Take a look at how a Lasallian education has set these women up for success in all aspects of their lives. From law degrees to environmental conservancies, these alumni are paving the way for future women to come.
THIS WEEK'S FEATURED VIDEO
Evita Hernaez '04
Evita Hernaez ’04 is a Speech Language Pathologist in the Portsmouth School District. After graduating from La Salle, she attended Long Island University where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Evita also served on the 2004 Reunion Committee to celebrate their 20th reunion in 2024.
ARCHIVED PROFILES
Jessica Almeida '02
Jessica Cirillo Almeida ’02 is the Vice President of the Premier Banking Department at Bank Newport. She provides financial services to moderate to high net worth clients and has served in the banking industry for around 20 years. Before joining Bank Newport, Jess worked in various positions at Citizens Bank and Admirals Bank.
In the community, Jessica is on the Bristol Warren School Committee where she serves as a member and treasurer. Jessica also regularly returns to La Salle to speak with classes about her experience and she served as a “Shark” for the Shark Tank Competition at La Salle Academy.
Katie Benoit '13
Katie Benoit ’13 is a Multimedia Journalist at NBC 10 News. After graduating from La Salle, Katie attended Springfield College to study Communications and Sports Journalism. Later, she attended Syracuse University and received a Master’s degree in Broadcast Journalism. Prior to her current position, Katie was a Television News Reporter at Spectrum News 1 Worcester and WWNY-TV in Watertown, New York.
Tara Cameron '17
Tara Cameron ’17 is a Social Studies Teacher at St. John’s College High School, another Lasallian school, located in Washington, DC. Outside of the classroom, Tara is actively involved with students through extracurricular activities. As a student at La Salle, she was active in various clubs including Model United Nations, Lasallian Youth and Dance Club. Tara graduated from American University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Government.
Melissa Misiaszek Carvalho '99
Melissa Misiaszek Carvalho ’99 is the Senior Recruitment & Employee Development Lead at Rhode Island Energy. Along with her work at Rhode Island Energy, Melissa is a Holistic Life Purpose & Career Coach at her own company, Melissa Carvalho Life Purpose & Career Coaching and is also a Yoga Teacher. She is also a bestselling author of “Purpose Forward”, which was published in February 2024.
Zaryah Guyton '13
Zaryah Guyton ’13 is the Senior Assistant Director for Application Evaluation at Northeastern University. Zaryah’s work focuses on the undergraduate admissions process and reviewing applications. She assists students and families with the application process and also focuses on other enrollment projects for the school.
Zaryah has returned to La Salle since graduating to provide knowledge and advice to parents and students as they are preparing to apply for college.
Tricia O'Hare Jedele JD ’91
Tricia O’Hare Jedele ’91 is the Atlantic Coast Offshore Wind Policy Manager at The Nature Conservancy. At The Nature Conservancy, Tricia’s work focuses on coordinating the organization’s offshore wind energy efforts from Maine to North Carolina. Prior to joining The Nature Conservancy, Tricia worked for the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office in the Environment and Energy Unit.
Tricia has returned to La Salle to speak with students about her professional experience and provide advice to students who are interested in studying law.
Rebecca Burgess Mackisey ’12
Rebecca Burgess Mackisey ’12 is the Director of Campus Ministry at La Salle Academy. Rebecca served as a campus minister at La Salle Academy before taking on her current roll. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from Loyola University Maryland and her Master’s Degree in Theology and Ministry from Boston College.
Marissa Marandola '12
Marissa Marandola ’12 is a Staff Attorney at the National Education Association. She is passionate about serving the community and has taken on pro-bono cases. Prior to entering the professional world, Marissa attended Boston College and Harvard Law School.
Marissa has returned to La Salle to speak about her work in law and speak upon the various opportunities of working in the field.
Dr. Alyson McGregor '91
Dr. Alyson McGregor ’91 is currently an Associate Dean of Clinical Faculty Affairs and Development and Professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville. Along with her current position, she also co-founded the Sex and Gender Women’s Health Collaborative.
Dr. McGregor is very passionate about her work in medicine. She has been featured in a TEDx talk, “Why Medicine Often Has Dangerous Side Effects for Women” and is the author of the book, Sex Matters: How male-Centric Medicine Endangers Women’s Health – and What We Can Do About It.
