Suffolk University - What Our Alumni Have To Say...

Education & Human Services

What Our Alumni Have To Say...

Maria A.Van Parys (1996)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Vice President, Global Human Resources, PTC

I had been working in the corporate training environment for about four years when I began looking for a graduate program that would complement my experience and provide me with a solid educational foundation for my work. I researched several schools and found that Suffolk University’s program in Adult and Organizational Learning was the only program out there that focused on corporate and organizational learning and still provided background in teaching and educational principles. For me, the dual focus was exactly what I was looking for.

I started and stopped my graduate career at two other colleges before discovering Suffolk University. Without hesitation, I can say that the Program’s curriculum, faculty, flexibility, and overall value for a degree in this field is unmatched.

Sophie Viliesid Kingsley (1999)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Director, Development and Performance Management
Barclays Capital, London, UK

At the leading edge of what is strategic in Human Resources today, Suffolk University’s Human Resources Certificate Program gives you the practical skills to further your career in this rapidly developing profession.

As an international student from London, I had been working in HR for about five years before circumstances led me to take a sabbatical in the States for a year. Suffolk was the only college in the Boston area that really seemed to be able to give me the practical instruction I wanted and the flexibility within the curriculum to tailor the courses to my own individual needs. I got personal attention and real, honest answers to my concerns. Even though I resided 3,000 miles away, I felt confident I had made the right decision in choosing Suffolk’s program.

I wish I had done this years ago! In fact, through the HR Certificate Program, I have become so interested in the growing arena of organizational development and training that I went on to complete the Suffolk University master’s program in Adult and Organizational Learning. Without hesitation, I would recommend these courses to any HR professional who wants to springboard their career to the next level. Don’t get left behind!

Suzanne M. John (2000)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Director, Academic and Instructional Services
The School of Art and Design at Suffolk University

My goal in pursuing a M.S. in Adult and Organizational Learning was to enhance my skills in designing adult learner-based programs. I found the curriculum well rounded and comprehensive. After completing the core coursework, I had the flexibility of tailoring the program to meet my professional needs. What I studied was both timely and practical. On many occasions, what I learned in class was applied in my work the very next day.

The caliber of the students in the program was one of its biggest assets. Because much of the curriculum involved group learning and interaction, I gained a wealth of knowledge from my peers. Through the sharing of experiences, methods and philosophies, I was able to expand my knowledge of adult learning beyond the higher education arena.

The faculty in this program is passionate about teaching. Each brought expertise and energy to the classroom. Syllabi were constantly revised to ensure that information being taught was both current and relevant to the students’ needs. In addition, the small student to faculty ratio created a venue for more personalized instruction.

I found this program both personally and professionally enriching. It has enabled me to be a better resource for my faculty and students and a more effective administrator. I am certain I will reap the benefits of this educational experience for years to come.

Nancy J. LoRe (2000)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Instructional Designer
Fidelity Investments

First-rate faculty, along with courses that offer relevant hands-on project work allow you to develop competencies that cover a wide range of issues in the field of adult and organizational learning. This program is a must for anyone involved with adult learners.

Michele C. Cropley (1996)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Assistant Vice President
CitiStreet

Suffolk University enabled me to develop my career in both academic as well as corporate training. Adult and Organizational Learning is getting the recognition it deserves in today’s business world thanks to programs like Suffolk’s.

Kim Littlefield Provencher (1999)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Vice President
Keystone Associates

When I began the Adult and Organizational Learning Program at Suffolk in 1996, I was in a sales role at a global training organization. My goal was to make the shift from sales to the training arena. Though I had trained clients on products and services for nearly 10 years, I didn’t have any formal training and really needed a solid foundation to build on. Suffolk not only gave me that foundation, but it gave me credibility as well. I developed a breadth of knowledge and skills that allowed me to add value to my company. As a result, I progressed from my sales role to a full-time training position in less than two years--something never before accomplished.

I have since moved on to a company in the career management field, where I continue to wear my training hat. There is not a doubt in my mind that if I hadn’t built such a solid foundation on how adults and organizations learn at Suffolk University, I would never have been offered this incredible opportunity.

