School of Business Featured Alumni

Master of Organizational Management

“My master’s degree has helped me tremendously. I started as a patrol sergeant and moved to detective because of my degree,” says Matthew Brandt. After the initial move from officer to detective, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) promoted him to write policies. “My income doubled, which is always good.”

Crediting his University of Phoenix education for advancing his career, today Matthew is a deputy regional director for the Federal Protective Services arm of DHS. This former White House Ceremonial Guard to President Reagan is now responsible for overseeing the law enforcement and security of nearly 650 federal facilities in the Pacific Northwest.

Matthew also has the honor of being the only director from the Federal Protection Agency selected for the DHS Fellow Leadership Training program, a one-year leadership mentoring program to advance senior level federal employees to senior executive service levels.

Matthew has been a faculty member teaching online courses for University of Phoenix since 2004. He is currently writing two books, is an avid reader and amateur U.S. historian. “Learn about history, plan for the future, but don’t forget to live today,” he says.

Bachelor of Science in Business, 2000

Christina Cianciolo was given the opportunity to complete her bachelor’s degree at University of Phoenix through an education subsidy program offered by her company. For Christina, “paying it forward” is a philosophy she practices whenever she can, so it made perfect sense to nominate her nephew Joseph for the scholarship program.

Joseph Dziedzic IV will become the first person in his family to earn a bachelor’s degree thanks to the support of a Paying it Forward^® scholarship. University of Phoenix alumni can “pay forward” their success by nominating individuals whose lives could be improved by completing a college education. The scholarship helps pay for tuition and resources needed to complete an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program at University of Phoenix.

Joseph worked full time while going to school to earn his associate’s degree and hopes to complete his bachelor’s degree to advance his career in today’s competitive job market. Currently employed in the mortgage industry, he understands the opportunities for advancement are limited due to the economic recession, but looks forward to becoming the first in his family to earn a degree.

Bachelor of Science in Business, 2008

It was Joseph Ciaramitaro’s first week of classes when he was deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. As base assignments changed, the one constant became his four years of online classes at University of Phoenix, where he earned his business degree. He credits his college experience for the successful transition from the military to the corporate world.

He nominated his wife Joanne for a Paying it Forward^® scholarship in recognition of her
personal and career sacrifices during his military career. University of Phoenix alumni can “pay forward” their success by nominating individuals whose lives could be improved by completing a college education. The scholarship helps pay for tuition and resources needed to complete an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program at University of Phoenix.

Joanne, a hairdresser, moved various times throughout her husband’s military career. Her constant relocation limited her ability to develop a large clientele. With a business degree from University of Phoenix, she hopes to open her own salon. Joanne started her educational journey in April 2009 with the help of the scholarship and is anxious to join the graduate degree ranks with her husband.

Bachelor of Science in Business Management, 2008

One can only imagine a mother’s emotions at times like these. Twenty years prior, Glenda Clayborn’s son, George missed his high school graduation ceremony to depart for Army boot camp. In May 2008, Glenda was present to see her son cross the stage and accept his Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree from University of Phoenix in Springfield, Missouri.

“George’s story is inspiring. He served his country, a commitment that we honor every day … In turn, we were proud to help George fulfill a life-long dream of earning his degree,” says Yolanda Barnes, Springfield Campus Learning Center Director, University of Phoenix.

George has traveled the world and held diverse jobs. He is currently in a managerial role for Multicraft Contractors, a construction company. George's decision to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Management was based on two factors: career advancement and fulfilling his dream of earning a college degree.

“Working with my learning team in class and online has been an outstanding educational experience. University of Phoenix fit into my schedule … I could go to school one night a week and earn a degree that would open doors for me down the road,” George said.

Bachelor of Science in Business, 1997

Debbie Collard has spent her life pursuing excellence and now she’s sharing her management
wisdom so organizations can do the same in her book titled “The Making of a World-Class Organization.”

Written with her former colleague David Spong, the book reveals the “silver bullets” they implemented at the Boeing Company that garnered them two Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Awards. The prestigious Baldrige Award, established by Congress in 1987 to recognize organizational excellence, is presented to recipients by the President of the United States. To date, Debbie and David are the only two people in the world to win two Baldrige Awards in two different areas.

Debbie has been with Boeing, the world's leading aerospace company, for 24 years. She earned her first Baldrige Award in 1998 for her work with the company’s airlift and tanker division. Tasked with transforming the flagging business unit to prevent closure and job cuts, she applied the criteria for the Baldrige Award to airlift and tankers. This systematic approach engages leaders and integrates people and processes to increase performance in the areas of leadership, strategic planning, customer focus, measurement, analysis and knowledge management, workforce focus and process management and results. The endeavor was a success and the business unit and jobs were saved. She was then tasked with applying the same methods to a well-performing unit, the aerospace support program. Her repeated success earned her a second Baldrige Award.

