Alumni Spotlight
Since 1931, Berkeley College has prepared generations of leaders to achieve lifelong success in dynamic careers. Alumni enter the workforce with the skills and knowledge to innovate and make an impact in fields like business, finance, technology, fashion, public service, design, healthcare, law, criminal justice, and many more. As Berkeley College celebrates its 95th anniversary, the Berkeley Proud: Alumni Spotlight project continues to tell the stories and celebrates the achievements of influential graduates. The diverse backgrounds of alumni, coupled with their talents and unique career paths, were enhanced by the education each alumnus received at Berkeley College.
Tinamarie Giraud
Founder and Chef, Chef FOMO Food Truck
AAS, Business Administration — Marketing, 2004
Tinamarie Giraud
Founder and Chef, Chef FOMO Food Truck
AAS, Business Administration — Marketing, 2004
While many know the acronym FOMO to mean “Fear of missing out,” Berkeley College alumna Tinamarie Giraud has changed it to “Faith over my obstacles” as her personal mantra. That mantra has inspired Giraud to pursue her greatest dream: A Chef FOMO food truck that serves Berkeley College in Woodbridge every week.
Chef FOMO’s passion for cooking began at a young age, and she was taught and encouraged by both her grandmother and uncle. However, Giraud knew she would need a college degree and a career that would provide a stable income before pursuing her own business venture.
A 2004 alumna with an Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration – Marketing from Berkeley College, Giraud further pursued her studies and earned a Bachelor’s degree and a Master of Business Administration. She is employed as a Management Analyst at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in addition to managing the Chef FOMO food truck.
The Chef FOMO name “aligns with my personal brand and values,” Giraud said. “In my house we have a saying that it is our duty to spread love to ensure everyone feels good, so it is at the core of everything we do.”
Giraud describes Chef FOMO food as a fusion of Mexican and Caribbean cuisine with a hint of Asian teriyaki.
“I learn something new about every week on the truck – usually I learn lots of things,” Giraud said. “Most of all it is really about having fun, putting your best foot forward, and even if you hit a dead end, it doesn’t mean you can’t make a U-turn.”
“We are honored to have Chef FOMO, a Berkeley College alumna, back at the Woodbridge campus,” said Jennifer DeJesus, Campus Operating Officer, Berkeley College in Woodbridge. “Giraud is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and hard work who inspires our students by showing them that they can achieve their dreams when they work hard and believe in themselves.”
Shamisa Anthony Hickman
Legal Professional
BS, Legal Studies, 2020
Shamisa Anthony Hickman
Legal Professional
BS, Legal Studies, 2020
Shamisa Anthony Hickman’s academic and professional journey reflects intellectual rigor, purpose-driven ambition, and a sustained commitment to justice and lifelong learning. A 2020 graduate of Berkeley College in New York City, Hickman earned a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, graduating with distinction as a member of both the Dean’s List and President’s List.
During her undergraduate studies, Hickman developed a strong academic foundation in legal studies while engaging in academic and professional enrichment beyond the classroom.
Following Berkeley College, Hickman continued her education at Fordham Law School, where she earned a Master of Laws degree. She currently works within the New Jersey court system, where she applies her legal training in a professional court environment. Upon the completion of her graduate studies, Hickman began working with a Presiding Judge, an experience that opened the door to her current judicial internship/fellowship and has provided exposure to courtroom proceedings, judicial decision making, and more.
In addition to her professional responsibilities, Hickman remains committed to service, volunteering at immigration clinics to support individuals navigating the legal system. She has also remained engaged in professional and academic communities, including membership in The Penn Club of New York.
“Berkeley College prepared me exceptionally well for where I am today,” Hickman said. “The rigorous core curriculum and major-specific Legal Studies coursework – particularly classes such as Immigration Law, Real Property Law, and Contracts – provided a strong foundation in legal reasoning and analysis. When I entered graduate-level study, I was well prepared to brief cases and engage critically with complex legal materials, skills I directly attribute to my Berkeley College education.”
Hickman also credits the Berkeley College faculty and alumni network for their lasting impact, noting that professors were deeply invested in student success and were intentional about positioning graduates for long-term growth.
