Staff Bios

Gracy Sarkissian is the Executive Director of the Wasserman Center for Career Development and is responsible for the management and strategic direction of the organization. She brings over 15 years of experience in career development, admissions, and higher education administration. Gracy is committed to increasing access to career support and preparing students to launch meaningful careers. Through innovative career education programs, employer partnerships, and individualized coaching, she and the Wasserman team equip students and graduates with the skills, experiences, and connections required to succeed now and in the future. See full bio.

Kate is the Senior Director for NYU Wasserman’s Brooklyn, Graduate, and Undergraduate coaching teams. She is focused on ensuring students, recent alumni, and postdocs are empowered with the tools, coaching, and opportunities necessary for successful careers. Kate began her career as an IT recruiter for investment banks before moving into higher education, where she has worked in student affairs, academic advisement, career development, and employer relations. Kate holds an EdD and EdM in Adult Learning & Leadership from Columbia's Teachers College. Additionally, she earned a MA in Higher & Postsecondary Education from Columbia University, a MS in Human Resource Management & Development from NYU, and a BS in Design & Environmental Analysis from Cornell University. Kate enjoys chasing after her three sons in New Jersey and spending quality time with her friends and family. Participated in Faith Zone and Safe Zone.

Victoria oversees career education and student engagement, plans undergraduate events, coaches students, and manages some of Wasserman's resources and vendor relationships. Prior to coming to NYU, she has experience in academic advising, career coaching, and alumni affairs. Victoria earned a MS in Counseling from Shippensburg University and a BA in Psychology from Loyola University. In her free time, she enjoys travel and discussing the latest TV dramas. Participated in Safe Zone and Disability Zone.

Nia provides career coaching to undergrad students and alumni, manages events and oversees the career education team and strategy for the Wasserman Career Ambassador program. Her previous experience is in volunteer management, community engagement, mentorship, and college access & readiness in roles at non-profits, the NYC Mayor's Office, NYU and the NYC Department of Education. Nia has a BA in Communication Arts from St. Francis College and a MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU. When she's not working Nia loves to cook, volunteer, play trivia games, and travel.

Cheryl primarily coaches undergraduate students currently, although she has experience coaching graduate students and alumni as well. She is the liaison to Nursing, Pre-Health, Public Health and pre-law programs. Cheryl also supervises the Graduate Career Assistants. Her previous work experience includes working in the fashion and legal industries. Cheryl has a BA in Psychology and Business from SUNY Albany and an MS Ed. in Counseling from CUNY Hunter College. In her free time, Cheryl enjoys yoga, biking, long walks, travel, the beach and spending time with her family. Participated in Mindfulness Zone, Safe Zone, and Microaggressions Training.

Jennifer's personal experience as a first gen student drives her passion to support student academic and career success. She previously worked as college advisor for the NYU College Advising Corps where she helped predominantly low income, first generation college bound students bridge the connection between college and career to apply to best-fit post-secondary opportunities and navigate barriers that impede access to higher education. Jennifer holds a BA in Philosophy from Dickinson College and a MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU.  

Kyle advises students and alumni individually on issues related to career and life planning strategies, with a focus on DE&I programming.
She completed a BA in Secondary Education and History from William Paterson University in New Jersey and a MA in Higher Education Administration- Leadership Studies from William Paterson University. Kyle worked in undergraduate admissions for WPUNJ the past 4 years where she oversaw domestic territory recruitment and event planning.
Outside of work, Kyle enjoys spending time with her friends and family, cooking, going to the beach, reading, and playing tennis.

Kenya (she/her) advises current students and alumni in their professional development through coaching and programming, with a specific focus on DEI. She is a first-generation college graduate, and holds a BA in English from Rowan University and an MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU. Kenya's personal experiences and previous work experiences in career development and financial literacy have contributed to her passion for providing underserved students with the resources and support needed for success. She enjoys reading and traveling. Participated in Belonging Zone and Justice Zone.