Debbie hasn’t ruled out writing another book someday and is contemplating returning to school for her doctoral degree. She remains strong in her belief that education has helped to further her career. After high school, Debbie joined the Air Force where she gained self-discipline, confidence and a drive to succeed. She later earned her bachelor’s degree at University of Phoenix while having a full-time job and raising two young children.

“Never stop learning,” advises Debbie. “It keeps us fresh and opens doors for us. There is no end to what you can do.”

Master of Business Administration

I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.—Chinese Proverb

Dennis Delfin wants to break the cycle of unemployment and ignorance in his Hilo, Hawaii community through hands-on education. His non-profit 501(c) (3) organization, General Diversified Development Corporation (GDDC) teaches unemployed and undereducated youth job skills by training them to build affordable housing for homeless and low-income citizens.

“My idea is to break the cycle and when these youths become adults, they will teach their children the same philosophy we taught them,” Dennis explains. Not only are youngsters gaining valuable experience, but quality, low-income housing is now available in one of the most expensive states in the union.

Currently, Dennis and GDDC volunteers are working on a 118-home project. He is also in the process of speed building a home for a former classmate who has been living in a tent with his family for nine years. “We are in the stages of obtaining the permits and corralling the volunteer help and donated materials to build their home on their leased lot in the Hawaiian Homes Land parcel. Their promise [is] two things that I want: committing to change and paying it forward,” says Dennis.

Dennis credits his MBA from University of Phoenix and extensive contracting background for making a difference.

Bachelor of Science in Business/Marketing, 2008

Kimmy earned her bachelor’s while traveling the world as a professional snowboarder. The 2007 Snowboarding Rookie of the Year—an honor bestowed on her by Transworld Snowboarding—focused on the slopes during the day and completed her studies by night. 

“I had to figure out when I was going to be able to have time and what school was going to be lenient enough for me to be able to take classes and then be out of the country for two months,” Kimmy says. “The first class I took, I was in New Zealand. I didn’t need to call anybody and talk to them about what I was doing—I just could do my class and I loved that.”

Kimmy, a member of the DC Snowboarding Team, travels the world competing in places like Japan, Europe, Canada, New Zealand and the United States. She placed sixth in this year’s X Games.

Knowing that she has a bachelor’s degree to fall back on has allowed Kimmy to dedicate herself completely to her sport. “And when I am finished snowboarding,” she says, “I already have my education complete, which is a huge step in an athlete’s life.”

Master of Business Administration

You never know who you’ll meet in the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at University of Phoenix and how they may impact your life. Just ask MBA graduates John Jacobs and Tony Ford, who went from members of the same learning team to co-founders of a fast-growing, $10 million e-commerce company.

John and Tony co- founded ArtFire, an online artisan marketplace that unites sellers of handmade and vintage goods, digital arts and craft supplies with their customers. ArtFire provides the e-commerce platform that makes it all happen and its members provide the merchandise which is sold in individual, virtual studios on the site. The ArtFire marketplace is different from its direct competitors because it puts its members in control of the functions and features of the site by soliciting their feedback.

John is president of ArtFire and Tony is the chief operations officer, a partnership that has brought them swift success. They learned each other’s work styles at University of Phoenix and carried them over to their business venture. They even adopted the school’s learning team model to their company work structure where its employees and subcontractors make up a cross-functional team with a flat hierarchy. This model has added to their competitiveness and efficiency, shares John.

ArtFire has become a fast-growing handmade marketplace and boasts two million unique visitors each month. The company also became the first to launch a marketplace on Facebook.™ ArtFire is currently one of the largest online handmade marketplaces, but John and Tony have big plans to surpass the market leader by 2011.

Master of Business Administration, 2004

If you want to escape from everyday life, try reading the book “Champagne & Butterflies: Maybe Some Girls Do Have It All,” suggests author Shahita Foster. A self-proclaimed “girly girl” who loves fashion and passion, Shahita incorporated these into her new novel.

The book features sisters Kyla and Kimari who set off to finish their wild college years at Penn State University. Before moving on to the real world, they find themselves facing obstacles they never could have imagined. Seen through the eyes of designer clad glasses, both privileged sisters discover who they truly are while experiencing growing pains like never before.

Shahita, who writes poetry as well, says her novel is pure and fun entertainment. “There’s romance, comedy as well as a good old-fashioned moral to the story. It’s a light, fun read,” shares Shahita. “I totally believe in escapism and this novel is a fun getaway from everyday life.”

Master of Business Administration, 2003

Tracey Friley is tapping into her entrepreneurial side while helping to address the issues of diversity among young girls and bullying with two projects that attracted the attention of Oprah’s Angel Network^®. Stories on both projects were featured on Oprah’s online community for people dedicated to helping others.

