Taylor Baker '17 - Entrepreneurship and Graduate Assistant
Taylor Baker is a 2017 graduate of Wilkes University, holding a degree in Entrepreneurship
and a minor in Management. She is currently a graduate assistant and Kirby Scholar
in Entrepreneurship at the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship.
As the Kirby Scholar in Entrepreneurship, Taylor assists clients with feasibility
analysis, market analysis, financial analysis, and business plan preparation and review.
She is also a dean's list student and part of the National Society of Leadership and
Success. As a graduate assistant, Taylor also assists with the daily marketing of
the Center, and is actively involved in the Center's daily operations to include preparing
policies, attending meetings and conferences, and planning center events. Upon completion
of her MBA, she will pursue a career in business analytics or economic development.
Long-term, Taylor plans to open her own business in the thrill seeking entertainment
industry.
McKaylah DeKay - Digital Design and Media Art
McKaylah is currently a junior at Wilkes University. She is a Digital Design and Media
Art major with a minor in Studio Art. She primarily has a focus in branding and print
design, but has experience in multiple branches within the industry such as video,
audio, photography, painting, and drawing. As the co- Kirby Scholar of Digital Design
and Media Art, McKaylah’s responsibilities include, but aren’t limited to, logo development,
branding, marketing publication design, internal APKFCEE projects, and web design.
Upon graduating in May of 2020, she hopes to land a job as a graphic designer.
Jordan Fritz - Communications
Jordan Fritz is a senior at Wilkes University pursuing a degree in Communication Studies
with concentrations in Strategic Communications/Public Relations and Journalism. She
is the senior vice president of Zebra Communications, a student run public relations
firm, and is a writer for the university newspaper, The Beacon. As the Kirby Scholar
of Communication, Jordan documents newsworthy activities of the Center, develops their
biannual and monthly newsletters and helps with their marketing plan. She also creates
web content for the Center and assists clients with their publicity needs. Upon graduating
in May of 2019, Jordan hopes to attend the Disney College Program in Orlando, Florida.
Michelle Lehman '18 - Business Development and Graduate Assistant
Michelle Lehman is a Graduate Assistant and Kirby Scholar of Business Development
at the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. She is a 2018
graduate, holding a degree in marketing with a minor in entrepreneurship and management.
Michelle graduated summa cum laude, receiving the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Graduate
of the Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership and the Most Outstanding Student
in Marketing Award. As the Kirby Scholar of Business Development, Michelle manages
the client intake process and internal and external marketing activities. She is an
expert in market analysis, market research, website design, social media marketing
and traditional and digital marketing. Her job also includes assisting in the Center's
daily operations, research, and human resources.
Jessie Lopez - Science
Jessie Lopez is a junior at Wilkes University pursuing a degree in Biological Chemistry.
Jessie represents the Allan P. Kirby Center as the Science Scholar. He assists in
gathering and providing information to those seeking scientific information, literature
review and interpretation. Additionally, Jessie contributes to the university serving
as an officer in the Ecology Club, and a research assistant for both Dr. William Terzaghi
and Dr. Jeff Stratford. Jessie plans to continue his education in Chemistry, Biology,
Mathematics, and Physics throughout the entirety of his life and serving his community
and those in need.
Madison Kaminski - Digital Design and Media Art
Madison Kaminski is a junior at Wilkes University pursuing a degree in Digital Design
and Media Art with minors in Marketing and Psychology. As the co- Kirby Scholar of
Digital Design and Media Art, she helps the center with designing and creating print
materials and updating the center’s website. In addition, she assists in helping clients
represent their ideas visually through creating logos, branding, and other promotional
materials for businesses. After graduating in 2020, she plans to pursue a career in
advertising or marketing as a graphic designer.
Saidat Abidemi Sanni - Kirby International Scholar and Graduate Assistant
Saidat Abidemi Sanni is an MBA major in her first year at Wilkes University. She is
the first Kirby International Scholar from Nigeria, with a BSc in Statistics from
the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
She was the valedictorian of her class of 10,317 graduating students. She is currently
a graduate assistant at The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development at
Wilkes University. As a statistician, Saidat develops metrics, conducts surveys and
statistical data/impact analysis for the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise
and Entrepreneurship as well as assisting with maintaining client management system
records. Saidat helps the Center on center related projects and research activities,
assists and communicates with clients as required. She also works with APKCFEE staffs
to promote entrepreneurial activities to students through classroom activities, outside
activities and student activities. Saidat is an honors student who intends to pursue
her PhD degree upon completion of her MBA.