Cullen advises students on their career development through coaching appointments, workshops, events, and panels. He also frequently communicates with campus partners on career development initiatives. His prior experience includes advising for study abroad programs across multiple regions and contexts, and he has experience working abroad. Cullen earned his BA in International Relations and History from Syracuse University. In his free time, he loves to explore the many unique neighborhoods of New York City.

Izzy helps current undergraduate students succeed and engages with their professional development journeys through career coaching and event/workshop facilitation. She also supports relationship-building efforts for students across the different NYU schools in guiding the Wassermann Career Ambassadors program. Izzy obtained a BS in Environmental Science from the University of Delaware and an MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU. Outside of Wassermann, you can find this proud Manhattanite experimenting in the kitchen, enjoying walks outside (alone or with friends), or daydreaming about her ideal future dog(s).

Kelly joined the Wasserman Center in February of 2018. Prior to joining the Wasserman team, Kelly oversaw career and academic advising programs at colleges in Boston, Virginia and New Hampshire. She earned a MS in Career Development from the College of New Rochelle and a BA in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire. Kelly serves on NYU's Internationalizing Washington Square Graduate Student Sub-Committee and the Division of Student Affairs Professional Development Committee. She also co-facilitates the Division of Student Affairs Transition Learning Community. Kelly enjoys musical theater, hiking, kayaking and exploring new places. She is also a baseball fan whose goal is to see a game in every major league ball park. Participated in Safe Zone, Belonging Zone and Faith Zone.

Marlene spends her time at Wasserman coaching graduate students, overseeing and facilitating workshops across NYU's campus and working on programming strategies that support our students' career development journey. A proud Latinx first generation college graduate, Marlene has dedicated her career to helping students navigate career and educational opportunities. Prior to joining Wasserman Marlene served as the Department Manager in the Department of Social and Cultural Analysis at NYU. Marlene has an M.P.A from Baruch College and is a PhD candidate in Steinhardt's Education, Leadership and Policy Studies program. Her research interests include first generation college students and the college to career transition.

Danielle spends her time at Wasserman coaching graduate students, facilitating workshops across NYU's campus, and managing communications efforts for the graduate team. Previously, she held communication roles in both the non-profit and private sectors before pursuing her passion for higher education. Danielle has an MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU and a BA in English and a BAJMC in Public Relations from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. She enjoys traveling and discussing all things TV & pop culture.Participated in Justice Zone, Disability Zone, Safe Zone, UndocuZone, Indigenous Solidarity and Decolonization Training, Action Zone, Facilitation Training, and Muslim Ally Zone.

Gabby handles the planning and logistics of the Grad Team’s programming. A proud first-gen Latina, Gabby works her passion for equity and access in her daily work and serves as co-lead of our IDBEA cross-functional group. Prior to Wasserman, Gabby oversaw the NYU Public Health Ambassador Program and first-gen initiatives at NYU’s Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. Gabby has a M.A. in Higher Education Administration from NYU and a B.A. in Government from Hamilton College. She still happily calls NYC home, is always down for some French fries and takes coffee with her oxygen.

Mo enjoys helping emerging and established leaders explore their professional passions, chart career paths, and search for meaningful opportunities. In addition to supporting graduate student coaching at Wasserman, she runs a consulting firm that serves mission-driven organizations and individuals, and her practice includes managing executive searches and providing individual career coaching. For 12 years Mo has directed the Fellowship for Emerging Leaders in Public Service (FELPS), a program of NYU’s Leadership Initiative and NYU’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service. She also oversees the professional development of the undergraduate participants in NYU’s Presidential Internship Program. She currently serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Public Service at NYU’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service where she teaches the year-long capstone class on Social Impact, Innovation, and Investment.  

As a career changer herself, Brielle is most passionate about helping others to find careers they are connected to and fulfilled by. Brielle conducts coaching appointments, presents career development workshops, and facilitates programs for graduate students across NYU. She is currently earning her M.S. in Human Resource Management and Development from NYU and has previously earned her B.S. in Business Administration from Fordham University. Prior to NYU, Brielle worked in fashion as a Design Services and Marketing Coordinator. Brielle enjoys art, reading, movies, and spending time with her family. Participated in Muslim Ally Zone, Undocuzone, Intro to NYU LGBTQ+, Justice Zone, and Faith Zone.

