected to the institution that is SCSU and it allows me to install initiatives that connect the alumni to the current and incoming scholars; which directly impacts the collective."
Currently, Secrett is training to be a Parole Officer for the Connecticut Department of Corrections. Working for the Executive branch is an achievement that has been a goal of hers over the duration of her career with the state. She is looking ahead to the learning and opportunities that will occur as she moves forward with all of her endeavors.
Charles Flynn, MS '99, CAS '03
Secretary
Born in New Haven and raised in Ansonia, I am a graduate of Fairfield Prep and Boston College, and I am a proud SCSU "Double Owl" with graduate degrees in both History ‘99 and Educational Leadership ‘03, during which time I was inspired by SCSU President Michael Adante and History Department legend Jon Purmont. For the past 27 years, I served as an English and Social Studies teacher in the Fairfield Public Schools at Roger Ludlowe Middle School and Fairfield Warde High School, including as Fairfield Warde High School’s social studies department liaison. I have also served my community as a member of the Orange Board of Education, serving as chairman of the building and grounds committee. I’m excited to get back to the Southern community and specifically restore our prominence in the field of education. I’m deeply thankful for the education I received at Southern and eager to contribute to Southern. I would appreciate your vote.
Morris Patton ’97
Treasurer
Morris "Rippy" Patton is a 1997 graduate of Southern Connecticut State University. He is a 48-year-old father of one daughter who is employed as a Senior Group Benefits Underwriter with AFLAC.
In the spirit of his role models, Morris serves his community in various capacities. He has served on the Executive Board of former local nonprofit For Goodness Sake. Patton also served as the 3rd Vice President of the Greater Bristol NAACP, as a Board member for the American Clock and Watch Museum, and as a member of the Bristol Exchange Club, and as Chairman of the Bristol Democratic Town Committee. He also served as a Mayoral appointee to the Bristol Board of Education.
When he can find downtime, Patton can be found supporting his Philadelphia Eagles, and Boston Red Sox, or simply soaking up dad and daughter time with his daughter Camryn, 16.
Bruce De Bree, 1978
Southern made a dramatic difference in my life, now I want to help Southern help others. I arrived, a veteran, with only vague ideas of what the future could be and left with clear direction and a solid education. For me the strong sense of community at Southern made all the difference. I have three decades of senior management experience, starting at GE R&D and spent the last 15 years with Berkshire Hathaway. I sail, ride an e-bike and enjoy listening to Blues music, Latin Jazz, and spending time with my doggies. My wife works with autistic kids and my daughter is a Special Needs Educator. I am a creative thinker with lots of ideas and look forward to digging in and making a difference.
Binod Dahal '21
Binod started his academic journey a long time ago at Norwalk Community College. Due to life's situations and ups and downs, he took a break from pursuing his education. However, during that time, he had a great realization point that motivated him to continue. He transferred from NCC on a scholarship to Southern, where he completed his undergraduate studies.
After that, he received a graduate studies scholarship at Southern and completed his MBA. Currently, I am serving as a Global Medical/Legal/Regulatory Coordinator for a multinational company that specializes in software, medical devices, and services in the field of blood and cell technologies and operates worldwide in 130 plus countries.
During his time at Southern, he became a lifetime member of at least four honor societies and was also an active member of several clubs and committees - such as the Business Information Systems Club, the Student Engagement Committee, and the Board of Library User Experience. Additionally, he is deeply involved in the South Asian community and participates in many events throughout the tri-state area.
Binod believes that his experiences as a struggling student who became successful and his pursuits in the healthcare industry could serve as an inspiration to many students. Furthermore, he is passionate about academics and values being reconnected with the University.
Rachael is the Assistant Director of Undergraduate Advising at Central Connecticut State University. I have been at the university for the past 16 years in various capacities.
Rachael was extremely active as a student, being a part of several clubs and organizations, most notably one of the first members of SCSU’s dance/performance group, “Steppin’ Up”.
Rachael has dedicated her professional career to higher education and working with college students and is looking to join the board and give back to a community that has invested so much in her.
Aba is a former board member, who graduated from Southern in 2010 with a BS in Public Health. Following her undergraduate studies, her interest in public health led her to a position at Yale New Haven Hospital as a Clinical Trial Coordinator and volunteer position with the Connecticut Health Policy Project, a New Haven-based advocacy dedicated to improving access to affordable, quality healthcare for all Connecticut residents.
