Welcome & Introductions

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------

Name: Kathleen "Kate" Gurba Korb

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): State University of New York College at Oswego

Industry/Current Role: I work in healthcare and pharmacy operations as a Regional Centralized Pharmacy Liaison with Shields Health Solutions.

What I hope to gain from this community: I'm looking forward to connecting with other Beta Gamma Sigma members, learning from everyone's experiences, and continuing to grow both professionally and personally. I'm especially excited to be part of a community of people who are passionate about leadership, business, and making a difference in their fields.

------------------------------
Kathleen "Kate" Gurba Korb A.A., CPhT
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Regional Centralized Pharmacy Liaison
Shields Health Solutions
New York City Metropolitan Area
------------------------------

Name: Sina Nauert

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): Menlo College

Industry/Current Role: Junior | International Business Student & Cheerleader

What I hope to gain from this community: Hi everyone! I'm a Junior at Menlo College in California, though I'm originally from Germany. I'm an International Business major and I also spend a lot of my time as a student-athlete on the cheerleading team.

Long term, I really want to work in the sustainability sector. I'm fascinated by how global businesses can actually help the planet. I'm here to meet people who care about the same things. I'd love to hear your stories, get some career advice, and see how you're making an impact in your own fields. Excited to connect with you all!

------------------------------
Sina Nauert
Cologne
------------------------------

Name: Sophia Delannoy

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): William Paterson University (New Jersey, USA)

Industry/Current Role: International Business & Professional Sales | Top-Ranked Sales Specialist 

What I hope to gain from this community: As a recent inductee, I am eager to transition from the collegiate to the professional level of Beta Gamma Sigma, engaging with the society's "Best in Business" network to foster lifelong professional growth. My primary goal is to connect with the Geneva alumni chapter as I relocate to Switzerland upon graduation this year. As a trilingual US/EU citizen, I look forward to contributing my international perspective to the local community while seeking mentorship and insights into the business landscape.

------------------------------
Sophia Delannoy

Professional Sales Major
------------------------------

------------------------------
Lissette Vallejo
Union City NJ
------------------------------

• Name: Kalynn Rucker 
• BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): Clark Atlanta University 
• Industry/Current Role: Second-year Accounting Student
• What I hope to gain from this community: I am looking forward to building genuine connections with other motivated business students and professionals, while also gaining mentorship and guidance as I continue developing in accounting. I want to keep strengthening my skills, grow more confident in my career path, and learn from people who have already navigated this journey. Also, I hope to give back by supporting others, sharing what I've learned, and continuing to grow into a strong and reliable leader within the Beta Gamma Sigma community.

------------------------------
Kalynn Rucker
Atlanta GA
------------------------------

------------------------------
Wenxuan Li
Arlington VA
------------------------------

Welcome to BGS Wenxuan! I love marketing. It's often how content creators target their audiences within their respective niche. 

------------------------------
Whitney Hughes
Denham Springs LA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-08-2026 17:16
From: Wenxuan Li
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

Name: Wenxuan Li

 

• BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): Johns Hopkins University, Carey Business School

 

• Industry/Current Role: MS in Marketing Graduate Student

 

• What I hope to gain from this community: I'm excited to connect with fellow BGS members around the world! I'm a marketing master's student at Johns Hopkins, passionate about global brand strategy and digital marketing. I hope to learn from industry experts, build lasting professional relationships, and find mentorship as I prepare for my career in marketing. I'm also happy to share my experiences in international communication and help other members whenever I can.

------------------------------
Wenxuan Li
Arlington VA
------------------------------

Name: Aryaman Singh

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): The University of Texas at Dallas

Industry/Current Role: MS in Information Technology & Management Graduate Student

What I hope to gain from this community: I am looking forward to learning from the diverse perspectives of fellow BGS members as I transition from Software Engineering into the Product space. My goal is to strengthen my business acumen and understand how various industries are navigating AI-driven business transformation. I also hope to build meaningful connections and find mentorship along the way while supporting my peers wherever I can add value. 

------------------------------
Aryaman Singh
Richardson TX
------------------------------

Name: Krishna Chaitanya Uppalapati

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): The University of Texas at Dallas

Industry/Current Role: MS in Financial Mathematics

What I hope to gain from this community: I hope to gain meaningful connections with like-minded, high-achieving individuals who are passionate about business, leadership, and innovation. Being part of this community will allow me to learn from diverse experiences, gain mentorship, and expand my professional network globally. I also look forward to developing my leadership skills, staying engaged with industry insights, and contributing to a community that values excellence, integrity, and service. Ultimately, I want to grow both personally and professionally while being part of a network that drives impact across industries.

------------------------------
Krishna Chaitanya Uppalapati
Dallas TX
------------------------------

Name: Sean Strate

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): University of Mary Washington (Fredericksburg, VA).

Industry/Current Role: Recently retired federal program manager and current MBA student.

What I hope to gain from this community: I joined BGS to stay engaged with a network of driven professionals. I'm looking forward to meaningful conversations, collaboration, and learning from the experiences of others across different fields.

------------------------------
Sean Strate, M.A., PMP

Fredericksburg, VA
------------------------------

Hi Sean, retiring from a federal program management career and then stepping into an MBA program is such an interesting transition. I'd enjoy hearing more about what inspired that decision!

We're glad to have you here and look forward to the perspective you'll bring to ConnectBGS.

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-09-2026 07:39
From: Sean Strate
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

Name: Sean Strate

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): University of Mary Washington (Fredericksburg, VA).

Industry/Current Role: Recently retired federal program manager and current MBA student.