Elle (she/her) spends her time career coaching graduate students, facilitating workshops, and supporting diversity initiatives across the Wasserman Center. Her previous work experiences as a peer career advisor at her alma mater Rutgers University, and her role supporting career education programming at the Office of Career Services at NYU School of Law, ignited her passion to guide students through their college and professional careers. Elle earned her MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU. She enjoys spending her free time playing with her 2 cats, reading books, and traveling.

Bob (he/him) leads and oversees the Wasserman office operations in Brooklyn, including staff, coaching & programming, and stakeholder engagement. A multiple career changer with over 25 years at NYU, Bob has a BS in Finance and a MS in Counseling. Lifelong Vikings, Mets, and Knicks fan.

Jo provides individualized career coaching for students and alumni, develops external employer relationships, and helps oversee event programming and daily operations in Brooklyn. Before joining Wasserman, she spent 10 years in admissions supporting and advising students in their college search and major exploration process, overseeing campus events, building stakeholder relationships, and mentoring students in their academic and professional paths. Jo is committed to higher education and helping students reach their unique aspirations. She has a BA in English and MA in Adult and Higher Education from Western Washington University. Jo loves traveling, coffee, and the Seattle Seahawks.  

Prior to joining Wasserman in 2019, Sam worked for the Office of Career Services at the NYU School of Law. Sam received an MA in Higher Education Administration and a BA in English and Politics from NYU. An NYU alum, she is excited to help NYU students make the most out of their college experience. She also serves as a mentor for both The Opportunity Network and America Needs You, where she supports first generation college students. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, reading, rewatching Harry Potter and cheering on the NY Rangers. Participated in Safe Zone, Justice Zone, Muslim Ally Zone, and Diversity Zone trainings.

Marzena is a career coach, learning and development professional, and librarian. At Wasserman, she empowers students to find meaningful career paths now and in the future by teaching them successful job search strategies and resilience. Marzena earned an MSLIS from Pratt Institute and a MA in German Literature and Language with a concentration in Methodology of Teaching from the University of Zielona Gora, Poland. She holds coaching, leadership development, and training management certificates. She is also the 2021 Mover and Shaker title recipient, a prestigious national library world award for outstanding services to the community.

Maddie (she/her) is a career development coach for undergraduate and graduate students on the Brooklyn campus. With experience as an admissions advisor, equestrian coach, and theater professional, Maddie values creativity and adaptability in career development and loves working with students of various backgrounds. She has a bachelor’s degree in art history from George Washington University and a certificate in playwriting from the National Theater Institute at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center.  

Brittany (she/her) enjoys guiding students through the career development process, helping students articulate their unique experience, and providing holistic support. Before joining Wasserman, she spent time providing academic and career advising, primarily in STEM majors, at the University of Oregon and is a Peace Corps alumna, serving 3 years in Zambia working with local counterparts on environmental issues, such as human-wildlife conflict mitigation. Brittany has a BA in Anthropology from Brooklyn College and an MPS: Training and Development from Middle Tennessee State University. In her free time, Brittany enjoys spending time in nature, roller skating, visiting museums, and travel.

Greg leads the External Partnerships and Experiential Learning team to cultivate relationships with external partners and provide opportunities for NYU students to prepare them for the next steps in their careers. Greg learned from his experience in academia and the nonprofit world the importance of experiential learning and connecting students, faculty, and external partners. Greg as a BA and PhD in English from Pomona College and the University of Delaware, respectively. Greg loves food, coffee, and books, and is always looking for recommendations.  

Joe leads Wasserman’s communications and marketing work and plays a vital role on the Employer Engagement team building external relationships and supporting coffee chats, career fairs, and events. He has a BS in Marketing and Management from Fairfield University and MS in College Student Personnel from the University of Rhode Island. He has participated in Safe Zone and Disability Zone trainings.