Ethan Schwartz - Engineering
Ethan Schwartz is a junior at Wilkes University. He is an aspiring Mechanical Engineering
major with minors in Engineering Management and Physics. He is a part of the Wilkes
University Honors Program, a Dean’s list student, the Robotics Club treasurer, and
the Organizational Coordinator for the American Society of Mechanical Engineering
(ASME). As the Kirby Scholar of Engineering, Ethan helps with potential clients who
have products that need technical expertise, such as design and quality testing, development
of CADD drawings, and/or 3-D modeling. Ethan plans to enter the workforce after graduation
in Spring 2020 and work towards a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Engineering
Management.
Gerard Setteducato is a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing a double major in Accounting and Finance with a minor in Business Management. As the Kirby Accounting Scholar, he assists clients with financial records and tax preparations, along with providing general accounting analysis and recommendations. He is also a captain of the Wilkes Men’s Lacrosse team and serves as the Vice President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. After graduation Gerard plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Accounting to prepare for the CPA exam.
Aislinn Speranza - Marketing
Aislinn Speranza is a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing degrees in Marketing and
Communication Studies with a concentration in Strategic Communications. Along with
being CEO of Wilkes’ student-run PR agency, Zebra Communications, and Vice President
of Phi Beta Lambda, Aislinn is also captain of the university’s women’s soccer team.
As the Kirby Marketing Scholar, she assists the APKCFEE and clients in cultivating
a business identity, advertising, developing market analyses, and competitor research.
Upon graduation, Aislinn hopes to further her career in the marketing and communications
field.
Ashley Abbey - Business Development
Ashley is a sophomore at Wilkes University, pursuing double majors in Marketing and
Management with a minor in Communications. As the Junior Kirby Scholar of Business,
she assists the Center and its clients with business operations, strategy, and organization.
In addition, Ashley is part of Wilkes University's Honors program, and has consistently
been a Dean’s list student. In the summer of 2018, Ashley was selected as a Delegate
for the University Scholars Leadership Symposium hosted by the United Nations, and
traveled to Thailand for the conference and volunteer work. She plans on graduating
in the Fall of 2020 and pursuing her MBA.
Imani Claudine - Marketing
Imani Claudine is a senior at Wilkes University pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree of Business
Administration in Marketing. As a student at Wilkes University, she is involved in
a variety of activities. She is the Vice President of Wilkes African Cultural Association
(WACA). During the Fall of 2018, she was chosen as one of the members of the President’s
Student Advisory Council (PSAC), as well as, the student ambassador for Wilkes Career
Services. Currently, Imani is the Kirby Junior Marketing Scholar at the Allan P. Kirby
Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. Upon completing my Bachelor's Degree,
she will go on to pursue her MBA while working toward obtaining a real estate license.
One of her career aspirations is to become a realtor.
Sean Westawski - Engineering
Sean Westawski is a junior at Wilkes University, who will graduate in 2020 with his
Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering and minors in Computer Engineering, Computer
Science, and Physics. He is currently a Junior Kirby Scholar of Engineering for The
Allan P. Kirby Center, a Research Assistant for Dr. Abas Sabouni, and is contracted
as a Software Engineer at Lockheed Martin. Upon completion of his Bachelor's Degree,
he plans to continue working in the industry as a Software Engineer and take graduate
level classes in order to obtain a Master's degree.
Spencer Yacuboski - Engineering
Spencer Yacuboski is a junior at Wilkes University who will graduate in 2021 with
a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Physics,
and minors in Engineering Management and Mathematics. He is currently a Junior Kirby
Scholar of Engineering at the Kirby Center. After his time at Wilkes he plans to get
a job in electrical engineering and audio processing, and return to school for his
MBA and a Master’s degree in engineering.
