Alumni Profile

Teaching From the Heart

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:50:58 +0000

Teaching From the Heart HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 06/29/2026 - 13:50

91��Ƶ alumna turned a mid-career leap into two decades of joyful impact in East Bridgewater school

July 1, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

Despite having a successful career in banking, Sandi Telless, ’02, knew it wasn’t her true calling.

“At age 40, I quit my banking job to go back to school to be a teacher,” she said. “It was the best decision of my life.”

Telless chose 91��Ƶ to continue her education, earning a degree in early elementary and physical education. Since then, she has served as a beloved kindergarten teacher for 20 years at Central School in East Bridgewater.

She approaches teaching from a place of love, making sure to engage with and get to know every student. And Telless has fun while doing it. Her colleagues often see her dancing in the halls and during classroom dance parties, and handing out warm embraces during “Free Hug Fridays.”

“I always try to be myself, so my kids know it’s okay to be yourself. I don’t worry about what other people are doing. I’m animated in my classroom, and have been known to ride a unicycle,” she said. “I just really enjoy every moment I get to work with the kids.”

Central School Principal Kate Byrne said Telless is “the heart of our kindergarten program and cornerstone of the East Bridgewater community.”

“She believes deeply in inclusivity, play-based learning, and the power of joy,” Bryne said. “Her commitment to creating a welcoming environment ensures that every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated.”

Telless has also continued to work with 91��Ƶ over the years. She is an active member of the Professional Development School Partnership and has taken countless 91��Ƶ student teachers under her wing.

“She has proudly represented her alma mater while helping to prepare and mentor future educators,” Bryne said. “Her leadership reflects the very best of Bridgewater State’s values.”

Telless was recently honored with the 2026 91��Ƶ Alumni Educator Award.

According to Tracy Charbonnier, assistant director of Education and Health Sciences Outreach, each state university selects one alumni educator for the award annually. Following a nomination process, the College of Education and Health Sciences selected Telless.

“Sandi is such a fantastic person,” Charbonnier said.

She noted that Telless has partnered with 91��Ƶ in many ways, including working with Elementary Education faculty to host 91��Ƶ block/cluster students, who taught reading to kindergarten students. She has also participated in Project EarthView, a program offered through the Center for the Advancement of STEM Education that uses giant inflatable globes and interactive floor maps to create hands-on geography learning experiences for students.

Telless is modest about the praise and the award.

“I’m speechless,” she said. “It means so much to be recognized by the school.”

More importantly, she wants to continue teaching and has no doubts about her decision to switch gears mid-career.

“I always thought I wanted to be a banker,” she said, “but you have to trust what your heart says, not what your brain says.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I always thought I wanted to be a banker but you have to trust what your heart says, not what your brain says.

Sandi Telless, ’02

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How a Bridgewater State Connection Helped Launch Brittany Giudici’s Career in Tech

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:18:58 +0000

How a Bridgewater State Connection Helped Launch Brittany Giudici’s Career in Tech HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Thu, 06/11/2026 - 13:18

The communications graduate credits relationships built on campus with helping shape a career that has taken her from Apple to Microsoft

June 17, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski, G'26

Fifteen years ago, Brittany (Benson) Giudici, ’10, was walking to class at 91��Ƶ when she bumped into her friend Dan Kent, ’10. During the conversation, he alerted Giudici to a potential job opportunity.

Kent’s friend who worked at Apple, Inc. was interviewing for communications roles in marketing at the internship level.

“He asked me if it was something I’d be interested in. I said, ‘yes! Of course," Giudici recalled.

After interviewing, she was hired. When the semester ended, Giudici moved to California and spent her summer working on marketing and communications for the iPhone 3GS on Apple’s Worldwide Sales Team.

Since then, the 91��Ƶ alumna’s career has taken her all over the globe working with tech companies focused on online retail, human and AI-generated language translation technology, and multi-national enterprise networks.