Attending a girls camp as a young child helped Tracey to gain independence, confidence, and direction. She also learned about friendships, diversity and teamwork. Those experiences are what led her to develop CampCaribe, a learning adventure program for diverse girls. The program will take girls away from their daily life and expose them to a tropical environment with water activities, cultural and environmental exploration and a diverse camper base. The camp premieres in April 2010 in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Tracey is also working on a book on name calling and bullying titled “Talking White: 14 Ways to Cope with Thoughtless Remarks.” The book is inspired by her personal experiences growing up as a young “Brown Girl” in Los Angeles and the name calling she endured. She also runs www.onebrowngirl.com, a Web site that celebrates culture, diversity and strong self image for minority girls and women around the world. The preface to the book can be read on her site where she is also hosting online focus groups to serve as inspiration and research material for the book.

Master of Business Administration, 2009

After protecting and serving our country as a U.S. Marine and graduating with his MBA from University of Phoenix, Michael Glazebrook took a job helping military personnel and veterans realize their academic dreams. He understands how a strong educational foundation can help service personnel maximize their potential in the military and in the corporate world.

Michael is the military education liaison for University of Phoenix, responsible for the southeast region. He meets the needs of military personnel in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Puerto Rico by being the University’s representative and helping learners and education service officers in the military installations in these states.

Because of his military background Michael understands the value that a degree can give service members both in and outside of the military. He used Tuition Assistance and G.I. Bill benefits to finance his own education.

Michael praises the quality of his University of Phoenix degree, “The program was rigorous and rewarding. My devotion today is my family, and helping service members and their families accomplish their educational goals.”

Master of Business Administration, 1996

Kelley Gulley was midway through her master’s program at University of Phoenix when her three-year-old daughter Ericka was diagnosed with cancer. About nine months later, Ericka passed away. Rather than letting the tragedy derail her goal of earning her degree, Kelley decided that returning to school was the first step in her healing process. She has since completed her degree and embarked on a mission to promote community empowerment and social change.

After her family tragedy, Kelley was able to resume her program without missing a beat because of the flexibility that University of Phoenix offers. “I didn’t lose anything after a year off,” she says. “The school understood and plugged me right back into the program.”

Before she started her master’s program, Kelley was on track to pursue a medical career then switched her focus to the banking industry. Yet, what she couldn’t ignore was her passion for helping people. Her father talked her into pursuing her passion and she took a job with a community development group she had volunteered for. She was later promoted to vice president of the group. She spent the next decade as a consultant to non-profit organizations helping them to operate in the most effective ways possible.

Kelley is now the president and CEO of the Oakland, California-based National Community Development Initiative, a $5 million non-profit consulting firm whose mission is to build capacity for social change in communities of color using culturally-based approaches.

She has been married for more than 20 years to her high school sweetheart and has two children. She considers it her responsibility to share her journey with others and is working on a book about her daughter Ericka’s life.

Bachelor of Science in Business/Management, 2005

Who could have predicted that a borrowed push lawn mower would be the start of a multi-million dollar business? At age 19, University of Phoenix alumni Clay Hair wanted to earn extra money, so he started his lawn care business with a borrowed mower. At that time he was attending University of North Alabama on a football scholarship.

As his business grew, he put his education on hold. After selling his business in Florida and relocating to Tennessee, Clay started FLC, Inc., a landscaping company specializing in custom landscape design. Although he was successful, he knew that an education would help him progress to a higher level. He enrolled in University of Phoenix.

Clay credits his Bachelor of Science in Business/Management as the key to his run-away success. His business, he says, “just blew up” once he graduated. “As I progressed through school … I realized that the skills I learned were really making a difference. I was closing jobs left and right.” Today, FLC, Inc. has gross revenues of $5 million.

Clay explains, “We went from being, I would say, a good company to probably middle Tennessee’s top company. We employ a lot of local folks and I just think we’re doing things differently than most [of our competitors]. I think it’s got a lot to do with my education.”

Master in Business Administration, 2007 

Did you know that the water you wash down the drain could be what fuels your next car? The U.S. Department of Energy predicts that by 2010, 70,000 cars will be running on biogas, a renewable resource made from wastewater. Part of the emerging team of people who are working to turn solid waste into this viable alternative fuel includes University of Phoenix alumni Steve Hardeman.

Steve is the utility supervisor at a wastewater plant in Oklahoma whose team is helping to scrub biogas clean of contaminants before it can be used for electricity or to power vehicles. Biogas is a byproduct of the decomposition of solid waste and contains methane, carbon dioxide and traces of other gases. In its raw state, biogas can’t be used in combustible engines because it contains acids that can erode metal. Steve teamed up with an independent company that has a patented method to chemically clean the biogas and is currently testing it in the field.