Sarah M. O’Neil (2001)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Senior Training Specialist
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care

Upon deciding to pursue a Master’s degree, I investigated a few programs at colleges and universities around greater Boston, MA. I have been greatly rewarded by my decision to obtain a Master of Science in Adult and Organizational Learning from Suffolk University. The faculty, program of study, student colleagues and academic resources are superior. I increased my subject matter expertise, gained practical experience and developed my professional skills in areas as diverse and current as training methods, organizational learning, Web-based training, instructional design and systems thinking. I have become part of a growing network and a learning community built on the foundation of a successful educational experience.

Rachel Ross (2000)

M.S., Human Resources
Human Resource Manager
FLIR Systems, Inc.

I began the Human Resources Program at Suffolk in 1998 with very little direct HR experience. Although I was familiar with HR concepts and general protocol, I was lacking detailed knowledge of the profession and the fit between the Human Resources functions and the business community at large. My education at Suffolk laid the groundwork that I needed to develop skills as a true business partner to my organization.

Through comprehensive coursework, opportunities to network with colleagues, and outstanding instruction from the first-rate faculty, I was able to expand my understanding of the human resources role and use that newfound knowledge on a daily basis. As a result, I was quickly promoted following my graduation from the program.

I strongly believe that the education I received at Suffolk University has played a major role in the advancement of my career. To this day, I continue relationships that were build during my enrollment at Suffolk, including those with faculty members and fellow human resource professionals. As our world becomes evermore competitive and challenging, continued education at an advanced level will become a necessity. The Human Resources Program at Suffolk University can help provide the competitive edge and heightened skill set that is necessary in today’s business environment.

James D. Santacroce (2002)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Sales and Marketing Training Consultant
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Inc.

Should you choose the Adult and Organizational Learning Program at Suffolk University, you will be immediately impressed with the faculty’s wealth of knowledge pertaining to adult learning and organizational development.

The faculty is passionate about the content, their students, and the profession. They do a remarkable job of acclimating and immersing students in the profession through relevant delivery of up-to-date materials. In addition, the small class size allows for optimal student-teacher interaction.

As I finish my coursework in the Adult and Organizational Learning Program, I am constantly reminded of how valuable this educational experience has been to my professional development. By providing a comprehensive/relevant curriculum, a passionate faculty and a fantastic student base, the Master of Science degree program has helped me transition from a position in customer service to a career in corporate training.

Colleen Donovan Manfredi (2002)

M.S., Human Resources
Human Resources Generalist
Syratech Corporation

The Human Resources Program is designed to provide students with valuable insight into the human resources field through a variety o course work and hands-on experiences. Classes and assignments are structured to build competencies and develop essential skills, which are readily transferable to the workplace. The curriculum presents challenging, yet attainable goals, which provide the framework for success in the industry.

The diverse professional backgrounds of the faculty and staff serve as a tremendous benefit to the program, as equal attention is given to all disciplines of the human resources function. The faculty and administration are mindful of the full schedule of both full-time and part-time students; and as a result, a significant effort is made to provide accessibility, whether it is through a personal meeting, e-mail, or via phone. Flexible class hours and availability of classes translate into a commitment to provide students with convenience without ever sacrificing the quality of education.

Participating in the Human Resources Program at Suffolk University has proven to be a rewarding educational experience. I am taking with me many valuable skills, which can be applied in several different workplace settings. This benefit makes the program especially unique and highly competitive among other institutions.

Chip Houghton (2002)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Human Resources Manager, Group Market Strategic Business Unit
Liberty Mutual

I have been very fortunate to have been involved in the MS program in Adult and Organizational Learning at Suffolk University. I researched many of the MBA programs in the Boston area but decided on the program at Suffolk because of the specific focus on organizational improvement. The faculty at Suffolk is outstanding and consistently works with students to help them succeed. I was able to enroll in courses that were suited to my specific needs in Human Resources and Organizational Development. Because of the excellent faculty, ability to build a program that meets your needs, and heavy emphasis on organizational effectiveness, I highly recommend this program to those who want to develop skills and competencies in the areas of training, HR, and OD.