But it was that Bridgewater connection that started it all for the former North Attleboro resident. After she completed her summer internship with Apple, Giudici returned to campus to finish school and earn a degree in communications.

“My experience at Bridgewater was very positive. I was a commuter and delayed starting school because my mom passed away,” she said. “I was going through a big life transition and was a little apprehensive about what my college experience was going to be like.”

What she did to quell those nerves was to get involved. Outside of being a stellar student, she joined Gamma Phi Beta and got involved in the school’s communications club and other organizations.

“I made sure to get involved,” Guidici said. “That strongly contributed to my positive experience. I felt very connected to everyone on campus.”

The support she received from her professors, particularly Professor Nancy Van Leuven, also motivated her.

“I felt like my professors were deeply invested in my success. Some of them still email me even though it’s been 16 years,” Guidici said.

Today, she lives in Idaho with her husband Michael and their two children, Aubriella Aurora, 3, and Elliana Sienna, 1.

As she started a family, she also built a strong career and now works as director of communications for Microsoft’s Global Cybersecurity Division.

In her role, she translates complex strategies and technical concepts into clear, compelling narratives for both internal and external audiences.

Guidici enjoys being a “linchpin,” ensuring leadership messaging reflects real employee perspectives.

“I see my role as a connector. I listen to what employees are saying, understanding what leadership needs to communicate and making sure those two things come together in a way that’s authentic and impactful,” she said.

In addition to her work, she is also the founder of Treasure Valley Women in Tech, a mentorship and leadership-focused community. The goal of the organization is to bridge the gap between students, early-career professionals, and established leaders.

“After I had my first daughter, I thought about all the people who helped me along the way, and how much of that came from building connections,” Guidici said. “It’s all about connections and bringing women together across career stages so they can learn from each other, support each other, and see what’s possible.”

While her career has taken her far beyond Bridgewater State, there will always be one campus connection that continues to stand out.

“Dan was and still is someone I often think of when I look back at my career progression,” Guidici said. “It was him, and that connection that helped me get to where I am today.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I see my role as a connector. I listen to what employees are saying, understanding what leadership needs to communicate and making sure those two things come together in a way that’s authentic and impactful.

Brittany (Benson) Giudici

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Finding His Voice Far From Home

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Wed, 06 May 2026 13:06:11 +0000

Finding His Voice Far From Home HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Wed, 05/06/2026 - 09:06

A future teacher reflects on language, belonging, and finding his path at Bridgewater State

May 27, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski, G'26

When Karl Badiola, ’26, moved to the United States from the Philippines at just 15 years old, he did his best to adjust.

Despite his excitement about living in a new country, he underestimated how difficult the transition would be — especially being away from his parents, learning a new language and culture.

For example, he was accustomed to standing up to answer questions in class, but when he did so here, he said, “I saw the confused looks on my classmates’ faces.”

He said he often felt lost, particularly when learning to speak English.

“A lot of times when someone is learning to speak English in a classroom, they appear slow or shy, but the reality is it’s because they have to pause and think about how to translate,” Badiola said.

He is grateful to his high school guidance counselor, who offered support and was a big part of the reason he was able not only to adapt but to thrive.

That personal connection inspired him. When it came time to decide what he wanted to do after high school, Badiola knew exactly which path he was going to take: teaching.

He brought his dream to 91��Ƶ, where he recently earned a degree in early childhood education and childhood studies.

“I knew from my research that 91��Ƶ offered one of the best education programs, and can say confidently, after four years here, it really is. The faculty, the work we do, it all sets you up to have a solid foundation, for you to become a great teacher,” Badiola said.

While at Bridgewater, he was initially going to sign up for an English as a Second Language course, but retired Professor Lou Ann Falls recognized that Badiola was more proficient than he realized.

“Instead of taking the class, she asked me if I wanted to be a tutor instead,” he said.

