Tiger Heritage Alumni Spotlight
May: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Jennifer Vuong BS ’09
Jennifer is a graduate of the College of Science - Biomedical Sciences program in 2009. After graduating from RIT, Jennifer obtained her Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor then completed a post-graduate year 1 residency at Erie VA in Pennsylvania. Following her training, she accepted a position as a clinical pharmacist at VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System where she has prescriptive authority to manage patients in the Anticoagulation and Thrombosis Service. Jennifer quickly became the facility’s subject matter expert and has trained many staff members and as well as served as primary preceptor for a number of learners over the years including: pharmacy students, PharmD residents, and geriatric MD fellows. She is a Certified Anticoagulation Care Provider and was the primary author of one of the most sought-after resource published on the Anticoagulation Forum (ACF) Center of Excellence, Guidance for Treatment of Various VTE. She is also a peer reviewer for the American Journal of Cardiology and recently presented a poster on population health management at the ACF National Conference in April 2023.
Kimo Kippen MS '93
Introducing Kimo Kippen, MS '93, a distinguished thought leader, speaker, and advocate for lifelong learning and talent development. As the founder of Aloha Learning Advisors and former chief learning officer at Hilton, Kimo's expertise has been recognized globally. He currently serves as a Senior Fellow and Program Director for two Councils of The Conference Board, and as an adjunct professor at prestigious universities. Kimo's journey, from exploring Upstate New York's wine country to embracing his Pacific Islander heritage, reflects his rich experiences and diverse passions.
Rakesh Chandiramani BS '04
Introducing Rakesh Chandiramani, BS '04, a proud RIT Tiger making waves in the world of business and hospitality. Originally from Rochester, Rakesh was drawn to RIT's esteemed reputation and strong alumni network. Throughout his journey, he navigated through different majors before finding his passion in finance. His time at RIT was enriched by impactful professors like Dr. Keith Jenkins, whose teachings continue to resonate with him today. Rakesh's favorite classes sparked lively discussions and provided practical knowledge that shaped his career trajectory.
May: Jewish Heritage Month
Andrew J. "AJ" Siegel BS '06
Meet Andrew J. "AJ" Siegel, BS '06, an experience strategist at ServiceNow and proud RIT alum. During his time at RIT, AJ led impactful initiatives like a Holocaust remembrance project that sparked crucial conversations on campus. Today, he remains connected to RIT as a member of the Jewish Life Advisory Council. AJ's heritage of resilience and storytelling drives his community involvement, honoring his grandfather's legacy as a Holocaust survivor. He advises current students to embrace opportunities for growth and exploration at RIT. AJ's journey embodies RIT's spirit of inclusivity and lifelong learning.
Daniel A. Mendelson BS '88
Daniel A. Mendelson, BS '88, was drawn to RIT for its biomedical computing program and a generous scholarship. Despite academic readiness, he found adjusting to Rochester's weather and campus life challenging. Mentored by Dr. Bob Gilman, he pursued his dream of becoming a physician, influenced by a childhood experience with his grandmother's misdiagnosis. Favorite classes in organic and physical chemistry deepened his understanding of molecular science and human physiology. Daniel's Jewish heritage instills in him the value of "repairing the world" (tikkun olam), motivating his commitment to community impact.
Michael Blain BS '57
"During my first year I became very involved in student organizations. One of the organizations that I was involved with was Hillel at the University of Rochester. I liked attending their events, but I wanted to have our own at RIT. With the encouragement of the campus chaplains, I started our own Hillel."
Michael was born in Czechoslovakia. During World War II, he moved to Budapest to evade the Nazis. After the war, he was able to find his two surviving siblings. He eventually moved to New York to find his sister, only to be drafted in the Korean War. When the Korean War ended, he was accepted into RIT's printing program. Michael met his wife, Sylvia, in Highland Park after a synagogue service. They have been married for over 60 years.
June: Pride Month
K. Kenneth Davis BS '13
K. Kenneth Davis, BS '13, known as "The Trans Capitalist,'' is a pioneering black transgender entrepreneur shaped by his time at RIT. Encouraged by RIT's progressive and inclusive environment, Kenneth found the support to embrace his authentic self, sparked by a transformative moment at an RIT drag show. For Kenneth, Pride Month symbolizes visibility, authenticity, and love within the LGBTQIA+ community. He encourages current students to engage fully in campus life, embracing diversity without fear. As a dog dad, rare triple Libra, and fitness enthusiast, Kenneth embodies resilience and authenticity.