Looking ahead, Hickman’s goals are ambitious and purpose-driven. Hickman plans to complete advanced doctoral-level studies while continuing to refine her interests at the intersection of law, policy, and organizational operations. Long term, she aspires to become a licensed attorney and establish her own law firm grounded in excellence, integrity, and innovative legal solutions.
“I define success not only by professional achievement, but by wanting to build a practice that creates meaningful impact, provides flexibility for my family, and opens doors for others,” Hickman said.
To today’s college students, Hickman offers thoughtful advice: “Be intentional with your time, remain curious, and view education as a long-term investment rather than a short-term obligation. Seek mentors early, build practical skills alongside academic knowledge, and do not be afraid to pivot as your goals evolve. Learning does not expire; growth and education are lifelong pursuits.”
Berkeley College proudly recognizes Shamisa Anthony Hickman for her academic excellence, commitment to justice, and forward-looking vision, an example of how intentional learning and perseverance can support meaningful professional impact.
Jodi Scardino
Founder & Owner, Persistence Pilates Studio
AAS, Office Administration, 1994
Jodi Scardino
Founder & Owner, Persistence Pilates Studio
AAS, Office Administration, 1994
Jodi Scardino’s career journey is a testament to adaptability, lifelong learning, and the power of combining business expertise with personal passion. A 1994 graduate of Berkeley College in Woodland Park, Scardino earned an Associate in Applied Science degree in Office Administration, an educational foundation that prepared her for success across multiple industries and ultimately entrepreneurship.
“Berkeley College is very structured, with small classes that really prepare you for the professional world,” Scardino said. “The courses helped me with interviewing skills, computer applications, and business strategy – things I’ve used throughout my entire career.”
Scardino, a resident of Carlstadt, NJ, began her professional career in the financial services sector, spending 16 years at Merrill Lynch from 1994 to 2010. She held roles including Executive Administrator, Business Analyst, and Business Manager. She credits this time with sharpening her ability to manage complexity and anticipate challenges, skills that would later prove invaluable as a business owner.
In 2013, Scardino began a second career path teaching Pilates, turning a personal passion into a professional calling. In 2022, she took the leap into entrepreneurship and opened Persistence Pilates Studio where she now combines movement, mentorship, and business leadership to help clients strengthen both body and confidence.
Scardino has ambitious plans for growth, including her hopes to expand her studio operations. Long term, she envisions launching a learning center to certify future Pilates instructors. “It’s not just about knowing the Pilates method,” she said. “I want to mentor others on how to teach, manage a class, and pivot when things go awry. My background as a business manager taught me that understanding challenges is key to managing anything successfully.”
When asked what advice she would offer today’s college students, Scardino emphasized engagement, curiosity, and confidence. “Take advantage of student council for advice, get involved in networking groups, and don’t stress about the unknown future,” she said. “Be passionate and learn everything you can when you start working. Employers love employees who want to learn.”
Berkeley College proudly celebrates Jodi Scardino for her entrepreneurial spirit, career versatility, and commitment to mentoring others, an inspiring example of how a strong foundation can support success across every stage of life and career.
Karen Matsiko
Founder and CEO, Pivotedge Advisory and Consultancy Group
BBA, Business Administration — Management, 2004
Karen Matsiko
Founder and CEO, Pivotedge Advisory and Consultancy Group
BBA, Business Administration — Management, 2004
For Karen Matsiko, success has always been about vision, courage, and purpose. A 2004 graduate of Berkeley College in New York City with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, Matsiko has built an impressive global career rooted in leadership, innovation, and empowerment. Today, she is the Founder and CEO of Pivotedge Advisory and Consultancy Group, a firm dedicated to bridging opportunities across industries, regions, and communities.
Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Matsiko’s professional journey began in New York, where she interned with both The New York Times and Smith Barney while excelling academically at Berkeley College. A member of the Dean’s and President’s Lists and Vice President of the Student Government Association, she quickly distinguished herself as a student leader who balanced academic excellence with a passion for advocacy and community.
Matsiko continued her education by earning an MBA from Cornell University and completing multiple leadership programs at Duke University, Duke Corporate Education (CE), and the International Institute for Management Development (IMD). She was also selected as an International Women’s Forum Fellow, completing studies at INSEAD and Harvard University.