He hopes to use this harnessed fuel to run the plant’s co-generator. If viable, the biogas can save the wastewater plant 70% on electrical costs while lessening its toll on the environment at the same time.

Steve has adopted the “Go Green” initiative begun by University of Phoenix. Like the University, Steve pledges to make a difference in the communities in which his business operates, beginning with his hometown.

Bachelor of Science in Business Management

In order to advance his mission to inspire young people to be better citizens, George Harvey became a Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Instructor at Golden Gate High School in Naples, Florida. Harvey took on this role after returning from his second tour of duty in Iraq and retiring from the U.S. Army.

George was motivated by the Junior Reserve mission and believes that his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from University of Phoenix prepared him for the position. He teaches young adults the skills he learned in his degree program including leadership, communication, conflict management and more.

Because of his outstanding contribution to high school students, George was a recipient of the Super Learner in a Super State Spirit Award. The ceremony was a kick-off event to the 2008 Super Bowl and the ceremony was presented by the Super Bowl Host Committee.

Dr. Bill Pepicello, president of University of Phoenix, presented the award and said, “An essential part of the learning process is to understand that education is not an end in itself; it is a means to other, larger goals in life. Our recipients exemplify this approach to learning and to life.”  

Master of Business Administration, 2007

Often referred to as “angels in scrubs,” is there any other profession that is recognized for their compassion and selfless service more than nurses?

Sue Heacock, RN and University of Phoenix MBA graduate, has proven that the perception is true by writing a moving, sometimes humorous book, “Inspiring the Inspirational: Words of Hope from Nurses to Nurses.” Written for nurses and non-nurses alike, this book is a literary journey about hope and triumph in a profession in which life and death are often at stake.

“I chose the topic because there is a big nursing shortage, and like I said in my title, ‘Inspiring the Inspirational’ I hope to inspire people to go into the nursing profession.” It was Heacock’s lifelong dream to write a book.

Sue has a diverse background. She worked as a Military Police Officer in the U.S. Army and in human resources and equal employment opportunity before becoming a nurse. She is currently a Certified Occupational Health Nurse Specialist residing in Florida with her daughter. Her son is a Marine on active duty.

Master of Business Administration, 2004

Who wouldn’t want to enjoy their favorite libation at half the calories, but with all the flavor? That’s the idea behind Teresa Howes’ book SkinnyTinis—All the Fun for Half the Calories.

After reaching her 40s, Teresa thought consuming a mixed drink packed with more than 300 calories was too much. “I knew I was just going to have to figure out how to make them with fewer calories. When I realized that there was no one out there doing it, I figured it was a great opportunity.”

Her book teaches readers how to create skinny versions of popular cocktails, like the Cosmopolitan (129 calories versus 287) and Appletini (139 calories versus 343). All recipes use low-sugar or sugar-free mixers, fresh fruit and fresh garnishes. Information is provided for people who want to avoid artificial sweeteners. 

If you prefer to customize your own SkinnyTini, Teresa’s website, www.skinnytinis.com will provide a calorie count of your very own concoction.

In addition to her MBA from University of Phoenix, Howes earned a bachelor’s degree in nutrition from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. She has worked in the weight-management industry for nearly a decade. 

Master in Business Administration 

Kate and Tom Jaramillo were used to applying the business models they learned throughout their Master in Business Administration program to various business scenarios, but never guessed it could literally help them save lives.

Kate had always had a passion for first aid and CPR education from her work as a paramedic. After responding to a call that involved a mother who died from a sudden cardiac arrest while her seven-year-old child watched helplessly, Kate decided to teach CPR and first aid full time.

Kate was earning her associate’s degree at a local community college where she met her husband Tom. Realizing that they had similar goals, they both enrolled in the bachelor’s program at University of Phoenix. Not wanting to stop there, they later began their master’s programs and were married that same year.

After graduating, Kate and Tom decided to apply a problem-based learning model to help improve a campaign to teach first aid and CPR to schools in Arizona. They later developed a business plan for implementing a CPR training program for sixth- through eighth-graders and even donated mannequins for the program. Kate and Tom's goal is to make sure that every student is CPR certified by the time they reach the eighth grade.

Tom and Kate credit their education and experience to giving them a new world view.

“Coming out through that tunnel, knowing that we had accomplished something that so few people have ever accomplished. All the work, all the tears and sweat and long nights and early mornings; it’s kind of like having a child; it was all worth it at that moment,” shares Kate.

Master of Business Administration, 2002

In her book “Home Décor: A Sunset Design Guide,” Kerrie Kelly shares her love of beautiful spaces with the world. She demonstrates that great design is something that everyone who wants to live well can have, even if they aren’t wealthy.

“Everyone deserves great design,” Kerrie says. In the book, she offers tips for space planning, color selection and how to execute top-quality design without having to hire a designer.