Kaitlyn Beaver - Marketing Intern
Kaitlyn Beaver is the Marketing Intern. She is a junior at Purdue University, pursuing
a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in New Media Internet Marketing
and a minor in Psychology. In addition to her studies, Kaitlyn is fulfilling her Marketing
practicum requirements at Wilkes University with the Allan P. Kirby Center. As the
Marketing Intern, she assists scholars on business development, marketing, and center
event planning projects. She also has experience in web development and design, technical
writing, promotional materials for organizations, and fundraising campaigns. Upon
graduation, she hopes to continue growing her family's nonprofit organization, Patriots
Cove, and further her career in the marketing and communications field.
Amrit Chandhok - Engineering Intern
Amrit Chandhok is a junior at Wilkes University, pursuing a major in Mechanical Engineering
(ABET Accredited). He is the Robotics Club Secretary, the fundraising coordinator
for the Engineering Student Activities Committees (ESAC) and a member in other professional
societies such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineering (ASME) and the Pennsylvania
Society of Professional Engineers (PSPE). As a Kirby Junior Scholar of Engineering,
Amrit attends meetings with potential clients regarding the design of products, systems,
and CADD drawings as well as other engineering services. Amrit's plans after graduation include entering the workforce with a career in Mechanical
Engineering and pursue a Master's Degree in Robotics or Additive Manufacturing.
Paige Hepner - Business Development Intern
Paige Hepner is a sophomore at Wilkes University. She is pursuing a degree in Pharmacy
with a double minor in Spanish and Business Administration. Paige is also working
towards getting in to the Masters of Business Administration and Pharmacy Doctorate
dual degree program. She is part of the Pre-Pharmacy Club, Honors Program, National
Society for Leadership and Success, works in the Admission Office as a student ambassador,
and is working towards founding a Circle Kay Club at Wilkes University. During the
summer of 2019 Paige is studying abroad in Spain and has traveled to both Panamá and
Thailand with Wilkes University in the past. At the Kirby Center, Paige assists clients
with preparation of business plans and works on maintaining client management records
and client files. In the future, she plans on graduating in 2023 with a Doctorate
in Pharmacy and hoping to open up her own pharmacy after graduating.
Priscilla Rey - Operations Intern
Priscilla Rey is an operations intern at the Allan P. Kirby Center. In this position,
she primarily helps with organizing files and other materials throughout the Center,
but also assists with other various projects and activities. As a student at Wilkes,
she is currently a freshman student pursuing a Business Administration major.
Jivan Sidhu - Accounting Intern
Jivan Sidhu is a Junior at Wilkes University, pursuing an Accounting degree. As the
Kirby Accounting Intern, he assists the Accounting Scholar with client’s financial
records and tax preparations, along with providing general accounting analysis and
recommendations. Jivan plays on the Men's Ice hockey team at the defense position.
He is also a dean's list student and a member of the Wilkes Investment club. In the
future, Jivan plans to pursue a professional career in hockey and open his own business.
Jeremey Tomaine - Business Development Intern
Jeremey Tomaine is the Kirby Business Development Intern. He is a senior and is pursuing
a major in Finance with a minor in Economics at Wilkes University. In addition, Jeremey
is an Eagle Scout and is the Executive Treasurer of Student Government for the 2018-2019
school year. He also won an election in May of 2018 to become a representative to
the Democratic Party for Luzerne County. As a Business Development Intern, he will
assist the center with business activities, marketing, and other developmental initiatives.
Jeremey plans to graduate from Wilkes in the Spring of 2018 and pursue a career in
the financial sector or business development.
Taylor Baker '17 - Entrepreneurship
Taylor Baker is a 2017 graduate of Wilkes University, holding a degree in Entrepreneurship
and a minor in Management. She is currently a graduate assistant and Kirby Scholar
in Entrepreneurship at the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship.
As the Kirby Scholar in Entrepreneurship, Taylor assists clients with feasibility
analysis, market analysis, financial analysis, and business plan preparation and review.
She is also a dean's list student and part of the National Society of Leadership and
Success. As a graduate assistant, Taylor also assists with the daily marketing of
the Center, and is actively involved in the Center's daily operations to include preparing
policies and attending meetings and conferences. Upon completion of her MBA, she will
pursue a career in business analytics. Long-term, Taylor plans to open her own business
in the thrill seeking entertainment industry.
