Champions Advisory Board
Champions Advisory Board
The Champions Advisory Board was formed by Heather Lyke in 2018 to advise, assist and provide feedback to her executive team on critical department initiatives.
This Board is comprised of alumni, corporate stakeholders, Pitt parents, philanthropists, former student-athletes and thought leaders. By supporting the bold vision of the Athletic Department, the Board enhances opportunities and bolsters the Pitt experience for student-athletes through their work.
They are Champions for our region, our student-athletes, our coaches and the University.
Board Members
Pat Bostick
Associate Athletics Director, Major Gifts
pbostick@athletics.pitt.edu
Pat Bostick joined the University of Pittsburgh athletic department in February 2012 as an Assistant Director of Development. After a two-year stint working with the annual fund and premium seating, Bostick was elevated to Director of Development in 2014, shifting his primary focus to major gift fundraising. He was promoted to his current role as Associate Athletic Director for Major Gifts in October of 2017.
As a major gifts officer, Bostick works to identify, cultivate and secure six and seven-figure gift commitments in support of Pitt Athletics and its more than 475 student-athletes. With a portfolio of nearly 100 generous donors and prospects, he seeks to maximize the depth, impact and fulfillment of each and every relationship he manages.
In addition to his fundraising work, Bostick has served as color analyst for Pitt Football broadcasts alongside the legendary Bill Hillgrove for the past eight seasons. He is a frequent local radio and television guest, appearing most commonly on Pitt's flagship radio station, 93.7 The Fan, during football season. He also oversees Pitt's Wheels of Support car dealer program.
Bostick was a three-year football letterman at Pitt (2007-08, 2010), quarterbacking the Panthers to such memorable victories as their 13-9 upset of West Virginia in 2007 and 36-33 quadruple-overtime win at Notre Dame in 2008. He is an honors graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, earning two degrees during his time as a student-athlete at Pitt.
A Lancaster, Pa., native, Bostick resides in Mount Lebanon with his wife, Samantha, and their sons, Trey and Rhys.
Beyond the Bio
Favorite place on the Pitt campus?
The Cathedral of Learning. It represents so many wonderful memories for me from my time as Pitt student-athlete.
Favorite sports moment at Pitt?
As a student-athlete, definitely the 36-33 4OT win over Notre Dame in 2008. As a staff member, I would have to say the win over Penn State in 2016.
What do you love most about the University of Pittsburgh?
The people. They make this Pitt a special place.
What is your favorite aspect of working in Pitt’s athletic department?
As a product of the student-athlete experience, it is rewarding and motivating to work every single day towards making the experience better for our student-athletes.
Hobbies outside of work?
Golf and spending time with my family.
Patrick Crowley
Assistant Director of Development, Prospect Analytics and Financial Operations
pcrowley@athletics.pitt.edu
Patrick Crowley joins Pitt Athletics in the summer of 2019 as the Assistant Director of Development, Prospect Analytics & Financial Operations. He is responsible for providing leads, insight, and value to development officers, while also collaborating with the development team on portfolio analysis and prospect management.
Crowley comes to Pitt from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business where he received his MBA. While at Duke, he worked on three student projects for the Duke Athletics Department. While at Duke, Crowley also interned for the Washington Nationals baseball team focusing on business strategy and analytics related to ticketing, marketing, and customer experience.
Before pursuing his MBA, Crowley worked for a boutique management consulting firm based out of the Washington, DC metro area where he was tasked with managing multiple strategic projects for Fortune 500 clients in the cable and telecom space both domestically and internationally.
A 2014 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Crowley majored in finance and played on the men's basketball team. During college, he also met his now wife Meg, a fellow ND graduate. They currently reside in Shadyside.
Beyond the Bio
Favorite place on the University of Pittsburgh campus?
Petersen Events Center. The energy on game day in The Pete is infectious.
What is your favorite thing to do in the city of Pittsburgh?
I love to try restaurants in the different neighborhoods with my wife, Meg.
What do you love most about the University of Pittsburgh?
I really enjoy the inclusive culture in the athletic department as well as the kindness between staff from the different areas of campus.
Favorite quote?
The Man in the Arena from Theodore Roosevelt: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly…”
Pat Gannon
Development Operations Specialist
pgannon@athletics.pitt.edu
Pat Gannon joined the University of Pittsburgh athletic department in January 2018 as an External Affairs Assistant. Gannon began working in the Panther Club in June 2018 and was promoted to his current role of Assistant Director of Development in September 2019.
Since joining the Panther Club, Gannon has been an integral part of the operations team. In his current role, Gannon oversees young alumni engagement and development, Panther Club social media strategy, Panther Club communications, and collaborates with development officers on annual fund initiatives. He has overseen the expansion of the Panther Club’s social media following and online presence. Gannon has also led annual Panther Club initiatives such as the Panther Club Friends and Family initiative and the annual staff giving campaign. In addition, Gannon played a key role in the creation and development of the Student Panther Club.
Prior to his arrival at Pitt, Gannon completed his undergraduate studies as well as law school at the University of Pittsburgh. While enrolled at Pitt Law, he also served a two year term on the Panthers Fan Experience Committee.
A Pittsburgh native, he grew up in Mt. Lebanon before finding his way to Oakland as a student and now a member of the Pitt Athletics staff. He currently resides in Shadyside.
Beyond the Bio
Favorite place on the University of Pittsburgh campus?
Sutherland Hall (West), I lived there my freshman year of undergrad and met some of my closest friends there. So many great memories from the 6 West.
Favorite sports moment at Pitt?
Being at 13-9.
If you could have dinner with any three people who would it be and why?
Jerry Seinfeld, Larry David, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, because I’d love to know what it feels like to be in the middle of a Seinfeld episode.
Favorite quote?