Allison McCall Ciminero (2003)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Manager of Learning & Development
The Brattle Group

The AOL Program at Suffolk provided me with the additional learning and professional peer interaction I needed to advance my skills to the next level. I had been working in a training and development capacity for 12 years, but never had formal training myself. I had learned by mirroring others and from informal mentors, which was helpful, but never seemed enough for me to feel truly confident. This program has helped me to feel energized again about my field as well as more confident about what I can offer my firm and my internal clients. I feel strongly that those who are new to the field of learning and development will find the content particularly interesting and valuable. This kind of program with its dedicated and inspiring professors will advance you very quickly to the next step.

If you like to learn from your colleagues as well, this is a great program for that. Although, I will say that there are other programs out there that seem to focus too much on student-to-student learning, lacking a good balance with instructor-lead learning. I researched all such programs in the Boston area and found this one to have this balance and the credentials I sought. I was right!

Finally, I have made some great friendships with students and professors that have made the program worth the investment of time, money and effort!

Xiufang (Sandy) Zhang (2003)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Instructor
Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Community Center

The program prepared me well in the concepts and skills I needed to further my career in the Adult English Second Language field. I most appreciated the courses in curriculum and methods of teaching adult learners.

Julie Young (2003)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Manager, Organizational Learning and Development
The Gillette Company, Boston, MA

The Master’s program in Adult and Organizational Learning changed my life! I had been in technical training for four years and was looking for new opportunities in corporate training. The course work within the program provided me with the knowledge and the skills to take on new challenges in organizational learning and development. Today, I am the manager of the North American Learning and Development team and working on a number of new and exciting projects.

As I researched programs, I found many had a very prescribed curriculum. The flexibility of the Suffolk curriculum allowed me to create a learning plan that enhanced my previous experience and was relevant to the challenges I was facing at work. The projects and assignments were always relevant, and I frequently was able to apply what I had learned to my work assignments. Classes ere engaging as the professors practiced what they preached. Personal experiences and current topics in adult or organizational learning were leveraged to enhance the learning experience.

I truly believe my experience at Suffolk has changed my life both professionally and personally. I feel I have become a better manager and a more effective resource for my organization.

Gus D. Martinson (2003)

M.S., Human Resources
Human Resource Officer
Arlington Public Schools, Arlington, MA

Community, Caring, and Confidence! These three words are the foundation of Suffolk University’s Human Resources Program. As a new student, I entered classes, not as an isolated individual, but as a member of a community of educators, entrepreneurs, career changers, and those seeking professional advance, all of whom desiring a challenging and rewarding educational experience. Throughout, I found myself among faculty and students who truly cared about my success and the overall success of the program. Friendships and partnerships were inevitable and lasting. I concluded my program of study with the confidence it takes to make a difference and a change in both my life and in my career pursuits. Would I return to Suffolk University for another educational experience? Without hesitation!

Jennifer Ugalde (2003)

M.S., Human Resources
Human Resources Assistant
Boston, MA

The HR programs at Suffolk are tremendously realistic in their structure and presentation. I was able to work full time and not have to sacrifice my job for my studies. It turned out that several of my assignments helped me directly with my work, and I have seen great progression because of it.

The staff here is tremendous in their knowledge and experiences but are also able to open up the discussions to the array of experiences of the people in the class. The professors are very approachable and really make your educational experiences personal.

I would certainly recommend this program to anyone who needs more fundamental HR knowledge. The programs work for someone who has been in the field for years, or someone who is just starting out.

Joseph F. Gifun (2003)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Assistant Director of Facilities for Infrastructure Renewal and Special Projects
Department of Facilities, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I was apprehensive about undertaking formal graduate studies twenty-six years after I received a Bachelor’s degree in engineering and I questioned the applicability of the Adult and Organizational Learning program to my day-to-day work. My concerns could not have been more unfounded as the assignments and classroom discussions were intellectually stimulating, challenging, and most importantly, relevant to my work.