Her professional accomplishments are extensive and inspiring. Matsiko has been recognized among the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD), the 100 Most Reputable Africans, and as a DP World Phenomenal Women Spotlight. She is also a recipient of the Duke CE Award, Absa Masedi Innovation Award, and BNP Innovation Award — honors that reflect her transformative impact in both business and social innovation.
Matsiko credits Berkeley College as the institution that helped her believe in her limitless potential.
“Berkeley College gave me the ticket to dream,” Matsiko said. “It allowed me to have thought-provoking conversations with both my professors and classmates and really harness my strengths. Suddenly, the impossible became a reality in my life. That foundation has since been my North Star and a reminder that not even the sky is the limit — beyond the sky are endless possibilities.”
In addition to her professional success, Matsiko is deeply involved in community service. She mentors senior and junior women leaders, serves as a youth ambassador, and leads initiatives that provide food and support to families in need.
“I already see myself as successful because I was able to break certain ceilings and stereotypes — not just survive, but thrive in spaces where few people looked like me,” Matsiko said. “My short-term goal is to continue building an empire that connects geographies, classes, and financial opportunities. Long-term, I hope to replicate this model globally, to give others the same hope and opportunity to make their dreams valid.”
To today’s students, Matsiko offers empowering advice:
“Soak everything in. Don’t take your eye off the goalpost — that’s what will differentiate you from millions of others. Strive for excellence and never forget your roots; they will ground you when things get tough. And please, dream bigger than your mind can imagine — because when one dream becomes real, it’s time to write an even bigger one.”
Berkeley College proudly celebrates Karen Matsiko for her global leadership, community impact, and commitment to inspiring others to dream without limits.
Clelia G. Pergola
Chief Operating Officer, NJ Elder Law Center at Goldberg Law Group
BS, Justice Studies – Criminal Justice, 2024
Clelia G. Pergola
Chief Operating Officer, NJ Elder Law Center at Goldberg Law Group
BS, Justice Studies – Criminal Justice, 2024
Clelia G. Pergola’s story is one of determination, reinvention, and the power of lifelong learning. A 2024 graduate of Berkeley College in Woodland Park with a Bachelor of Science degree in Justice Studies – Criminal Justice, Pergola is the Chief Operating Officer of the NJ Elder Law Center at Goldberg Law Group, where she also serves as a caregiver advocate and author. Her professional and personal journeys reflect a deep commitment to leadership, compassion, and impact.
A Certified Dementia Practitioner, Pergola has built a distinguished career dedicated to supporting families through some of life’s most challenging transitions. Her professional achievements have earned her numerous honors, including NJBIZ 40 Under 40 (2018), NJBIZ Top 50 Women in Business (2019), Executive of the Year from the NJ Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) (2021), and recognition among Forbes and Fortune Magazine’s Extraordinary Women in Business (2022).
Her leadership extends well beyond her firm. She is a founding member of Ragazzi: An Italian-American Business Owners Club, serves on the Passaic County Ethics Committee and the Board of the Mental Health Association, and contributes her expertise to organizations such as NJBIA Women Business Leaders Council, Morris County Chamber of Commerce, Alzheimer’s New Jersey, and the United Way of Northern New Jersey.
“When I decided to go back to school and earn my degree at 40, I had already built a successful career, written books, and helped grow a thriving law firm from the ground up,” Pergola said. “But crossing that stage meant something deeper — it was about finishing what I started and showing my children, my peers, and my team that it’s never too late to invest in yourself.”
Pergola credits Berkeley College with fueling her drive and providing the academic framework to complement her real-world experience. “Berkeley College didn’t create my ambition — it fueled it,” she explained. “The program gave me the structure, accountability, and validation that what I’d built through experience could now stand on academic ground, too.”
Looking ahead, Pergola defines success in terms of impact and legacy. “In the short term, I’m focused on expanding our elder law and care management reach across New Jersey,” Pergola said. “Long-term, I see success as creating a legacy that outlives me – developing an assisted living model that redefines senior care with compassion, purpose, and community.”
Her advice to students is both practical and profound: “Don’t rush the finish line — build the foundation. Everyone’s in a hurry to ‘make it,’ but real success comes from showing up consistently, learning from failure, and doing the work nobody else wants to do. Stay humble enough to learn, but confident enough to know your worth. The degree is just a piece of paper — what matters is who you become in the process.”