“Those who dare to fail miserably can achieve greatly” – John F. Kennedy
Sue George
Athletics Development Administrative Assistant
sgeorge@athletics.pitt.edu
Sue George began working at the University of Pittsburgh, Athletics Department in June 2009 as the Secretary to Executive Associate Athletic Director. After five years of experience she added to her experience in taking a position with the Alumni Association as the External Relations Coordinator until 2014. She has recently returned to Pitt Athletics and is currently providing administrative support to the Executive Associate Athletics Director of Philanthropy & Engagement but also to the growing Development Team as a vital role to the department’s success.
Sue (Grimes) George lives in Jefferson Hills, PA, with her husband, Al and daughter, Jessica. Also, nearby are her two sons, Al and Christopher.
Beyond the Bio
What do you love most about working in athletics?
Knowing that not only are we working hard to give our student athletics a great experience during their time at Pitt, but we are also offering them a remarkable opportunity to obtain an excellent education!
Favorite sports moment at Pitt?
The 2016 football win in the final seconds of the Pitt vs. Clemson game!
Brady Hart
Senior Associate Athletics Director, Development
bhart@athletics.pitt.edu
Brady Hart comes to Pitt after a successful two year run as the leader of premium seat sales at the UCF. He will lead the day-to-day strategy and pursuit of transformational gifts for the athletics department.
In leading the premium seat sales team at UCF, Hart was tasked with creating and building new and renovated premium spaces. Created from scratch, the premium seat sales department was charged with engaging corporate Orlando through hospitality and entertainment initiatives. The creation, expansion and sale of premium seating added more than $1M annually to the UCF bottom line. In 2019, for the first time in school history, UCF sold out of football season tickets.
Hart began his career in college athletics as a development assistant at Long Beach State in 2010. He also served in varying roles with the fundraising arm for Ohio University athletics, the Ohio Bobcat Club. At Ohio, Hart concentrated on football premium seat allocation and donor parking. In addition, he aided senior development staff in annual fund solicitations and operation.
Following his time in the Bobcat Club, Hart joined the University at Buffalo athletics department. The team at Buffalo enjoyed plenty of success as they increased year-over-year cash received by 19%, 69% and 32% respectively, from FY14 through FY16. At Buffalo, Hart helped to modernize the annual fund as they introduced per seat giving and expanded geographical outreach. In July of 2015, he moved over to lead the major gift team, securing gifts for the department's philanthropic gift society, the Shareholders Society. The primary goal of the Shareholders Society was to raise funds for an $18M indoor fieldhouse campaign that was completed in 2019.
A native of State College, Pa., Hart graduated from Yale University in 2009. He was a starting linebacker and member of the 2006 Ivy League Champion Bulldog football team. He has Master's degrees from Ohio and Buffalo (MBA/MSA, Ohio University; M.Ed, University at Buffalo).
Davis Hendrickson
Assistant Athletics Director, Premium Sales and Development
dhendrickson@athletics.pitt.edu
Davis Hendrickson joined the University of Pittsburgh athletic department in January of 2018 as an Assistant Athletic Director of Premium Sales and Development. Hendrickson oversees the premium seating efforts for Pitt Athletics and also plays an integral role in fundraising for both leadership and major gifts.
Since arriving at Pitt, Hendrickson has improved the product, expanded the inventory, and increased the sales of premium seating for Pitt Athletics. Hendrickson played a leadership role in “flipping the Pete” – an initiative in which the Petersen Events Center layout was repositioned to provide an enhanced gameday experience for season ticket holders and an improved viewing experience on television in conjunction with the launch of the ACC Network. As part of this reconfiguration to the basketball arena, Hendrickson led multiple projects to improve the fan experience and implement new revenue streams. Some of these projects included: expanding the Courtside Club to increase seating capacity and amenities, implementing new baseline courtside tables, and doubling the capacity of the Platinum Club. Along with these significant upgrades, Hendrickson helped to lead a complete reseat of the arena. These initiatives results in roughly $2 million in new revenue.
Hendrickson also plays an active role in fundraising for student-athlete scholarships, sport specific projects, and the Victory Heights campaign. Hendrickson has secured annual, leadership, and major gifts to support the goal of providing Pitt student-athletes a transformational experience.
Prior to his arrival at Pitt, Hendrickson spent over three at the University of Illinois. He received multiple promotions while at Illinois and his titles included Assistant Director of Development, Coordinator of Donor Relations, and Graduate Assistant. During his time at Illinois, Hendrickson played an active role in securing contributions for the $170 million renovation of the State Farm Center basketball arena through major gifts and sales of premium seats. He was also heavily involved in the With Illinois campaign that launched in Fall 2017. Additionally, Hendrickson worked closely with the ticket office to ensure excellent customer service and experience for athletics donors. Before his tenure at Illinois, Hendrickson worked as a District Manager with ALDI, Inc. Hendrickson received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois in 2013 with a double major in business management and marketing. He was a four-year letterwinner on the University of Illinois baseball team. Hendrickson helped the Fighting Illini capture both the regular season Big Ten Championship and Tournament Championship in 2011 and was named to the 2011 NCAA All-Regional Team. Hendrickson competed in two NCAA Tournaments and was recognized as a member of the All-Big Ten Academic Teams in 2011, 2012, and 2013. Hendrickson also received his master’s degree from the University of Illinois, which he obtained during this time as a Graduate Assistant.
A The Macomb, Illinois, native, Davis is married to the former Katie Porada (Hendrickson), who was a standout student-athlete on the Fighting Illini women's track team. Katie also competed for the University of Oregon track team during her graduate work. Davis and Katie reside in Mt. Lebanon with their daughter, Jayne.
Beyond the Bio
Favorite place on the University of Pittsburgh campus?
Every time I walk into the Petersen Events Center is special for me. I am honored to be a member of the rich history of Pitt Athletics and work in such an amazing facility.
What do you love most about working in athletics?
Playing a role in helping to create to the same transformational experience that I had as a college student-athlete.
Hobbies outside of work?
Our family loves to be outside. We enjoy going on walks and finding trails to explore.
Favorite quote?
