Meet Philadelphia Network Leadership Council Member

What Peter is up to now and reflecting on his time at the University

Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey since graduating from the URochester. What are you currently working on or passionate about?

Since graduating from the Ģ����ý with a degree in computer science and mathematics, my career has spanned various industries and leadership roles, focusing on strategy, organizational development, and leadership consulting. This journey has taken me to cities all around the world.

I began at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) and have since held various positions at Capgemini, Strategy&, IBM, and Kearney, specializing in strategy and business transformation. I then transitioned to Egon Zehnder where I spent 19 years serving financial services clients focused on board review, CEO succession, and leadership development initiatives.

Currently, as Chief Leadership Officer at Quest Global, I am focused on its leadership agenda. In addition to my professional work, I am pursuing a doctorate in organization management at Rutgers Business School, driven by my passion for leadership, coaching, and mentoring.

On a personal level, I am preparing for my fifth ultra-marathon, this time in South Africa, embracing the challenge of endurance sports.

What are some of your most cherished memories from your time at the University? Are there any stories that still stand out 35 years later?

My time at the URochester was a defining chapter filled with intellectual curiosity, camaraderie, and adventure. I valued the faculty’s support, my peers’ aspirations, and the strong sense of community on campus and beyond. The computer science program at the time was still emerging, and I’m grateful for the faculty and administration’s guidance that helped me land my first job. Some of my best memories include volunteering in the community, late-night study sessions, and surviving Rochester’s legendary winters—like when we jumped from a second-floor window into snowbanks after six feet of snow! The campus tunnel system was a lifesaver during those brutal winters.

How did your time at the University, both academically and socially, shape your personal and professional life?

The Ģ����ý was pivotal in building my confidence, broadening my career outlook, and enhancing my cultural awareness. It taught me critical thinking, problem-solving, resilience, and humility, while its diverse environment inspired me to pursue international opportunities, leading to a global career. The friendships and experiences I gained reinforced the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and lifelong learning—values that continue to guide me. I’m deeply grateful for the University’s impact on my journey, providing the foundation and inspiration for my career, mentorship, and ongoing learning.

Volunteerism and making an impact

What inspired you to join the 35th Reunion Committee, and what excites you most about reconnecting with your classmates?

My primary goal in helping plan our 35th Reunion is to reconnect with classmates, encourage them to revisit the University and foster an environment where everyone feels welcomed and inspired to re-engage with the Rochester community. Giving back to the University is important to me, as I wouldn’t be where I am today without the education and experiences I received. Having seen how much the University has evolved, I want my classmates to experience that too. I’m excited to bring my family and share this pivotal place in my journey, hoping many of my classmates will join to reminisce, network, or appreciate how far we’ve come.

This will be my first in-person Reunion, as I missed our 30th due to COVID and spent much of my career abroad. I’m especially excited to reconnect with my computer science classmates, as only 18 of us graduated with this degree in 1990, making us a close-knit group. I look forward to seeing how everyone’s journey has evolved.

How do you think alumni events like Reunions help strengthen the bonds between classmates and the University community?

Alumni events like Reunions offer more than just social gatherings. They provide valuable opportunities to:

• Reconnect with classmates: Rekindle friendships, share life updates, and reminisce about shared experiences.
• Reflect on our Rochester journey: Consider how our education and experiences at Rochester have shaped our personal and professional lives.
• Engage with the evolving University: Witness the University’s growth and explore ways to contribute to its continued success, whether through mentorship, volunteer work, or sharing your expertise with current students.
• Connect with the next generation: Interact with faculty and current students, offering guidance and sharing our insights to support their academic and personal growth.

As a Real Reader, how has your involvement in this program allowed you to give back to the University and connect with current students?

Beyond reconnecting with classmates, I have also found fulfillment in supporting current students through the Real Reader program, one of the Greene Center for Career Education and Connections’ . While this initiative did not exist when I was a student, it is an incredible way to help guide the next generation by offering career advice, resume and cover letter feedback, and insights into professional growth. Having navigated a global career, I enjoy helping students think through career possibilities with a broader perspective. The level of ambition and thoughtfulness among today’s students is truly impressive, and while the program requires time commitment, the chance to mentor, guide, and offer perspective makes it an enriching experience.

What have been some of the most rewarding moments in your volunteer work with the University so far?

What I find most meaningful about volunteering with the University is the sense of connection to fellow alumni, students, and the broader Rochester community. The collective experience of being involved, helpful, and engaged through Reunion planning, mentorship, and sharing insights is truly rewarding. I value being part of this network and look forward to continuing to support Rochester’s community in any way I can.