Haley spends her time at Wasserman coaching undergraduate students, engaging with employers in the non-profit, healthcare, and education fields, and supporting team wide communication efforts. Her previous work experience with Teach For America, HBO, and NYU Service have shaped her passion to help students navigate their pathways to success. Haley has a BS in Human Development from SUNY Binghamton and a MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU. In her free time, Haley enjoys visiting national and local parks. Participated in Safe Zone, Belonging Zone and Mindfulness Zone.

Rachel (she/her) spends her time at Wasserman managing on-campus recruitment efforts, including developing employer relationships and implementing career-related events and programming. She received her BA from Sarah Lawrence College, and Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. Prior to her time with NYU, Rachel worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC, where she planned and facilitated mentoring programming for young people to build new skills and set goals for the future. In her free time, Rachel enjoys reading, going to the beach, and exploring city parks.

Luisanna creates experiential programming and provides career coaching to students exploring careers in social impact and oversees the Social Impact Careers Hub. Her roles in postsecondary education and nonprofit helped fuel her passion for creating social impact in the education sector. Luisanna has a BA in Communications and French from the State University of New York at New Paltz and MA in Public Administration from NYU Wagner. When Luisanna is not working, you can find her exploring the NYC restaurant scene, cooking and traveling.

Sarah works on experiential learning programs at Wasserman including the Wasserman Center Internship Grant, Changemaker Fellowship, and Violet Network. She is also a career coach for undergraduate students and recent alumni. She holds a MA in Higher and Postsecondary Education from Teachers College, Columbia University and a BA in Media and Communications from Muhlenberg College. Prior to joining NYU, she worked at Ramapo College, Barnard College, Kaplan Test Prep, and Muhlenberg College. Sarah enjoys experimenting with new knit patterns, planning road trips with accompanying playlists, and exploring Astoria with her husband and son. Participated in Belonging Zone, Diversity Zone, Dream Zone, Faith Zone, and Safe Zone.

Daniel spends his time developing experiential learning programs that provide creatives with tangible experience to leverage as they enter the job market. He offers career coaching to emerging artists and works to foster interdisciplinary collaboration among artists and their peers. His previous work at the NYU Production Lab, in public education and in professional theatre has shaped his desire to help artists build sustainable careers. He holds a BFA and MA from Oklahoma City University and is an EdD candidate in Educational Theatre in Colleges and Communities at NYU Steinhardt.

Annette spearheads the management of Employer Relations and Special Events. She holds an MA in Elementary Education, a BA in Sociology, and an AA in Business Administration from New York University. Annette is most passionate about cultivating relationships with employers and increasing the pool of students that are hired by top Fortune 500 companies. For leisure, Annette loves spending time with her spiritual members, listening to music, and reading.

Emily (she/her) spends her time coaching students on their career goals, engaging with employers, and supporting the department’s communication needs. Her previous work experience in communications and writing has shaped her passion for storytelling to engage with students in a dynamic way. Emily has a BS in Organizational Communications from the University of Portland and a MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NYU. In her free time, Emily enjoys doing yoga and spending time with her pup, Otis.  

Lisa (she/her) spends her time at Wasserman as the Department Administrator, engaging with employers, and supporting the Wasserman team. She joins us from Educational Alliance, where she established an employment and career service program and previously at FEGS, providing employment services, and creating partnerships across industries and organizations. Lisa has extensive human resources and recruiting background, gained during her tenure as an Attorney Recruitment Manager at an international law firm. She has a BS from SUNY Oneonta and enjoys skiing, finding new ways to cook, and growing orchids.

Mike Santana got his B.A. in Sociology at the University at Albany in 2016. His work experience includes roles in recruitment with educational organizations in NYC, as well as advising and programming with Fraternity Sorority Life at the University at Albany. He is a big foodie, and loves to try new restaurants when he can.