“A significant section of the book I’ve written for Sunset describes some of the latest eco chic design options that are now available to home and business owners,” she adds.

An award winning interior designer, Kerrie has worked in exclusive retail design positions with companies such as The Ralph Lauren Home Collection. In 1995, she opened her own company, All American Design & Furnishings, Inc., in Sacramento, California.

She is a contributor to the local newspaper’s home section and her designs have been featured in many publications.

Master of Business Administration, 2006

Yankuba Mamburay chronicled his life in the novel “The Search for a Lost Brother.” It explores his early childhood as the son of an African farmer, his quest for formal education and his treacherous journey to Liberia, Africa during the height of their civil war.

Yankuba, a business professional and entrepreneur, went on a life-changing journey to find his estranged brother in Liberia. His personal growth and educational development helped him to survive unimaginable circumstances. He was detained and falsely accused of blood-diamond trafficking but was able to gain the trust of his captors and engage them in the story of his search for his brother. He also read, watched on TV and heard about senseless brutality and acts of violence, an unfortunate circumstance of war, which continue to plague his mind today.

“Something spiritual in nature kept pushing me to make the long and dangerous journey” shares Yankuba. “I had to use every ounce of courage and skill to avoid capture by the Liberian Army as I searched for my brother.”

Through his writing, he provides a message to readers to work together for the greater good of man. While Yankuba eventually located his brother, he in turn, chose to remain in Liberia.

Bachelor of Science in Business, 2004

A divorced mother of two with an associate’s degree, Julie McCallson decided to return to school at the age of 37. She always dreamed of completing her bachelor’s degree but did not think it was possible given the demands of her personal and professional commitments. Nevertheless, she soon found herself enrolled in a business management program at University of Phoenix.

While attending school and working in advertising, Julie was approached by investors to start her own business. Her passion is fitness, so when she was asked if she’d be interested in opening a fitness training institute, she jumped at the chance.

The National Personal Training Institute of Southern California offers full-time, educational fitness training where successful students can receive a diploma after six months of study. Her school was unlike her competition at the time, which only offered online certifications with no hands-on teaching. Julie eventually bought out her investment partner and expanded the school to multiple locations throughout Southern California.

She has been able to apply many of the things she learned from her education to her business such as the value of human contact and the importance of ethical business behavior and honest feedback. While her academic experience helped with the technical aspects of human resource management, she says it was the emotional strength she acquired from receiving her degree that was the real asset in achieving her goals. It was also a huge motivator for her to take risks.

Julie’s advice to other entrepreneurs is to keep overhead expenses low, growth expansion moderate and enthusiasm high. “Never give up on your dreams,” she says. “When it comes to returning to school, don’t hesitate.”

Master of Business Administration, 2007

Paul Metayo has a deep understanding of and experience with the Southeast Asian culture. His travels to Laos and meetings with a leader of the Laotian resistance forces that opposed the communist government inspired him to write a book. Titled “Interview with Colonel Khambou,”the book is a result of his interviews with the Colonel and his promise to someday write a book about his life.

“I told him that I would get more education and a degree before I would write the book, and I did with University of Phoenix,” shares Paul.

The story focuses on Colonel Khambou, a man who escaped from a prisoner of war camp in 1975 and formed a resistance group to fight the communist government in Laos. It explores the hardships of the Laotian people who were terribly affected by the tension and conflicts brought on by the superpower countries of the Soviet Union, the United States and China, and the war in Vietnam and Indochina. The book emphasizes the Colonel’s efforts to pull his country out of the conflict, which ultimately cost him his family, property and life.

Paul has also written a book about the hardships of Indochinese refugees in the United States.

Master of Business Administration, 2006

Sela Pearson shares her encouragement, motivation, inspiration, empowerment and positive personal growth she learned through her progress as a master’s student in her novel “Success is a State of Mind.”

People describe Sela as someone who is always smiling while maintaining a positive outlook on life. Her book explores the role of success as an attitude and how having a positive outlook can help people to overcome obstacles and discouragement.

While Sela never had a lifelong dream of writing, it was a natural outcome of her passion for documenting her experiences—from love to stress to the benefits of spiritual walks. Sela, who attributes her knowledge and success to her more than 39 years as a licensed practical nurse, also received an N.D. degree in Naturopathic Medicine.

Sela owns Akanke Creations, which provides motivational speaking engagements and workshops. 

Master of Business Administration, 2005

Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.” 

Timothy Peters is changing the world by empowering people to take charge of their futures. He traveled to Uganda with Engineers without Borders (EWB), a non-profit group dedicated to implementing sustainable engineering projects and training responsible engineers and engineering students. 