How you can get involved like Peter

What advice would you give to fellow alumni who are considering volunteering for reunions or other University initiatives?

My advice for those considering volunteering for reunions or other University initiatives is simple: do it. There’s no need to hesitate or overthink it—the experience of giving back, reconnecting, and contributing to the University community is rewarding in ways beyond the event itself.

Even for those who may not have the time to volunteer, I would encourage them to actively participate in the Reunion and truly take it all in. Whether through catching up with old friends, making new connections, engaging with faculty and students, or simply walking through campus and seeing how it has evolved, being part of the Reunion experience should not be missed.

Check out volunteer opportunities with the University today!

Meet psychiatric nurse practitioner and dancer Sydney Robinson Phillips ’14

Share a bit about yourself! What are you up to now?

I currently live in the city of Philadelphia with my husband, Jovan, and our dog, Charlie. I work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Nemours Children’s Hospital in Delaware and teach simulation labs at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. In my free time, I love running on the Schuylkill River Trail, baking, trying new restaurants in the city, and spending time with friends and family.

What are your most cherished memories from the Ģ����ý?

Late-night dance rehearsals in Spurrier, painting the tunnels, attending Boar’s Head, performing a flash mob in the old Douglass cafeteria, cozy nights studying in Rush Rhees, “bring a shovel to school day,” and exploring the city of Rochester on weekends and during the summer!

How did campus life and any co-curricular involvement (clubs, organizations, teams, etc.) impact your personal and professional growth?

Extra-curriculars were a significant part of my identity at the URochester (and sometimes prioritized more than academics and doing laundry). I was heavily involved in the dance department, where most of my waking moments were spent choreographing, rehearsing, or performing. I was a member of a few performing arts groups on campus as well, including Ballet Performance Group and Rochester Raas, and have made lifelong friends from these respective groups. During my sophomore year, I helped to create a dance outreach program at a local elementary school called “Dare to Dance,” which is still going strong today.

From an academic perspective, I was granted opportunities to serve as a TA within the psychology department and work as a research assistant within the Kid Neuro Lab on campus for three years. Since graduating from the University, I have been eager to combine all of my personal and professional passions (including dance, neuroscience, psychology, and medicine) into one career. Fast forward 10 years later, I am in the process of obtaining my dance/movement therapy certification, to provide more holistic-based care for my patients and families. This has been such a full-circle moment for me, especially since the certification program is led by one of my former professors at the University!

How did your experience at the URochester influence your life?

The Ģ����ý has helped to instill a continued sense of curiosity, drive, and passion in everything that I set out to achieve and has provided me with the tools to be an honest leader, friend, teacher, advocate, clinician, and lifetime learner.

What sparked your initial interest in volunteering with the University? What role(s) have you held?

Since I had such a positive experience throughout my four years at the URochester, I knew I wanted to give back in some capacity upon graduation. After establishing roots in Philadelphia in 2016, I started to attend various University events in the city and became an alumni interviewer, for both local and domestic/international prospective students. In 2019, I was introduced to the Young Alumni Council (YAC) and have been a member of YAC ever since! I am also excited to be a part of the 10^th Reunion Planning Committee this year.

What advice do you have for fellow alumni and friends who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni and friends’ community?

Try it out! There is no commitment that is too small – life can be chaotic, and so any type of involvement is welcomed and appreciated. Whether it be via community engagement, mentoring students, or providing admission support, there is surely something that will spark your interest.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

Having the opportunity to meet and develop connections with alumni across generations with diverse backgrounds.

Violinist Alexandra Cutler-Fetkewicz ’99E, ’02E (MM) expands music career and serves the community

Share a bit about yourself! What are you up to now?

Since graduating with my master’s degree, so much has happened in my professional life, that it is tough to choose what to highlight! I have made a career as a performer, recording artist, arranger, and contractor, and it seems the list of my musical endeavors is ever-expanding, something I attribute to the worldly music education I received at Eastman.

I have shared the stage with many big stars, from The Who, to Lauryn Hill, to Earth, Wind, and Fire, and many others. I have contributed to a Grammy-nominated album, and I am also the co-owner and founder of an entertainment contracting and production company called Philly Music Lab which I started with a close friend from ESM in 2015, Samantha Wittchen. Last summer, I had the honor of performing as a featured soloist with the Pittsburgh Symphony, alongside Pittsburgh rapper Frzy, as the orchestra performed my original arrangement of the hip hop song co-written by Frzy and I called “What Do I Know” for the city’s Juneteenth celebration.��In addition to my performing and recording activities, I am extremely proud to serve the music community as vice president and co-chair of membership for the Philadelphia Chapter of the Recording Academy.