He secured a job working in the Academic Achievement Center helping others learn English. It opened up many other opportunities for him and made him feel welcomed and personally connected with faculty and students.

“Because of that first job, it made me want to be a larger part of the community,” he said.

Badiola went on to participate in the honors program, became a math tutor, and worked as a peer mentor in Student Accessibility Services.

“I noticed that all of these experiences have really helped me and are connected with how I want to teach in my own classroom,” he said.

From supporting multilingual students or helping those who might need special instruction, Badiola feels prepared to lead his own classroom.

His involvement didn’t go unnoticed. At the conclusion of his senior year, Badiola was honored with a “Bridgewater Best” award during the annual 91��Ƶ Impact Awards ceremony. The award recognizes graduating seniors for their outstanding impact on the 91��Ƶ community.

“When they mentioned my name, to know I made a lasting impact at 91��Ƶ…I was shocked,” he said.

As he leaves Bridgewater State to continue his journey, he encourages others to get involved.

“You can’t make an impact if you’re not involved. There are so many activities here — jobs, internships, study abroad, volunteer opportunities. The choices are endless,” he said. “Being involved, meeting different people, and the lasting impact of those connections — that’s what made me love 91��Ƶ.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I knew from my research that 91��Ƶ offered one of the best education programs, and can say confidently, after four years here, it really is. The faculty, the work we do, it all sets you up to have a solid foundation, for you to become a great teacher.

Karl Badiola, ’26

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How 91��Ƶ's CPDC Helps Kids Gain Strength and Confidence

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:39:12 +0000

How 91��Ƶ's CPDC Helps Kids Gain Strength and Confidence HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Tue, 04/21/2026 - 12:39

An alumnus’s family reflects on progress, milestones, and independence

April 23, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

Every time the Kent family pulls up to the 91��Ƶ campus, a little voice calls out from the back seat of the car.

“B.R.I.D.G.E.W.A.T.E.R.” said Dan Kent, ’10. “He just loves coming here and reads the sign every time we arrive.”

The little voice belongs to his 6-year-old son Desmond, who was born with Down Syndrome. He participates in 91��Ƶ’s Children’s Physical Development Clinic (CPDC) program.

Dan discovered the program when talking with other special needs parents. As an alumnus, he was excited to hear his alma mater offers support that benefits his son.

“To say I’m proud of Bridgewater, that they have this program, is an understatement. It’s great to be an alum and to know there are great programs like this for kids with disabilities,” he said.

At the CPDC, students from all majors volunteer as clinicians, working with children and youth with disabilities, ages 18 months to 18 years. The program’s goal is to improve the “total development” of children by enhancing vital physical, motor, and aquatic skills and patterns.

“My wife (Shari) comes from a background of early intervention, and she’s been blown away by all of the activities and structure,” Dan said. “And the students that work there have such high enthusiasm.”

Both Shari and Dan have excitedly watched Desmond’s growth, especially in the pool, a space that their son used to be afraid of.

“He loves it, no question. In just a few short weeks he was swimming independently; before, he would hang onto the edge for dear life,” Dan said.

That confidence has carried over into other areas of Desmond’s life.

“He’s talking more confidently than ever. I know the CPDC program has had a huge impact on him,” Dan said.

While Desmond is participating in the program, Dan takes advantage of the opportunity to go down memory lane and walk the 91��Ƶ campus with his 4-year-old daughter, Bianca.

“When we walk with her and show her things, it gives me time to reflect on college. I get to tell my daughter about what I did here, and that maybe she will go to Bridgewater one day,” Dan said.

It was during one of those walks that Dan learned about 91��Ƶ’s EXCEL program, a fully inclusive postsecondary program for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

While visiting the bookstore, he came across two students eating lunch. He learned that, although they have disabilities, through EXCEL they enjoy the same experience as their college-aged peers in academics, socialization, career development, and independent living.