“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from swinging the bat” – Babe Ruth
Michelle McBride
Senior Associate Athletics Director, Development
mmcbride@athletics.pitt.edu
Michelle McBride joined the University of Pittsburgh Athletics Department in July 2016 as Senior Associate Athletic Director, Development. In her role, she works to secure major gifts and also provides leadership and direction to the staff responsible for annual giving and premium sales.
Prior to her arrival at Pitt, McBride spent seven years at Mississippi State University working with the Mississippi State University Foundation and the Mississippi State Bulldog Club. McBride helped implement Mississippi State's first major gift initiative for athletics, entitled Today, Tomorrow, Forever. That initiative has generated over $100 million in private support for athletic facility projects, that included football, softball, soccer, and golf along with expansions to the track complex and tennis center. The initiative also accounts for more than $350 million toward the university's $1 billion Infinite Impact comprehensive campaign. In addition to athletic facility projects, McBride secured endowed scholarships and more than $25 million in planned gifts for the athletic department.
McBride began her development career at her alma mater, the University of Cincinnati, in 1996. At Cincinnati, McBride served in various roles in the development office over the course of ten years from Administrative Coordinator to Assistant Athletic Director for Development.
McBride worked closely with the University of Cincinnati Athletic Team Scholarships development program and the athletic ticket office on a priority seating program that generated significant support for the annual scholarship fund. The culmination of her time at Cincinnati was spent working on major gifts for the Richard E. Lindner Varsity Village project, a project that generated more than $50 million in private support for athletic facilities.
In 2007, she joined the athletic department at San Diego State University as an Assistant Athletic Director for Development and Executive Director of the Aztec Athletic Foundation. In that role, McBride supervised all annual fund activities as well as the board of the Aztec Athletic Foundation. During that time, the annual fund set a record mark of $6 million in private support. In addition to identifying major gift prospects, she also served as athletics' liaison for the university's first comprehensive campaign.
McBride earned her undergraduate degree in 1994 at the University of Cincinnati with a bachelor of arts degree in sociology. She worked as an undergraduate and graduate student in the University of Cincinnati Football Office. She also worked as a graduate assistant in the athletic business office while in graduate school. She completed her masters of science degree in health planning and administration.
A Centerville, Ohio native, McBride resides in Mt. Washington.
Chris McFarlane
Executive Associate Athletics Director, Philanthropy & Engagement
cmcfarlane@athletics.pitt.edu
Chris McFarlane joined Pitt Athletics as Executive Associate Athletics Director for Philanthropy and Engagement on August 20, 2018. In his role at Pitt, McFarlane directs and oversees all fundraising initiatives, including comprehensive annual and major gifts programs, a $300M+ capital campaign goal, and a team of 15 dynamic development professionals. A member of the executive leadership team, McFarlane also plays a key role in high-level strategic decision making for the department of athletics and its nearly 750 student-athletes, band and spirit squads. Having dual reporting roles to Heather Lyke, Director of Athletics, and Kris Davitt, Senior Vice Chancellor, Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement and President, Medical and Health Sciences Foundation, McFarlane oversees all aspects of the planning, implementation and execution of a comprehensive, coordinated fundraising program at the University of Pittsburgh.
Before coming to Pitt, McFarlane spent the previous five years at Northwestern University, where he served as Associate AD for Major Gifts, and had oversight and strategic direction of all major gifts activity and staff during a remarkably successful $450M athletics campaign. Carrying a full portfolio of major and principal gift donors and prospects, he also served in a leadership role for all campaign and department-wide priorities as a member of the department’s senior administrative staff. Promoted three separate times during his tenure in Evanston, McFarlane also led stewardship and Parent Partners programming for the Wildcats. He also served as a sport administrator for men’s soccer and women’s tennis.
Prior to Northwestern, McFarlane previously led the athletics development offices at both Mount St. Mary's University and Loyola University Maryland, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and experience into his role in Evanston. He previously held the position of Senior Director of Athletics Development at Mount St. Mary's. During his tenure at The Mount, McFarlane managed all major gift, annual fund, corporate partnership and capital project initiatives to extraordinary levels of success.
A 2003 graduate of Florida State University, he also earned a master's degree in sport business management and his MBA from UCF in 2005 and completed a certificate program in Leadership from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management in 2016.
McFarlane is a member of the National Association of Athletic Development Directors (NAADD) and completed the NCAA's prestigious Leadership Institute in 2011, and the Collegiate Athletics Leadership Symposium (CALS) in 2015.
An Orlando, Florida, native, McFarlane currently resides in Lawrenceville.
Beyond the Bio
Favorite place on the University of Pittsburgh campus?
The Cathedral of Learning. It serves as such an iconic centerpiece of campus and the fact that it maintains full functionality affords all students, faculty, staff and visitors the opportunity to experience it.
Favorite Quote?
"Advance confidently in the direction of your dreams and endeavor to live the life you have imagined. The future is not just some place you are going to, but is a place you are creating, and the paths to it are not found, they are made. Follow your passion as long as you live, and on this you will reach success."
What is your favorite aspect of working in Pitt’s athletic department?
Collaborating with talented colleagues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the young men and women as they pursue their academic and athletic goals. As a former student-athlete, I remain extremely passionate about the opportunity to make a difference for current and future student- athletes here at Pitt.
Hobbies outside of work?
I enjoy trying new restaurants here in the city, stand-up comedy, and traveling.
Drew Moeller
Assistant Athletics Director, Annual Giving
dmoeller@athletics.pitt.edu
Drew Moeller joined Pitt Athletics in March of 2019 as Assistant Athletic Director for Annual Giving. In this role, he is responsible for coordinating all annual giving activities and developing an annual strategy to drive philanthropic donations for the Panther Club.
Prior to Pitt, Moeller served a five year tenure in various roles at East Carolina University with the Pirate Club. He was initially hired as assistant director of development in 2013 before being promoted to associate director in 2016. His primary role at ECU as a frontline development officer tasked with identifying, cultivating, and soliciting donations to benefit their annual scholarship fund, endowments, and facility projects while managing 13 regional chapters throughout North Carolina. In 2016, he began assisting with season tickets and parking benefit fulfillment for Pirate Club donors. During his tenure the Pirate Club achieved record breaking fundraising totals and saw a 15% increase in annual giving.