After finishing my degrees, I had always hoped to move back to the incredible music town that is my hometown of Philadelphia, so after a couple of years freelancing (Albany Symphony, Binghamton Philharmonic, and many regional gigs), I did just that, and am still based in Philly. However, as life is unpredictable, just before leaving Rochester, I was severely injured in a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident. This completely derailed my life and career, and I was told (erroneously) that I would never play professionally again. If not for my incredible family, and one special doctor who believed in me, I likely would have wound up in a very dire set of circumstances. After a long recovery, I began to play again little by little and won a position in the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, where I still perform.

What are your most cherished memories from the Ģ����ý?

My most cherished memories from my time at Eastman include the years of incredible teaching, friendship, and mentorship I received from my beloved violin teacher, the inimitable Oleh Krysa. He taught me to believe in my talent, no matter where it would take me, and to honor and respect it. We still talk, and his teaching still guides my playing every day. One incredibly important moment for me during my time at ESM was my appointment as concertmaster when John Williams came to conduct a program of his music. I performed the solos from many of his films (on the Vuillaume violin owned by the school), including “Schindler’s List,” “Far and Away,” “The Reivers,” and more, to a standing-room-only audience in Eastman Theater. It remains a highlight of my career.

My membership in the professional fraternity Mu Phi Epsilon afforded me relationships with other musicians who still guide me in connecting and working with others in our industry today. The camaraderie we established allowed us to work together to help others, bringing music to the community while making life-long friendships along the way. Eastman is a place where many of my current collegial and personal relationships within the music world originated, and I am always proud and excited to work with fellow alumni. I also spent a great deal of time at Java’s, mostly practicing in the boiler room there instead of in the Annex at school. Yes, the boiler room. You’d be surprised how inspiring an industrial-looking space can be for practicing! Shout out to Mike Calabrese and his staff for keeping us caffeinated and working hard!

How did your experience at the URochester influence your life?

I was awarded significant scholarships for both degrees, which allowed me to use part of my grad school loans to purchase the amazing violin I now own. Eastman allowed me to succeed, not only by affording me that financial flexibility, but by giving me the tools to grow my music business acumen. There were hardly any other conservatories offering arts leadership, so when the ALP program began during my undergrad, I quickly started taking advantage of that resource. Without courses like “Music Business Law 101,” or “How to Survive and Thrive in the Arts,” frankly, without teachers like Ramon Ricker, Adrian Daly, or Fred Sturm, I’m not sure where my career would have wound up. They all gave me the critical tools needed to work as a musician, not just be one.

What sparked your initial interest in volunteering with the University? What role(s) have you held?

Serving my community is important to me, so I volunteer with the Philadelphia Network Leadership Council (NLC) to help create more connections for Philadelphia area alumni and to help the University identify where we may have continuing opportunities for them.

What advice do you have for fellow alumni and friends who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni and friends’ community?

I would advise fellow alumni to get involved. We have a support system in place as a community of alumni of this great school, and when we show up for each other, we can work together and achieve great things. Also, I believe that networking is a very important part of being a successful performing artist, and a very important part of achieving representation. We need you in these rooms, and we need your voices to be heard.����

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

The most rewarding part of staying connected to ESM is the continued support and development of initiatives to push our art form into the future while preserving its integrity. I feel so fortunate to have received the well-rounded music education I did and love seeing my fellow alums thrive and have great success. I’m writing this while attending the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles this week, and am proud that I will see more than one alumnus of Eastman being honored for their work and talent.

If you’d like to learn more about what Alexandra and her team are doing, visit and for more info.

Explore its rich history, vibrant arts, and culinary scenes, and find out why nearly 3,000 alumni love calling the region home.

Jessica Rose ’16

“We all love the Liberty Bell, our sports teams, and cheesesteaks, but Philadelphia is so much more,” says Jessica Rose ’16, a pediatric nurse practitioner who lives in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square neighborhood.

“You’ll find fantastic food, art, and culture; loads of history and people proud of it; neighborhoods full of interesting people; and tons of green space, despite being a very urban place.”

If you have a chance to explore the city, here are a few of Rose’s recommendations—almost all in or within a short distance from Philly’s Center City.

Art and culture

A must for Rose is 🅐 Mural Arts Philadelphia (128 N. Broad St), the world’s largest outdoor art gallery and the country’s oldest program of its kind. She suggests taking a guided tour to learn the city’s visual history. Be sure also to visit the 🅑 Philadelphia Museum of Art (2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.), known as the cultural heart of the city (and for the Rocky Steps and the nearby Rocky statue).

