AES Good News - December 2025 | December 2025
Join us in saying “hello” and “welcome” to Marci Sanders who joins the Center for Engagement and Student Success as a senior staff assistant! Sanders is an RIT (’20) and U of R (’23) alum and has worked here at RIT for close to eight years, most recently in the RIT Service Center. She was born in Rochester and has lived in Seattle, New Jersey and Philadelphia and enjoys archery and live music among other things. Be sure to ask about her dog, Carlin, who is very much a part of her family.
Can you believe this semester is almost over and we are about to step into a brand-new year? The holiday season is a time for reflection, celebration, and connection — in whatever way you enjoy it most. We asked our AES colleagues this question:
“What are some ways you celebrate or unwind at the end of the year?”
Alli Cerone, faculty recruitment coordinator, Office of Faculty Recruitment
During the holidays, I celebrate with family, some of whom I don't get to see as often anymore so it's always nice to get together. I also use the time off of work and school to catch up on some television shows I have fallen behind on throughout the semester and to get through a few of the books on my TBR list. While it's not necessarily the most exciting, I really love being able to slow down and take a break at the end of the year.
Tina Chapman DaCosta, director, Brick by Brick Theater
The way I celebrate or unwind at the end of the year is gathering with family and friends, celebrating Kwanzaa and making fruit pies, peach, apple, cherry, mixed berry, and blueberry; something I’ve been doing since I was a little kid. My mother taught me how to make the crust from scratch and over the years, I perfected making a gluten free version. I can usually make a pie from scratch in less than an hour, excluding baking time.
Alex Collins, assistant director for Engagement and Student Success, Center for Engagement and Student Success
I love to walk through stores like HomeGoods and look for deals and cute little things especially small baking items. I also love baking and making elaborate meals for friends and family.
Megan Kalloo, assistant director, CSTEP
Being silly. And just being in each other's presence. Whether it is our tradition of hunting for the "perfect" Christmas tree together, playing old school video games all day long, or hanging out and playing Monopoly in our matching pjs. Our way to celebrate and unwind is time together with no rules, no schedule, just peace, laughter, and each other's company.
Mollie Radzinski, senior communication specialist, University Communications
One of the things I most look forward to at the end of the year is snowy days outside! Whether going for a walk or hunting, there is something especially peaceful about a new snowfall. It's even better when enjoyed in open fields or the quiet woods. It also comes with some nice time spent with my dad.