Later, she attended the University of New Haven to receive an MBA in 2014.
In December of the same year, she organized an informal alumni dinner in New York City for the SCSU’s African Students Association alumni to reconnect with old friends and has served as the chair of the NYC Alumni Network for the past four years, assisting in the coordination of our annual Holiday Gathering.
Aba is excited to rejoin the board and continue to find creative ways to engage alumni in the New York Metropolitan area!
Latoya Lowery '01
Latoya Lowery earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University in 2001 and later obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University in 2007. She is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC), an Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICAADC), and an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (AADC). While at SCSU, Latoya served as a Resident Advisor, providing guidance and support to fellow students. She also enjoyed singing and was a member of the Jubilee Gospel Choir.
With more than 20 years of experience in the substance use and social work profession, Latoya has dedicated her career to supporting youth and families. She is currently employed as a Social Work Supervisor at the Department of Children and Families, where she has served for over 17 years. During her tenure, she has held various roles, including Human Anti-Trafficking Response Team (HART) Liaison, Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking (DMST) trainer, and facilitator for the “Not a Number” and “My Life, My Choice” programs. She also chaired the MDT/HART Data Committee and played a key role in developing a data system within the Provider Information Exchange (PIE) to help the Department track trafficking-related cases.
Latoya is deeply passionate about empowering abused, neglected, and impoverished youth to reach their highest potential. She previously served as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Covenant to Care for Children, further demonstrating her commitment to advocacy and community service. Inspired by the opportunities and connections she gained during her time at Southern, she would be honored to serve on SCSU’s Alumni Board and give back to the university that helped shape her life.
Regina Misercola '2023
Regina is eager to serve on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. She truly found her stride as a Southern student. Graduating in 2023, Regina earned her degree in English and Arts Administration & Cultural Advocacy. She worked in the Office of Institutional Advancement—first connecting with alumni and donors through phone calls during the pandemic, then helping steward those relationships back to campus post-COVID. In 2022, she was honored to serve as the keynote speaker at the Celebration of Philanthropy. Regina also worked as a Presidential Student Ambassador and was deeply involved in campus life through Hillel, Delta Phi Epsilon, and the Pediatric Cancer Awareness Organization. Along the way, she formed lasting bonds with mentors—from faculty in the English Department to colleagues in Advancement, and fellow student leaders. Regina's experience at Southern inspired a career in philanthropy. Now based in Buffalo, NY, she works in fundraising at a major cancer research institute. Offering the perspective of an out-of-state alumna, Regina still considers New Haven home (and misses the pizza!) and is eager to stay connected to Southern through the Alumni Association Board.
Dr. Kivijarv, also known as Dr. K. by students and Dr. Leo by clients and colleagues, has an eclectic background as he has both academic and corporate experience. Thus, he knows the current needs of students, as well as the needs of companies that will hire those students.
Currently, Dr. Kivijarv is the Executive Vice President & Director of Research at PQ Media, a custom media research firm that provides strategic intelligence to media companies, such as the Associated Press and NBC Universal. He is a leading authority on media spending & usage trends as the co-publisher of more than 100 global media forecast reports, written almost two dozen articles on the media, spoken at over 75 US & global media conferences, and is often interviewed and quoted by the press on media trends.
Leo has almost 50 years of academic experience, teaching more than 30 different courses. He was a full-time professor for the first ten years, attaining the position of Associate Professor. During the past 30 years, he has been an adjunct professor at ten New York City area institutions, most recently teaching media & communication classes at Mercy University.
In addition to receiving a B.A. in Speech from Southern Connecticut State University, he has a M.A. in Communications from Illinois State University and a Ph.D. in Communications & Media from Bowling Green State University.
Sarah Lauture Pullen is an experienced educator and advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in education. With a strong background in counseling, coaching, and program development, she has dedicated her career to creating spaces that are safe and welcoming for students and staff alike.
As a former Resident Advisor and employee in the Office of Academic and Career Advancement at her alma mater, Sarah gained invaluable experience working with students and developing programs to support their academic and personal growth.