Julie Pitassi Moura '01
Julie Pitassi Moura ’01 is the Vice President, HR Chief of Staff at Hasbro. Prior to working at Hasbro, she held positions at United Technologies, Schneider Electric and Textron. At La Salle, Julie is a member of the Board of Trustees. She has returned to La Salle to speak with students about her career and provide advice to those looking to pursue a career in business. Julie is a graduate of Providence College (BA), Salve Regina University (MBA) and received a certificate in Human Resources Management from Bryant University.
Sharon Pompei Paquin ’89
Gina Raimondo ’89, P'22
Gina Raimondo ’89 is the United States Secretary of Commerce. Prior to her current position, Secretary Raimondo served as the 75th Governor of Rhode Island from 2015-2021 – the first woman to serve in this position for the state. From 2011-2015, she served as General Treasurer of Rhode Island. At La Salle, Secretary Raimondo was the valedictorian of her class. She is a graduate of Harvard University (BA), Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University (MA, DPhil) and Yale Law School (JD).
Jessica Simone ’00
Jessica Simone ’00 is a real estate agent and owner of Century 21, The Luxe Property Group. Jessica leads a team of driven and enthusiastic agents who believe in supporting clients when finding a home. Jessica also owns Luxe Lemonade, a lemonade truck that has been seen at La Salle Academy for various events.
Along with contributing to the 40th Anniversary of Women Celebration, Jessica also served as a “Shark” for the Shark Tank Competition at La Salle Academy. Jessica is very passionate about giving back to the community.
Ashley Sousa '05
Ashley Sousa ’05 is the owner and founder of Mothers Haven, located in East Greenwich, RI. The goal of Mothers Haven is to provide support to individuals and families while on their pregnancy and parenthood journey. Ashley is a Registered Nurse (RN) and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). She founded Mothers Haven after her experiences working in the medical field and becoming a mother.
Ashley has returned to La Salle to speak with students about her journey and also hosts students at Mothers Haven through the Center of Experiential Learning for internships.
Stephanie Vendetti Thomas '07 & Adrienne Vendetti Hodges '05
Stephanie Vendetti Thomas ’07 and Adrienne Vendetti Hodges ’05 are the co-founders of How to be a Redhead. As stated on their website “How to be a Redhead® is empowering every redhead to feel confident, to look amazing and to rock their beauty. Red hair is more than a color, it’s a lifestyle!” The company sells a variety of beauty products from mascara to shampoo.
Recently, the sister duo appeared on ABC’s “Shark Tank” and received an offer from Shark, Mark Cuban.
Jade Toher '04
Jade Turbridy Toher ’04 is a Partner in the Tax Services Group at KLR. At KLR, Jade is also the Co-Chair of the Women’s CPA Business Exchange. At La Salle Academy, Jade serves on the Board of Trustees and the Investment Committee. She received her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Providence College and her Master of Science in Taxation from Bryant University.
Lavascia Williams '16
Lavascia Williams ’16 is the owner of Earthly Essentials, a company focused on creating sustainable and handcrafted products. Earthly Essentials was featured in RI Monthly’s “Best of Rhode Island”. Along with owning her own business, Lavascia is also a substitute teacher at Highlander Charter School in Providence, RI. She is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island. Lavascia has returned to campus to speak with students involved in the La Salle Scholars Program.
Rebecca Ricci Simon '91
Rebecca Ricci Simon ’91 is a Professor & Associate Dean at Johnson & Wales University’s College of Health and Wellness in Providence, RI. After graduating from La Salle, Rebecca studied at Stonehill College (BA), Tufts University (MS, Occupational Therapy) and Northeastern University (Ed.D). Within the La Salle community, Rebecca served on the Board of Trustees.
Laura Graziano-Boehm '06
Laura Graziano-Boehm ’06 is the Director of Hotel Account Management, North America at Expedia Group. After graduating from La Salle, Laura attended the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. She is a member of the La Salle Board of Trustees and has returned to campus to serve as a panelist for the 40th Anniversary of Women at La Salle and hosted an alumni reception in Providence.