“I was so blown away. This level of inclusion didn’t exist when I was a student, and I’m so grateful that it does now,” Dan said.

Knowing his son can follow in his footprints and attend 91��Ƶ someday, something he wasn’t sure would ever be possible, makes him emotional.

“Sometimes parents with children who have disabilities see nothing but fear, and don’t always see the opportunities,” he said. “But knowing Desmond can go here, as long as he’s capable and wants to … I’m so grateful I went to Bridgewater. I’m grateful to be a Bear.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

To say I’m proud of Bridgewater, that they have this program, is an understatement. It’s great to be an alum and to know there are great programs like this for kids with disabilities.

Dan Kent, '10

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Bridgewater Music Alumna Leads her Students to Carnegie Hall

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:56:38 +0000

Bridgewater Music Alumna Leads her Students to Carnegie Hall BBENSON@bridgew.edu Wed, 03/25/2026 - 09:56

Colleen McDonough also performed at the renowned venue as a 91��Ƶ student

March 26, 2026

Brian Benson, G'23

For many musicians, performing at Carnegie Hall is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. Weymouth High School choral director Colleen McDonough, ’18, has now achieved it twice.

McDonough first graced one of the world’s most iconic stages as a 91��Ƶ student and member of the university’s Chamber Singers. Inspired by that surreal experience, she recently created the same opportunity for her students.

“It's incredible to think of the people who stood on that stage,” she said. “You could be standing exactly where Judy Garland stood. That’s really powerful.”

While McDonough’s Carnegie experience was a highlight of her 91��Ƶ journey, it was far from the only thing she gained from college. Arriving on campus as an older music education student, she thought she would attend classes and then go home. But her mindset completely changed when she experienced the welcoming, supportive atmosphere of 91��Ƶ’s music department.

“What I found instead was a family,” McDonough said. “Many of the folks I went to college with are now my best friends.”

McDonough appreciated many of the faculty, including Drs. Sarah McQuarrie, Jean Kreiling and Steven Young, who she still considers her mentors eight years after graduating.

“They still to this day have significant impacts on the work that I do,” she said. “I was incredibly well prepared for the world of music education, and we were always held to incredibly high standards.”

As a student, McDonough quickly understood the skills she needed to hone and was unafraid to ask for the resources that would set her up for success, McQuarrie recalled.

"I'm just so proud of her," McQuarrie said. "She's definitely a leader and role model and always trying to do better."

Both of McDonough's Carnegie performances were part of concerts that the nonprofit Distinguished Concerts International New York organized. While 91��Ƶ students joined singers from other schools, the Weymouth musicians enjoyed having the stage to themselves as McDonough led them through 35 minutes of singing as part of a concert titled “A Legacy of Song.”

Music has shaped McDonough’s career, fueled her passion, and built lasting friendships. She and her fellow Bears who performed at Carnegie keep the memory alive through a special tradition: singing music from their performance at each other’s weddings.

“It proves the power of music and the power of community,” she said. “Bridgewater gave me those things.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

They still to this day have significant impacts on the work that I do. I was incredibly well prepared for the world of music education, and we were always held to incredibly high standards.

Colleen McDonough, ’18, on the role of 91��Ƶ music faculty

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Arts

91��Ƶ Alum Launches Art Career at 62, Featured on GBH

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 17:52:07 +0000

91��Ƶ Alum Launches Art Career at 62, Featured on GBH HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 03/23/2026 - 13:52

Mai Mai Pietrowski, '73, turned a late start into a thriving career as a professional artist

March 24, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

Mai Mai Pietrowski, ’73, didn’t pick up a paintbrush until she was 62. Since then, she has turned that late start into a new career as a professional artist, showing others that it’s never too late.

Her artwork, “Sunflowers of Provence,” was recently featured on Community Canvas, presented by GBH’s The Culture Show. Selected from a public call for artists, her piece recently appeared on a massive digital screen, bringing her work to a wide, ever-changing audience.