For music, dance, and theatre buffs, Rose recommends the one-of-kind ��� Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts (300 S. Broad St.) and the 🅓��Walnut Street Theatre (825 Walnut St.)—the oldest continuously operating playhouse in the United States.

Alleys and architecture

Rose says there’s no better way to experience Philadelphia than on foot. Wander the many hidden brick and cobblestone alleys of 🅔��Old City and 🅕��Society Hill; take a walking tour to learn the stories—and even the secrets—of the homes and their residents; or visit the ��� Betsy Ross House (239 Arch St.) where the nation’s most famous seamstress is long said to have stitched the country’s first flag. Have time for just one destination? Rose recommends 🅗��Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street and home to 18th-century artisans and tradespeople.

Iconic history

Of course, a must-visit is 🅘��Independence Hall (520 Chestnut St.), where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed (look for George Washington’s inkstand and chair). Rose also recommends a stroll across Independence Mall to the 🅙��Liberty Bell.

Gardens and parks

The Pennsylvania Historical Society offers 🅚��Pop-Up Gardens, great places to kick back and enjoy food and beer from some of the city’s best restaurants. Rose frequents the one at 1438 South Street. For a different experience, enjoy a hike and relax by the ancient 🅛��Schuylkill River (pronounced SKOO-kil). On its west bank, south of Center City, is Bartram’s Garden (5400 Lindbergh Blvd.), the country’s oldest botanical spot of its kind, and accessible by trolley. Be sure also to spend time at its Sankofa Community

Farm, a crop farm rooted in the African Diaspora. Rose notes that Philly, a city of about 10,000 acres, has more than 100 parks. Her favorite is Fairmount Park, an urban oasis north of the art museum and extending to both sides of the Schuylkill River.

Philly fare and other fine food

Founded in 1893, 🅜��Reading Terminal Market (1136 Arch St.) is one of Rose’s favorite places. Reading offers food from around the world, arts, crafts, books, flowers, clothing, and just about everything else. Grab a donut at Beiler’s Bakery, a cheesesteak at DiNic’s, or some delicious food at the Little Thai Market. Venture beyond the market to 🅝��Zahav (237 St. James Pl.) for authentic Israeli flavors (make a reservation, says Rose); 🅞��Vedge (1221 Locust St.), where Rose’s favorite is the sweet potato pâté; 🅟 Continental Midtown (1801 Chestnut St.) to sip a cocktail on its rooftop deck; 🅠��Dirty Franks (347 S. 13th St.), a dive bar and Philly institution; and Philly Pretzel Factory, at locations around the city.

Meet cardiologist, community builder, and Black Alumni Network member Dr. Sanul Corrielus ’98M (MD)

Share a bit about yourself!

Growing up as the youngest in a family of 9 siblings with limited resources, survivor instincts came easily to me. In retrospect, it looks like I was been trained for war except that I did not know it would be a war against heart disease. . When I was three years old, my father took a job in the U.S. that would allow him to better provide for his family. Throughout my childhood, I spoke with my father strictly by phone and dreamed of reuniting with him in the U.S. someday. Until then, I worked hard and persevered in school.

At 17, I moved to Brooklyn; it was a dream come true to be reunited with my father. I was elated. I completed my high school and enrolled at Brooklyn College. That’s when my dream fell apart. I watched heart disease consume my father and I vividly recall how little he knew about his condition. It was as though he was fighting in a war without any basic understanding of how to defend himself. At night, he would sleep in a chair. His legs were so swollen, and he could not breathe lying down due to congestive heart failure. My father died within the first year of our reunion. Losing my father to heart disease inspired me to become a cardiologist. My passion is to empower people with the knowledge and tools to take care of their health and safeguard their hearts against heart disease.

Rochester prepared me to practice medicine in a way that’s fulfilling. The medical school founded the and taught us, as medical students, that our relationships with our patients—our fellow community members and neighbors—are paramount. It underscored the importance of getting to know our patients and understanding how they live and what’s important to them.

Today, I am a cardiologist, best-selling author, and CEO of Corrielus Cardiology in Philadelphia which has been delivering cardiac care to the community for the past decade. I focus on three key areas in the community: outreach, empowerment through education, and connecting people to culturally competent care. I’m a board-certified cardiologist by training, but I see myself more as a “heartist, ” meaning I strive to truly connect to the heart of the community so they can be empowered, take better care of themselves, and lead more fulfilled lives.