Timothy and a group of volunteers visited six orphanages in Uganda to provide service and assess the needs of their villages for future trips. According to The Hunger Project, 40% of Ugandans do not have access to clean water. Projects included installing solar panels and electrical work for lighting and making water-system improvements. 

Although he’s not an engineer, Timothy is the vice president of the local Salt Lake chapter of EWB and looks forward to doing more for this impoverished nation. “It’s not about giving them things; it is about empowering them to better themselves … I feel truly blessed for everything I have—starting with a wonderful family and the resources to travel to a place like [Uganda] and make a small change.” 

Master of Business Administration, 2003

Easing patients’ concerns was the inspiration for Patricia Raya to pen her book, “Medical Tips from the Inside … Things You Need to Know!” Patricia is a registered nurse and alumni of University of Phoenix, graduating with her MBA in 2003.

“I would hear stories from clients saying that if they had known questions to ask their doctor, or if they had gotten a second opinion, or better understood their medical tests, they probably would not be in the situation they were in.”

“Medical Tips …” is a reference book that helps readers make informed decisions about health care. The book guides readers through the complex health care system, answering commonly asked questions. Topics include ‘The Patients’ Bill of Rights,’ preventing medical errors, participating in your own health care, and caring for the young and elderly. There’s also a discussion specific to men’s and women’s health.

“My goal was to be able to help at least one person get better care,” explains Patricia, who has previously published articles in nursing journals.

Patricia co-authored the book with Cornie Mogenis.

Master of Business Administration, 2008

Making the impossible look easy is something that Tony Ricotta does daily. As the company manager for ‘O’, the Cirque du Soleil acrobatic production at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, Tony is responsible for managing all aspects of the show’s production. The troupe performs 476 times per year and features world-class acrobats, synchronized swimmers and a unique stage for underwater performances.

After seven years with Cirque du Soleil, Tony found himself in a high level management role but felt something was missing. 

“I had moved up through the ranks and learned from the best … ” he said. “But, I think people in the entertainment industry forget that this isn’t just theater, it is a business. You have to make the right business decisions and continue to be profitable or you close the show.”

Tony’s boss, also a University of Phoenix graduate, recommended that he pursue an advanced degree at the Las Vegas Campus. Tony graduated with an MBA in August 2008. 

“The MBA provides the clarity about why we’re making certain business decisions. While I had wonderful mentors who provided me the background I needed for this management position, the education I received at University of Phoenix reinforced the value of what I was doing.”

Bachelor of Science in Business/Administration, 2004

A passionate advocate for the less fortunate, Tanya Robinson relishes opportunities to speak on behalf of those who are less able to speak for themselves. This desire made becoming an attorney a natural choice, “I think success in business is making a good living doing a job you love.”

Tanya received her law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, and opened The Robinson Law Firm in San Diego. She specializes in general civil litigation, including personal injury, family law, employment law, landlord/tenant and contract law. 

Her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree affords this entrepreneur the education to overcome the challenges facing small business owners. 

When asked which ‘best practice’ she would share with alumni who may be in the process of opening their own business, Tanya states, “Read everything you can get your hands on … Let the experts do the work for you. There is no such thing as too much information.” 

She also recommends creating a network of trusted associates, “I have a great network of friends and colleagues who are specialists in everything from legal information, marketing, graphic design and Web design to networking and client referrals.”

Master of Organizational Leadership, 2003

Teen violence is a burning societal issue. Following the Columbine tragedy when two boys shot 12 high school students and a teacher to death and then killed themselves; The Columbine Commission recommended creating an organization that allows anonymous reporting to prevent similar crimes.

Safe2Tell^TM, a non-profit organization that provides a safe place for teens and others to report the beginning signs of violence, was founded in 2004. As the Communications Manager for Safe2Tell^TM, Natasha trains parents and teachers on safety topics, such as bullying, suicide prevention, underage drinking and drug use. She also focuses on the outcome of each tip that comes through Safe2Tell^TM, keeping in close contact with law enforcement and school officials.

Recalling a tip that saved the life of a suicidal high school girl, Natasha wonders, “What if her friend hadn’t made the call? Many times students don’t feel comfortable talking to to their teachers, but because of the anonymity aspect of our program, they will call us.”

Natasha credits her master’s degree program from University of Phoenix for giving her the tools to take on the responsibilities of her demanding and rewarding position. “The program taught me that good leaders aren’t the ones with the largest voices, but the ones with the largest ears.”

Master of Business Administration

Preserving historical memories inspired Regina Speights to write her book, “November 4, 2008: The Mood of a Nation.”

As a child, Regina remembers friends and family members gathering at her parent’s home to grieve the loss of Martin Luther King. They watched the televised funeral, but the feelings experienced by people that April day in 1968 are mostly a faded memory. Regina didn't want the thoughts and feelings of another important historical moment to pass away quietly with time.