A native of Raleigh, N.C., he and his wife, Kalyn, now reside in the Squirrel Hill area of Pittsburgh.
Nick Price
Assistant Director, Signature Events
nprice@athletics.pitt.edu
Nick Price joined Pitt Athletics in July 2018 as Assistant Director for Signature Events. In this role, he assists with the execution of a variety of department events and the engagement of alumni, season ticket holders, fans and friends of Pitt Athletics.
Previously, Price worked at the University of Kentucky working on Event Management and Championships. He assisted in operationalizing a variety of NCAA and Southeastern Conference championship events for baseball, basketball, men's and women's soccer, softball, track and field, and volleyball. While in Lexington, Price supported construction projects and the grand opening of the Wendell & Vickie Bell Soccer Complex and Kroger Field (formerly known as Commonwealth Stadium). Price completed his Master's Degree in Sport Leadership from the University of Kentucky in 2016.
Price earned his undergraduate degree in 2014 at Slippery Rock University with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management. During his time at The Rock, Price interned with various collegiate athletic departments in Western Pennsylvania.
A native of the Pittsburgh area, Price currently resides in Moon Township, Pennsylvania.
Allison Rubin
Executive Director for Signature Events and Donor Experience
arubin@athletics.pitt.edu
Allison Rubin joined the University of Pittsburgh in early 2019 as the Executive Director for Signature Events and Donor Experience. In this role, Allison designs and implements memorable events, communications and experiences for the Pitt Athletics community.
Most recently, Allison served as the director of stewardship and donor relations at her alma mater Providence College. There she developed stewardship programs and events for all of the College's donors and worked to create personalized touches for members of the lifetime giving society. During her time there she oversaw the opening of the Ruane Friar Development Center, the men's basketball practice facility, and the Ryan Center for Business Studies, the new home to the business school, as well as the close of the largest campaign in school history at $185M raised.
Allison worked as the director of advancement events and donor relations at Loyola University Maryland for eight years, where she designed and implemented a multi-faceted stewardship plan for all donors. She also planned more than 75 events each year, including a two-day public launch of the university's $100M comprehensive campaign and the opening of the Ridley Complex, a 7,000-seat lacrosse and soccer stadium.
A Queens, N.Y. native, Allison previously worked for several years in events, communications, and fundraising roles as a member of the athletic departments at St. John's University and Georgetown University.
Beyond the Bio
What is your favorite thing to do in the city of Pittsburgh?
Strolling to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of my neighborhood, the Strip District.
Favorite sports moment at Pitt?
I am sure there are many more to come, but beating UCF during the Hall of Fame weekend. We had a great induction on Friday night and I woke up Saturday just knowing we were going to win that game. Glad my gut feeling was right!
Favorite quote?
Work hard and be kind.
Emily Sejna
Director of Development
esejna@athletics.pitt.edu
Emily Sejna joined Pitt Athletics in October 2018. In her current role as Director of Development for Major Gifts, Sejna's primary focus is to cultivate major gift support for Pitt Athletics and its nearly 750 student-athletes, marching band and spirit squads. Sejna also serves as the development liaison for the swimming and diving program, track & field and cross country program, the Varsity Letter Club and the Cathy and John Pelusi Family Life Skills Program.
A Chicago native, Sejna spent over two years working at Northwestern University, serving as the program assistant for major gifts. Sejna assisted all frontline fundraisers by reporting on all athletics major gifts activity and tracking metrics for fiscal year goals and progress towards Northwestern's WE WILL $450+ million athletics fundraising campaign. Additionally, she created and implemented strategic processes to uphold prospect manager's accountability for task management, prospect strategy, and proposal execution to help drive strategic discussions for major and principal gift conversations. She holds a Master's in Sports Administration from Northwestern University.
Sejna was a four year varsity water polo student-athlete and captain at the University of Michigan. She received her undergraduate degree in communications studies. Sejna was heavily involved in the student-athlete community; serving on SAAC's executive board for three years, worked as a student- ambassador, and held a position as a development summer intern in the athletic development office.
Beyond the Bio
What is your favorite thing to do in the city of Pittsburgh?
I enjoy exploring all the different neighborhoods and what each area has to offer. Each neighborhood has its characteristics that make them unique and different from the next. I am either walking, running, driving or eating my way through the areas!
What do you love most about the University of Pittsburgh?
The University of Pittsburgh offers a one-of-a-kind balance – in Athletics, we preach “comprehensive excellence” and that’s what the University has to offer: our academic programs, world-renowned research and medical institution, our urban environment, the unique architecture, historic athletics program, and so many more things that continue to push the university’s presence nationally and globally.
What do you love most about working in athletics?
The best thing about working in athletics is knowing I am helping to make an impact on the current student-athlete experience. To have the opportunity to pay forward my experience as a former student- athlete AND work with a TEAM to accomplish this is a great feeling.
Favorite quote?
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Leon Jackson III
Associate Athletics Director, Major Gifts
ljackson@athletics.pitt.edu
Leon Jackson III joined Pitt Athletics as Associate Athletics Director for Major Gifts in November of 2019. In this role, he will identify, cultivate, and secure major gift commitments for the university, Pitt Athletics and its 750 student-athletes, spirit squads and the Pitt band. Jackson will also serve as development liaison for the women’s gymnastics and women's lacrosse programs.
Before coming to Pitt, Jackson spent the previous four years at Kansas State University. As a member of K-State’s Ahearn Fund, he oversaw the department’s $18.3 million annual giving unit, directed all premium seat sale efforts to the tune of 97% capacity filled, and managed a major gift portfolio of 90 donors in support of a near record setting $44.4 million in giving towards K-State Athletics and it’s 450 student-athletes. Prior to working in the Ahearn Fund, Jackson sat on K-State Athletics’ expanded senior staff as the Director of Ticket Services. In that role, Jackson led a record setting ticketing unit and was the direct contact for football and men’s basketball.