Michelle Lehman - Business Development
Michelle Lehman is the Kirby Business Scholar. She is currently a senior at Wilkes
University, pursuing a degree in Marketing with a minor in Management & Entrepreneurship.
In addition, she is the president and founder of the Wilkes University Human Resources
club and a Senior Research Assistant for Dr. Morgan Clevenger. Michelle assists the
Center with internal and external client business organization, strategy, and marketing.
Her job also includes assisting in the Center's daily operations, research, and human
resources. The Dean's list student plans to continue her education and complete an
MBA at Wilkes University. In the future, Michelle plans to work at a consulting agency
and her career goal is to work as a professor at Wilkes University.
Dominic Butchko – Legal Studies
Dominic is a junior at Wilkes University, pursuing a degree in Political Science.
He has been on Deans List for four out of four consecutive semesters so far. He is
also a member of the Society of Leadership and Success, Pi Sigma Alpha, and Alpha
Lambda Delta. Currently Dominic is one of the youngest elected officials in the nation
and is the youngest person ever elected to serve on Forty Fort Borough Council. As
the Kirby Scholar of Legal Studies, Dominic helps assist clients in determining their
legal needs--from preliminary research on patents, trademarks, and copyrights to business
formation documents--and reaches out to local attorneys who can also assist the clients.
After graduating in 2019 Dominic plans on furthering his career of public service.
Cassidy Clement - Marketing
Cassidy is a senior at Wilkes University pursuing a major in Marketing and a minor
in Management. As the Kirby Marketing Scholar she aids in business activities, marketing
information, web presence, and strategy for clients and the center. She has worked
on the streamlining of client intake at the center with the extension of the Neoserra
database named eCenter. Also she assists in the center's website development, maintenance,
and updating. Over the course of her undergraduate career thus far she has interned
at a publishing company, digital marketing agency, and digital media agency, as well
as being a Kirby Junior Business Scholar in the 2016/17 year. Upon graduating in 2018,
Cassidy hopes to be working in the field of digital marketing and technology.
Joseph Palmadessa - Accounting
Joe Palmadessa is a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing a degree in accounting.
As the Kirby Accounting Scholar, Joe assists clients with financial records and tax
preparations, in addition to providing general accounting recommendations. He is a
consistent Dean's List member, takes part in many on campus clubs, and is an accounting
tutor. Upon graduation he plans to attend law school to practice tax law.
Todd Espenshade – Digital Design & Media Art
Todd is currently a senior at Wilkes University pursuing a degree in Digital Design
and Media Art with minors in Studio Art and Marketing. His focus is in print design
and web design, however he also enjoys photography, videography, and printmaking.
As a Kirby Scholar, Todd works in the field of graphic design; helping clients represent
their ideas visually through logos, branding, and other promotional material for their
business. Upon graduating in May of 2018, he plans to work in the advertising industry
as a graphic and web designer.
Saidat Abidemi Sanni - Kirby International Scholar
Saidat Abidemi Sanni is an MBA major in her first year at Wilkes University. She is
the first Kirby International Scholar from Nigeria, with a BSc in Statistics from
the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
She was the valedictorian of her class of 10,317 graduating students. She is currently
a graduate assistant at The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development at
Wilkes University. As a statistician, Saidat develops metrics, conducts surveys and
statistical data/impact analysis for the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise
and Entrepreneurship as well as assisting with maintaining client management system
records. Saidat helps the Center on center related projects and research activities,
assists and communicates with clients as required. She also works with APKCFEE staffs
to promote entrepreneurial activities to students through classroom activities, outside
activities and student activities. Saidat is an honors student who intends to pursue
her PhD degree upon completion of her MBA.
Matthew Miller-Engineering
Matthew Miller is a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing a major in Electrical Engineering
with minors in Mathematics and Physics. He is a Dean's List student, and a member
of The National Society for Leadership and Success. As the Kirby Scholar of Engineering,
Matthew assists clients with product design, system design and testing, CADD drawings,
and other Engineering Related Services. Matthew plans to pursue a graduate degree
in Electrical Engineering, after graduating in Spring of 2018.