In 2019, she moved to Nashville, TN, to serve as Founding School Counselor at KIPP Antioch College Prep Middle School, where she has laid the groundwork for a comprehensive school counseling program.
Sarah is a strong proponent of restorative practices and SEL curriculum development and has a passion for creating spaces that are both safe and brave. She is known for coining the term "lead with love and respect" as a means of inspiring educators to lead with empathy and compassion. Sarah's experience, skills, and commitment to education make her an excellent candidate for the board of her alma mater.
Dr. Daniel Shields ’96, MA ’99
Dr. Daniel Shields is a proud graduate of Southern Connecticut State University. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in English (96) and his Master’s degree in English (99).
Upon graduation, Daniel pursued a career in higher education working various positions including Director of Compliance, Director of Financial Aid, and Divisional Director of Student Financial Services.
In addition to these full-time positions, Daniel has also spent approximately ten years teaching at the college level and in adult education programs. Most recently, Daniel was an adjunct professor for the University of Bridgeport between 2014 and 2020.
In terms of furthering his education beyond his years at Southern Connecticut State University, Daniel went on to earn his doctorate in 2005. He completed the majority of his coursework at the University of Hartford (2001-2003). Then, he finished his doctorate at Capella University in 2005. His dissertation was on the effects of student loan defaults, Finally, Daniel went on to earn a second Master’s degree from Trinity College in 2015.
In addition to his academic and professional pursuits, Daniel is an active member in his community. He is married and the father of four children ages, 17, 14, 11, and 7.
Dr. Shields would be honored to serve on the Alumni Association Board for Southern Connecticut State University.
Kristy Sampieri '04, MBA '06
Dr. Kristy L. Sampieri is a trailblazing financial executive whose career spans nearly two decades across Wall Street and municipal finance. As the current Controller for the City of New Haven, she commands oversight of a $600M+ public financial ecosystem, championing fiscal integrity, transparency, and innovation. Her leadership influences strategic decision-making at the highest levels, from risk mitigation to capital planning, across multiple governance boards. Before stepping into public service, Kristy served 18 years with Merrill Lynch, helping lead a private wealth team that managed $5.6 billion in assets for ultra-high-net-worth families. A dynamic force in investment strategy, client relations, and technology integration, she earned national recognition, including Merrill's Top 500 award and the Responsible Growth Service Award. A published scholar and passionate advocate for equity in leadership, Dr. Sampieri is the author of From the Apron to the Cape: Examining the Experiences of Women Who Rose to Leadership Positions on Wall Street (ProQuest, 2018). Her research offers a powerful lens into the resilience, barriers, and breakthroughs faced by women navigating high-stakes finance. She holds a Doctorate in Higher Education with a concentration in Organizational Leadership from Northeastern University (2017), an MBA (2006), and a Bachelor of Science in Finance (2004) from Southern Connecticut State University. Her academic foundation supports a practical, strategic mindset that bridges theory and real-world impact. Dr. Sampieri also served as Philanthropic Chair for Merrill’s Women’s Exchange Network, aligning women’s advocacy with mentorship and succession planning. Whether managing municipal funds or mentoring the next generation of financial leaders, she brings unmatched integrity, vision, and impact. Her story is one of purpose-driven leadership, breaking barriers, and driving lasting change.