This past December, Pietrowski’s colorful piece offered a cheerful reprieve for those driving along a dark and dreary highway in Allston. Displayed on a 30-foot by 45-foot screen overlooking the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90), her vibrant work lit up the commute for passing drivers.

“You could see it from way down the highway … I was thrilled they picked me,” she said.

Photo courtesy of wgbh.org

Before becoming an artist, Pietrowski’s path took many turns, each shaped by a desire to explore, and to help others.

“I like to say I’ve had a multi-level career,” she said.

Her education started at Bridgewater State (then College), where she initially studied history. Back then she went by “Mary,” later changing it to Mai Mai, a family nickname she liked better.

As an undergraduate, Pietrowski lived in an apartment in the town center and walked to campus for class.

“I wanted to be a psychology major, but they didn’t have it at first,” Pietrowski said. “Then they included it after my first year and I switched. I was happy because I wanted to be a social worker.”

After graduating, she began a career with the Massachusetts Department of Public Welfare (now the Department of Transitional Assistance) and worked as a caseworker for child services, putting that goal into practice.

She stayed there for six years before moving on to a successful career in the high-tech industry while earning an MBA. Pietrowski worked as a technical consultant before moving into marketing.

Drawn to new opportunities, in 1996 she capitalized on the booming internet market and built an online women’s bookstore.

“This was before Amazon and Barnes & Noble had a website. Once they launched, it became a tough market and my little bookstore couldn’t compete,” Pietrowski said.

She pivoted again, moving into working in marketing within the medical field. She helped to create programs like MammoSite, a website that provides women with information about breast radiation treatment.

While the work was enjoyable, she found herself wanting a new kind of challenge – one that would take her in an entirely new direction. In 2014, she went online and found a painting class at the Danforth Art Museum School, taught by Margaret Gerding.

“I had never really painted before, except as a kid in school,” Pietrowski said.

She admitted the first class was intimidating, but through Gerding’s guidance, she slowly found her footing.

“She was really encouraging. A lot of teachers don’t give you feedback, or they correct you, but she told me I was a natural at composition and a colorist; to not let anyone talk me out of using color,” Pietrowski said.

The advice paid off. Today, Pietrowski is a member of the SoWa Artists Guild, which many consider to be the soul of Boston’s art scene. She has been featured in galleries throughout New York and Massachusetts, and her artwork is also part of private collections in France, Switzerland, and across the United States.

“I like art because art makes people better. It’s for the same reasons I went into social work: to help people. Art can be therapy, too,” she said.

Pietrowski isn’t sure if she will switch careers again, but she recently took up gardening and has started her own home garden filled with medicinal plants.

“I’m a lifelong learner,” she said.

She encourages current 91��Ƶ students to branch out, and not to worry so much about what their career should look like, but instead to be curious.

“Some people have a career for their whole life, and that’s great... but I’ve always been someone who is ready for something new. I would encourage students to try new things,” Pietrowski said. “I think it’s important to follow up on the things you’re interested in. That’s always been my mindset. You never know what’s coming next; you really don’t.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

Some people have a career for their whole life, and that’s great... but I’ve always been someone who is ready for something new. I would encourage students to try new things.I think it’s important to follow up on the things you’re interested in. That’s always been my mindset. You never know what’s coming next; you really don’t.

Mai Mai Pietrowski, ’73

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91��Ƶ Thornburg Fitness Center and Outdoor Adventure Get New Coordinator

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:52:27 +0000

91��Ƶ Thornburg Fitness Center and Outdoor Adventure Get New Coordinator HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 03/09/2026 - 15:52

Ashleigh Hartsfield, '25, comes full circle to lead campus recreation programs

March 17, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

As an undergraduate, Ashleigh Hartsfield, ’25, was very involved in the 91��Ƶ Athletic Department. She worked under Tara Nelson as part of the Bristaco group, a position she held for three years.

