Board of Trustees

Chair
Trustee since: 2004
Serving on: Executive Committee and Academic and Faculty Affairs Committee

Maria Ellis, MD, received a bachelor's degree in biochemistry from Brandeis University and graduated from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 1990. She came to Connecticut to complete a residency at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Hartford. She has been in private practice in obstetrics and gynecology since 1994, and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Connecticut Medical School. Ellis is a parishioner at St. Rose Church in East Hartford, an associate of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and a member of the Connecticut Fly-fisherman's Association.

Vice Chair
Trustee since: 2008
Serving On: Committee on Trusteeship - Chair, Economic and Strategic Development Committee

Se-Min is currently a Vice President at Precinmac, a portfolio of GenNx 360 headquartered in NYC. Within the community, Se-Min serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors at the World Affairs Council of CT. He also presides on the Board of Directors of The Hartford Club. He is actively involved with the Asian American Business Development Center of NY, Catholic Charities of Hartford, Caribbean Trade Council, and the American Diabetes Association. Se-Min has been recognized by the Asian American Business Development Center of NY as one of the “Outstanding 50” Asian Americans for his efforts and contribution to business and community.

Secretary
Trustee since: 1999

Mark Scheinberg is the founder and president of Goodwin College in East Hartford, Connecticut. In this role, he provided the leadership and financial support to convert a private career school chain into a non-profit, four-year collegiate institution.

President Scheinberg has been contributing to higher education for more than 30 years. During that time, he has served on various boards that largely focus on workforce development and academia.

He has served on committees of the Connecticut Employment and Training Commission, the Capital Region Workforce Development Board, the MetroHartford Alliance, and the Legislative Task Force on Allied Health.

President Scheinberg has also served on committees for the Accrediting Commission of Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) (where he won the Evaluator of the Year award in 1997); the Standing Advisory Committee to the Connecticut Board of Governors for Higher Education; and the Legislative Task Force on Teachers' Professional Standards.

In addition, President Scheinberg has served as president of the East Hartford Chamber of Commerce, International Board Member of the Young Presidents Organization, member of the Executive Board of the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges, and Board of Governors officer for the Hartford Consortium for Higher Education. In the past few years, President Scheinberg has organized and/or presented in a number of international leadership seminars in Paris, Tibet, London, Washington, and Johannesburg, South Africa, as well as in many local venues.

Most recently, the Young Presidents' Organization honored President Scheinberg with the International Legacy Honor Award for his lifelong contributions to promoting peace, education, and social enterprise. President Scheinberg also received the 2009 DreamMaker's Award by My Sister's Place, the 2007 Vocational Service Award by the East Hartford Rotary Club, and the 1997 Distinguished Service Award by the East Hartford Chamber of Commerce. Furthermore, Hartford's Brazilian Alliance recognized him in April 2008 for his outreach to the Brazilian American community in the region. In addition, President Scheinberg was named one of Greater Hartford's 50 Most Influential People of 2009 in Hartford Magazine.

He currently resides in Haddam Neck, Connecticut.

Treasurer
Trustee since: 1999
Serving On: Executive Committee, Finance Committee - Chair

A. Raymond Madorin practices law in Farmington, Connecticut. He has been an active member of the Hartford County and Connecticut Bar Associations, having served as a past president of the Hartford County Bar Association and Treasurer of the General Practice Section of the Connecticut Bar Association.

Mr. Madorin is active in his church and community, having served Vestry Member and Sr. Warden at St. James in West Hartford, and serving on the boards of Seabury Memory Care Center, Inc., and Church Home of Hartford, Inc., as well as treasurer of the Farmington Exchange Club.

Trustee since: 2003
Serving On: Executive Committee

Frank Amodio is currently CEO of Amodio & Co Real Estate. In a career spanning 35 years, he was previously managing partner of Dixwell Associates, a commercial real estate development partnership and a licensed real estate broker for 25 years. He was also the President and CEO of Amodio Moving and Storage, a worldwide provider of transportation and warehousing services. In addition he was founder and President of Amodio Archives, Records Management Services.

He has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Young Presidents Organization, CT, and a founding member and secretary of the Mobile Self Storage Association and President of the Board of Directors of the Association of Records Managers and Administrators, CT.