“November 4, 2008” is a collection of writings from U.S. citizens across all demographic groups about the election of President Barack Obama. Some describe the anticipation of waiting to hear if, as a nation, America had elected its first African-American leader; others recount what they experienced when the announcement was made.

“The best way to determine what people were feeling during election time was to present them with three questions: What did you feel days before Election 2008? On election day? And, days after the election?” explains Regina.

Regina, who earned a Master of Business Administration from University of Phoenix, is currently a doctoral student in the University's Educational Leadership program.
 

Master of Business Administration, 2008

Myron is a visionary, inventor, entrepreneur and engineer with a passion to succeed. He has founded and managed several successful companies, has been awarded numerous patents and has invented and manufactured the chrome brush guards, winch mounts and grill protectors we see mounted on SUVs.

But his biggest idea came to him in 1989. During that year the Exxon Valdez oil spill occurred off the coast of Prince William Sound, Alaska. It was this disaster that inspired his vision to create a robotic, satellite-controlled airborne-recovery system that would be capable of very quickly, containing, recovering and recycling a large marine oil spill.

The vision evolved into what is now known as the AEROS System^®. Myron engineered and developed AEROS, which stands for Airborne Robotic Oil Spill Recovery System, through his environmental company, Global Response Group (GRG).

His plan is to provide innovative technology solutions such as the AEROS System to control global disasters. Myron says that as a student in the MBA program at University of Phoenix he wrote graduate papers about GRG and AEROS, including papers that focused on upgrading the GRG executive summary business plan. He said his MBA classes were in step with what he needed to develop a strategic marketing plan, and establish corporate short-term and long-term objectives.

In recognition of his commitment to greening the environment, he was selected to be on the Board of Directors of Green Team America, a national organization dedicated to promoting environmental awareness among youth.

Master of Business Administration/Global Management, 2006

If you’re intrigued by non-stop action and suspense, technological breakthroughs, evil genius geeks, a brilliant champion and the infinity of cyberspace—then you’ll want to read “Breakthrough,” a novel by Stephen Tremp.

The story takes place today as the story’s hero, Chase Manhattan battles a group of graduate students from Massachusetts Institute of Technology to control a breakthrough that is so transformative, it threatens to alter life as we know it. The conflict takes place on both coasts and in cyberspace.

Stephen earned his Master of Business Administration/Global Management degree from University of Phoenix in 2006 and has drawn inspiration from his background in information systems and science. He credits research papers completed while at University of Phoenix as necessary background to describe the complex technology in his thriller.

“With scientific knowledge growing at breakneck speed and the global geo-political scene changing as quickly as it has been, I thought using these two ideas as a backdrop for 'Breakthrough' would make for an exciting and ultimately terrifying trilogy,” says Stephen.

“Breakthrough” is the first book in a trilogy. “Opening” and “Escalation” are the two follow-up books in the series. “I want the readers to care about the characters, to relate to and identify with their trials and tribulations …” Stephen explains. 

Bachelor of Science in Business/Management, 2004

Peter Vapor enlisted in the United States Navy and worked his up the chain of command to the highest-ranking officer. His formula for success – hard work, determination and education.

Peter enlisted as a non-designated (no formal school) Airman and later moved into aviation administration. With no promise of advancement ahead, he set his sights on applying for Officer Candidate School but came up short when it came to having a bachelor’s degree. Peter needed to find a school with a flexible degree program that would also transfer some of his credits from a community college so that he didn’t have to start from scratch.

He selected University of Phoenix and completed his bachelor’s degree two years later. A year after that Peter was selected for Officer Candidate School at the age of 34. Soon after he was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy. Peter ultimately became an MCPO/E-9, the highest enlisted rank in the Navy.

He is back at University of Phoenix, this time pursuing his master’s degree in business administration.

Master of Arts in Organizational Management, 2005

What is one of the most ignored characteristics responsible for the success or failure of your project? Project manager and motivational speaker, Pattie Vargas says it’s people management skills.

In her book, “Extreme Project Manager Makeover,” Pattie discusses why the ‘soft skills’ of project management are necessary to ensure success. She says people management skills are no longer ‘nice-to-have,’ they are essential and should not be ignored because that can result in big-time project failure.

“Accept the fact that you are a leader. If you are going to manage a team, you are the leader and you can’t be looking for somebody else to [do it], so you need to develop those leadership qualities,” she states.

Pattie, who earned a Master of Arts in Organizational Management, says the bottom line is not about how you as a manager prefer to communicate and how your team should adapt to your management style—it’s about how you as a leader, need to flex and adapt to ensure the success of those you are leading.

Pattie is the principal and consultant for The Vargas Group, a strategic employee management and organizational leadership firm. You can order her book, “Extreme Project Manager Makeover” on thevargasgroup.net. 