Kimberly Martel '10
Kimberly Martel ’10 is the Associate Director of Development at the San Miguel School in Providence, RI. The San Miguel School is a member of the Lasallian network. Kimberly is a graduate of Saint Anselm College, where she received her bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Graphic Design.
Michele Cinquegrano '89
Michele Cinquegrano ’89 is the Regional Director of State Government Affairs for Verizon. She has worked for the company since 1993. Michele is a graduate of Providence College. Within the community, Michele is actively involved in various organizations. She is a mentor at the San Miguel School in Providence, another Lasallian school, and was recently appointed to their Board of Directors.
Stephanie Maloney '02
Stephanie Maloney ’02 is the Chief of Staff and Associate Chief Counsel at the United States Chamber of Commerce Litigation Center. She is still active in the La Salle community, serving on the La Salle Board of Trustees and she hosted an Alumni Reception in Washington, DC. Stephanie was a Religion Teacher at La Salle Academy before returning to school to obtain her JD. She is a graduate of Loyola University, Maryland (BA), Emory University (MTS) and Notre Dame Law School (JD).
Gladys Nimneh-Nyanti '18
Gladys Nimneh-Nyanti ’18 is a 5th Grade Teacher at Alice West Fleet Elementary School in Arlington, VA. As a student at La Salle, Gladys was active in the Diversity Committee and SOCAN (Students of Color Alumni Network). Gladys graduated from Howard University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Teaching. She is currently pursuing her Master of Education degree from American University.
From her time at La Salle to present day, Gladys has a passion for social justice and as a teacher she is working to create a more sustainable environment for her students and in the field of education.
Kristin Pono Sousa '91
Kristin Pono Sousa ’91 is the Medicaid Program Director for the State of Rhode Island. She was officially named Director in April 2022, after serving as the interim Director. Kristin attended Providence College and received her bachelor’s degree in Health Services Administration.
Lauren Lemoi '05
Lauren Lemoi ’05 is a Director of Digital Strategy at Fidelity Investments. Following graduation from La Salle, Lauren attended Wingate University in North Carolina and received her BS in Communications. She is a member of the Board of Trustees and Hall of Fame Committee.
Jennifer Gerstenblatt ’96
Jennifer Gerstenblatt ’96 is the SVP of Comedy Development at Sony Pictures Television. She is a graduate of S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. Prior to her current role, Jennifer worked at Freeform, formerly known as ABC Family.
Lisa Zifcak Dunn '88
Lisa Zifcak Dunn ’88 is the Associate Director of Development, Athletics Engagement & Annual Giving at The George Washington University in Washington, DC. At La Salle, she was a member of the first coeducation class and saw her and her teammates as “pioneers” for women in athletics. Following graduation from La Salle, Lisa attended The George Washington University and was a member of the Women’s Soccer Team. She also attended Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and obtained her MBA.
Kristin Ward ’90 P’21 P’24 & Dr. Sue Adams ’97
Kristin Ward ’90 P’21 P’24 & Dr. Sue Adams ’97
Kristin Ward ’90 is the Assistant Principal at Cranston High School East. She is a graduate of Rhode Island College, where she studied Elementary Education and English. Kristin also received her Masters of Education degree from Providence College. Kristin serves as a volleyball coach at La Salle and returned to campus in 2024 to speak with students during the Education Panel.
Dr. Sue Adams ’97 is a Professor at The University of Rhode Island and Co-founder of the New England Center for Anxiety. She is a graduate of Wheaton College where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Physiological Psychology & Psychobiology and a graduate of UMass Boston, where she received her PhD in Clinical Psychology. Sue returned to campus in 2024 to speak with students during the Education Panel.
Stephanie Aberger Shultz '01
Stephanie Aberger Shultz ’01 is the Senior Director of Strategic Project at the XQ Institute. Prior to taking on this position, Stephanie served as the Deputy Chief of School at District of Columbia Public Schools and started her career in education as a teacher through Teach for America. She attended the University of Notre Dame, Pace University and Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Jessica Paiva Caparco '95
Jessica Paiva Caparco ’95 is the Senior Director of Marketing at the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau. She is a graduate of University of Rhode Island and Northeastern University. Jessica returned to La Salle this year to serve as a panelist for the 40 Years of Women at La Salle Business Panel.