Amanda Bialek –Communications
Amanda is a senior at Wilkes University pursuing a degree in Communication Studies
with concentrations in Media Production, Multimedia Journalism and Public Relations
and a minor in dance. She is the Life, Arts and Entertainment Editor for the university
newspaper, The Beacon. Amanda also reports, anchors and hosts an alumni segment, Connect
with a Colonel, for the Wilkes Now television show. She is the vice president of the
Alpha Chi National College Honor Society and is a Dean's List student. Amanda is also
a member of the Wilkes Honors Program, the National Society of Leadership and Success
and the Public Relations Student Society of America. She has interned in the Development
Department of the Osterhout Free Library and in the Communications Department at Rodale
Institute. As the Kirby Scholar of Communication, Amanda documents newsworthy activities
of the Center, develops their biannual and monthly newsletters and helps with their
marketing plan. She also creates web content for the Center and assists clients with
their publicity needs. Upon graduating in May of 2018, Amanda plans to pursue a career
as a broadcast journalist or as a public relations specialist.
Laura Solomon - Science
Laura Solomon is a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing a degree in Biology. She is a Dean's List student and a member of TriBeta (a national biological honor society) as well as The National Society for Leadership and Success. She also was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa while earning her Associate's degree in Liberal Studies from Lackawanna College. As the Kirby Science Scholar, Laura assists clients and other scholars with needs in science related fields and activities. She also gathers applicable information to help with marketing and financing projects in scientific fields. She is currently a research assistant for Dr. Kenneth Klemow (ecological research focused on botany and general herbarium work) and for Dr. Ken Pidcock (for medical microbiology research with drug resistant bacteria). Laura plans to pursue a Master's Degree in Microbiology after graduating in 2018.
Lauren Bezek - Education
Lauren is the Kirby Education Scholar. She is currently a junior at Wilkes University,
pursuing a major in Mathematics and minor in Secondary Education, and has been on
the Dean's List in all her years of college. Lauren is a member of Kappa Delta Pi,
an International Society in Education, and the National Society of Leadership and
Success, and through the Math Department is a tutor for University students in a range
of mathematical subjects. She has experience tutoring local high students and taught
a mathematics course with a Wyoming Seminary Secondary Educator to English as a Second
Language (ESL) students in the Panama Initiative through the Education Department.
As the Kirby Education Scholar, she assists with K-12 outreach efforts and consults
in projects for the Women Empowered By Science (WEBS) program as a future STEM educator.
In addition, she assists scholars and clients in educational related fields and activities.
Upon graduating in 2019, Lauren hopes to further her education with a Masters Degree
in Mathematics.
Abigail Sanders– Digital Design & Media Art
Abigail is currently a senior at Wilkes University pursuing a degree in Digital Design
and Media Art with a minor in Studio Art. Her main focus is print and web design.
In addition to obtaining her degree and being a Kirby Junior Scholar, Abigail is also
the editor of the yearbook, secretary of Studio 20, and was president of the Letterwomen's
Club for two years. As a Kirby Junior Scholar, Abigail works in the field of graphic
design; helping clients represent their ideas visually through logos, branding, and
other promotional material for their businesses. Upon graduating in May of 2018, she
plans to obtain a job as a graphic designer.
Holly Lucent - Science
Holly is the Kirby Junior Science Scholar. She is a senior at Wilkes University, double
majoring in Digital Design & Media Art and Computer Science. Her focus is print design,
logo design & branding, digital media design, web development & system administration.
She also enjoys photography and photo editing. As a Kirby Junior Scholar, Holly is
involved with assisting clients,Neoserra and eCenter system integration for external
clients, and outreach efforts among the university community. In addition to being
a Kirby Junior Scholar, she has been a Teaching Assistant for programming courses
within the Math, Computer Science, and Engineering departments, instructed beginner
programming classes to middle school students during the WEBS (Women Empowered By
Science) program, and continues to work as a System Administrator within the Math
and Computer Science Department. Upon graduating in May of 2018, she plans to obtain
work in the graphic and web development industry.
Madison Kaminski - Operations Intern
Madison Kaminski is an operations intern at the Allan P. Kirby Center. In this position,
she primarily helps with organizing files and other materials throughout the Center,
but also assists with other various projects and activities. As a student at Wilkes,
she is currently a Digital Design and Media Art major, and will be a sophomore this
coming fall semester.