Her duties included guiding 91��Ƶ’s mascot at athletic events, managing Midnight Madness, and undertaking various administrative tasks. She also worked in the Thornburg Fitness Center, where she wore multiple hats including working at the front desk and in the weight room, and supporting the GroupEx classes on campus.

Hartsfield also suited up for the Bears, playing catcher during the 2022-23 women’s softball season. She later served as team manager.

Last May, the Cumberland, Rhode Island native graduated from 91��Ƶ with degrees in geography and public relations. She recently returned to her alma mater as coordinator of the Thornburg Fitness Center & Group Ex/Outdoor Adventure Programs.

Why did you want to apply for this position?

When I first heard of this role, it was an immediate "yes." It felt like a natural fit because of my work as a student, therefore, I felt very inclined to put my name in the ring.

What are your main responsibilities?

As the coordinator for the fitness center, GroupEX, and Outdoor Adventure, I will have three areas of responsibility. I will assist and help manage the day-to-day operations of the fitness center. I will manage and oversee the GroupEx programs, which are fitness classes on campus open to the 91��Ƶ community. Finally, I will be planning and executing day trips to various activities such as skiing, skydiving, hiking, ice skating, etc. I encourage all students to keep an eye out for announcements because I’m planning to kickstart those activities this semester!

Why did you choose this career path?

I have always had a natural niche for fitness. I grew up playing sports and going to the gym, which led to most of my work experience involving fitness or sports. In high school, I worked at a softball facility, and through college I worked in athletics and recreation. Therefore, when I graduated with my degrees, I was at a standstill. I really didn’t know what I wanted to do and I was having a hard time securing a position. I have been a CrossFitter for a long time, so [when] a position opened up at my gym to coach, I jumped on the opportunity to get my certifications and really run with my background in fitness. Therefore, when this position opened up, I knew it was something I was really passionate about and could see myself doing for a long time.

What are some of your, either short term or long-term goals, in this position?

Right now, my big focus is getting Outdoor Adventure off the ground and running. I am lucky enough to be stepping into a role where the fitness center and GroupEx are well taken care of, so my short-term goal is to get a few adventures planned and executed this semester. As for long-term goals, I would love to create a consistent Outdoor Adventure team/club/group that helps these programs be very successful. I would also love to see the GroupEx program grow, not just participantion, but in classes offered. I am here for the students, so my forever goal will be to make sure recreation is offering what they want to see.

What are you most looking forward to, coming back to work at your alma mater?

I am definitely most looking forward to returning to a familiar place. Being able to come back is almost a dream come true. I am also looking forward to being a voice, and creating spaces in recreation that I feel would have added to my personal college experience. Students spend a majority of their time in the classroom, so I hope if I can get them moving in either a fitness class or outdoor adventure, it will help add to their experiences.

Do you have a favorite spot on campus?

This is a hard one! When I was a student, you could always find me in the library. It was the best homework spot! A close second is, of course, the Adrian Tinsley Center, where you can find me now, specifically in the fitness center.

Do you have a fun fact about yourself that you'd like to share?

As I mentioned earlier, I am a long-time CrossFitter and now coach over at CrossFit Bridgewater.

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

Students spend a majority of their time in the classroom, so I hope if I can get them moving in either a fitness class or outdoor adventure, it will help add to their experiences.

Ashley Hartsfield, ’25

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91��Ƶ Master's Grad Turned Internship into a Career

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 13:59:05 +0000

91��Ƶ Master's Grad Turned Internship into a Career HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Thu, 03/05/2026 - 08:59

Victoria Grasela, G'10, rose to a leadership role at United Way of Greater New Bedford

March 10, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

When Victoria Grasela, G’10, walked through the doors as an intern at the United Way of Greater New Bedford (UWGNB), she was focused on learning. Today, as vice president of marketing and community engagement, she’s shaping the organization’s story.

