Bryant & Stratton College - Online Degrees: Faculty


Bachelor Degrees
	BA - General Management

Associate Degrees
	Accounting
	Business
	Criminal Justice
	Human Resources Specialist
	Information Technology
	Medical Administrative Assistant
	Paralegal Studies


	Faculty
	Admissions Staff
	Financial Aid Staff
	Support Staff

Name:	Paul Blake
Department:
Information Technology
Degrees:
M.B.A., State University of New York College at Buffalo B.S., State University of New York College at Buffalo

Bio:

I am excited to take my experiences both as a student and as a professional and relate this information to my students by using real life examples to support course material. I find it very rewarding when a connection is made by the students to the course material, and I look forward to teaching many years to come.

Currently, I work as a Sr. Category Management Analyst for a major toy manufacturer.

Name:	Kevin Breen
Degrees:
M.L.S., CUNY Queens College B.A., Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia A.S., Community College of the Air Force

Bio:

Teaching is an art not a science. There are no cookie cutter approaches that will work with all students -- creativity, resourcefulness and humor are essential elements that make a good teacher (along with using a combination of exercises, lectures and discussions). And, while I understand that students today are dealing with a wider range of issues than I experienced in college, I never-the-less continue to demand only the best from them. In return, I make a commitment to my students that I will be available to them both inside and outside of the classroom.

Name:	Tonya Brinkley
Department:
Information Technology
Degrees:
M.S. Ed., University of Oklahoma M.S.C.I.S., University of Phoenix B.A., University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Bio:

I have 20 years of experience in various areas of Information Technology to include programming, system’s administration, web site design, and database administration. My goal as a “teacher” is to teach for understanding, not simply for recall.

I currently work as a program Analyst.

Name:	Tonya Burton
Department:
Business
Degrees:
M.B.A., Hampton University B.S., Florida A&M University

Bio:

I love teaching for Bryant & Stratton College because I have the opportunity to work with a lot of serious minded and professional students. I believe that my work experience in business along with my dedication to creating the best classroom environment through meaningful assignments is very helpful to student success.

Name:	Vance Carpenter
Department:
Information Technology
Degrees:
M.S., George Washington University B.S., Columbia College A.A., Columbia College

Bio:

The right information, in the right place and the right time, every time! This is my foundation for how I teach. Assisting students in digesting facts participate in discussions and research allowing them to compile it all into the information they will need to work in their chosen career.

Name:	Joseph Ceccarelli
Department:
Information Technology
Degrees:
M.S., University of Phoenix B.S., Houghton College

Bio:

I try to inspire my students through my own enthusiasm and by continued encouragement. I instill upon them true work ethics and make them understand that reward is not obtainable without taking a few risks. Trust, commitment, and integrity are just a few of the soft skills I learned and now emphasize in the classroom. Through the process of showing, illustrating, and inspiring, I focus my teaching efforts to help shape my students in becoming an asset for any organization.

Name:	Karen Chapman
Title:	Associate Dean of Online Instruction
Degrees:
MBA from Wayland Baptist University BS – Park University

Bio:

I retired from the Air Force after 21 years of active duty service on 1 Nov 07. While on active duty, I earned my MBA with a discipline in HR from Wayland Baptist University and started teaching part time for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) and Wayland Baptist University in the traditional classroom environment. I moved to online teaching in Aug 07 and joined the team here at Bryant & Stratton , Orchard Park NY in June 08.

Name:	Nicole Chiarella
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
M.S., Boston University Metropolitan College B.S., SUNY Empire A.A.S., SUNY Empire

Bio:

My teaching philosophy centers on giving my criminal justice students the tools, skills, technologies and knowledge necessary for them to find rewarding careers in the criminal justice field or go on to a higher educational degree in the social sciences. My role in orienting students to the criminal justice field is to keep abreast of the latest innovations and trends in the field.

Name:	Doreen DiCarlo
Department:
Information Technology
Degrees:
M.B.A., LeMoyne College B.P.S., Cazenovia College

Bio:

I encourage my students to share their opinions, experience, and knowledge, thereby connecting and sharing with their classmates, to become lifelong learners like me. I enjoy conversing with my students, interacting each week with them, and watching them learn, grow and perform. I have always wanted to be an educator, and I have always believed I would be good at it. I know I could make a difference in someone’s life—I hope that life will be yours!

I am a full time Instructor for Online.