Emily Sutton - Business Development Intern
Emily Sutton is the Kirby Business Development Intern. She will be a senior in the
fall and is pursuing a major in Marketing with minors in Management and Integrative
Media at Wilkes University. In addition, Emily is a member of the Wilkes Women's Soccer
team and of the business leadership club PBL (Phi Beta Lambda). Furthermore, she works
for admissions as a Social Media Ambassador, and has been inducted into the Colonels
Elite. As a Business Development Intern, she will assist the center with business
activities, marketing, and other developmental initiatives. Emily Plans to graduate
from Wilkes in the Spring of 2018 and pursue a career in the marketing field, or a
related area.
Marc Donato – Business and Client Management Intern
Marc D. Donato is the Kirby Business and Client Management Intern at the Allan P.
Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. Marc is a senior Business student
expecting to graduate in the Spring of 2018, with dual majors in Marketing and Management.
In this position, Marc assists with maintaining client management system records,
metrics, and client files as necessary. He also aids in marketing research and analysis
as well as other development initiatives and business activities. This consistent
Dean's List student plans to pursue a career in sales, marketing, or a related business
field.
Emily Absalom ’15 – Legal Studies
Emily Absalom is a 2015 graduate of Wilkes University, holding a degree in Political
Science. She is currently a graduate assistant and Kirby Scholar in Legal Studies
at the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. Emily assists
the Center as a Kirby Scholar by working with clients to determine their legal needs--whether
it be trademarks, patents, copyrights--and helping local attorneys to ensure clients
receive the best legal assistance possible. As a graduate assistant, Emily also assists
with the daily marketing of the Center, and is actively involved in the Center’s daily
operations to include preparing policies and attending meetings and conferences. Upon
completion of her MBA, she will pursue a career in marketing. Long-term, Emily plans
to continue her education by attending law school.
James Musto – Digital Design & Media Art
James Musto is a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing a major in Digital Design &
Media Art and a double minor in Marketing and Art History. He is currently a photographer
at Knot Just Any Day and a freelance graphic designer and photographer in his spare
time. As the Kirby Scholar of Digital Design & Media Art, he assists clients in creating
branding packages, logos, and promotional artwork for their businesses. James also
helps the Center by creating promotional artwork to further brand themselves and to
assist the client intake process. Upon graduating in May of 2017, James plans to work
in the industry as a graphic designer & photographer and pursue a MFA in the field
of Graphic Design.
Taylor Baker — Entrepreneurship
Taylor Baker is a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing a major in Entrepreneurship
and a minor in Management. As the Kirby Scholar in Entrepreneurship, Taylor assists
clients with feasibility analysis, market analysis, financial analysis, and business
plan preparation and review. Taylor plans to graduate in spring of 2017 and continue
her education by pursuing an MBA. Currently, Taylor is crafting the fundamentals for
a business she would like to start after her MBA. She is also a dean’s list student
and part of the National Society of Leadership and Success.
Michelle Lehman — Business Development
Michelle Lehman is the Kirby Business Scholar. She is currently a junior at Wilkes
University, pursuing a degree in Marketing with a minor in Management & Entrepreneurship.
In addition, she is the president and founder of the Wilkes University Human Resources
club. Michelle assists the center with business activities, marketing and internal
infrastructure design. Her job also includes assisting in the center’s daily operations,
research, and human resources. The Dean’s list student plans to continue her education
and complete an MBA at Wilkes University. In the future, Michelle plans to work at
a consulting agency and her career goal is to work as a professor at Wilkes University.
Taylor Ryan — Communications
Taylor Ryan is currently a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing a degree in Communication
Studies, with dual concentrations in Strategic Communications and Broadcast Production.
She is also carrying dual minors in Marketing and Women's and Gender Studies. Taylor
serves as a co-Kirby Scholar of Communications for the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free
Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. In this role, Taylor documents newsworthy APKCFEE
activities (including client success stories), assists in publicity of the Allan P.
Kirby Enterprise Center clients, and develops the APKCFEE biannual newsletter. Taylor
also serves as a Co-Chair of Zebra Communications, a student-run public relations
agency, and is a Co-Sports Editor for The Beacon, the on campus newspaper. The 2016-2017
academic year will also be her fourth year on the Wilkes University Varsity field
hockey team. After completion of her undergraduate degree, Taylor hopes to pursue
her passion for public relations in the field, or a related area.