As I progressed in my career I chose to focus less on engineering and more on the organization and the development of its people. Although I achieved some success on my own, it was hard won. My engineering school just did not offer courses in important subjects such as organizational learning or teaching and learning styles. Yet, I was spending a large part of my time dealing with organizational and “people” issues.

I was not searching for a graduate program when I read the advertisement for an open house, but once I did, I knew that I should apply. Moreover, once I entered the Adult and Organizational Learning program I knew I made the right decision.

Emily Scaramella (2004)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Learning & Development Specialist
Tufts Health Plan

The Adult and Organizational Learning Program at Suffolk University has helped me to advance in my career as a Learning & Development Specialist. I have been able to immediately apply what I’ve learned in my classes on the job. For example, although I had created and delivered training materials before I began the program, the classes that I have taken related to instructional design and adult learning showed me how to make training more effective. The program has also allowed me to explore the discipline of e-learning, and I was able to implement a project that introduced e-learning to my department. Overall, I have had an outstanding experience with the program.

Jennifer J Tonneson-Benoit (2004)

CAGS, Organizational Development
Chief Financial Officer
Bay State College

The Organizational Development Post-Master’s Program at Suffolk University gave me the skills I needed in adult learning, organizational development and human performance to make effective and efficient changes in my professional career. The variety of students that attend Suffolk made my classroom experience both enlightening and a joy! The faculty is excellent and the resource materials I received from them are now the core of my new “OD library”. I would highly recommend this program to any person looking to expand their knowledge and skill sets. This program is a must for anyone looking to expand professionally into a senior management position.

Lee McCartney (2003)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Learning & Development Specialist
UMASS Memorial Health Center

I entered the program with a desire to pursue a career in adult learning. With no prior education or work experience, Suffolk University gave me the framework to acquire the knowledge, and an internship that helped me develop the skills and gain the experience I needed to work in the field.

Because of my experiences at Suffolk, I found a position in adult learning within one month of graduating from the program. There isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t call apply the learning or call upon the relationships and experiences that I acquired at Suffolk University.

John LeBlanc (2004)

CAGS in Organizational Development
Principal
The Inside Edge

I had been looking at many universities before enrolling into the CAGS Post-Master’s Program in Organizational Development at Suffolk University. I was originally leaning towards pursuing a MBA degree. However since I already had my M.Ed. in Industrial Counseling, the appeal of obtaining 30-graduate credits above my Masters lead me to Suffolk. The CAGS OD program tied nicely into my concept of building upon my twenty-plus years of business world experience in helping leaders, teams and individuals enhance their organizational and personal effectiveness. The experiential learning that I gained from the CAGS OD program at Suffolk University has proven to be instrumental in helping me to make the transformation from an internal HR professional to an entrepreneur of my own coaching/consulting practice.

Susanne M. Morrone (2004)

M.S., Adult and Organizational Learning
Senior Clinical Research Associate
Boston Scientific Corporation

I have always had a deep interest in professional and organizational development. When I came across Suffolk’s Adult and Organizational Learning Program, I realized that it was the missing link to refocusing my career. From day one, I have looked forward to going to classes every week. This program has helped me to realize what it is that I am truly passionate about. As a working professional, I appreciate the flexible course schedule, which allows me to continue traveling on a regular basis as part of my role at Boston Scientific. I hope to combine my experience in clinical research with the academic experience gained here at Suffolk to execute training programs that will provide the knowledge and skills necessary for professionals in my field to do their jobs better.

Maria Andrea Santoli (2004)

M.S. Human Resources
Human Resources Assistant
Cross Country TravCorps

The Master of Science in Human Resources at Suffolk University gave me the opportunity to achieve a successful career change experience. Coming from Argentina with a law degree and with no experience in the HR field, I finished my degree with a strong practical and academic HR foundation. This foundation gave me the opportunity to perform well during my first work experience in the USA during the internship required for the degree. As a result, I was offered a full-time position in the Human Resources Department once the internship ended. I can say that making the decision to pursue my master’s degree at Suffolk University has been one of the best professional decisions I ever made.