Jackson began his career in 2010 at his alma mater, Utah State. He served as an offensive administrative assistant for USU’s football team and graduate assistant from 2011-12. Jackson was then elevated within the athletics department to Director of Event Operations in 2013. After transitioning into ticketing as the Assistant Director of Ticketing & Customer Service, Jackson was quickly elevated to the department’s senior staff as the Director of Ticketing & Customer Service.
A native of South Central Los Angeles, California, Jackson graduated from Utah State with a bachelor’s degree in political science in 2007. During his time there, he was a four-year letter winner for Utah State from 2004-07 as both a quarterback and punter. As a senior in 2007, he completed 65.4 percent of his passes (151-of-231) to rank first all-time at USU for a single- season, while also being named a Second Team All-Western Athletic Conference honoree as punter. He received his Master of Education from USU in 2012.
Following his collegiate career, Jackson completed a five-month internship in Washington, D.C., on Capitol Hill. He then spent two years playing professional football overseas in France and Austria.
He is married to the former Nicki Felley, a four-year letter winner on USU’s gymnastics team. They now reside in Bethel Park with their three children, Josiah, Kyndal, and Isaac.
Brian Casey (A&S '86) Annandale, VA
Brian Casey is the senior vice president of Walker & Dunlop LLC, one of the country’s largest commercial real estate lenders. He serves as the head of the company’s Mid-Atlantic Capital Markets team and is responsible for managing the Company’s balance sheet investments for its Bridge Loan Program that provides interim financing solutions for multifamily acquisitions, renovations and lease-up.
Prior to joining Walker & Dunlop, Brian was managing director and head of real estate debt strategies with MetLife Real Estate Investments.
Brian earned his MBA from The George Washington University. In 1986, he earned dual bachelor’s degrees in business and psychology with concentrations in economics and accounting from Pitt where he graduated Cum Laude. While an undergraduate, Brian was a member of the Pitt men’s soccer team and the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.
He and his family live in Annandale, VA.
Cindy Citrone Southport, CT
Cindy Citrone is the Founder and CEO of the 33 Foundation. From investing in education to health and human service programs, the foundation is focused on examining the needs of communities and engaging their resources and the right organizations to address those needs to assure successful impact. Cindy shapes and approves the foundation’s strategies, reviews results, and sets the overall direction of the organization.
With over 25 years’ experience in health, education, and human services philanthropy, Cindy has seen how empowering the right organizations can drive transformational improvements in the health and prosperity of families and communities. She currently serves on the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation Board, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation Board of Directors, the MD Anderson Cancer Center Board of Visitors, Elon University Board of Trustees, and AIND/Giants Steps School for Autism Board of Directors. In addition to their strategic philanthropy in our community, the Citrone family remains connected to Pittsburgh as minority owners of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In September 2017, Pitt Athletics collaborated with Cindy and an initiative of the 33 Foundation, Play It Forward Pittsburgh. Play It Forward Pittsburgh was a four-month, "season-long", activation campaign to establish Pittsburgh as the national leader in organ donation, and to change the way Pittsburgh residents feel about organ donation and transplantation. In addition to pre-game and in-game promotion drawing attention to the critical importance of organ donation, members of Pitt’s Student Athlete Advisory Council registered Pitt fans to become organ donors during the game.
A Bethel Park native, Cindy is a graduate of the Ohio State University with a degree in occupational therapy. She resides in downtown Pittsburgh, Connecticut and Florida. Cindy and her husband have four children. Their youngest daughter is enrolled at Pitt.
Jay Cleveland, Jr. Pittsburgh, PA
Jay Cleveland is the CEO of Cleveland Brothers. Cleveland Brothers Equipment Co., Inc. supplies new and used equipment to customers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia. It offers equipment that includes but is not limited to attachments/work tools, aggregate equipment, air compressors and air tools, earthmoving products, engine generators and light towers, forestry/logging products, forklifts and material handling equipment and paving and compaction equipment.
The company also provides rental, operator training, and preventative maintenance services. It serves agriculture, construction, government, forestry, industrial and manufacturing, landscaping, mining, original equipment manufacturer, oil and gas, on-highway truck, paving, power generation, quarry and aggregate, and recycling and waste industries through sales representatives.
Jay is very engaged in the Pittsburgh non-profit community and was recently the Chairman of the Board for Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation. He has an undergraduate degree from Lycoming College. Jay lives in Pittsburgh with his wife and three children.
Gerry Delon (KGSB '94) Pittsburgh, PA
Gerry Delon is Chief Financial Officer of NEP, serving in this role since 2008. NEP Group, Inc. is an international production company that provides outsourced teleproduction services for major events throughout the world Its facilities are used to produce television broadcasts of events like the Super Bowl, Academy Awards, Premier League, Emmy Awards, The Daily Show, UEFA Champions League, Olympic Games, NASCAR, Asian Games, WWE Wrestling, FIFA World Cup, Wimbledon and the French Open.
Gerry joined NEP in 2004 as Corporate Controller and in 2007 was appointed Vice President of Planning & Logistics, responsible for managing day-to-day operations and logistics, including oversight of scheduling, event coordination, travel, equipment and field shop activity.
Prior to joining NEP, Gerry served as Corporate Controller for several private equity companies in the Pittsburgh area including Stargate Industries LLC, PrintCafe, Inc. and Chromalox, Inc. From 1996 to 1999 he served as an auditor for Ernst & Young, LLP.
Gerry received his MBA from the Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh and holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Robert Morris College. Gerry and his wife live in Pittsburgh.
Vince Deluzio (A&S ’68, LAW ’72)Pittsburgh, PA
Vince Deluzio is the current managing director at R & V Associates. R & V Associates is a business consulting and crisis management firm. Vince has devoted his career to counseling leaders of public companies while under attack through public takeovers or during other crisis decision-making. He understands the critical timing and coordination of issues facing leaders; because in addition to advising them, he has also held positions of leadership. He has been a CEO, a leader in each of the law firms in which he has practiced, and a leader in community and charitable efforts. He is a problem solver-who does not accept the first answer as the final answer.