Annelise Przywara – Communications
Annelise Przywara is a senior at Wilkes University pursuing a degree in Communication
Studies and a minor in Management. Under the Communication Studies curriculum, she
is carrying dual concentrations in Strategic Communications/Public Relations and Broadcast
Production. Annelise serves as a co-Kirby Scholar of Communications for the Allan
P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. In this role, Annelise documents
newsworthy APKCFEE activities (including client success stories), assists in publicity
of the Allan P. Kirby Enterprise Center clients, and develops the APKCFEE biannual
newsletter. Annelise also serves as a Co-Chair of Zebra Communications, a student-run
public relations agency, and the Director of Wilkes Now, the student-run television
show. She is expected to graduate in May 2017 and would like to obtain a career in
the Political Communications field.
Matthew Miller – Engineering
Matthew Miller is a junior at Wilkes University, pursuing a major in Electrical Engineering
with minors in Mathematics and Physics. He is a Dean's List student, and a member
of The National Society for Leadership and Success. As the Kirby Scholar of Engineering,
Matthew assists clients with product design, system design and testing, CADD drawings,
and other Engineering Related Services. Matthew plans to pursue a graduate degree
in Electrical Engineering, after graduating in Spring of 2017
Saidat Abidemi Sanni - Kirby International Scholar
Saidat Abidemi Sanni is an MBA major in her first year at Wilkes University. She is
the first Kirby International Scholar from Nigeria, with a BSc in Statistics from
the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Ogbomoso, Oyo State Nigeria. She was
the valedictorian of her class of a class of 10,317 graduating students. She is currently
a graduate assistant at The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development in
Wilkes University. As a statistician, Ms. Sanni is in charge of developing the metrics,
carrying out performance surveys, and statistical impact analysis for the Allan P.
Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship and the University. Ms. Sanni
is also an honors student, she will be coordinating and participating in a lot of
student activities on campus. She intends to pursue her PhD degree upon completion
of her MBA.
Courtney McMonagle — Legal
Courtney McMonagle is a junior at Wilkes University, pursing a double major in History
and Political Science and a minor in Writing. She has been on the Dean’s List four
consecutive semesters and is a member of the Historical Honors Society Phi Alpha Theta.
She is also the current section leader for the clarinets and flutes in the Wilkes
Marching Colonels. At the Allan P. Kirby Center, she assists the Kirby Scholar in
Legal with research in legal matters. Upon graduating in May of 2017, Courtney plans
to pursue a graduate degree in either law or history.
Nicole Kutos — Digital Design and Media Art
Nicole is currently a senior at Wilkes pursuing a dual baccalaureate degree in Integrative
Media and English; as an IM major, she enjoys graphic and web design, while as an
English major, she has a concentration in literature. Nicole is also minoring in Studio
Art, with printmaking being her favorite area of fine art. As a Kirby Junior Scholar,
Nicole works in the field of graphic design; she helps clients put ideas into a visual
form, as she creates logos, branding, and other materials for their businesses. Upon
graduation in 2017, Nicole hopes to either have a job with a marketing/design agency
or be enrolled in graduate school to earn an MFA in graphic design or Ph.D in literature.
Cassidy Clement — Business Development
Cassidy Clement is a junior at Wilkes University pursuing a major in Marketing and
a minor in Business Management. She is a Junior Scholar at the APKCFEE assisting in
business activities, marketing, research, and website development. Cassidy has interned
for Etruscan Press in spring of 2016, enhancing her skills in market research, grant
writing, social media analysis, and sales information. She also has been involved
with projects of basic website design and social media setup. Upon graduating in 2018,
Cassidy plans to obtain a career in the field of marketing at a company involving
web development and technology.
Kimberly Keller — Accounting
Kimberly is a senior accounting major at Wilkes and will be graduating May 2017. As
the Kirby Junior Scholar in Accounting, Kimberly establishes financial records needed
for clients, provides accounting recommendations with mentor support, and assists
clients with research, such as financial ratios and industry data. Upon graduation,
Kimberly has accepted a job at PricewaterhouseCoopers and plans to take the CPA exam.
