Admission Staff
If you would like to contact your admission counselor, please browse through the listed staff profiles.
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Donna Grand Pré
Vice President for Admission & Financial Aid
Hometown
Brockport, New York (but I did attend 3 high schools in New York, Oregon and Illinois)
Favorite Book
Good to Great by Jim Collins
Most Underrated Movie
Chef by Jon Favreau—maybe because I’m a foodie.
Why Boston
One word—Fenway! Boston is a great sports city and even if you are not a big baseball fan, a visit to Fenway Park is a unique and fun experience. Also Boston is a great city of neighborhoods with a variety of cuisines, nightlife, and historical and cultural offerings! Boston is a city rich in American colonial history and architecture as well as groundbreaking life science research contributing to its world-class health care.
Favorite Food
I have a serious sweet tooth!
Advice to Applicants
Just remember—it’s a match to be made not a race to be won! The college admission process will be exciting and daunting at the same time but there are so many resources and experts (like the team at Suffolk) to help. Just be honest and true to who you are and take advantage of the college experience--once you enroll, it’s life-changing.
Kristen Ardell
Senior Assistant Director
Hometown
Essex Junction, Vermont
Favorite Books
(This is tough!) Some favorites are Miracle in the Andes, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, The Goldfinch, and All the Light We Cannot See
Most Underrated Movie
The Intouchables
Why Boston
I love the history here, exploring different neighborhoods, and how walkable the city is. There is so much to do: watching sporting events, going to the theater, the symphony, concerts, and trying new restaurants.
Favorite Food
Anything Italian or Thai
Advice to Applicants
When beginning your college search think about what criteria are important to you; available majors, location, size and anything else that is essential to finding the right fit for you. Visit your top schools and ask questions! Lastly, give yourself enough time to fill out and double check your application.
Jeanne Aversa
Director of Admission Information Systems
Hometown
South Bend, Indiana
Counselor Assignment
Parts of Metrowest Boston
Favorite Books
The Prince of Tides, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Unbroken
Most Underrated Movies
Radio Days, The Princess Bride, The Way Way Back
Why Boston
So much history, and close proximity to the ocean, plus great food and sports teams
Favorite Foods
Neopolitan pizza, Tex Mex anything, fresh baked bread
Advice to Applicants
Be engaged in the college search and selection process, but keep your cool and have faith that all will turn out well…it will.
Diandra Berthiaume
Assistant Director
Hometown
Windham, Maine
Counselor Assignment
Colorado, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont
Favorite Book
Whistling Vivaldi or Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Most Underrated Movie
Oliver & Company
Why Boston?
Why not Boston? Boston has something for everyone, no matter what you're interested in. I personally love the food and music culture!
Favorite Food
French fries or a chicken gyro from Greco
Advice to Applicants
Don't stress if you're not sure what you want to do for the rest of your life in high school! It's OK (and more common than you think) to come to college not knowing what you want to study!
Tom Biedermann
Associate Director, Madrid Campus
Hometown
Ankeny, Iowa
Counselor Assignment
Western Europe (excluding Spain and France), Africa
Favorite Book
The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert
Most Underrated Movie
The Prestige
Why Madrid
Suffolk’s branch in Spain offers students a unique opportunity to start their university studies abroad. All the coursework is equivalent to what students study in Boston: classes in English, fully-accredited American university program—with the added advantage of cultural and linguistic immersion to broaden horizons and get a global perspective. Madrid is an exciting capital city, and since there are no classes on Fridays, students can explore other parts of Spain and spend weekends traveling around Europe, too.
Favorite Food
I live in Spain—so everything from traditional paella and Spanish omelet to new fusion.
Advice to Applicants
Read your email and keep in touch. Most of our communication is by email, so be sure to check on the status of your application and sign up to attend our showcase events to take a tour and talk to current students.
Daniel Connolly
Managing Associate Director
Hometown
Worcester, MA
Counselor Assignment
Essex County; Transfer students from many of the Massachusetts Community Colleges
Favorite Book
The Great Gatsby
Most Underrated Movie
Drive or The Grey
Why Boston
This city has just so many options. Culture, history, professional sports, food, shopping, and museums are all within a few blocks of where we are in downtown. It is big enough to have all the resources you need, but small enough to enjoy it all…just like Suffolk!
Favorite Food
Donuts…cannoli from Mike’s Pastry…cream puffs from Beard Papa’s…you sensing a pattern?
Advice to Applicants
Whether you are starting or narrowing down your college search, you need to visit and meet with students and faculty. There are so many students who I speak with on the road that have never been to campus. If you ask our current students so many will say that the campus visit was the deciding factor. Work with the Admissions Office at the schools you are considering and schedule a tour. This is a great starting point and can save you a lot of stress when you are trying to decide where to spend your next four years. As one of the transfer counselors, I will hear from students that they want the activity of a city and for the opportunities to be right outside the door. If you visit campus, you will know if it could be the right fit for you.