Name:	Kathy Dilmore
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.B.A., Clarkson University B.S., Clarkson University A.S., Tompkins-Cortland Community College

Bio:

Before I discovered how much I enjoy teaching, I worked as a CAD Designer, a Technical Writer, a Process Engineer and I even spent some time doing Financial Analysis for businesses and individuals. I enjoy teaching because I believe that my students are the leaders of the future. I am honored to be a part of arming them with tools they need to become successful in their endeavors. By encouraging students to take responsibility, work in teams, and develop problem solving skills they are on their way to accomplishing great things.

I am also an Adjunct Professor at LeMoyne College and an Aquatics Instructor for the American Red Cross.

Name:	Ellen Divens
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
A.O.S., Bryant & Stratton College B.S., Roberts Wesleyan College M.S., University of New York College of Buffalo

Bio:

If you believe in Destiny, then I have found mine! As an alumni graduate of Bryant & Stratton, I knew way back while earning my Associates in Information Technology that I wanted to teach here. I wanted to be part of the sense of family that I found here. After working for a major corporation for 25 years, I felt the field of Education calling me to encourage students who were walking the trail that I had taken. Blending my experience as an older student, my corporate knowledge, my technical skill, and my passion for people, gives me a special connection to my students that yields enthusiastic life-long learners.

As the saying goes, “Live like you will die tomorrow; learn like you will live forever!” Education is a journey, c’mon let’s travel together!

Name:	Deborah Franklin
Department:
Information Technology
Degrees:
M.S. Business Education -State University College at Buffalo B.S. Business Education -State University College at Buffalo A.A.S. Secretarial Science -Erie Community College
Teaches:
OFST225 - Legal Office Systems OFST230 - Integrated Office Systems OFST245 - Medical Office Systems SOSC215 - Career Management INFT110 - Information Technology II INFT100 - Information Technology I OFST100 - Keyboarding & Document Processing OFST102 - Document Processing & Transcription OFST200 - Document Production OFST120 - Office Procedures & Technology OFST205 - Desktop Publishing

Bio:

I started with Bryant & Stratton College in 1981 at the Rochester campus and moved to Eastern Hills Campus in 1984. I then moved to the Lackawanna/Southtowns Campus in 1990, and started teaching one class with the Online Division in 1999.

I love teaching and really feel that the courses and curriculum we teach here at Bryant & Stratton College can make a difference in one’s life. Our graduates can take the skills they learn and create fine careers and futures for themselves. Each student has the potential to succeed and be whatever they want to be in the business world. This is what drives me to do the work that I do. I want my students to be successful. “The benefits of education live forever.”

I am also currently an active member of the Buffalo Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals. I have been a member and chairperson for the CPS/CAP Committee for the past four years. My goal is to educate and prepare the members of this association to become certified professionals in their field. At the same time, I am able to familiarize my students with the benefits of belonging to a professional organization.

Name:	Joanna Huyck
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.A., State University of New York at Albany B.A., College of Saint Rose

Name:	Allan Jackson
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.A., University of South Florida

Bio:

My experience as a technical writer and editor, along with training in the corporate word, has helped me tremendously with my online teaching. I love the opportunities it opens not only for me, but for my students as well. It gives us all a chance to reach out beyond the boundaries of the traditional classroom, and enables us to enhance our learning in ways that are still being measured.

I have been a Technical Writer for 10 years, a Corporate Trainer for 10 years, and a Technical Editor for 4 years.

Name:	Sharon Kraynik
Department:
Information Technology
Degrees:
M.S. SUNY Buffalo B.S. SUNY Geneseo

Bio:

Building a strong learner-teacher relationship in an on-line environment can be a challenge. In order to build a strong on-line community, I use stimulating on-line dialog topics that promote critical thinking. To facilitate learning, I provide frequent feedback with either public (discussion board) or private communication (personal e-mails). I encourage learners to communicate openly with each other in our journey of lifelong learning.
I am a computer networking professional with 15 years of corporate experience. Currently, I am a technical training specialist for a telecommunications company.

Name:	Kimberly Krog
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
M.S. Ed., Alfred University B.A., Houghton College A.A.S., SUNY at Alfred

Bio:

I enjoy guiding my students in using their own understanding to explore and master new knowledge. We explore topics of interest to students in the real world, including aspects of future professions. Exploration includes discussion among students on-line, participation in team work, writing for understanding, and mentoring by the teacher. Mastery includes thinking critically, developing self-understanding, interviewing for information, researching on-line, and expressing a viewpoint through writing. Then, to demonstrate mastery, application of the new learning.

I have taught Critical Thinking, English and Writing for 12 years at international schools in Ecuador and Pakistan, plus another 5 in college. I also write part-time for a living.