When did you get first get involved as an alumni volunteer? What role(s)?

I started to get involved as an alumni volunteer about four years ago when I served as a regional program committee leader with the University’s Black Alumni Network. I have also been involved in many regional events and participated in the Virtual Book Club.

What inspired you to get connected and get active, and continue to stay involved?

I really feel blessed and find a great deal of joy and satisfaction in the work that I do every day in the lives of my patients. When I reflect on how I got to be where I am with all the success that I have been able to achieve in my career, it all goes back to my years and training at the URochester. The school has made such an indelible mark on who I am today, I feel a sense of responsibility to give back and contribute to enriching the experience for those going through the process now and the many to come.

My book, , provides a breakthrough plan for heart health and longevity. In it, I delve into how we all have a gift, a mission, and a purpose in life. Often, we put all we have into achieving our goals and dreams, but often we do so the detriment of our health. To me, Spartans are people who put others before themselves, and focus on the betterment of humanity. The book explores the importance of mind, body, and spirit balance to achieve our best, healthiest selves while serving others. My passion for educating and uplifting others is truly what is fueling my involvement in our alumni community which will hopefully translate to happier, healthier, and longer lives for all.

What advice do you have for fellow alumni and friends who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni and friends community?

My advice to my fellow alumni who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni community is to “just do it”. In the process of getting involved, I would encourage you to start with a gratitude journal. Start your day with a list of the things you are grateful for. Do that daily and it will change your life. The joy, satisfaction, and health benefits you will gain are immeasurable but also will fuel your drive to pour into others.

Meet Young Alumni Council and Women’s Network Leader Marcelina Martynek ’18

Marcelina Martynek ’18

Tell us about your time as a student.

Like many students at Rochester, I did a lot!�� Most of my time was taken up working towards my degrees in Brain & Cognitive Science and Computer Science and I remember many long nights in the Rush Rhees stacks. When I wasn’t studying, I was running in circles as a member of the Varsity Track & Field team. The track team was one of my saving graces. With my demanding course load, I looked forward to practice and competition days as it was a dedicated time where I didn’t have to think about the next exam or problem set. I am still an active runner and look upon my track and field days fondly. I was also an active member of the women’s club soccer team, Meridian Society (tour guide), the Brain & Cognitive Science/Neuroscience (BCS/NSC) Undergraduate Council, and the Women In Computing group.

How did your experience at the URochester influence your life?

Oh boy, where to begin? There’s so many! I would say the most important influence was in the development of my scientific pursuits. I joined research labs as an undergraduate researcher during my junior year because I was simply curious. Soon after, I was hooked. Learning about the scientific method firsthand and seeing what being a “researcher” really means was hands down some of the most important experiences of my life. I had never considered the career of “scientist” until I came to the University. Could I do it? Did I have what it takes? Some of the incredible female scientists I had the pleasure of working with and learning from also contributed heavily to my decisions. I needed some extra encouragement after graduation (thanks Young Alumni Council and New York Metro Women!) but in the end, it was meant to be and I am currently working towards that dream.

What inspired you to get involved and volunteer?

After graduation, I went back to my hometown in upstate New York for a couple months. I was unsure of where or in what field I wanted to start my career. I knew I wanted it to be science-related but from there I was stumped. So, I figured that connecting with alumni would be a good place to start. I was close to New York City and I had a lot of friends that were living in the city. I knew there were alumni events that occurred frequently in NYC and attended events to stay in the loop and network. It was through these events that I learned about the NYC chapter of the Young Alumni Council (YAC). When I learned that I could join the YAC, I enthusiastically applied. I figured it would be a great way to stay involved with the University and be able to advocate for young alumni such as myself, as well as a way to network and stay in touch with friends. When I got a job in Philly as a research specialist at the University of Pennsylvania, I transferred to the Philadelphia YAC. I moved to Philly without any close connections. It was somewhat lonely for those first couple months, but the YAC provided me with support.

As for the (NYMW), I joined the group very early, it may have even been before I graduated! I was really looking for a women’s group to connect with. The NYMW had monthly networking breakfasts in NYC and I attended them when I could. I met an amazing group of women, from all graduation years and professions, and I loved learning about their time at the University, their professions, and the rich advice and life lessons they graciously supplied. Since I was still “figuring it out,” I asked many members about their career paths and I was so grateful that many of them were happy to share where their career and life paths had taken them. Those months after graduation were a bit of a whirlwind but the gracious support the NYMW provided me was priceless. I am now a committee member of the NYMW.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

The most rewarding part is helping to curate events and programs that resonate with the Rochester alumni community. For example, with the NYMW, we work hard to organize programs that serve the Ģ����ý Women’s Network and implement support for them. From career panels to financial advice to women’s health focused events, I am proud that I have directly contributed to the NYMW’s programming that has connected and continues to connect the fantastic alumna of the University.