Berkeley College proudly celebrates Clelia G. Pergola’s accomplishments and her ongoing commitment to redefining leadership, care, and purpose in both business and life.
Tiago DosSantos
Athletic Director, Passaic County Community College
BBA, Business Management, 2011
Tiago DosSantos
Athletic Director, Passaic County Community College
BBA, Business Management, 2011
Tiago DosSantos’ journey from student-athlete to higher education leader is a powerful reflection of mentorship, discipline, and purpose-driven leadership. A 2011 graduate of Berkeley College in Woodland Park with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, DosSantos has dedicated his career to supporting the academic and personal success of student-athletes. In April 2025, he was appointed Athletic Director of Passaic County Community College where he oversees athletic programming, student development initiatives, and strategic partnerships that advance student success beyond the classroom.
A resident of Wayne, New Jersey, DosSantos continued his education after Berkeley College, earning a Master’s Degree in Sports Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University. His passion for athletics began during his time at Berkeley College, where he competed on the Men’s Soccer Team – an experience he credits for sharpening his leadership skills and exposing him to diverse cultures and perspectives.
“Berkeley College gave me the knowledge and the necessary skills to succeed in the real world,” DosSantos said. “It prepared me by developing key skills through real-life experiences with internships and classroom learning needed to succeed in everyday life.”
In his current role, DosSantos is focused on creating life-changing opportunities for students, particularly those navigating community college as a gateway to four-year institutions or directly into the workforce. “Short term, as an Athletic Director, I want to help students graduate and move from a two-year college to a four-year college,” he said. “Long term, I see myself as a college president – making an even greater impact on a wider body of students.”
To today’s college students, he offers straightforward and valuable advice: “Work on your time management skills. This is a big component of the real world and a skill that needs to be mastered in order to succeed.”
Berkeley College celebrates DosSantos for his dedication to student success, leadership in collegiate athletics, and commitment to empowering the next generation of scholars and athletes.
Moraima Gutierrez
Deputy District Director, U.S. Small Business Administration
AAS, Automated Office Technology, 1989
Moraima Gutierrez
Deputy District Director, U.S. Small Business Administration
AAS, Automated Office Technology, 1989
Moraima Gutierrez’s professional journey reflects dedication, leadership, and a commitment to service. A 1989 graduate of Berkeley College in New York City with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Automated Office Technology, Gutierrez has built an impressive career that now spans over 15 years with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Today she serves as Deputy District Director, where she is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the District Office Strategic Plan, managing key programs and activities, and serving as a senior executive for district office operations across the field.
Originally from West Hartford, CT, Gutierrez continued her education beyond Berkeley College, earning a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Bay Path University (2002) and a Master of Science in Business Management from the University of Saint Joseph (2008). Her professional achievements have earned her recognition from the Hartford Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and the GOYA Cares Foundation’s Mujer Imparable Award.
Deeply committed to her community, Gutierrez is an active member of the Connecticut Women’s Council and serves on the Hartford Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. These roles allow her to advocate for business growth, women’s leadership, and community advancement.
Reflecting on her start at Berkeley College, then known as The Berkeley School, Gutierrez credits the College for shaping her confidence and preparing her for a rapidly changing workforce. “Very early in my career, straight out of high school, Berkeley College was definitely the place for me,” Gutierrez said. “It was a place that supported women for a professional world that was rapidly changing—the digital age had arrived, and we needed to be competitive. Berkeley was the place to gain confidence, not only in skillset but in salary negotiation too. When I graduated at age 20, I felt like I was ready for the world.”
As a mid-career professional, Gutierrez continues to set her sights on growth. Her short-term goals include expanding her professional network, while her long-term goals involve further advancing in her role as a public servant—work she describes as both meaningful and rewarding.
To today’s college students, Gutierrez offers practical advice: “Continued learning throughout your career is key, as where you start is not even remotely close as to where your career will end. I cannot stress enough the importance of networking. Most of the opportunities I have come across have always been through word-of-mouth. Put your phone away and develop soft skills because they matter in the workplace.”
Moraima Gutierrez’s story is a testament to the power of preparation, perseverance, and community impact. Berkeley College proudly celebrates her accomplishments and looks forward to her continued success in public service.