“What’s funny is, I initially tried to get out of the internship. I thought, I don’t have time for this,” Grasela said.

But, after having a conversation with a family friend who encouraged her to sit down with UWGNB President Michelle Neves Hartman, she changed her mind.

“The rest, as they say, is history. That was 16 years ago; in that time, I’ve gone from intern to VP,” Grasela said.

The 91��Ƶ alumna’s original plan was to study law and become a lawyer. She earned her degree in political science from another state school.

During this time, she participated in an internship through the Washington Center in DC. While she was there, Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, killing more than 1,000 people, and causing billions of dollars in damages. Part of her role involved fundraising to support relief and recovery efforts. The work felt deeply meaningful.

“It really started me thinking, ‘what do I actually want to do?’” Grasela said. “’Do I still want to pursue law or something different?’ That’s when I started to explore a career in a non-profit.”

That's how she came to enroll in Bridgewater State’s master’s in public administration program.

“Overall, it was a really great program. I enjoyed it and learned a lot,” she said. “I was able to take a lot of different classes, including policy and government.”

Those classes helped lay down a foundation for her career, she added. The program also exposed her to classmates from all walks of life who were pursuing different career paths or looking to work in various sectors.

“I connected with some great people at 91��Ƶ. It was great for networking,” Grasela said.

Throughout her career at UWGNB, building meaningful connections has been her driving force.

As vice president of communications and marketing, she leads all aspects of the organization’s messaging, including social media and website management. Whether it’s a press release, digital campaign, or printed materials, she ensures UWGNB’s voice is mission-driven.

But the work goes beyond marketing.

She is passionate about strengthening relationships and creating opportunities for people to engage in meaningful ways and encourages members of the 91��Ƶ community looking for volunteer opportunities to reach out to her.

“It is through volunteering that you discover career exploration. We should all be constantly learning and exploring the opportunities that are out there,” Grasela said.

One way is through the Hunger Hero program, a community-driven initiative that brings local businesses, organizations, and individuals together to fight hunger in the region.

“Anyone can participate. It’s great to watch people develop a love of volunteering and understand the importance of giving back at any age,” Grasela said.

She doesn’t just recruit volunteers. She also gives back.

Grasela serves as a board member for two nonprofits: the Wing Family of America and Mass 211. She also volunteers for Al!ve.

“I’m not just looking for volunteers, but I’m out there volunteering. I think it’s important to use your skills to assist others if you can,” she said.

For 91��Ƶ students pondering their career path, she can’t stress the importance of internships enough.

“You never know where an internship will lead; make the best of the opportunities you are given, and it can turn into everything for you,” Grasela said.

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

You never know where an internship will lead; make the best of the opportunities you are given, and it can turn into everything for you.

Victoria Grasela, G’10

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College of Graduate Studies

Beyond the Textbooks

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:47:52 +0000

Beyond the Textbooks HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 03/02/2026 - 12:47

Alumna Christina Brennan brings physics to life for high schoolers

March 3, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

In one classroom at South Shore Regional Vocational Technical School, physics lessons rarely stay on the page for very long.

There, Christina Brennan, ’20, G’26, teaches beyond the textbooks, giving students the opportunity to dive right in.

“My teaching is a little different than your typical classroom. The projects we do are very hands-on and applicable. I try not to do anything just based out of a book; I want them to have a real-world experience,” said Christina, who earned a physics degree from 91��Ƶ and is now enrolled in the graduate physical science teaching degree program.

Her methods work. Some of her students recently advanced to the finals of the PACK Challenge to represent South Shore -- one of only six schools nationwide to earn a spot at the national engineering and manufacturing competition.

The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies hosts the event.

Brennan is working with students on engineering design, manufacturing concepts, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as they prepare to compete this October in Chicago. The opportunity, she said, is a valuable one for her high schoolers.