What are you looking forward to next?

I am currently in the biology PhD program at the University of Pennsylvania, so I have a few years of work ahead of me! I research the intersection of environmental diversity and climate change and how that effects global coral populations across coral reefs. Like any job, there are good weeks and bad weeks but overall, I love my program, my research, and the pursuit of scientific discovery. As for afterwards…who knows? I’m not set on any specific career path, but I do know that I want to be involved in coral reef conservation, biotech, and environmental advocacy.

What advice do you have for others looking to get involved?

I’ve remained involved with the YAC because I remember how I felt when I first moved to Philly ­— alone and no friends. But, I also remember how much I looked forward to the local Rochester events and how everything felt a bit better after attending them. If I can be someone that can make even one person feel like they’re not alone, by providing tips on the city or connections or suggesting the best place for a cheesesteak (it’s Dalessandro’s, don’t @ me), then I’m happy. I may not know it, but it’s the thought that’s enough for me.

Meet our new Philadelphia Network Leadership Council co-chair, Manish Vig ’91, 95M (MD)

Manish Vig ’91, 95M (MD)

What was your time like as a student?

I applied to the Ģ����ý at the encouragement of my high school counselor based upon what I was looking for from a college. His daughter was attending Rochester at the time, and I was interested in studying and majoring in Genetics (only a few universities in the 1980s offered this as a major). I ended up also majoring in Political Science, as I was drawn to the amazing professors in their department, and their insights about the broader world and global connections. Most of my extracurricular time was spent with the Sigma Nu Fraternity and I was the chapter President my senior year. We were awarded the University’s fraternity of the year in 1990 and I was able to tap those high emotions going into my senior year to accomplish a lot of personal and chapter goals. ��I was also involved with community service organizations in the area and intramural sports such as squash, basketball, and tennis. I have fond memories of hanging out with so many friends and late nights at the Distillery. I remain in touch with dozens of fraternity brothers to this day and even serve as the President of the Alumni Association for Sigma Nu-Rochester, as well as its Housing Board and Endowment Activities.

How did your experience at the URochester influence your life?��

I entered the University as a shy seventeen-year-old from New York City and left as a 25-year-old physician in 1995 ready to tackle the challenges of the urban environment of Philadelphia. ��My greatest moment at Rochester was being accepted to the Rochester Plan Early Selection Program at the Medical School in the summer of 1989. That one moment changed my life and allowed me the freedom to pursue a plethora of extracurricular activities while on River Campus. I was able to gain the flexibility of double majoring, participate in more fraternal activities, test my leadership skills, and gained the confidence to engage with my professors in different ways, including several years of bench research in Evolutionary Genetics with Dr. Werren. The Ģ����ý allowed me to broaden my horizons and achieve my boyhood dream of becoming a physician.

What made you want to become part of the Philadelphia Network Leadership Council?

I have been attending alumni events in the region for as long as I can remember. I moved to Philadelphia in 1995 to start my residency in Emergency Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. ��I have known Dr. Edward Fox ’91, ’95M (MD) since we were classmates in college and medical school and have supported all his activities with the Network Leadership Council. He asked me to be more involved about five years ago, and I was happy to do so as it meant designing events for alumni with the broader aim of outreach for the university and enhancing our brand recognition.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

It continually reminds me of my fond memories from my time as a young man and allows me to stay up to date with the Ģ����ý’s activities. ��Admittedly, I did not enjoy the rigorous days of being a third- and fourth-year medical student, but I was able to always find a social outlet by staying involved with River Campus college life and fraternity brothers in the area.��I thoroughly enjoy attending alumni events in our region since it is very common to meet current students at these events and occasionally be entertained by their musical groups like the Wind Chamber or YellowJackets. ��The leadership council for our region is also made up of some very accomplished people, and my time around them gives me energy to stay involved and learn of their experiences.

What are you looking forward to next?

Watching my son move onto his college career in Washington, D.C. and hoping he has a similar experience. ��He wishes to pursue business in some capacity, and he has had the benefit of joining me for several alumni events and touring the Ģ����ý campus. With respect to the Network Leadership Council, I will work hard to continue to see our membership grow and be even more engaged. I plan on connecting with other members from the northeast to learn some new ideas and would like to meet as many alumni as possible to know what they want from us.