Rose Marie Ray
Author, Advocate, and Tech Trailblazer
Certificate in Secretarial Sciences, 1960
Rose Marie Ray
Author, Advocate, and Tech Trailblazer
Certificate in Secretarial Sciences, 1960
For Rose Marie Ray, a career marked by perseverance, innovation, and service began with a secretarial certificate from Berkeley College at Claremont in 1960. Now 84 years old, Ray is a published author, a tech pioneer, a World Triathlon champion, and a lifelong advocate for women in business and STEM.
“Berkeley College gave me the foundation I needed,” Ray said. “I learned how to dress, speak, and act with professionalism. The Personal Development course gave me skills that took me from a typist to a computer systems designer and later a bestselling author.”
Ray’s early career broke barriers in the tech world. After beginning as an Executive Secretary at Honeywell Information Systems in the early 1960s, she rose through the ranks to become the company’s first COBOL programmer and later its first female global sales representative. In 1974, she filed and won a landmark discrimination case with the New York State Equal Opportunity Commission, setting a precedent for equal pay and promotions for women at Honeywell worldwide.
After relocating to Texas, Ray continued her trailblazing journey with roles at Incoterm and Tandem Computers, where she worked on systems used by American Airlines, 7-Eleven, and Southwest Airlines. In 1984, she became the top global salesperson for Tandem and the first woman inducted into the company’s President’s Club.
Her entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. In 1995, Ray and her husband opened a bed and breakfast in St. Petersburg, Florida, growing it from a modest $46,000 operation to a half-million-dollar annual business. Their inn earned features in over 35 travel books and was one of just two hotels in Pinellas County recommended in the Florida Michelin Green Guide.
Ray is also the founder of St. Pete Mad Dog Charities, a nonprofit created in memory of her late husband to fund AED defibrillators in public spaces. “We’ve saved lives at baseball fields, pools, and tennis courts,” Ray said. “Community service has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my life.”
An avid athlete, Ray is a 2022 World Triatholon Sprint and Relay Champion for Team USA and continues to compete in triathlon events while mentoring others. She is also the author of two books, Broken Neck to Broken Records: A Master Cyclist Guide to Winning and SuperWomen Do IT Less…Or a Helluva Lot Better, through which she continues to inspire women in transformation and career reinvention.
Ray attributes much of her success to the foundation she built at Berkeley College. “Even after studying at other institutions, it was Berkeley College that prepared me best for life and business,” she shared. “The values, skills, and confidence I gained there stayed with me always.”
Her advice to today’s college students? “Learn everything you can about AI—it will shape the jobs of tomorrow. Make a plan for your life, save and invest early, and never stop learning. Surround yourself with mentors, stay close to friends and family, and remember: Today is the first day of your life. Make it special.”
Jazzlyn Feliciano
Director – Strategy and Business Transformation Consultant, EY
BS, Business Administration, 2015
Jazzlyn Feliciano
Director – Strategy and Business Transformation Consultant, EY
BS, Business Administration, 2015
Jazzlyn Feliciano’s journey from Berkeley College to the forefront of global financial consulting is one defined by resilience, leadership, and the power of community. A 2015 graduate of the Business Administration program at the Woodland Park campus, Feliciano has built a career transforming the future of banking and financial services while inspiring others to embrace perseverance and growth.
A resident of Roseland, NJ, Feliciano distinguished herself at Berkeley College as the founder of the Future Business Leaders of America–Phi Beta Lambda chapter and as a member of the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society. These experiences honed her leadership skills and prepared her for success in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.
Today, Feliciano serves as a Director and Business Transformation Consultant at EY, where she has spent the past four years advising top financial institutions on large-scale transformation projects. Her expertise spans treasury services, payments, and front office transformation across corporate, commercial, and small-to-medium business clients.
Before joining EY, Feliciano held treasury management roles at Comerica Bank and JPMorgan Chase, where she supported international corporate and commercial clients in transaction banking, payments, merchant services, integrated cash management, and commercial card products.
Her professional excellence has been widely recognized. Feliciano is the recipient of EY’s Impactful Leadership Award (2025) and Rising Star – Future Executive (2025), as well as the Board Member of the Year Award (2023) and Rising Star Award (2022) from ALPFA, the Association of Latino Professionals for America.