Barry Woods Jr. ’00
Barry is a transformative leader in youth development, with over 22 years of experience in youth development, program creation, engagement strategy, and relationship building. Barry has left a lasting mark on communities through his work with Stamford Public Schools, DOMUS Kids, the Stamford Boys and Girls Club, and the Allan Houston Legacy Foundation. Born and raised in New Jersey, Mr. Woods is the third child and second son in his family. Life demanded maturity early—his father left when he was just six years old, and by the age of 15, his older brother was incarcerated. During that same period, Mr. Woods was expelled from high school and teetered on the edge of a downward path. However, through faith, self-motivation, and the guidance of key mentors—including his AAU coach, Mr. Marshall, who served as a father figure—he began a journey of transformation. The greatest influence in his life came from his mother, Sandra Woods, whose unwavering mentorship helped shape his unique, relatable, and highly effective approach to working with youth. These life-changing experiences became the foundation for his book, Reasons Why Youth Don’t Give a Damn Anymore, published in February 2021. In May 2024, the passing of his mother inspired the launch of The Sandra Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about organ donation in underserved and undereducated communities. Mr. Woods proudly leads his family's organization as President and they start to establish their footing as a nonprofit. Mr. Woods arrived in Connecticut through athletics, attending Southern Connecticut State University where he was a member of the Men’s 1996–1997 NCAA Elite Eight Basketball Team. He earned his Bachelor’s degree there and later obtained a Master’s in Human Services from Walden University. A recognized community leader, Mr. Woods has received numerous honors, including: 2013 Passion Award 2019 Maytag Dependable Leadership Award 2020 Community Leadership Award from the Stamford Boys and Girls Club Known for his dynamic leadership and authentic presence, Mr. Woods brings a winning culture, an unmatched ability to connect with youth, and a deep understanding of the power of positive adult role models. His personal journey—from troubled teen to trusted mentor—drives his passion for helping young people find purpose and power in their own stories. He currently resides in Connecticut with his wife, Patricia, and their two children, Alexis and Hunter.
Leah Secondo '84
Southern CT State University set Leah on the proper path for a successful future. 2024 marks her 40th year in Sports Broadcasting. Her longevity and success in the business is due largely in part to her SCSU education. Following graduation, she 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 her growth. I am proud to have lent her 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, she’s also developed a successful real estate business with Michael Saunders & Company. Philanthropy work is especially important to Leah, as she is the Co-Founder of “Bailey’s Buddies”, a 501c3 foundation in the loving memory of her dog Bailey who passed away from Canine Cancer. Giving back to SCSU is a way to say thank you.
Antoinette Badillo ‘15
Antoinette 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.
Malaysia Young ‘16
Malaysia was an active volunteer for the Alumni Association for two years prior to running for the board and is excited to serve as a Board of Directors member. Before graduating in 2017 with her bachelor’s 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.
Pat Miller '69, MS '75, 6th year '81
Pat has been an active member of the SCSUAA for over thirty years. Having retired from the Fairfield Public Schools, where she served as a curriculum specialist, she was also an adjunct professor in the Health Sciences Department at Southern and ran an education consulting business. Happily retired, she continues to serve the Cheshire community through her work at the Cheshire Community Food Pantry and as a member of the Cheshire Juvenile Review Board.
Eduardo Foster '02
Eduardo “Eddie” graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. While at SCSU, he served as a Resident Advisor. He was born in Panama City, Panama, raised in New York, and later relocated to Connecticut.
He is a proud serving member of the United States Army with 25 years of federal service. He held various assignments in various roles at the strategic planning and operational levels. He deployed supporting two operational campaign tours during Operation Iraqi Freedom (2006-2007) and one campaign during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan (2012-2013). His most recent deployment was to the Kingdom of Jordan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (Spartan Shield) (2020-2021). He has also provided support during state emergencies and disasters, rendering relief to various towns throughout Connecticut. Eduardo is also an active member of The National Guard Association of Connecticut and the American Legion. In addition, he has received several awards and distinctions throughout his military career.
Additionally, he volunteers his time at various soup kitchens in the New Haven area and helped build a community playground at a school in West Haven. With the backing of his church, he served as a missionary providing aid and support to the community of San Pedro Sula, Honduras. He currently works as a Senior Human Resources Manager for the Connecticut Army National Guard. Eduardo enjoyed his experience at Southern and made lifelong friends. He attributes his accomplishments to the opportunities SCSU provides.
He is a father of two girls and enjoys hiking with his wife during his leisure time.
Sarah Belden '14, MS '16
Sarah is 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. She is excited for the opportunity to give back and help continue to grow the Southern experience for current and future students, along with the ever-growing alumni base.
Professionally, she has been involved in fundraising/development since graduation, with over 8 years of experience in the higher education sector. She is currently the Director of Foundation Initiatives at the University of Rhode Island Foundation and Alumni Engagement. Previously, she has served Rutgers University Foundation, Harvard Business School, North Carolina State University, and the Loomis Chaffee School, supporting Annual Giving, Donor Relations, and Advancement Operations. She finds great joy in this work and in being able to help others receive an education that otherwise might not be possible.
Sarah currently resides in New Jersey with my husband and two children.