What advice do you have for others looking to get involved?

There is always room for you and your ideas. ��Your involvement is a reflection of your memories from Rochester, and attending alumni events is a great way to find a place to share those memories with folks that can relate.��Be mindful of high school students looking for a similar experience from their college life and be eager to share your perspective and opinion with them. Philadelphia is a fantastic city, and I have seen it evolve since 1995 into a world-class destination.��I would also encourage everyone to try to meet at least one or two new people at every network event. You will be surprised to see how much you have in common with each other besides attending the Ģ����ý and living in the Delaware Valley. Please do not hesitate to approach me or share your ideas with me and the rest of the council. ��Activities that we collectively value will help build some enduring and beneficial relationships that can only strengthen the reputation of the URochester.

Anju Gupta with her husband and daughter

When Anju Gupta ’90, ‘91S (MBA) graduated from the Ģ����ý and moved to California, she was excited to immerse herself in her new life. While attending the university, she participated in a 3-2 program that allowed her to receive both her BA and MBA in just four years, due to her credits from Advanced Placement high school courses and summer classes. When Gupta thinks of her time at Rochester, she fondly remembers studying abroad in England where she worked as an intern in British parliament. While she now works as a Consultant for Dell Technologies in Austin, Gupta first explored her finance career in Los Angeles. Although LA was full of young professionals, it wasn’t as easy to make connections as she had anticipated.

Gupta decided to tap into the UR Alumni Network. By attending alumni events, she made friends with people who lived in her area who she would not have met if it weren’t for the network. She says, “Especially living on the west coast, when you meet someone from the Ģ����ý from the east coast, you immediately feel connected.”

Gupta has always made it a habit to attend alumni events. She says, “My alumni network is one of my first go-to places to help open doors.” For instance, when Gupta moved to Dallas a few years ago, she met an alumna from the Eastman School of Music, with whom she had not interacted during her studies. The Eastman alumna invited Gupta to her book club, which then introduced her to larger social circle.

At another Dallas event, Gupta met an alumnus from Simon Business School. She networked with him, became friends with his wife, and even interviewed at his company. Although she didn’t end up joining his team, she was grateful for the professional and personal connection.

Gupta says that alumni events always offer a welcoming environment in which it is easy to make friends. “We have a shared experience and that makes it easier for us to connect. There’s a level of openness and trust when you meet someone who went to your university, especially when you’re in a new place away from that environment.”

Gupta encourages alumni to be open to new ideas when it comes to events. “If there isn’t an event and you have an idea for something, definitely suggest it. There are a lot of people who are willing to jump in and help create an event. You’re not alone.”

No matter where you are with your career or where you are in the world, Gupta says it is always worth the effort to attend an alumni event. “It’s a great experience and you feel like you’re in this special yet very inclusive club.”

Kim Fraites-Dow ’98, ’98E, CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania

A few weeks ago, Kim Fraites-Dow, the CEO of Girls Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania, did what many others have done during the COVID-19 crisis—especially leaders who happen to be Eastman School of Music alumni. She set up an at-home office, complete with her laptop and a standing desk, a physio ball to serve as her office chair, and, yes, a dedicated space to practice her clarinet. Even though it’s been more than 20 years since graduation, she still plays when she can. And, during the pandemic, Fraites-Dow finds that practicing offers her a much-need respite.

“I tell others that now is such a great time to break out your ‘rusty keys’ or to start using whatever creative tools you have,” says Fraites-Dow, who earned double-degrees in music performance at Eastman and psychology at the University’s School of Arts & Sciences. “And, I encourage my staff: that now is when we must strive to be ever better. This draws on what I learned—and came to wholeheartedly believe—at Rochester.”

Fraites-Dow has been an executive with the Girl Scout organization since 2011, and leading it since 2016. It’s a job she loves. “I was a Girl Scout and my nine-year-old daughter, Ella, is one now,” she says. “I’m still friends with most of the girls—now grown women—from my troop. Today, watching Ella flourish, gain confidence, take risks, and make great friends has been so rewarding for me, as both a mom and as a leader in this organization.”

Girl Scouting and the Pandemic

The Girl Scouts—including Fraites-Dow’s regional program—has stepped up during the crisis. She and her team of 80 employees pivoted quickly to deliver the organization’s supportive programs and information digitally.

Resources include a series of articles on how to support girls socially and emotionally during this time. They cover such topics as how to talk to your children about the virus, how to deal with an overwhelming world, and how to handle disappointment during the pandemic.