Beyond her career achievements, Feliciano is committed to giving back. She is involved in Latino professional networks and cross-industry groups focused on mentorship and career advancement. She also volunteers to support initiatives that empower young professionals and underrepresented communities to thrive in business and leadership. Outside of work, she enjoys public speaking, fitness, and traveling.
Reflecting on her Berkeley College experience, Feliciano credits the College for providing a strong foundation in business principles and real-world application. “The hands-on learning environment and supportive professors helped me develop the discipline, confidence, and professional skills I still rely on today,” Feliciano said. “Beyond academics, Berkeley College instilled in me the importance of resilience and adaptability—qualities that have guided me through challenges and milestones in both my career and personal life.”
Looking ahead, Feliciano envisions continued growth in leadership within consulting and financial services while also broadening her influence as a motivational speaker. “For me, success is not only measured by professional accomplishments but also by the ability to uplift others along the way,” Feliciano said.
Her advice to current students is simple yet powerful: “Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow, both inside and outside the classroom. Don’t be afraid of challenges—they are often the experiences that shape you the most. Build meaningful relationships, seek out mentors, and remember that success is rarely a straight path. Stay resilient, stay curious, and trust that the effort you put in today will open doors you can’t yet imagine.”
Javon Parker
Analyst, Client Services, Sony Music Entertainment
BS, Business Administration, 2019
Javon Parker
Analyst, Client Services, Sony Music Entertainment
BS, Business Administration, 2019
Javon Parker’s journey from Berkeley College to Sony Music Entertainment is a story of ambition, perseverance, and creative purpose. A 2019 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the Woodland Park campus, Parker has transformed his strategic foundation and leadership experiences into a dynamic career in the music industry.
Originally from East Orange, NJ, Parker made the most of his time at Berkeley College – both inside and outside the classroom. He held leadership roles in the Student Government Association (President), National Society of Leadership and Success (Vice President and Membership Outreach), and was a member of Mu Kappa Tau, the national marketing honor society. He also served in a Federal Work-Study role with the Office of Student Development and Campus Life (SDCL), where his contributions earned him the distinction of Federal Work-Study Student of the Year in 2019.
Beyond Berkeley College, Parker pursued a Certificate in Music Industry from New York University and gained hands-on experience as a Social Media and Digital Marketing Coordinator for the Passaic County 200 Club.
Currently, Parker is an Analyst, Client Services, at Sony Music Entertainment, where he has worked since 2022. In this role, he focuses on optimizing the global client experience, collaborating with internal teams to streamline productivity, resolve inquiries, and elevate the overall user experience for both internal and external clients.
Parker has been recognized for his excellence throughout his academic and professional journeys, earning a place on the President’s List and multiple Dean’s Lists during his time at Berkeley College. He is also a proud Recording Academy Professional Member as of 2025.
Reflecting on his time at Berkeley College, Parker credits his professors and mentors—especially Dr. Dallas Reed, Linda Mauro, Dr. Melissa Baralt, and Panagiota Babadelis—for nurturing his growth. “Their guidance helped shape my confidence and leadership skills,” Parker said. “I left the College not just with a degree, but with a sense of purpose, and that’s something I carry with me in every step of my career.”
That sense of purpose fuels Parker’s aspirations. In the short term, he is committed to mastering the operations side of the music industry, and has a long-term goal of becoming a Creative Director within Sony’s roster. His dream is to lead global campaigns and branding strategies that elevate artists, tell compelling stories, and connect with audiences worldwide.
Outside of work, Parker is actively involved in community initiatives through Sony Music Gives, MusiCares, and Berkeley Cares – efforts that reflect his beliefs in giving back and creating meaningful impact.
To today’s college students, Parker offers this advice: “Don’t wait to be ‘ready’ – start where you are with what you have. Growth happens through action. Build your network early, take internships, attend events, create your own projects, and stay curious. Also, never underestimate the power of professionalism and how you treat people – those qualities often open doors more than talent alone.”
Javon Parker’s story is a testament to what happens when drive meets discipline and vision is met with action. Berkeley College proudly celebrates his accomplishments and looks forward to all he will achieve in the years ahead.
Julian M. Ignatowski, Sr.
Chief Financial & Operating Officer, Access Partners Unlimited, Inc.
AAS, Business Administration, Concentration in Accounting, 1993
Julian M. Ignatowski, Sr.