Outside Frank's participation on the Goodwin College Board of Trustees, he also sits on the Board of Directors of CW Resources, Inc. CW provides employment opportunities for disabled or economically disadvantaged persons.

Trustee since: 2006
Serving on: Executive Committee and is Chair of the Audit Committee

Kevin Armata is President and Chief Executive Officer of Windsor Marketing Group, a company that develops, manufactures and distributes in-store marketing programs for some of the largest retailers in the U.S. His success started from humble beginnings.

During his childhood development, his educators observed reading and writing difficulties later diagnosed as dyslexia. Through education and encouragement from caring individuals, Kevin learned to overcome this obstacle and cultivated a strong determination to build the life and business he envisioned.

Kevin grew up in the grocery business working in his father's store in South Windsor, Connecticut. Through his observations and interactions with shoppers, he realized the impact in-store communications had on purchasing decisions. As an undergraduate attending Bentley College, he realized if could make stores easier and more enjoyable to shop, he could provide a valuable service to grocery stores. A business idea was born.

Now in its 30th year, Windsor Marketing Group continues to lead the industry by developing innovative solutions to complex in-store marketing challenges. The company's ability to customize sign programs down to the individual store on short production schedules gives retailers the ability to react quickly to competitive situations and increase sales. Today, Kevin's early vision is seen in signage programs communicating a retailer's brand position, promotions and décor.

Equally admirable is Kevin's leadership in sustainability. Windsor Marketing Group is committed to growing in a way that will improve the quality of life of associates, their families, and the local community as a whole. Being part of the Suffield and Windsor Locks communities is a special privilege. The company continues to demonstrate responsible community leadership by conserving energy, manufacturing products than minimize environmental impact, and working with suppliers who share the same high standards. Kevin's support of green initiatives and community based economic programs is unwavering.

Kevin is an active participant or board member in several trade and business associations and chairs a private equity firm. He has participated in many industry education forums, teaching and mentoring individuals in business and economics. As a member of the Young Presidents Organization, Kevin has participated in executive education, industry roundtables and seminars, and family programs and has served as an officer (Education Chair, Chapter Chair, Past Chapter Chair) in the Connecticut Chapter. In addition, he is an active member of the Chief Executives Organization and the World Presidents Organization.

Education remains a high priority for Kevin as evidenced by his board participation at Goodwin College and Bentley University.

Kevin, his wife Donna and their children reside in Suffield, Connecticut pursuing their equestrian interests by riding and working on the family farm. In the winter, they participate in a variety of equestrian activities, including Polo, in Palm Beach, FL.

Trustee since: 2013
Serving on: Educational and Faculty Affairs

Sherrilyn Bernier, Ed.D., HS-BCP, an assistant professor in the Human Services program since 2012, truly believes in the mission of Goodwin College. Known to her students as Dr. B., she is the advisor to the Tau Upsilon Alpha Human Services National Honor Society, co-advisor of the Human Services Club, and facilitator of the Women Achieving Voices of Empowerment program. She is the current Faculty Senate president.

Dr. Bernier is the 2013 recipient of the Goodwin College “Make a Difference” award. Her teaching philosophy incorporates motivation and empowerment as strong stimuli in progressive learning. She received a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Hartford, a M.S. in Counseling and a B.A. in Sociology from Central Connecticut State University, and an A.S. in General Studies and a Certificate in Human Services from Tunxis Community College. She has taught courses in Human Services, Educational Research, Psychology, and Sociology in colleges across Connecticut. Her research has been presented in Connecticut, Virginia, Texas, Indiana, Florida, Massachusetts, and Oklahoma. Dr. Bernier holds the credential of Human Services Board Certified Practitioner and is the vice president of the New England Organization for Human Services.

With a professional career in health care and social services of more than 20 years, Dr. Bernier has worked in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, vocational agencies, and nonprofit organizations. These positions involved working with clients, families, state agencies, health care providers, caregivers, and board members.

Dr. Bernier is the founder of Bernier Hypnosis and Life Enrichment, LLC, using hypnosis to guide clients to well-being and empowerment. She is a member of the National Guild of Hypnotists, where she presents her Breast Cancer Voyage program and also presents at local cancer support groups.

