Who on campus influenced you the most?
Katie Mahoney-Krenzer, who held several roles during her time at Nazareth, ranging from Associate Director of Annual and Leadership Giving to Associate Director of Corporate, Foundation, and Government Relations, had the biggest impact on my time at Nazareth. During my sophomore year, she hired me as the Phonathon student supervisor, trusting me to bring the program in-house. I developed scripts and training materials that were used for the next four years, and through her mentorship, I strengthened my leadership skills and gained a deeper appreciation for philanthropy and donor engagement.
What was your first job post commencement/was it relevant to your field?
After graduation, I worked as a certified personal trainer and as a receptionist at an OB-GYN office. While not directly related to my psychology degree, both roles allowed me to apply my understanding of human behavior, communication, and wellness.
What do you miss most about campus/Naz?
I miss my lively Phonathon team - we’d come together almost every night for 6-8 weeks, reaching out to alumni, parents, and friends of the University. Between calls, we’d play games and ring a bell in the hallway to celebrate wins, making every shift unforgettable.
What keeps you going/what motivates you?
Helping others and bringing joy to those around me motivates me the most. Knowing that even a small gesture can make a difference keeps me going every day.
What are you looking forward to in the next five years?
I'm looking forward to growing both personally and professionally, taking on new challenges, and continuing to make a difference wherever I can. I’m not sure what the next five years will bring, but I’m excited to see where life takes me!
What did you enjoy about Naz, and has being a Naz Alumni brought you anywhere exciting?
I had the best community during my time at Naz. I still have close relationships with my Naz friends and faculty. And I met my wife of 20 years as an undergrad!
Where were you five years out of graduating, and have your career plans changed?
Five years after graduation I'd moved to Seattle, WA with my partner, gotten married, and was working at Nintendo. That would've been around the time the Wii and DSi were out. The lessons I learned from the math department set me up for a great career programming video games.
If you could tell yourself anything when you were 5 years out, what would you say?
Time is your only nonrenewable resource. Spend it in the company of great friends. Relax and enjoy every moment–even the hard ones have joy in them if you know where to look.
What's the biggest lesson you’ve learned since graduating?
The things that matter most in life are the relationships you build.
How would you describe your journey to where you are now four words?
A thousand tiny serendipities