Name:	Robin Laukhuf
Department:
Business
Degrees:
M.B.A., Lake Erie College B.B.A., Lake Erie College A.A.S., Lakeland Community College

Bio:

I enjoy teaching and owning my own small business. I hope to instill in my students the importance of continuing their education. Education is the key to advancement.

In addition to teaching full-time at Online, Ms. Laukhuf is the president and owner of Olde Willow Stitchery Threads, Inc. plus she also designs and teaches for trade magazines including "The Cross Stitcher" and "Cross Stitch and Needlework".

Name:	Florence Lennert
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.S. Ed., Canisius College B. Ed., State University of New York at Buffalo A.A.S., State University of New York at Buffalo

Bio:

My philosophy on teaching is that all students can achieve academic success. My goal is to guide them (by mentoring, facilitating, and encouraging) to become marketable in both today and tomorrow's workforce.

Currently I work at a school for special education students.

Name:	Bonnie MacGregor
Title:	Dean of Online Instruction
Degrees:
Ed.D., Nova Southeastern University M.S., State University of New York College at Buffalo B.S., State University of New York College at Buffalo

Bio:

I believe that each adult brings to my class a wealth of personal experiences. My teaching opportunity is to help each adult sort out those experiences and apply them-- first, to the theories of my course and – second, to their future “real world” job!

Name:	Robert Maher
Department:
Information Technology
Degrees:
M.A., George Washington University B.S., Old Dominion University

Name:	Jennifer Martin
Title:	Instructional Technologist
Department:
Academics
Degrees:
B.S., Hilbert College

Bio:

As the Instructional Technologist here at Online, my job involves assisting the faculty in the technological creation and development of their online courses. I have many years experience training adults on various computer programs, and working with instructional technology, especially in the area of Distance Learning. I believe that each individual contributes significantly to society. Obtaining a quality education will allow them to acknowledge and fulfill their highest potential. I am very pleased to have a part in helping students achieve that goal.

Name:	Marjorie McKinstry-Miller
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
M.A., East Carolina University B.A., East Carolina University

Bio:

Howdy! I’m currently a composition professor and freelance writer and photographer. I’ve been a “paid” educator since 1990, but my friends and family will quickly assert that I have been teaching since I could string two words together. Unlike many English professors, I actually prefer teaching composition over literature… Seeing students lose their fear of language, and then seeing them embrace creativity is truly a godsend. It helps that I can relate to the fear many have of writing, because I overcame a similar fear of math (shudder). Today, I work, teach, research and write from home (we live in the boondocks, about an hour from civilization) and have found much sanity through online education and communication.

Name:	Tiffany Miner
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
M.B.A. Concordia University Bachelor’s Degree: Lakeland College Associate’s Degree: Bryant Stratton College

Bio:

I feel that a mind is a terrible thing to waste; it should be used efficiently at all times. Students should continuously reach for the stars and attempt to make their dreams a reality. My teaching approach is to allow students to be who they are and assist them in understanding specific concepts at all levels. I have a passion for sharing my knowledge and I'm always open to students wanting to share theirs’ with me and other classmates. My belief is that all students can do and fulfill any dream that they set out for since “it is never to late to become what you could have became”. My class motto is: “No Adult Left Behind”.

Name:	Marcie Newton
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
M.A., State University of New York at Albany B.A., Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, University of London

Bio:

My philosophy on teaching is closely connected with helping students develop a “can-do” attitude. With the right guidance and the desire to succeed in today’s technology-driven workplace environment, all students are capable of producing well-written documents that foster positive and rewarding communications with confidence.

In addition to teaching online, I have taught or am currently teaching the following courses at Bryant and Stratton College, Albany: English Composition and Research, Writing for Business and Technology, and Psychology.

Name:	Erin Nitka
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.A., Marquette University B.A., St. Norbert College

Bio:

Written communication is the key to success across all disciplines and work environment. I want to provide students with practical and useful skills that they will need to succeed in the workplace. By embracing online learning, students take on a greater responsibility and commitment for their education making them more valuable to potential employers.

I am currently a Technical Writer for U.S. Bank's Trust department.

Name:	Susan Olney
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.B.A., LeMoyne College B.P.S., Cazenovia College

Bio:

My goal is to help students succeed in getting their education and meeting their goals regardless of their learning style. To help each student develop or improve their self-esteem, responsibility, time management skills, organizational skills, problem solving skills and their confidence, especially when facing new challenges by helping every student both scholastically and personally.