“The packaging industry is a booming industry; this exposes them to that,” she said. “Through the challenge, they have to design and create a packaging solution from start to finish.”

She is currently organizing fundraising events that will cover students’ travel expenses.

As both an educator and a Bridgewater State student, being able to see her education play out in her career is exciting.

“I am incredibly proud to see the impact of my continued learning reflected in my classroom and in my students’ success,” she said.

She was inspired to become a teacher because of the impression others left on her both in high school and at 91��Ƶ.

“They (teachers) were always so caring and compassionate towards their students and always wanted the best for them. It inspired me to want to do better,” Christina said.

When transferring to 91��Ƶ in her junior year, she specifically received support from Physics professor Dr. Thomas Kling.

“I had a lot of meetings with Dr. Kling. He made the transition very smooth, was incredibly welcoming, and helped me with figuring out what credits would transfer,” Christina said.

Once at 91��Ƶ, she found the entire physics department to be exceptional, often making time for students beyond office hours. She remains in close contact with many of her professors, who have continued to mentor her in her graduate studies.

At the helm of her own classroom, Christina applies what she’s learned as a student, adding her own flair to educate the next generation.

“I get to showcase all the knowledge I’ve gotten from Bridgewater, and school in general,” she said. “I make sure my students see how important it is to keep learning and not be afraid of asking questions."

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I am incredibly proud to see the impact of my continued learning reflected in my classroom and in my students’ success.

Christina Brennan, ’20, G’26

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Alumni Profile

A Bridgewater State Love Story

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:05:11 +0000

A Bridgewater State Love Story BBENSON@bridgew.edu Thu, 02/12/2026 - 09:05

Maddie Monagle and Jonny Matthews trace their relationship back to Pope Hall

February 12, 2026

Brian Benson, G'23

Some love stories start with fireworks. For Maddie Monagle, ’18, and Jonny Matthews, ’19, it began with friendship – formed in Pope Hall and shaped by the everyday moments of life at 91��Ƶ.”

“We really were like best friends at first,” Monagle recalled, noting their friend groups started hanging out together soon after Matthews moved in as a transfer student. “Then we started dating, and the rest is history.”

A decade later, the couple is living in Quincy and preparing to tie the knot in October. They credit Bridgewater State with providing not only a great education but the beginnings of a lifelong partnership.

Monagle and Matthews bonded over meals in dining halls and Emma’s Pizza nearby. They lived in a coed suite in Crimson Hall, cheered on the football team, and attended homecoming festivities. Monagle and Matthews were even study buddies, helping each other survive a difficult astronomy class.

“We really were inseparable,” Monagle said. “We were hanging out all the time.”

United by a shared passion for helping others, their bond persevered even as Monagle graduated, and Matthews stayed at 91��Ƶ for his senior year.

“She has a really big heart and genuinely cares about the people in her life, and also people she doesn’t know,” said Matthews.

Monagle added: “He’s just very generous and driven to help others, and that is something I appreciate and am drawn to.”

Their career ambitions also revolve around serving others. Matthews, who studied criminal justice, works as a guidance counselor at Everett High School. Monagle, who earned a bachelor’s degree in strategic communications, is pursuing a master’s degree in social work and working as a team lead support analyst at Amadeus, a global technology company that serves the travel and tourism industry.

Though their careers diverged from their majors, Monagle and Matthews gained numerous transferable skills from 91��Ƶ.

“It’s a great community of people. The school really helped me build relationships,” Monagle said, praising the opportunity to be immersed in a diverse, multicultural student body. “It was a very welcoming school.”

Matthews appreciated the real-world connections and experiences his professors brought into the classroom. He values the academic and personal growth that comes with being a Bear.

“Bridgewater is very important to us. I think we will always go back to visit whenever we can,” Monagle said. “It’s where we started our life together.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

Bridgewater is very important to us. I think we will always go back to visit whenever we can. It’s where we started our life together.

Maddie Monagle, ’18

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