Patrick Deane
Admission Counselor
Hometown
Agawam, MA
Counselor Assignment
South, South West, and Mid-West U.S.; Northern and Central California; Southern California (San Diego); Texas (El Paso, San Antonio, Dallas, and Fort Worth)
Favorite Books
To Kill a Mockingbird (Book), A Song of Ice and Fire (Series)
Most Underrated Movie
Zodiac
Why Boston?
Boston is a fun and vibrant city, rich with history and teeming with opportunity. There is always something to do and a new experience to have; whether it be finding a new historical landmark on the freedom trail, trying a new restaurant, exploring new shops, or going to concerts and shows throughout the city. Maybe even try to catch a game in Fenway Park! Nothing is more fun than heading into Boston and seeing what new opportunities await, and everything is right outside your front door!
Favorite Food
Chicken Parmesan
Advice to Applicants
I have three pieces of advice that I give to every student. First, when looking at a college try and picture yourself on campus day in and day out. See yourself living in the residence halls, going to class, joining clubs, and getting involved in the campus life and community. All this is to see if you are comfortable on campus, and if you feel that you will flourish in the environment. Second, when writing your college essay, tell your story. This is one of the best opportunities to show the university who you are and helps counselors get to know you a little more personally. Finally, just breathe, stay confident, and use the resources around you such as admission counselors!
Brian Denzak
Admission Counselor
Hometown
Syracuse, NY
Counselor Assignment
New York and Massachusetts (Berkshire County)
Favorite Books
Harry Potter Series, To Kill a Mockingbird, and The Goldfinch
Most Underrated Movies
Booksmart, Can You Ever Forgive Me?, and Widows
Why Boston?
Boston is such a great city! Filled with so much to do and full of opportunities to break out of your shell and experience new adventures!
Favorite Foods
Buffalo Chicken Wings and Eggs Benedict
Advice to Applicants
Make sure you visit our campus and talk with as many people as possible and don't be afraid to ask questions. Most importantly, trust your gut!
Evelyn Espitia
Admission Officer
Hometown
Somerville, Massachusetts
Counselor Assignment
Southern California and Mid-Atlantic U.S.
Favorite Book
The Diary of Frida Kahlo
Most Underrated Movie
Restless (a film by Gus van Sant)
Why Boston
It’s the backdrop for a thriving music scene, lots of fascinating history, and innovative technological advances, all within walking distance!
Favorite Food
Baconnnnnnn
Advice to Applicants
Your teacher recommendation doesn’t have to come from the teacher who gave you an A; it could come from a teacher who has seen you struggle and work hard for a B. Most importantly, it should be from a teacher who knows you very well!
Jennifer Finnigan
Senior Assistant Director
Hometown
North Andover, Massachusetts
Counselor Assignment
Massachusetts (Milton, Lexington, Waltham, Springfield and Hampshire County, Cape Cod and Islands, Norfolk and Bristol County)
Favorite Books
A Song of Ice and Fire series
Most Underrated Movie
Stardust or (favorite but not underrated) Whiplash
Why Boston
We’re an intimate, personal city with countless opportunities around every corner, and filled to the brim with endless cultural, historical, and artistic experiences
Favorite Food
Any variation of a potato
Advice to Applicants
A little personal touch goes a long way—you don’t need endless pages of activities to stand out. Reach out, make contact, make yourself unique!
Amber Fitzgerald
Associate Director of Enrollment Visitor Services
Hometown
Salem, New Hampshire
Favorite Books
Cat’s Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut has always been a favorite, and anything written by Brett Easton Ellis.
Most Underrated Movie
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Why Boston
Boston is an amazing city full of art, history, and culture. It’s home to an ever-growing population of college students and an endless list of things to try and explore. Boredom just isn’t an option!
Favorite Foods
ice cream sundaes, ice cream sandwiches, milk shakes… did I mention ice cream?
Advice to Applicants
College is a fun, exciting, and transformational time of your life. ENJOY the search process! Visit campuses, ask lots of questions, chat with current students, and be true to your passions and dreams. We look forward to helping you along the way!
Olivia Harris
Admission Counselor
Hometown
Danbury, CT
Counselor Assignment
Central Massachusetts, Florida, Hawaii, Pacific Northwest U.S.
Favorite Books
Jaws by Peter Benchley
Most Underrated Movies
Not quite underrated, but Philadelphia is still a powerful must-see
Why Boston
Boston has it all! As the hub of New England, the opportunity to explore any interest you may have is endless whether it be professional, cultural or even edible. Plus it’s not too long of a drive to the beaches of Cape Cod.
Favorite Foods
A classic Breakfast sandwich or anything else you may find on a brunch menu
Advice to Applicants
Throughout your college search remember that learning is not something that is limited to inside the classroom. Find an institution that will provide you with a backdrop rich in opportunities to round out your undergraduate experience.