Name:	Stephen Opalat
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.A., Syracuse University M.A., Florida Atlantic University

Bio:

Teaching online is a team effort between the students and the instructor. I think one of the most important things is to let the students know there is a real person on the other end that is there to help in any way. Constant communication is the key. The instructor must create an atmosphere that gives the students a feeling of being part of a group working toward the same outcomes.

I am a member of the PGA (Teaching Professional) and am also a professional ski instructor.

Name:	Lori Panaro
Title:	Associate Dean of Instruction
Degrees:
Advanced Graduate Certification in Educational Administration, State University at Buffalo M.S. Ed., D’Youville College B.F.A., Niagara University

Bio:

As an educator, I aspire to motivate my students toward excellence, as well as promoting creativity and critical thinking. I truly believe it is my vocation to create a positive and reflective learning environment.

Name:	Patricia Ann Ragin
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
M.S. State University of New York at Buffalo B.A., State University of New York at Buffalo

Bio:

Pat holds a Bachelor degree in Speech Communications from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Masters of Science degree in Educational Computing from Buffalo State College. Pat teaches IT and GE courses. She is currently working on the Microsoft Certification for computer trainers.

Pat has been in broadcasting for over twenty-five years. You can hear Pat’s number one gospel show on WBLK 93.7 FM Sunday morning at 9am and fill-in jazz host on WBFO 88.7 FM.

Pat made a cameo appearance in the hit gospel play “Looking For Mr. Do Right”, with Charlie Wilson of the Gap Band.

Pat was elected Western New York Career Woman; she has received the Black Achievers in Industry Award (Pat was the co-host of the Black Achievers in Industry Awards) and the Professional Communicators Award and is on the board of Families Helping Families.

My greatest reward at BSC is working with a class of enthusiastic, intelligent, highly motivated, and experienced adult learners.

I give my students support, encouragement and boost their self-esteem. In my classroom their questions are welcome. Some students will say “I have a stupid question.” There is no such thing as a “stupid question” this is the place to ask questions.

Name:	Larry Ramsey
Department:
Business
Degrees:
M.B.A., Averett College B.S., Auburn University

Bio:

I enjoy teaching because it gives me the opportunity to share over 30 years of business and life experiences with my students. It is my responsibility, as a teacher, to provide students with a teaching style that makes learning interesting and fun. It is my belief to help students become and stay motivated to learn, help students gain knowledge that will help them be successful in life, and promote high self-esteem.

I have taught part-time at Bryant & Stratton College's Richmond campus for quite some time. I began teaching online last year.

Name:	Cindy Rippe
Department:
Business
Degrees:
M.B.A., Milsaps College B.S., University of Florida A.A., Broward Community College

Bio:

With over 10 years of sales experience, my proven track record marketing for various companies has been exemplified by a distinguished career receiving multiple regional and national sales awards. As an instructor, I am driven by a deep-rooted passion to assist students. When I teach, I utilize my sales skills to help my students visualize how the information I am teaching will contribute to their personal growth and professional success. It is my aspiration to create an interactive and positive learning environment that impacts students while helping them develop to their fullest potential.

In my current position, I am a Special Account Representative for Thomson West.

Name:	Gregory Rosko
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.B.A., University of Denver B.A., John Carroll University

Bio:

I began teaching because I have always believed in the value of education and its ability to improve the quality of one's life. Here at Online, we offer our students the education that leads to lifetime success in an environment that offers unmatched flexibility.

I currently work as a CPA in the corporate tax consulting department of a global professional services firm.

Name:	Deborah Rossman
Title:	Intructor
Degrees:
B.A., University of Akron MLIS, Kent State University

Bio:

In understanding both the learning style of individual learners and the diversity of the class, I try to accommodate individual preferences and to establish a respect for differences. My effectiveness also depends on my ability to motivate my students to meet their best potential. I believe in sharing my passion for learning, with enthusiasm and empathy in order to increase learner performance and mastery. In summary, I strive to promote positive learning, to motivate the learner, and to provide the foundation for lifelong learning.

Name:	Brandy Santella
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
M.S., State University of New York College at Buffalo B.S., State University of New York College at Buffalo MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist) Certified CBP (Certified Business Professional) Leadership Certified Initial New York State Certification in Business and Marketing Education

Bio:

In my classroom, learners are appreciated for their individuality, their contributions, and their perspectives they bring to the learning environment. I will provide learners with a nurturing, caring environment that is non-threatening so learners will feel comfortable sharing their knowledge and experiences. Learner’s experiences will be integrated into the curriculum so that they may gain a better understanding and comprehension of the content. I strive to create assignments which provide students with opportunities to connect what they are learning in the classroom to the workplace.