Frank Selvaggi AAS '79 BS '81
Frank Selvaggi, AAS '79, BS '81, shares insights from his time at RIT. For Frank, RIT was the only school that accepted him, setting the stage for his journey. His favorite classes revolved around statistics, where he discovered unexpected mathematical skills. Pride Month holds significance as a time to honor progress and celebrate identity. Inspired by his friends at RIT, Frank embraces authenticity and offers supportive advice to fellow Tigers.
Sam Brett AS '97
Meet Sam Brett (he/him/his) an educator, drag performer, and queer rights advocate. Pride Month holds special significance for Sam as he has helped plan ROC Pride for many years. Sam, also known as Samantha Vega when in drag, was crowned the first Miss RIT in 1995, Miss Gay Pride Rochester in 2006 and 2007, Miss Gay Syracuse in 2008, Miss Gay pride Buffalo 2010, and Miss Salt City Drag battle in 2019 and 2020.
Tiger Heritage Alumni Spotlight celebrates alumni that pursue infinite possibilities. Each featured alum creates a positive impact - whether it's in their community, their career, or something wildly creative.
September 15 - October 15: Latinx Heritage Month
Jesus Ruiz BS’97
Jesus Ruiz, BS '97, reflects on his journey at RIT and beyond. Drawn to RIT's STEM focus, he found a nurturing environment for hands-on learning. As a first-generation college student, he faced challenges with diversity and sought to fill that void by bringing Lambda Alpha Upsilon to RIT. His advice to current students: seize every opportunity RIT offers and embrace diversity. Professionally, he's proud of managing departments at Lincoln Medical Center, while personally, establishing Lambda Alpha Upsilon at RIT stands out. He highlights the richness of Hispanic/Latinx heritage. Jesus embodies the spirit of success and inclusion at RIT.
Wilfredo Alvarez, Ph.D., BS ’02
Meet Wilfredo Alvarez, Ph.D., BS '02 (he/him/his) is an associate professor of Communication and Media at Utica University and author of Everyday Dirty Work: Invisibility, Communication, and Immigrant Labor, a book that focuses on Latinx immigrant essential workers. Wilfredo studied communication at RIT and his teaching and research focus on communication issues related to social identity (i.e., race, ethnicity, social class, immigration, gender, sexual orientation, and ability status).
Meet Wilfredo Alvarez, Ph.D., BS ’02
Omar de Frias BS '02
Meet Omar de Frias BS '02 (he/him/his). Omar was born in Puerto Rico and raised in the Dominican Republic. He loves sharing what the Hispanic community has to offer—“our cuisine, traditions, beliefs, and contributions!” For Omar, Hispanic Heritage Month highlights aspects of his community that will hopefully inspire people to extend their learning beyond September 15 – October 15.
Orlando Ortiz BS '04, MBA '08
Orlando Ortiz BS '04, MBA '08 is currently manager of component manufacturing at The Gleason Works. Orlando has worked in a manufacturing environment for over 15 years, previously holding positions of continuous improvement manager at Calvary Automation Systems and director of engineering for Stone Construction Equipment. Orlando's community involvement extends to various community boards which include The Puerto Rican Festival, Inc. (president), The Housing Council at PathStone (board chair), PathStone Corporation (executive committee member), Foodlink, and has served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors since 2013 and is the current board president. Additionally, Orlando sits on the Board of Trustees, contributing his insights to the university's strategic planning efforts. He also served on the university's Strategic Planning Committee. In 2019, Orlando was recognized as the Hispanic Business Person of the Year by the Rochester Hispanic Business Association and co-recipient of the NextGen philanthropist of the year along with his wife Denishea Ortiz BS '04.
November: Native American Heritage Month
Dr. Rachel Ramirez BS ’98
Meet Dr. Rachel Ramirez, a distinguished RIT alum whose journey from student to physician reflects resilience and dedication. Drawn to RIT's technology and robust curriculum, Rachel navigated the quarter system with ease, excelling in favorite classes like molecular biology and anatomy. Supported by mentors like Dr. Douthwright and Dr. Seischab, she thrived academically and immersed herself in research and community initiatives, laying the groundwork for her future in medicine. Now, as a practicing physician and educator, Rachel's proudest moments include her professional achievements and the joy of raising her family. Her story underscores the transformative power of education and the importance of giving back, embodying RIT's values of resilience, compassion, and lifelong learning.
Meet Dr. Rachel Ramirez BS ’98
Jolene Rickard BFA '78
“RIT is within the ancestral homelands of the Seneca Nation, and I believe that it's important to take responsibility and know what Indigenous Nation(s) land you live on or within.”