Vince previously served on the boards of the Children’s Hospital, UPMC, The Pittsburgh Opera and Family House.
He and his wife lives in Pittsburgh and have three children.
Pat Gallagher Pittsburgh, PA
Patrick A. Gallagher is the Founder and CEO of PGT Trucking. Initially based in Industry, PA, the company started with only one tractor and two employees. Pat was committed to smart growth that focused on driver training and retention of the best team in the industry. With a unique investment in quality and relationships, PGT has grown to be a state-of-the art flatbed transportation company.
PGT serves the steel, building materials, machinery, oil & gas, raw materials, aluminum, and automotive industries. Now headquartered in Aliquippa, PA, PGT remains faithful to its fundamental cornerstones of personal customer service and relationships, employee professional development and retention, and profitability.
PGT Trucking provides the equipment truck for the Pitt Football program.
Pat is a steadfast supporter of many non-profit organizations in our community, serving as the former co-chairman of Robert Morris’ Board of Trustees as well as both board service and leadership for multiple other charities. In 2010, he was awarded the Outstanding Philanthropist Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Western Pennsylvania. Pat has two children and he and his wife, Judit, reside in Pittsburgh.
Steve Gaustad (A&S '79) New York, NY
Stephen L. Gaustad is an Investment Advisor Representative and Founder of Galvin, Gaustad & Stein LLC, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. He has extensive experience in working with high net worth individuals, including professionals and small business owners. Steve’s specialty is in asset management and generational transfer of wealth.
Prior to forming GGS, he was an Investment Advisor for AeGIS Financial Group and FSC Securities Corporation. Previous to joining both firms in September 2008, Steve was a Chief Compliance Officer and Investment Advisor for Financial Network Investment Corporation and ING Financial Advisers in Phoenix, Arizona. He entered the financial services industry in 1981 with Aetna Life Insurance. While working with Aetna, which later became ING, he received numerous company and industry awards.
Steve earned his bachelor’s degree from University of Pittsburgh and was a member of the Pitt Football team. Steve was a tight end on the 1976 National Championship football team.
He resides with his family in East Hampton and New York City.
John Gismondi (A&S '75, LAW '78) Pittsburgh, PA
After serving a three-year term as a law clerk in federal district court, John is has been in private practice since 1981. Gismondi and Associates helps victims and their families in personal injury litigation that includes medical malpractice, automobile accidents, airplane accidents, consumer products, among other circumstances.
John has been a frequent guest on local and national television and he has been named both a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer and is listed in the “Best Lawyers in America.” He has served as the President of the Allegheny Bar Association and President of the PA Trial Lawyers Association.
In addition to his full-time practice of law, he is an Adjunct Professor of Law at Pitt’s Law School.
John graduated from Pitt with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and from Pitt’s Law School where he was a member of the Law Review. In addition to his involvement with Pitt, John has been involved with multiple non-profits in our region. He and his wife live in Pittsburgh and have three children.
Dan Jenkins (A&S '90) Mount Lebanon, PA
Dan Jenkins is a wealth management advisor with 28 years of experience and a member of JKS Financial, based in Pittsburgh. He has devoted his career to strategic wealth management and financial planning, focusing on tax-efficient asset accumulation, retirement income distribution, and intergenerational wealth transfer. Dan works extensively with closely held businesses owners, corporate executives, and physicians.
He is a member of the Estate Planning Council of Pittsburgh, the Financial Planning Association, the Pittsburgh Society of Investment Professionals, the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, and the Association of Advance Life Underwriting. In addition, Dan is a current member of the Top of the Table (MDRT, the Premier Association of Financial Professionals) for career production.
Dan is a past President of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh and a current board member. He was also a member of the University of Pittsburgh Alumni Leadership Council for the University of Pittsburgh.
He graduated from Pitt in 1990 with a bachelor's degree in Business and Communications and as an undergrad, was a member of Pi Kappa Theta.
Dan and his wife reside in Mt. Lebanon with their five children.
Rich Maniskas (A&S '97) Berwyn, PA
Rich Maniskas founded RM LAW, P.C. in 2017, where he continues to concentrate his practice on case initiation and development in complex securities fraud, ERISA, fiduciary, antitrust, shareholder derivative, and mergers and acquisitions actions on behalf of both individual and institutional investors. Spending the majority of his 19-year career based in the Philadelphia area, Rich continues to represent clients in state and federal courts throughout the nation.
Rich graduated from Pitt with his undergraduate degree in Political Science, receiving a varsity letter in football. He earned his law degree from the Widener University School of Law, serving as Internal Editor of the Widener Journal of Public Law.
Rich’s civic affiliations and activities include the Widener University of Law Mentoring Program, USA 250, and Dream Factory of Pennsylvania. He currently presides as Vice President for the Golf Society of the Union League of Philadelphia. If Rich can’t be found at home in Berwyn, PA with his wife, Tracey, the golf course or ski slope is where he’ll be.
Jeff Martchek (A&S '87) Arlington, VA
Jeff Martchek retired in the Spring of 2020 as the President of NVR Homes, based in Reston, Virginia.
NVR Homes sells and builds homes under the Ryan Homes, NVHomes, Fox Ridge Homes, and Heartland Homes trade names, and operates in twenty-eight metropolitan areas in fourteen states and Washington, D.C.
Jeff has worked for NVR since he graduated from Pitt. He was Vice President of Ryan Homes from 2007-2008, and served as Area President for Mid-East Operations until 2011. Jeff began to oversee operational responsibility for the company’s Maryland and Virginia operations in February 2011, and became President of NVR Homes on January 1, 2015.
He graduated from Pitt with a bachelor’s degree in economics. While at Pitt, he was a member of Phi Gamma Delta.
He and his wife live in Northern Virginia and Naples, Florida and have three children.