“There is so much disappointment right now,” says Fraites-Dow. “From a five year old missing a dance recital to a 17-year-old with no prom or high school graduation ceremony to go to, we offer some good counsel to them and their families, to help them get through it all.”

The organization has also recently launched and its programs, which are designed to inspire, connect, and inform young people and their communities, as well as parents/guardians, and volunteers.

Girl Scouts at Home

According to the Girl Scouts, Girl Scouts at Home is a national online platform where all girls and families—not just Girl Scouts—can access free self-guided, age-appropriate activities. These span such areas as STEM, entrepreneurship, life skills, and the outdoors. More programs and activities are being added regularly, allowing girls to work toward badges, participate in virtual events, and connect with each other for troop meetings and to pursue projects together.

“By exploring some of the online programs we offer, girls—and anyone, really—can become space scientists, learn the basics of computer programming, experiment with different techniques to increase happiness, and much more,” says Fraites-Dow. “There are great resources on here, too, that help troop leaders connect with one another, share ideas, and learn how to meet girls’ needs during this difficult time.”

Girl Scouts Cookie Care

Since the Girl Scouts have suspended in-person activities and door-to-door cookie sales, the organization started a Girl Scout Cookie Care campaign. People can now order cookies online, for themselves to enjoy or to donate and have delivered to first responders, volunteers, and local causes on the frontlines of the pandemic.

“Prior to the quarantine, my daughter came up with a great way to sell her cookies this year,” says Fraites-Dow. “She made personalized videos and sent them to her customers from last year…reminding them of their orders. People loved how she ‘visited’ them virtually and then responded with enthusiasm, by placing a lot of orders.”

Embrace who you are, but learn to “sprinkle in” a few of the skills of extroverts,” career consultant Jane Finkle ’86W (Mas) tells self-described introverts.

As a master’s student, I had an opportunity to work at Rochester’s career center. That was really pivotal. I ended up doing a career discovery group, and it just generated such excitement and energy.
After I finished my program at the Warner School, I got a job at RIT, worked there for about nine months, and then was recruited to work at the University of Pennsylvania. I oversaw the Wharton Career undergraduate program, but I came from a family of entrepreneurs, so it was always in the back of my mind to do private practice. I’ve been in private practice for 12 years.

American culture leans toward extroversion. And I think that often leaves introverts feeling left out, invisible, or that they may be overlooked for opportunities or promotions.
There are many successful introverts, but there are a lot of clients I’ve worked with who are introverted and feel they’re at a disadvantage. And it’s unfortunate, because they bring a lot to the world and the workplace.

When I first meet with an introvert, instead of saying, “OK, let’s start working on networking,” or some other skill, I always ask them if they’ve ever thought about what’s good about introversion.
We have a conversation about the qualities of introversion that are important to the workplace. And that shifts their sense of who they are in a more positive direction. It doesn’t mean introverts don’t have to take some new risks. But the message is, “embrace who you are.”

I think an important strength of introverts is that they tend to have an ability to concentrate and dig deep.
That often results in creative thinking. If you take time to really think things through, you may come up with a great solution to a problem that adds value in the workplace.

I think that introverts have to be able to integrate, or “sprinkle in,” as I often say, some extroverted skills.
They don’t have to change who they are, but they do have to learn to speak up, promote themselves, and take initiative. Introverts are sometimes more comfortable behind the scenes. So it’s very important when they’re in a work environment that they keep coworkers and the boss up to date with any tasks, problems, or accomplishments.

Introverts who are just starting their careers, such as new college graduates, often feel they won’t know what to say. How do I introduce myself to a network contact? How should I prepare for an interview?
I think one strategy that works really well for introverts is advanced planning. A lot of introverts don’t enjoy networking, but if they first write a script to introduce themselves, they can use their introvert energy to plan in advance what to say. And often they do just fine with reflection, planning, and practice.

As they go through their careers, introverts should make sure they’re connecting with people.
Sometimes they’re just not aware that they need to spend quality time initiating and building relationships. Maybe things aren’t so great at their job. There are ways to develop themselves outside of that organization, through professional associations, where they might serve on a committee, or a nonprofit, where they could serve on the board. These contacts can prove highly beneficial when looking for new opportunities.

I think social media is a gift to introverts.
They can post articles. They can easily introduce themselves to potential contacts. If they’ve won an award or achieved something special, they can post about it. And they can connect with leaders in their field, all in the comfort of solitude.

Extroverts have special challenges, too.
They tend to think and talk at the same time. Extroverts speak more easily and extemporaneously. But just because you talk a lot doesn’t mean you have the best ideas. I think their challenge is to stop and listen, and to listen a little more mindfully.