Dr. Jolene Rickard BFA '78 is a visual historian, artist, and curator interested in the intersection of Indigenous knowledge and contemporary art with an emphasis on Haudenosaunee aesthetics. Rickard believes that learning should be approached as a life-long pursuit and she also believes in giving generously to others based on your good fortune.
Naomi Lee, Ph.D., BS '05
“Build relationships with mentors that will guide you down your path. Mentors include peers, faculty, staff, etc. RIT has many great opportunities and mentors will help point you in the right direction.”
Naomi Lee Ph.D., BS '05 (Seneca Nation of Indians) is a tenure-track assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Northern Arizona University. Dr. Lee received a BS in biochemistry from RIT. She also completed an MS and Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Rochester. Her research focuses on novel peptide and protein-based vaccine development to target various infectious and chronic diseases. Dr. Lee also applies her expertise in biomedical research to improve the health care of Native Americans through health disparities research, STEM education, and mentoring. Due to her interdisciplinary research program, she is an affiliated faculty member to the NIH-funded Southwest Health Equity Research Collaborative (SHERC), the NIH-funded Native American Cancer Prevention (NACP) partnership, and NAU's the Center for Materials Interfaces in Research and Applications (¡MIRA!). Dr. Lee serves her country through service in the Army National Guard. She is currently a captain in the Arizona 850th Military Police Battalion.
February: Black History Month
Teresa Ayela-Uwangue BS '02
Dr. Teresa Ayela-Uwangue, M.D., FAAP, FACP, BS ‘02, ("Dr. T") is a graduate of RIT College of Science, biological sciences program. After graduating from RIT, she obtained her medical degree from the SUNY at Buffalo and trained in a competitive double residency program at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Once training was complete, Dr. T moved to Arizona where she has worked in various medical environments, treating a wide range of conditions in children and adults. Teaching is a passion for Dr. T and she is involved in teaching locally with first year medical students. Dr. T opened her own solo private practice clinic, which provides the traditional neighborhood, family doctor experience in a modern way. Dr. T is married to another RIT graduate and has three daughters. Dr. T wears many hats and when not doctoring, she is active in her home and church and enjoys her Peloton, reading, and crochet. Dr. T appreciates her experience at RIT and continues to help others, as often as possible, as someone helped her.
Arnold Cole BS '74
Arnold Cole BS '74 joined the Federal Air Marshal Service in October 2003 as the deputy assistant director for the Office of Field Operations in Headquarters. In December 2003, he took over the responsibilities as deputy assistant director for the Western Field Offices. Mr. Cole assumed the position as special agent in charge of the Atlanta Field Office in February 2006. After serving for 43 years, Mr. Cole retired from government service in June 2018. Arnold credits his RIT student experience with laying the groundwork for his chosen path in law enforcement.
Kenny Everett BS '69
On a personal level, I have such a sense of pride knowing that I was a part of the struggle for freedom by my contribution to the creation of Black Awareness Coordinating Committee (BACC) at RIT
Kenneth "Kenny" Everett BS '69 established the groundwork for his career as a business administration student at RIT, where he was immersed in a co-op at the company that would later become his life-long employer – IBM. After graduating from RIT and pursuing his master's degree in higher education at Syracuse University, Kenny relocated to Atlanta, G.A. and officially joined IBM full time.
Luticha André Doucette BS ’14
Luticha André Doucette BS '14 graduated from RIT with a degree in bioinformatics, where she developed protein surface prediction algorithms. After graduating, she was a fellow at the University of Rochester where she worked in a genomics lab that focused on analyzing the venom of parasitoid wasps to develop new drug therapies for various diseases. In 2017, she authored a report on wage disparities across race, gender, and disability in Rochester and Monroe County in conjunction with the Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative and in 2018 authored a follow-up report on employment barriers for disabled people. She is a graduate of the Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) Fellowship program and an AUCD Emerging Leader. She is the owner of Catalyst Consulting, which helps organizations examine equity across race, gender identity, and disability in policies, practices, procedures, and relationships.
March: Women’s History Month
Jane M. Elliott BS ’88
Jane M. Elliott BS ’88, the chief human resources officer at NCR Voyix, is a graduate with high honors of the Saunders College of Business accounting program. After graduating from RIT, Jane moved to New York City to work in the financial services industry as she obtained her CPA. She has been a champion for the evolution of the Saunders College of Business for many years. Jane has been involved with SCB National Council, Executive Day and Women's Leadership Summit, hosted by SCB Women in Business student club. She served as the keynote speaker for Power Your Potential in 2017. She was also the Saunders College of Business' Distinguished Alumni Award recipient for 2019. Jane has a strong affinity to student diversity and is an advocate for women. With over twenty years of experience in the payment technology space, she is a charismatic leader whose breadth of experience and accomplishments are reflected in both Fortune 500/1000 companies and smaller, entrepreneurial organizations. Jane's community involvement extends to various community boards and groups. Jane currently serves as a chief human resources officer at NCR Voyix, Atlanta, Georgia.