Thomas Carton – Business Development
Thomas Carton is a senior at Wilkes University, pursuing a double major in Marketing
and Entrepreneurship. He currently is the President of the Wilkes chapter of Phi Beta
Lambda, a Wilkes University eMentor, and a member of the Kirby scholarship program
by assisting where he is needed. He plans to continue his education and complete an
MBA. Currently Thomas owns no entrepreneurial enterprises but he plans to be a serial
entrepreneur one day, and often has ideas of where he might start.
Kayla Gradwohl – Product Development
Kayla Gradwohl is a junior at Wilkes University, who will graduate in 2017 with her
Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering and a minor in Engineering Management. She is
currently a Kirby Scholar for The Allan P. Kirby Center. Kayla supports entrepreneurs
with technical and business aspects of start-up companies. Her current projects include
creating CAD/Solidworks drawings for various companies, creating a Full Scale Model
Document for a Breast Cancer Detection Project, and working with Wilkes' Engineering
Senior Projects groups. Upon completion of her Bachelor's Degree, she plans to work
in industry as an Electrical Engineer and take graduate level classes in order to
obtain a Master's in Business and/or Electrical Engineering.
James Musto – Integrative Media
James Musto is a junior at Wilkes University, pursuing a major in Integrative Media
& Art and a double minor in Marketing and Art History. He is currently a freelance
graphic designer and photographer in his spare time, and as the practicing Kirby Integrative
Media Scholar, he assists clients in creating branding, logos, and promotional artwork
for their businesses. James also helps the Center create promotional artwork to assist
in client intake process and for events held at the Center. Upon graduating in 2017,
James plans to pursue an MFA in the field of Graphic Design.
Brian Surdovel – Accounting
Brian Surdovel is currently a senior at Wilkes University pursuing a degree in Accounting
and potential a second degree in Marketing. He is the practicing Kirby Scholar of
Accounting at the Allan P. Kirby Center as well as acting CFO of The Magnesium Works
(a company currently enrolled in the center). As the Kirby Accounting Scholar, he
is tasked with designing a standardized integration system for potential start-up
projects so that the Center may assist, consult, and contribute to the production
of accurate and useful financial records for each client. Some of the services that
will be provided for incoming clients include partial or complete bookkeeping services,
production of quarterly or monthly financials (dependent on client needs), as well
as financial analysis and tax advice. Upon graduation, Brian plans to pursue an MBA
while gaining experience in the Accounting field with hopes of pursuing an entrepreneurial
career.
Justin Topa – Communications
Justin Topa is a senior at Wilkes University studying under the dual concentrations
of Public Relations and Rhetoric and carrying dual minors in Marketing and Women's
and Gender Studies. The Dean's List student has been serving as a Kirby Scholar of
Communications for the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
since December 2015. In this role, Topa works with each client partner to foster relationships
with the public, writes and edits for the center's newsletter, and serves as a spokesperson
for the center and its clients. He also serves as Chair of Zebra Communications, a
student-run public relations agency, and Life, Arts and Entertainment Editor for The
Beacon, an award-winning campus newspaper. Because of his commitment to professionalism
and dedication to his team and the clients he serves, Topa has been named the recipient
of three consecutive leadership scholarships as well as the Lawrence G. Foster Award
for Excellence in Public Relations, a national award granted by the Public Relations
Student Society of America.
Nicole Zukowski – Communications
Emily Absalom ’15 – Legal Studies
Emily Absalom is a recent graduate of Wilkes University, holding a degree in Political
Science. She is currently a graduate assistant and Kirby Scholar in Legal Studies
at the Allan P. Kirby Center. Her job includes working with clients to determine their
legal needs--whether it be trademarks, patents, copyrights--and helping local attorneys
to ensure clients receive the best legal assistance possible. She also assists with
the daily marketing of the Center, and is actively involved in the Center’s daily
operations to include preparing policies and attending meetings and conferences. Upon
completion of her MBA, she plans to continue her education by attending law school.
Thomas Carton –Business Development
Jon Conklin ’15 – Accounting
Kayla Gradwohl – Product Development
Taillon Staudenmeier – Marketing and Promotions