Chelsea Hurley
Assistant Director of Transfer Admission
Hometown
Lowell, MA
Counselor Assignment
Transfer Applicants, plus Freshman Applicants from Rhode Island
Favorite Book
The Harry Potter series
Most Underrated Movie
The Emperor’s Club
Why Boston?
I never get tired of exploring the city! Boston truly offers something for everyone – amazing restaurants and nightlife, rich history, great music and theater scene, shopping, sightseeing, sporting events (the list is endless). I love the hustle and bustle of the city; love the people. Boston is an amazingly diverse community full of endless opportunities.
Favorite Food
Poutine
Advice to Applicants
It is never too early to start your college search! Applying to college is a major life decision so definitely do your research and take the time to find the school that is the right fit for you, but also have fun with it. If you ever feel overwhelmed by the process don’t be afraid to ask college admissions professionals for help – that’s what we’re here for!
Lark Krajeski
Director of Undergraduate Admission
Hometown
Ringwood, New Jersey
Favorite Book
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Most Underrated Movie
The Fountain (Film by Darren Aronofsky)
Why Boston
I’ve lived in Boston for many years, and there is always something new for me to discover. The history, diversity, attitude, food, music, art, and culture make this the best place to call home.
Favorite Food
Macaroni and Cheese (with plenty of hot sauce)
Advice to Applicants
Be yourself. Spend less time trying to figure out a secret admissions formula and spend more time letting us get to know you better. You are more than just your GPA and test scores.
Jordan Mason
Admission Counselor
Hometown
Wilton, CT
Counselor Assignment
Connecticut
Favorite Book
The Book Thief
Most Underrated Movie
Miss Congeniality
Why Boston?
Boston finds new ways to pull me in every day. It's incredibly dynamic and has something to offer everyone, but it's still very manageable. Boston has so much history, culture, and art to be enjoyed, and it operates as a hub for innovation and education. As far as entertainment, this city is serving as a center for incredible music and professional sports (go Sox), with incredible attractions to see and activities to do. The diversity allows for everyone to share experiences and learn from one another. It's one of the few cities I've been too where nature is so seamlessly integrated into a hub of human activity. There is too much to love about Boston!
Favorite Food
Anything and everything sweet!
Advice to Applicants
Take time to figure out what it is you truly want out of your higher education experience, and allow others to help you do so! Admission counselors can serve as an incredible resource in discovering the elements of a school that you are drawn to. Always ask questions if you have them. Lastly, enjoy the process of exploring your options. Trust that you will end up where you are supposed to be!
Raffi Muroy
Director of International Admission
Hometown
Lima, Peru
Counselor Assignment
South America, Caribbean, and Middle East
Favorite Book
Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
Most Underrated Movie
Gosford Park
Why Boston
One word, diversity. You can find any type of food, cultural event, distinct neighborhood, etc. It is all close enough and getting around is as easy as walking from spot to spot.
Favorite Food
ALL TYPES
Advice to Applicants
Take time with your essay. Make sure to draft, draft, and draft. We enjoy learning about you. Remember that this might be the only piece of your application where your personal voice comes through. Make it concise and allow it to flow nicely. When effectively and properly written, it can be the best part of reading an application.
Stephanie Sweeney
Associate Director of International Admission
Hometown
Westwood, Massachusetts
Counselor Assignment
Central America, Asia, Eastern Europe, Australia, New Zealand, France, and Spain
Favorite Book
Suite Française by Irene Nemirovsky
Most Underrated Movie
Amelie
Why Boston
Boston is very historic and fun. I can easily go from lunch at the Boston Public Library to an exhibit at the MFA to a Red Sox game in the same day! It also helps that we're the city of champions!
Favorite Food
Lasagna
Advice to Applicants
Be proactive about your application. Contact your counselor, attend your high school visit, go to open house. Discover the place where you will spend the next four years.
Eleanor Villa-Wilson
Assistant Director
Hometown
Hanover, New Hampshire
Counselor Assignment
City of Boston and parts of the Greater Boston area, Texas (Austin and Houston), Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands
Favorite Book
Half the Sky
Most Underrated Movies
Spanglish or Freaky Friday
Why Boston
Boston is a diverse and active city with a ton of history. There's so much to explore - it never gets boring! Whether its attending a sporting event, walking along the Boston Common or Charles River, trying new cuisines, or shopping on Newbury Street, there are endless opportunities of things to do. Boston is the best of both worlds - it's urban but the beach, lakes, and mountains are within a short distance from the city. The city itself is very walkable and manageable which, makes getting around easy. If you are looking for a city setting with a plethora of cultural, professional, and personal growth opportunities – Boston is the place for you!
Favorite Food
Dominican Food - rice, beans, pork, fried plantains, and a glass of passion fruit juice
Advice to Applicants
You are in the driver seat! This is your application process and decision. Be proactive, ask questions, identify your support system, take as many campus tours as possible, communicate with your admission counselor, and always keep in mind the characteristics that are most important to you when it comes to determining the right fit