Tatiana currently a MPH graduate student, Coverdell Fellow, and your local Violet for all Peace Corps recruitment inquiries. Previously, she spent three years serving as a Community Health Educator in the Kingdom of eSwatini and then worked for a nonprofit in the state of Georgia on COVID relief. She enjoys trying new food, fitness, and new experiences.

Long (he/his) leads and oversees Wasserman's data and assessment initiatives, information systems and databases, and student employment. He earned his BA in Communications from Northeastern University and MS in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Colorado State University. Currently, Long is a student in the PhD in Higher Education program at Rutgers University - New Brunswick. Outside of Wasserman, Long has served as a Professional Development Co-Chair for NYU's Administrators of Color Network and a National Co-Chair for the Asian Pacific Islander Knowledge Community within the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA).

Daniela manages the on-campus Student Employment team at Wasserman. She earned her BA in Communications from Ramapo College and MA in Higher Education Administration from William Paterson University. Previously, Daniela worked at Rutgers University and New York Institute of Technology in their respective One Stop offices. In her free time, Daniela loves to spend time outdoors, discover new music and spend time with friends and family.  

Liz manages the Wasserman Center’s annual Life Beyond the Square survey and supports other Wasserman data and assessment initiatives. Liz has a BS in Psychology from Union College and an MS in Mental Health Counseling from SUNY Albany. In her free time, Liz enjoys reading (outside in a park in nice weather!), fire escape gardening, baking, and spending time with friends and family. Participated in Safe Zone, Justice Zone, Dream Zone, Conversation Zone and Belonging Zone.

Dexter oversees the administration, maintenance and technical support of all computer hardware and software including the administration of all databases for the Wasserman staff, students, and employers. He holds a BS in Business Information Systems from Bellevue University and a Diploma in Systems and Database Administration from the US Army School of Information Technology. He enjoys playing soccer, visits to Trinidad and Tobago Carnival and watching his son play football.

Colleen (she/her) provides office management and student and supervisor support for On-Campus Student Employment for the Wasserman Center, Brooklyn. Colleen received her MS in Human Development and Leadership from Murray State University. She is a recent transfer to NYC as she has had the privilege of following her partner as he continued his education in medicine. In her free time, she loves traveling and exploring the outdoors. She is certified in SCUBA and has recently started skiing. She also loves hiking with her partner, Mike and their two dogs, Gracie and Coby.  

Rosan (he/they) works at NYU Wasserman on the Operations team assisting with Student Employment. A native New Yorker, he graduated from Hunter College with a BA in Media Studies and Women's/Gender/Studies and has an MA in Higher Education Administration from Pace University. Rosan has former experience working in Academic Affairs, as well as a background in digital marketing.

Niara is part of the On Campus Employment team. She has a background in customer service and information technology. In her spare time, she likes to play video games, listen to different genres of music, and read comic books.

When you come through the Wasserman Center's doors, you're considered a VIP...And, Tanya welcomes you! She has culminated many years of knowledge and extensive experience working daily with NYU's diverse clientele and non-NYU communities. Tanya received her AA degree, with a concentration in Creative Writing from NYU, so stay tuned. She is also the proud recipient of the 2015 NYU Hallmark Award. An artist at heart, Tanya is a free-spirit, whose love of travel has whisked her away - to her delight - over both "ponds." Participated in Safe Zone, Microaggressions Training, & Mindfulness Zone.

Braden is responsible for assisting both students and our office staff around Wasserman. Prior experience as a Call Center Supervisor at the NYU Phonathon helped foster a commitment to working NYU students and a sensitivity to the unique needs of NYU alumni. Braden has a BA in History and an MA in Near Eastern Studies from NYU, as well as an MA in Media Studies from the New School. In his free time, Braden can be found watching movies or soccer!

Toni is responsible for assisting our Executive Director with a myriad of tasks around Wasserman. Toni is joining NYU from CUNY Hunter College, where they spent many years as the Administrative Assistant for the Biology Department. She worked closely with students and faculty providing administrative and IT support. Toni has a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies from Stony Brook University. In their free time, Toni enjoys reading, board games, comics, building mechanical keyboards, and also playing Dungeons & Dragons!