Martha Munsch (A&S ’70) Pittsburgh, PA
Martha Munsch is a retired Partner at Reed Smith. Following her graduation from the Yale Law School in 1973, Martha joined Reed Smith, one of only three women attorneys in the firm in the early 1970's. After a two year stay at Reed Smith, she joined the full time faculty of the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 1976, where she was the first (and only) woman on the full time faculty at the Pitt Law School at that time. After serving two and one half years as an Assistant Professor of Law at the University of Pittsburgh, Martha returned to Reed Smith in 1978 as a member of the Labor and Employment Law Group. Martha became a partner of Reed Smith in 1983, the first woman elected to partnership in Reed Smith's Pittsburgh office.
Martha is a former trustee at Pitt, received the Bill Baierl Distinguished Alumni Service Award in 2018, and serves on the Board of Visitors for A&S and the Law School.
As an undergrad at Pitt, Martha served as the editor to the Pitt News and was a member to Omicron Delta Kappa.
She and her husband reside in Sewickley. They have two children and two grandchildren.
Dennis McKamish Pittsburgh, PA
Dennis McKamish is the CFO of McKamish, Inc., a specialty contractor headquartered in Lawrenceville.
His father, Harold McKamish, founded McKamish Metals in 1975 as a sheet metal contractor. The company is composed of three groups – construction, specialty metals, and service, which provides preventative maintenance and emergency support. It also operates O’Grady McCormick, a mechanical contracting company in Rochester, N.Y.
McKamish Inc. has performed work for the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, as well as the Consol Energy Center, Carnegie Mellon University, Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Duquesne Light, Massaro Construction, and West Virginia University. In 2008, Pittsburgh Business Times included McKamish in its Pittsburgh 100 – a list of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the Western Pennsylvania Region.
Along with his brother, David, and their families, Dennis have been engaged with many charitable organizations in Pittsburgh, including but not limited to Pitt and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
He and his wife live in Pittsburgh and Bradenton, Florida. They have three children.
Bruce Murphy (A&S '75, GSPIA '77) Cleveland, OH
Bruce Murphy recently retired after a four decade long career in banking. As Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Responsibility for Key Bank, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, he served in a variety of leadership roles. During his tenure with Key, he made significant contributions to the company by establishing KeyBank as a leader in responsible banking, operations and citizenship.
One of Bruce’s accomplishments includes the development and execution of the $16.5 billion National Community Benefits Plan. The first of its kind, the National Community Benefits Plan set a new standard in the industry and includes commitments for community development lending and investing, mortgages to low-to-moderate income families, small business lending and transformative philanthropy.
Prior to joining Key, he had a 12-year tenure with Mellon Bank. Bruce is a member of Leadership Cleveland, board member of A.M. McGregor Foundation, and Bank Administration Institute. He also serves on the FDIC Advisory Committee on Economic Inclusion.
Bruce graduated from Pitt in 1975 with a bachelor’s in communications and with a master’s from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs in 1977. As an undergraduate, Bruce was a member of Pitt’s football team. As a graduate student, he was the University’s first academic tutor for football student-athletes.
Bruce and his wife live in Cleveland and have three children.
David (Dave) Natali, M.D. (A&S '76, MED '80) Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. David Natali is an emergency room physician and the Medical Director for Integrated Health 21.
Integrated Health 21 is a customer-oriented health management company, founded in 2009. They have partner with employees, employers, health benefits specialists, and insurance plans to maintain or improve employee health, well-being and productivity and reduce health care costs.
In his role, Dave reviews medical protocols and policies, guides the development of new services, and oversees the CLIA laboratory. Between1990–2000, he was appointed as Medical Director of the Forbes Regional Hospital Emergency Department and then Forbes Emergency Medicine Preshospital system between1998-2002. In addition, Dave has served on the Board of the West Penn Allegheny Health System and is Past President of the Forbes Health System medical staff.
He works clinically as an emergency room physician in addition to his leadership role at Integrated Health 21.
Dave earned a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Pitt and a Medical Degree from the University of Pittsburgh Medical School. While an undergraduate, Dave was a member of Pitt’s swimming team. He resides in Pittsburgh.
Tami Tritch (A&S ’81)Pittsburgh, PA
Tami Tritch had a dual career working in finance and marketing for Westinghouse after she graduated. Fulfilling a desire to work with children, she became a seventh grade science teacher. She continues to volunteer at the local elementary school.
Tami has served on community and church boards. She has chaired a community fundraising event supporting local charities, which were selected by the community committee. The Steve and Tami Tritch Charitable Foundation contributes to Pitt, UPMC, Children's Hospital, and other local charities.
She is a 1981 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh holding a degree in Economics along with earning her teaching certificate from Pitt. Her husband, Steve, is also a graduate of the Swanson School of Engineering and the Katz Business School.
Tami now lives in South Carolina, but remains an avid Pitt athletic fan and supporter. She enjoys spending time with their five grandchildren (future Pitt graduates), golfing and gardening.
Tim Pecsenye (A&S '84, LAW '87) Philadelphia, PA
Tim Pecsenye, a partner with Blank Rome, concentrates his legal practice in intellectual property matters and related litigation.
He serves a wide range of clients in areas including: domestic and international trademark and copyright counseling; copyright registration and service mark applications; prosecution of trademark and service mark applications; internet issues, domain name disputes, UDRP proceedings, and e-commerce issues; preparation and negotiation of technology transfer, assignment, and confidentiality agreements; and domestic and international license agreements for trademarks, copyrights, software, and know-how.
Prior to joining Blank Rome, Tim was with Wilkie Farr & Gallagher LLP and served as a trademark attorney for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. He was the sole Pennsylvania lawyer selected to serve on the advisory board of CCH CORSEARCH, a leading trademark and copyright research firm based out of New York City. Tim has received the highest possible rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science in 1984 from Pitt and a JD from Pitt’s Law School in 1987. During his undergraduate career, Tim was a member of the Pitt Band.