As a strong proponent of lifelong learning, while I have a thorough knowledge of business and computers, I continue to take advantage of educational opportunities to increase my knowledge base.

Name:	Tracy Sedor
Department:
Business
Degrees:
M.L.R.H.R., Cleveland State University B.A., Bowling Green State University

Bio:

My collegiate teaching career started after almost a decade of corporate Human Resource experience which includes Employee Relations, Compensation and Benefits, Labor Relations, Recruiting and Employee Training. I bring this experience into the classroom so my students have the opportunity to apply course material, beyond their textbooks, to their careers. I look forward to collaborating with all of my students so they can integrate course material into their personal and professional lives.

Name:	G. Timothy Sheldon
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.F.A., University of Virginia B.A., University of Virginia

Bio:

I like to structure my teaching for cognitive and affective learning (thinking and feeling). I emphasize the equal application of theory, opinion and personal experience on the discussion thread. I'm constructivist in that I favor student-centered, goal-directed inquiry over externally-directed instruction. The teacher understands that learning involves active construction of meaning by the student and is not something that is passed along through lectures alone.

Name:	Laura Soldani
Title:	Instructor
Department:
Office Technology
Degrees:
Master of Arts in Education, Curriculum Design and Instruction-Adult 2007- University of Phoenix BS-Human Resources Management 1992 - Bellevue University

Bio:

My work experience includes 11 Years in the United States Air Force and 15 Years at Bryant & Stratton College. My hobbies are Bag piping and European History. The curious, open-minded students that Bryant & Stratton College attracts are wonderful, fun people who I love to work with. I’ll never get over the excitement of watching our adult learners discover new things – experiencing that “aha!” moment with our learners is a high that never gets old.

Name:	Carolyn Spinner
Degrees:
M.Ed., Boston University B.A., Wellesley College

Bio:

I am an insatiably curious teacher who incorporates curiosity with the courage to think and learn creatively. Commitment to lifelong learning and ongoing discussions of the "great issues of the day" further reflect my teaching philosophy.

Name:	Michael Stankowski
Department:
Business
Degrees:
M.B.A., University of Phoenix B.A., Canisius College

Bio:

With over 15 years of experience in Accounting, Management, and Human Resources, I love sharing expertise in my field, and offering advice to the students where I can. I enjoy mentoring students and helping them grow as they pursue their degrees at Bryant & Stratton. My goal is to lead by example and my involvement and enthusiasm will inspire the students to come to class.

Currently employed as the Controller for Tonawanda Coke Corporation, and Erie Coke Corporation.

Name:	Kathleen Tarrant
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
M.A., Skidmore College B.S., Babson College

Bio:

After more than 30 years in a variety of management positions, including co-owner of a small manufacturing company, I am thrilled to be able to bring my experiences to the classroom through teaching. I feel a successful business education is an important combination of a strong academic foundation coupled with “real world” experiences. In addition to online teaching, I also teach Theories of e-Commerce, Employee/Labor Relations, and Employee Training & Development on the Albany campus.

Name:	Janet Thompson
Department:
General Education
Degrees:
M.A.C.T.M., Cleveland State University B.A., Cleveland State University

Bio:

I have high expectations of my students. I expect my students to meet deadlines and to excel at the material. In short, I expect the best from my students. I require them to be respectful of their fellow classmates and of me.

I am a former Staff Assistant for deans, attorneys, and directors.

Name:	Jill Travers
Title:	Instructor
Degrees:
B.S., University of South Dakota M.A., SUNY Brockport

Bio:

I started teaching in the classroom for Bryant & Stratton in 1999 in Rochester, NY; and I learned, right away, it was my calling. My personal enthusiasm for learning, combined with my energy and "glass half full" philosophy are carried into my curriculum. I take pride in my fun, yet professional, approach to preparing students for the workplace. While it is my job to "teach," I also learn something new from each of my students; and for that I am grateful.

Name:	Debra Tyson
Department:
Business
Degrees:
M.B.A., Averett University B.S., Virginia Commonwealth University

Bio:

Teaching is a dream come true for me. It allows me to combine my 20 years of work experience in management, human resources, and accounting with my love for people and my commitment to life-long learning. I strive to spread the excitement and knowledge of my field to students so they can benefit from the information we share. I gain great satisfaction from watching my students learn, develop, and succeed in life.

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