Pat manages the front desk and the student workers at the Brooklyn office as well as assists all who visit. Pat joined the Wasserman Center in March 2014. Prior to working at Wasserman, she worked with the office of Undergraduate Admissions at NYU Tandon where she also worked with student workers. Pat attended the New York City College of Technology (former New York City Technical College). Pat likes to spend time with her family and friends, shop and just hang out. Participated in Safe Zone.

Rachel Frint is currently the Assistant Dean of Career Development at the NYU School of Professional Studies, responsible for the strategy and management of the NYUSPS Wasserman Center for Career Development. Together with her team, she works to ensure that over 4,500 NYUSPS students are empowered and equipped with the skills and relationships needed to manage lifelong professional success in an ever-changing global workforce. See full bio.

Edwin co-built and executed recent strategy focused on faculty career education, industry and employer engagement, marketing/communications, and experiential learning/academic partnerships. He was a key leader in activating the Center’s career wellness strategy by realigning student services and scaling coaching reach. In the wake of Covid-19, Edwin created response programs that retained industry engagement and fostered applied learning among SPS students: the Adapt & Achieve Networking Series and the NYUSPS Innovation Challenge. See full bio.

Diana’s responsibilities include coaching students and alumni, developing and scaling the SPS career coaching philosophy, and career & industry programs and events. With a background in edtech, career coaching and management, Diana loves helping students and alumni attain experience and employment and supporting coaches in their professional development. Prior to NYU, Diana was Sr. Manager of Career Coaching at Flatiron School, a tech boot camp. Diana holds coaching certifications from CTI and the ICF, and a BA in film and tv production from NYU/TSOA. In her free time she enjoys being with family, gardening, cooking and writing.

Sue McNeilly (she/her), Senior Assistant Director at the Wasserman Center for Career Development at the School of Professional Studies, joined NYUSPS in 2018. After more than 12 years of experience in housing administration at three different institutions on the east coast, Sue found herself making a pivot to fulfill her passion of assisting students in their career management. Sue is deeply invested in ally and advocacy work for communities that have been historically underrepresented and infuses that commitment into her work at the Wasserman Center. She currently co-leads the Inclusion, Diversity, Belonging and Equity Working Group for the Wasserman Center and enjoys helping students examine how their salient identities intersect with their careers through coaching and programs. Specifically, Sue specializes in working with students navigating racial identity and gender identity (including transgender and gender non-conforming) in the workplace. See full bio.

Nourine Bhimani is an Assistant Director and Career Coach at the NYU SPS Wasserman Center for Career Development where she helps undergraduate and graduate students and alumni in building meaningful careers. Equipped with a strong experience in a variety of work settings and roles Nourine’s career journey has been anything but conventional. Before coming to NYU she has worked with Pace University, NYC Department of Education and Columbia University in communications, professional development, career coaching, marketing, and event management roles. Nourine also brings with her a multi-function experience of working with Nonprofits and Banking and Financial Institutions from India. See full bio.

Before joining Wasserman in December 2018, Tiffany worked in Admissions and Enrollment Management at Florida International University and CUNY New York City College of Technology. She earned her B.S. in Legal Studies from St. John’s University and her M.S. in Higher Education Administration from Florida International University. Tiffany is extremely passionate about helping students navigate their professional and academic careers with ease. See full bio.

Sandy recently joined SPS Wasserman and will oversee cultivating and enhancing relationships with employers that result in job opportunities for NYU students and alumni, as well as assist in data analysis and marketing initiatives. See full bio.
 

Prior to joining SPS Wasserman in March 2021, Angelina worked at the English Language Institute at NYU SPS. She earned her B.A. in Film Studies from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities and her M.A. in Higher Education Administration at NYU. In her free time she enjoys spending time with friends and family, watching documentaries, learning to play cello and playing with her two dogs.