Trustee since: 2013
Serving on: Trusteeship, liason from the Foundation Board for Audit Committee, and Special Task Force - By-Laws Revision

Trustee since: 2010
Serving on: Audit Committee, Student Affairs Committee

Fire Chief Edward Casares, Jr. is a 30 year member of the Hartford Fire Department, a founding member of the Society of Latin American Firefighters, National Association of Hispanic Firefighters and, The International Association of Hispanic Firefighters. He is a member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Latin American Section., Connecticut Chapter International Association of Arson Investigators, The Capital Region Fire Marshals Association, and Connecticut Fire Marshal's Association and,. International Association of Fire Chiefs. Chief Casares serves as a peer assessor for the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Center for Accreditation International; He is an Instructor at the Dr. Carl Holmes Executive Development Institute held at Clark Atlanta University. Atlanta GA. and Dillard University, New Orleans, LA.

Chief Casares served as Commissioner and Chairman of the Hartford Redevelopment Agency; Hartford Democratic Town Committee in the Sixth (6th) District. The Lozada Park renewal project, and currently serves on The Salvation Army Advisory Board, the Hartford Juvenile Review Board Advisory Council, Goodwin College Board of Trustees, and Goodwin College Homeland Security Criminal Justice Program Advisory Board.

Chief Casares has been awarded the 2006 Maria C. Sanchez Leadership award, he has received proclamations from Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell, Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, and the Mayors of Hartford, and Miami Florida.

Chief Casares is a 2008 Graduate of the Dr. Carl Holmes Executive Development Institute (EDI) held at Clark Atlanta University Atlanta Georgia. He graduated from Goodwin College with an Associates of Science Degree in Homeland Security. Edward lives in Hartford with his wife Ines of 35 years.

Trustee since: 2004
Chair: Economic and Strategic Development committee
Serving on: Building Committee

Martin V. D'Eramo serves as the manager of state and local government affairs for United Technologies Corporation (UTC). He is responsible for UTC's government relations activities in Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois and Texas. In this role, Martin assists with the development and execution of long and short term strategic state government and intergovernmental affairs goals for UTC. He is also responsible for developing and maintaining effective working relationships with state legislators, administrative officials and intergovernmental organizations. Martin is involved with a number of civic organizations in the Greater Hartford community. He is a member of the board of trustees of Goodwin College, a corporator of Saint Francis Hospital and member of the East Hartford Chamber of Commerce board of directors.

As a member of the board of trustees of Goodwin College, Martin chairs the Government Relations Committee.

Martin is a graduate of Hartwick College.

Trustee since: 2008
Serving On: Alumni Committee - Chair

Merilee DeJohn received an associate’s degree in early childhood education from Goodwin College in 2007, a bachelor’s degree and teaching certification in early childhood education from the University of Hartford in 2010 and a master’s degree in special education from Saint Joseph’s University in 2014. She currently teaches second grade at Highcrest School in Wethersfield, CT where she also serves on the Safe School Climate Committee.

Since graduating from Goodwin College, DeJohn has remained connected to the College by serving as a member of the Board of Trustees, the Student Affairs subcommittee and the Chair of the Alumni Leadership Committee. She regularly supports and attends Goodwin College activities and programs, some of which have included observing capstone project presentations and student and alumni networking events.

Since graduating from Goodwin College, DeJohn has remained connected to the College by serving as a member of the Board of Trustees, the Student Affairs subcommittee and the Chair of the Alumni Leadership Committee. She regularly supports and attends Goodwin College activities and programs, some of which have included observing capstone project presentations and student and alumni networking events.

As a non-traditional learner, DeJohn encourages students of all ages to further their education and says that Goodwin College gave her the foundation and structure to build her future and will always have her support.

DeJohn resides in Rocky Hill with her daughter Hope and husband Gene, who serves on the Goodwin College Golf Committee. Her family also includes a son, Benjamin, his wife, Lindsey and grandson, Colby.

Trustee since: 2008
Serving on: Facilities

C. Anthony DiFatta, Jr. (Andy) has been in the real estate profession since 1974. He has been fortunate to have gained extensive experience in sales, leasing, financial analysis, construction and property management. This experience has enabled him to evolve into a well rounded real estate developer. Over the years, Andy has played a key role in developing office, industrial, and residential communities. Most of his experience was accumulated with medium to large scale companies.