Master of Business Administration

Daniel Villao’s parents risked everything to immigrate to the United States from Ecuador in 1963. They succeeded despite limited opportunities for Spanish-speaking immigrants.

Villao, a first generation American, benefited from his parent’s strong work ethic. For 12 years he labored as an electrician, but grew tired of superiors receiving raises for the work that he and his team provided. He decided it was time to get an education.

He enrolled in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at University of Phoenix. “About a year into my studies, I was approached by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers about a position … of those [who applied] I was the only one with an advanced degree.” He got the job.

Villao then enrolled in the MBA program with University of Phoenix and received another offer. “Halfway through my MBA program I was approached by the Building Trades Council … They were looking for someone to take over the representation of public sector workers for all the unionized trades in Los Angeles and Orange County.” Not only was he awarded the job, but he received a valuable pay increase. Today he represents nearly 140,000 unionized construction workers in the largest Building Trades Council in the country.

To support Latino business people, Villao serves on the Board of Directors for the National Hispanic Business Association.

Master of Business Administration, 2006

If you’re an alumni who has considered Paying It Forward^SM, Lynda Woodard would tell you to do it. Lynda’s life was enriched by the Master of Business Administration degree she earned from University of Phoenix and she wanted her sister, Lenae Fritsch, to receive the same benefit.

Lynda enrolled in University of Phoenix after a 25-year break from school. After receiving her master’s degree, Lynda applied for a promotion within her company and received the position. 

“When I saw the opportunity to nominate someone for the Paying it Forward^® scholarship, I asked myself … Who could benefit from this the most? Who would be sure to accomplish the goal? Who needed the ‘little push’ to get going on [her] dreams? My sister Lenae [Fritsch] came to mind immediately.”

Lenae’s college plans were put on hold to raise her four children on her own. Today, three of her four children are also enrolled in college because of their mother’s devotion to education.

Lynda says, “Both Lenae and I are very grateful to University of Phoenix for offering this scholarship.” Thanks to the scholarship program, Lenae was able to achieve her dream of becoming a teacher and a coach. 

Bachelor of Science in Business, 2002

Leon Wright is committed to serving his country and his community in Detroit, Michigan, where he was born and raised. His military, academic and spiritual connection has fueled his desire to teach, educate and learn every day of his life. “Education is truly my passion,” shares Leon.

Leon is pursuing his passion through teaching and his involvement and leadership in several community groups. He serves as the First Lieutenant of the Michigan Civil Air Patrol (CAP), a division of the Homeland Department of Security designed to assist local public safety entities.

Through online learning, Leon teaches CAP youth programs on flight simulation and he also teaches a cadet program focusing on leadership, character development, healthy living and aerospace education. Leon also serves as the Commander for the CAP’s Detroit 100th Composite Squadron.

His greatest career achievement is his work with Global Psychological Services, a program designed to teach at-risk teens. He’s also writing a new program to assist special education youth with learning.

Master of Business Administration, 2004

Brigitte Wynn has always had a passion for writing, but it wasn’t until she began her master’s program that she realized her dream of becoming a published author. The motivation, positive feedback and experience she received about her writing accustomed her to the discipline necessary to write a novel.

Her debut novel “Lilith” follows the story of two orphans—Lilith and CK—who fall in love as they are brought together by fate. As the relationship unfolds, Lilith is haunted by her troubling past and her once enduring love and affection for CK turns into something diabolical. Lilith has a dual personality, which allowed Brigitte to explore her interest in the field of psychology and the internal battle between good and evil. The character also helped her to explore the loneliness of her own childhood as both of her parents passed away when she was young.

Brigitte is currently working on her fifth novel, while her second (a sequel to “Lilith”) and third will be published shortly. She also publishes online and writes song lyrics for Music Company in Los Angeles, California.

Master of Business Administration in Global Management, 2006

After graduating from University of Phoenix in 2006 with a Master of Business Administration in Global Management, Lloyd was hired by public transportation company First Transit to oversee a staff of 350 employees in Laredo, Texas.

After a year as assistant general manager of First Transit’s Laredo operations, Lloyd was offered and accepted a position overseeing 500 employees as assistant director of operations for Sun Metro, the public transportation system for the City of El Paso, Texas.

When Lloyd took the job, El Paso’s public transit was in such disarray that the mayor publicly expressed his embarrassment over it. In just two years, Lloyd has helped Sun Metro transform itself from “being an embarrassment” to being recognized as the 2008 Outstanding Metropolitan System by the Texas Transit Association. The El Paso transportation system beat out the transit systems of Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio.

Although Lloyd—who is currently implementing a $100 million capital improvement plan for Sun Metro—has already proven his leadership abilities, he continues to sharpen his skills. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership at University of Phoenix.