Holly Fitzpatrick BS '94
In high school, Holly Fitzpatrick BS '80 learned to do basic programming while she was in Math Club. "Once I started learning about programming, I was hooked," she said.
Holly loved working on systems, and she immediately knew that it was something she wanted to do. "Back when I was looking at schools, I had really good SAT scores," explained Holly. "And as a female, that made you very wanted. Schools especially wanted women who had high math scores."
The catalog from RIT came to her in the mail, and at the time she didn't know anything about RIT. She only remembers opening the catalog and saying, "Ah, this is the school I want!"
Kristin Zatwarnicki BS ’17
Featuring Kristin Zatwarnicki BS ’17 in honor of Women’s History Month. Kristin shares her journey from discovering RIT through her involvement in FIRST Robotics to thriving as an engineer and wine enthusiast. Learn about her experiences, favorite classes, and valuable advice for current students.
Meet Kristin Zatwarnicki BS ’17
Mona Samaan-Ockenden BS '94
“RIT prepared me, hands down, to be a problem solver - meaning I can do anything. I may not have the skills to initially complete a task. However, I'm not afraid to learn what I don't know and ask for help.”
Prior to her arrival at RIT, Mona Samaan-Ockenden BS '94 took a year off to explore a career in mechanical contracting. She went on to graduate from RIT with a degree in civil engineering technology. After graduation, Mona landed a position with Clough Harbour & Associates (CHA), an international engineering consulting firm based in Albany. Mona started in traditional site development projects, then moved into a position as senior vice president of Business Development. She then moved into a chief operations officer position at Airosmith Development. After her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, Mona left her position to start a line of chemical-free beauty products, Mona Moon Naturals in 2019. Since then, she hasn't looked back.
April: Deaf History Month
Michael Cross, Jr. BS ’96
At the suggestion of faculty in NTID’s Department of Science and Engineering Support (DSES), Michael Cross, Jr. BS ’96 merged his interests in math, art, and architecture and enrolled in RIT’s civil engineering technology bachelor’s degree major. After graduation, Michael planted roots in the Buffalo area and joined the New York State Department of Transportation. You may have driven all over his work as you headed down the reconstructed nine-mile section of New York State Route 394 near Jamestown. Or you may have benefited from driving over bridges that Michael was instrumental in getting repaired, in addition to other rehabilitation plans that made your commute easier. Michael manages section 5, in the greater Buffalo area handling many of the planning details leading up to road construction. Michael credits the camaraderie achieved within his study groups during his undergraduate years, collaborating with other deaf students, and the assistance received from DSES, as motivating factors for aligning himself with projects that help support efforts for our deaf/hard of hearing students.
Ebony "Geeky" Watson AAS '04
Featuring Ebony “Geeky” Watson AAS ’04 in celebration of the vibrant diversity within the RIT/NTID community. Ebony shares her journey from pursuing a career in basketball to embracing her passion for technology and design at RIT/NTID. Learn about her experiences, influences, and valuable insights into Deaf culture.
Xavier M. Arana BS '98
During Deaf History Month, we celebrate the achievements and contributions of alumni like Xavier M. Arana, who embodies the spirit of innovation and perseverance. Xavier, a 1998 graduate with a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering technology, shares his insights into his RIT journey and offers valuable advice to current students. Learn about his experiences, influences, and diverse hobbies as we honor the rich heritage of our alumni community. Join us in recognizing Xavier and the legacy of excellence he represents.
Smitha Hanumantha BS '05
"Deaf Culture is beautiful and to live in Rochester, there's such a rich history of the Deaf community so it's fortunate that one would get to experience this and become a part of it."
Smitha Hanumantha BS '05 started her RIT Career at Explore Your Future, a National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) career exploration program, and left with a multidisciplinary degree in web and graphic design. She started her career as a marketing specialist at Access Interpreting in Washington, D.C., and then moved to Dallas, Texas to become an integral member of the Deaf Action Center. There, she started as a marketing specialist and became the creative director for the nonprofit organization. She later moved back to Washington, D.C. to pursue a career as an integrated digital marketing strategist at Gallaudet University.