As an alumni, he has served in almost two dozen volunteer roles for Pitt. Notably, Tim is currently a member of the Board of Visitors for the School of Law. His primary residence is in Philadelphia.
Theodora Polamalu (CGS '08) Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Theodora serves as a Founder of the Troy and Theodora Foundation and the Harry Panos Fund.
The Troy and Theodora Polamalu Foundation is the primary philanthropic initiative of the Polamlau Family. It is structured strategically to achieve identified philanthropic goals, while retaining flexibility to react to acute needs as they arise.
The Foundation has supported many organizations which include but are not but not limited to: Humanitarian Aid to American Samoa, Pittsburgh Children's Hospital Foundation, FOCUSNA Back Pack Feeding Program, Fa'a American Samoa Camp, Community Living and Support Services (CLASS), Veteran Leadership Program, Operation Once in a Lifetime, Canyon Heroes, Journey to Normal, and The Bartko Foundation.
Theodora has served many of those organizations in a leadership capacity through philanthropic capital campaigns.
Named after Theodora Polamalu’s maternal grandfather who fought in WWII, the Harry Panos Fund for Veterans focuses on assisting US Veterans of foreign wars, who are currently dealing with health issues and/or financial challenges.
Theodora earned a bachelor’s degree from Pitt’s College of General Studies, where she was enrolled in the University Honors College. She and her family live in Southern California.
Mona Riordan Sewickley, PA
Mona and her husband, Robert (Bob) Riordan, and have five children and six grandchildren. They currently spend summer months in Sewickley, PA and winters in Bonita Springs, FL.
Mona grew up an hour east of Pittsburgh and attended the University of Pittsburgh. Holding a very strong family connection to Pitt, both her son, Louis Pessolano, and his grandfather, Carl, are University of Pittsburgh graduates.
Recently retired, Mona had a brief career in retail management and then became a long-term proprietor of Pittsburgh restaurants. An ardent supporter of education, she served for over a decade on the Sewickley Academy Board of Trustees, chairing the Development Committee during a major capital campaign and then becoming Vice Chairwoman of the Board. An athlete herself, Mona was the first woman board member at Sewickley Heights Golf Club.
Mona and Bob, a University of Virginia graduate, continue to be enthusiastic supporters of Pitt Athletics. She enjoys golf, fly- fishing and driving her ' 56 Thunderbird.
Susie Shipley (KGSB '88) Pittsburgh, PA
Susie Shipley is president of the Western Pennsylvania and Ohio Valley Region of Huntington Bank.
She has more than 25 years of banking experience in local, national and international markets. A native Pittsburgher, Shipley joined Huntington 2012 from The Royal Bank of Scotland/Citizens Bank, where she was head of global trade finance for North America.
Susie of the Port of Pittsburgh Commission as well as serving on boards through the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, Pennsylvania Economy League of Greater Pittsburgh, Manchester Bidwell Corporation, UPMC, UPMC Health Plan, Pittsburgh Opera, The Andy Warhol Museum, The Duquesne Club, Legatus Pittsburgh Chapter and International Women’s Forum Pittsburgh Chapter. Shipley also serves as co-chair of the Major Gifts Committee of the Pittsburgh Promise.
She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame, a Certificate in Spanish Studies from the Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh's Katz Graduate School of Business. Susie and her husband live in Pittsburgh.
Michael Stratos (A&S '91) Pittsburgh, PA
Michael is the Founder, President and CEO of Ideal Integrations.
In 2003, he founded Ideal Integrations in his basement. Driven by his knowledge, experience and years of forensic analysis, Michael facilitates several corporate network seminars on infrastructure design incorporating disaster recovery.
Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Ideal Integrations specializes in design, implementation, maintenance and management of infrastructure - ranging in scope from single projects to complete services and solutions. It services local computing and network infrastructure, infrastructure as a service through cloud computing, offsite hosting, replication, disaster recovery, storage area networking, virtualization, security and computer forensics. Its customers span numerous industries and geographies.
In 2009, Michael was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
Michael holds a bachelor’s degree from Pitt in biochemistry. While an undergraduate, he was a member of Pitt’s track and field team, capturing Big East Championship in the javelin throw in 1988 and 1989. He lives in Pittsburgh with his family.
Nick Varischetti (A&S '06, GSPIA '08, LAW '11) Pittsburgh, PA
Nick is Of Counsel with Burns White, LLC, a law firm headquartered in Pittsburgh’s Strip District. He assists businesses from a wide range of industries with their litigation, general business, and advisement needs. Nick has handle corporate and entity governance matters from entity formation to Board of Directors advisement to business liquidation, with a focus on the construction and oil and gas industries.
Nick is also a partner in Varischetti Holdings, LP, a family-owned and operated organization consisting of several different businesses, including real estate investments, powder metal manufacturing, a construction equipment dealership, an oil and gas field services company, and waste industry consulting.
He is a shareholder and director of Guardian Elder Care Holdings, Inc., a health care provider with 40 nursing facilities, a rehab services business, a long-term care pharmacy, and a home health company. Nick is also a member of Varischetti Sports, LLC, which holds a minority ownership in the Pittsburgh Steelers. He serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for LaRoche College.
Nick owns three degrees from Pitt – a bachelor’s degree in political science, a master’s degree in public and non-profit management and a juris doctorate. Him and his wife resides in Pittsburgh.
Nishan (Nish) Vartabedian (ENGR '67, KGSB '69) Franklin Lakes, NJ
Nish Vartabedian is a retired financial executive. Most recently, he served as the Executive Vice President, Institutional Services Division for Fidelity Investments. Nish held various leadership roles with Fidelity for 25 years. From 1973 until 1983, Nish was with the New York Stock Exchange.
He also had a two-year tenure as a First Lieutenant with the U.S. Army Combat Engineers.
Nish and his family generously support a number of charitable causes, including but not limited to Pitt.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and a MBA, both from Pitt. While as undergraduate, Nish was a member of Delta Tau Delta.
Nish lives in Franklin Lakes, NJ and Hilton Head. He and his wife have three children.