Andy is currently president of Ensign-Bickford Realty Corporation (EBR). In this position he directs the development activities on approximately 1,200 acres of land across the country. He also oversees the design, sales, construction and management of a planned residential community that will ultimately contain 182 freestanding homes.

As a consultant, and prior to being on Goodwin College's Board of Trustees, Andy helped the college assemble approximately 700 acres of land along the shores of the Connecticut River. This is now an integral part of the main campus. Most of this land will now be used for environmental studies and passive recreation.

Andy represents Goodwin's Board of Trustees on the Facilities & IT (Information Technology) Committee. Although construction of the main campus building is complete, from 2012 through 2014 three major construction projects were initiated and completed. These three projects alone represented approximately $120 million in new facilities that expanded the college’s real estate portfolio in East Hartford, CT.

Andy has an MBA with an emphasis in finance and was the President of the East Hartford Chamber of Commerce from 1994 to 1996. He was also Chairman of the East of the River Chambers of Commerce Association (ERCCA) in 1996 and 1997.

Trustee since: 2010
Serving On: Academic and Faculty Affairs

Ethan B. Foxman, MD, Ph.D. is a physician and educator. He currently serves as President and CEO of Jefferson Radiology, a provider of radiology services and medical informatics. He is a practicing neuroradiologist and participates in the education of physicians at Hartford Hospital, Connecticut Children's Medical Center and Stanford University Medical Center in Palo Alto, California where he is an adjunct clinical faculty member.

Trustee since: 2007
Serving On: Executive Committee and the Chair of the Development Committee

Donna Galluzzo earned a Ph.D. in Nutritional Biochemistry from the University of Connecticut in 1989. Since 2003 she has worked as the President and CEO of Homecare Management Strategies, Inc, a financial support services organization which provides strategic financial services to health care companies. Galluzzo also served as the CEO of Connecticut VNA, Inc., the largest network of home health care agencies in Connecticut. Galluzzo has received numerous recognitions for her professional achievements and service to community, including CT Women's Hall of Fame Honoree (2009), Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award (2007), and the 2002 National Association of Women Business Owners Woman of the Year for Professional Life.

Trustee since: 2010
Serving On: Academic and Faculty Affairs

Jacqueline Jacoby is an educator who served as both an energetic and creative school superintendent in Glastonbury, CT for eleven years. This was followed on two occasions, serving as Interim Superintendent in the public schools of Hartford, CT, the third poorest city in the United States. Currently she is an educational consultant working with public schools and nonprofit organizations. She has held many leadership positions in professional organizations, and received numerous awards including the Presidential Award from the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents and the Connecticut Educational Leadership Award from the University of Connecticut.

Trustee since: 2016

Trustee since: 2007
Serving On: Finance

Mr. Maturana earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering at Pontifical Bolivarian University in 1982. He has also studied finance, administration and computers. He is originally from Colombia, South America.

As a professor at Pontifical Bolivarian University, he taught classes in chemistry and mathematics. As a developer, he designed and built plants which produce Ammonium Chloride for use in batteries and also Activated Charcoal.

He has worked in positions of financial management for more than 10 years, chief of engineers, international trade, sales chemicals, marketing, purchasing and administration. He is currently a Business Manager of Catholic Communities of East Hartford North.

Mr. Maturana is active member in the Catholic Church and his community. He served as a trustee at St. Brigid Church in West Hartford, as well as at Spice Glen Association.

He has published a detailed and influential study calling for improvements in municipal waste disposal.

Trustee since: 2013
Serving On: Student Affairs Committee and Magnet Schools Committee

Megan Mehr is an education consultant for the Internationals Network for Public Schools, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the education of English Language Learners across the United States. Prior to joining Internationals, Megan served as a teacher and school leader in New York City and Boston in innovative middle and high schools focused on closing the achievement gap and institutionalizing and sharing best practices that other schools and communities can replicate in order to better serve their own students. Megan has a B.A. in Psychology from Boston College, an M.S. in Education from the New School University, an Administration and Supervision degree from Hunter College, and an M.A. in American Studies from Columbia University.

Trustee since: 2016

Trustee since: 2010
Serving On: Academic and Faculty Affairs Committee