Ann McDonald Murphy '88 P'17 P'21
Ann McDonald Murphy ’88 P’17 P’21 works for the State of Rhode Island in the Department of Children, Youth and Families. She holds the position of Administrator of Child Protective Services. Ann is an incredible asset to the La Salle Community, she is currently the Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and was the first alumna inducted into the Hall of Fame. She returned to campus during the Spring to speak with Seniors during the Vocation Panel.
Kate Lynch '04
Kate Lynch ’04 currently serves as the Head Coach for the Women’s Basketball Team at Southern Connecticut State University. Prior to coaching at Southern Connecticut State, Kate held positions at Molloy College, Community College of Rhode Island and Fairfield University. Kate was a star basketball player during her time at La Salle and went on to play at Southern Connecticut State University. She received her bachelor’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University and her master’s degree from Lasell College.
Jamie Antignano '12
Jamie Antignano ’12 is the owner of Angelo’s Restaurant, nestled in the iconic Federal Hill neighborhood. Growing up, Jamie spent countless hours at the restaurant, which her parents previously owned. Angelo’s recently celebrated its 100th anniversary in April 2024. Jamie is also a proud graduate of Bentley University.
Dr. Ashley Mills '04
Dr. Ashley Mills ’04 completed her commitment in June as a Major in the United States Air Force. She served in the Air Force for 7 years as an active duty physician, Chief of Internal Medicine and Associate Program Director of the Internal Medicine Residency Program at the David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base. She will begin her new role as a Hospital Medicine Attending at the John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, California in January 2025. She is a graduate of The George Washington University (BA and MD).
Dayla Arabella Santurri '89
Dayla Arabella Santurri ’89 is currently the Owner of Dayla Arabella Events, a corporate events firm and Global Travel Consultant at Bella Adventures. She is also the Cofounder of Boston Women in Media & Entertainment and previously held the position of Executive Vice President within the organization. Dayla is a graduate of Northeastern University.
Regina Bertoldi Braga '01
Regina Bertoldi Braga ’01 is the President of Res/Title. After graduating from La Salle, Regina studied US History and Political Science at Stonehill College. She also received her MBA from The University of Rhode Island.
Lisa Marie Ricci Stearns '85
Lisa Marie Ricci Stearns ’85 is the Co-Founder of After 40 Reboot Fitness, a personal trainer, self defense instructor and wellness coach. After graduating from La Salle, she attended Emerson College.
Dr. Courtney Ponte Lavigne '02
Dr. Courtney Ponte Lavigne ’02 is an orthodontist and owner of Anchor Orthodontics. Anchor Orthodontics is located in Wakefield, RI and another location will be opening soon in Providence. She received her undergraduate degree from Creighton University and her doctorate of dental medicine from the University of Connecticut.
Jackie Fiore Doyle '96 P'24 P'26
Jackie Fiore Doyle ’96 P’24 P’26 is the Director of Clubhouse Operations at Pawtucket Country Club. She is actively involved on campus, volunteering at many events hosted by La Salle. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she studied Journalism.
Evita Hernaez '04
Evita Hernaez ’04 is a Speech Language Pathologist in the Portsmouth School District. After graduating from La Salle, she attended Long Island University where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Evita also served on the 2004 Reunion Committee to celebrate their 20th reunion in 2024.
Melanie Lee Cerullo '91 P'24 P'27
Melanie Lee Cerullo ’91 P’24 P’27 is the Chief Quality & Regulatory Officer at ReciBioPharm. After graduating from La Salle, she received her BS from Rhode Island College and her Master’s Degree from Temple University.
Erica Warren Pecani '03
Erica Warren Pecani ’03 is the Director of Sales and Merchandising at Secret Celebrity LLC. She graduated from LIM College in New York City. Erica is an active member of her class and helped to plan her recent reunion.
Kayla Faria '09
Kayla Faria ’09 is an Assistant Public Defender (Juvenile Division) at the Rhode Island Public Defender’s Office. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland (BA) and The University of Baltimore School of Law (JD).