Chief Financial & Operating Officer, Access Partners Unlimited, Inc.
AAS, Business Administration, Concentration in Accounting, 1993
Julian M. Ignatowski, Sr., a Livingston, Texas resident and 1993 graduate of Berkeley College in White Plains, NY, has built a distinguished career rooted in finance, operations, and leadership. As Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFOO) at Access Partners Unlimited, Inc., he oversees the financial and operational strategies of the organization and reports directly to the CEO/President.
Ignatowski’s professional journey began during his time at Berkeley College, where he was an active member of the Honor Society, Drama Club, and internship program. Ingatowski held simultaneous internships at Quantum Financial Services and Letter Perfect Secretarial Services in Greenwich, Connecticut, which set the stage for a lifelong pursuit of excellence in business.
In addition to his Associate’s degree, Ignatowski continued his academic journey by earning a Bachelor’s degree in Financial Accounting from Southern Connecticut State University, a Master’s degree in Management from Albertus Magnus College, and is pursuing an MBA at the University of the People.
Beyond the boardroom, Ignatowski is passionate about civic engagement and service. He spent a decade volunteering as part of the GO Team at his local church and contributes to "The People," a think tank focused on building bridges across diverse communities and ideologies.
Ignatowski credits Berkeley College with laying a strong foundation for his success. “I learned how to become confident in my presentation, comfortable in speaking in front of large groups and intimate settings, and I learned the basics of the business world that truly became a springboard to the next stages of my professional pursuits,” Ignatowski said. Looking ahead, Ignatowski aspires to enter the real estate market as an investment property broker.
To today’s college students, Ignatowski offers this powerful advice: “Show up, be present, ask many questions. Then listen. Take full advantage of your professors’ brilliance – their real-life stories and wisdom are priceless.”
Sarah McKenna
Design Assistant, Dorato Design
BFA, Interior Design, 2024
Sarah McKenna
Design Assistant, Dorato Design
BFA, Interior Design, 2024
Sarah McKenna’s journey through Berkeley College is a story of bold creativity, academic excellence, and heartfelt community service. A 2024 graduate of the BFA in Interior Design program at the Woodland Park campus, McKenna left an indelible mark not only through her design work but also through her inspiring leadership and advocacy across campus.
During her time at Berkeley College, McKenna, a resident of Elmwood Park, NJ, immersed herself in both academics and student life. She was a proud member of the Honors Program, an active participant in the Fusion Club, and the founding secretary of the Fashion Revolution Club, where she promoted ethical fashion and creative innovation. Mckenna also served as a Student Ambassador, representing Berkeley College at open houses and orientation events, and as an Assistant to the Honors Program Director, where she mentored students and supported community-building initiatives.
McKenna’s dedication and drive earned her the Most Distinguished Honors Scholar Award. She was also recognized as a semi-finalist in the ASID Student Portfolio Competition, a prestigious honor in the design field.
Professionally, McKenna has already built an impressive resume. Her hands-on experience includes internships at CK Design and Accurate Dimensions. She serves as a Design Assistant at Dorato Design, where she creates floor plans, coordinates with vendors, and attends on-site project meetings to bring visions to life.
Reflecting on her time at Berkeley College, McKenna credits her professors—both in Interior Design and General Education—for empowering her to grow. “They pushed me outside my comfort zone and encouraged me to go big with my designs,” McKenna said. “The constructive feedback I received has shaped how I approach every project today.”
McKenna also found purpose in giving back. She embraced opportunities to serve others in volunteer efforts like the Community FoodBank of New Jersey and 5K walks for arthritis awareness. Long-term, McKenna aspires to pursue a master’s degree and become a design educator, inspired by her experiences supporting and lecturing in Honors Program classes. “Helping students unlock their potential lit a fire in me that I can't wait to explore further,” McKenna said.
McKenna’s story is a shining example of what it means to dream boldly, work passionately, and give generously—both in design and in life. Berkeley College is proud to celebrate her achievements and looks forward to all she will accomplish in the years to come.
The profiles presented are those of the individuals interviewed. The academic achievements and/or employment outcomes described in this profiles are specific to each individual and are not a guarantee of similar results for past or current students. For up-to-date and detailed information, please visit BerkeleyCollege.edu and view our catalogs at BerkeleyCollege.edu/publications.