What I hope to gain from this community: I joined BGS to stay engaged with a network of driven professionals. I'm looking forward to meaningful conversations, collaboration, and learning from the experiences of others across different fields.

------------------------------
Sean Strate, M.A., PMP

Fredericksburg, VA
------------------------------

Name: Amelie Armbruster

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): Pforzheim Business School (HS Pforzheim), Germany

Industry/Current Role: As an International Business student at Pforzheim University in the 5th semester, I am currently completing my mandatory internship semester at a management consultancy in Frankfurt am Main. Starting from September 2026 I will continue my studies in Madrid in order to conclude my double degree in International Business.  

What I hope to gain from this community: I am excited to be part of the BGS community and especially look forward to building a strong network and connecting with inspiring people from diverse backgrounds. I hope to exchange ideas, learn from others, find mentorship opportunities, and grow both personally and professionally along the way. 

------------------------------
Amelie Armbruster
Frankfurt am Main 
------------------------------

Name: Van Jendian

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): San Jose State University

Industry/Current Role: Full time student studying Business Management with aspirations to become an accountant

What I hope to gain from this community:  I hope to meet a lot of new people and create a broader network of people who I can connect with. Additionally, I am excited to see myself grow personally and professionally through this chapter.

------------------------------
Van Jendian
San Diego CA
------------------------------

 
------------------------------
Omar Ammari
------------------------------

Hello everyone!

It's an honor to join this community!
I'm Terry OUZARA, from NUCB Business School (Japan), currently seeking a position in Data Strategy or BI Lead roles in Japan.
New and diverse perspectives, encounters, knowledge, and experiences are what I hope to gain from this community.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you are in Nagoya.
Best, 
Terry

------------------------------
Terry
Japan
------------------------------

Name: Petra Andolšek

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana.

Industry/Current Role: I work in digital marketing, specializing in creative content creation, advertising and project management. I develop content strategies, produce engaging video campaigns, manage social media, and collaborate with clients and influencers to deliver impactful results.

What I hope to gain from this community: Through Beta Gamma Sigma, I hope to expand my global perspective, gain valuable knowledge from distinguished professionals, and further develop my leadership and business skills. Being part of this prestigious network inspires me to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to the business community.

------------------------------

Petra Andolšek

Ljubljana, Slovenia

------------------------------

------------------------------
Petra Andolšek
Digital marketing specialist
Videm-Dobrepolje
------------------------------

Hi Petra,

Really nice to meet you and thanks for sharing your intro!

Your work in digital marketing sounds very interesting, especially the mix of creative content and strategy. I'd be curious to hear more about the kinds of campaigns you've been working on.

Glad to be part of the BGS community together and looking forward to staying in touch.

Sean

------------------------------
Sean Strate, M.A., PMP
Fredericksburg, VA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-16-2026 04:39
From: Petra Andolšek
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

Name: Petra Andolšek

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana.

Industry/Current Role: I work in digital marketing, specializing in creative content creation, advertising and project management. I develop content strategies, produce engaging video campaigns, manage social media, and collaborate with clients and influencers to deliver impactful results.

What I hope to gain from this community: Through Beta Gamma Sigma, I hope to expand my global perspective, gain valuable knowledge from distinguished professionals, and further develop my leadership and business skills. Being part of this prestigious network inspires me to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to the business community.

------------------------------

Petra Andolšek

Ljubljana, Slovenia

------------------------------

------------------------------
Petra Andolšek
Digital marketing specialist
Videm-Dobrepolje
------------------------------

------------------------------
Seho Kim
District of Columbia DC
------------------------------

Name: Furkan Artar

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): Nova Southeastern University (Davie, USA)

Industry/Current Role: Former student athlete. Currently pursuing my MBA in Business Management and working as a trainee at Rail Cargo Logistics Germany, where I gain practical experience in rail logistics and the transport of goods.

What I hope to gain from this community: I'm excited to connect with people from all around the world and build a truly international network of ambitious and driven individuals. I'm especially interested in exploring opportunities to work internationally, gaining exposure to different markets, and learning how business is approached across cultures. Beyond that, I'm looking to learn from experienced professionals, exchange ideas, and gain insights that will help me grow both personally and professionally. I value meaningful conversations, new perspectives, and connections that can open doors to future collaborations and global opportunities.

I'm looking forward to connect with you!

------------------------------
Furkan Can Artar
Leverkusen
------------------------------

Name: Nicki Kollar
BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): Valparaiso University
Industry/Current Role: Director of Digital & Integrated Marketing at Valparaiso University, higher education
What I hope to gain from this community: Meaningful connections, fresh perspectives, and opportunities to keep growing as a marketing and brand leader!

------------------------------
Nicki Kollar
------------------------------

Hi Nicki! So happy to see another digital marketer (especially focused on higher ed) in ConnectBGS! 

How long have you been in the collegiate marketing space? Our team at BGS is always looking for new ways to reach the rising generation. 

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-20-2026 11:09
From: Nicki Kollar
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

Name: Nicki Kollar
BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): Valparaiso University
Industry/Current Role: Director of Digital & Integrated Marketing at Valparaiso University, higher education
What I hope to gain from this community: Meaningful connections, fresh perspectives, and opportunities to keep growing as a marketing and brand leader!

------------------------------
Nicki Kollar
------------------------------

Name: Zoe R. Evans

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): Marshall University in Huntington, WV

Industry/Current Role: I am currently working as an Administrator in Training (AIT) at Wayne Healthcare Center. I have been finishing up my Master's Program in Healthcare Administration at Marshall University while working full-time. Once I graduate this May, I plan to take my NHA licensure exam and state exam to become a licensed administrator. I've enjoyed gaining experience in long-term care over the past year and hope to continue to expand my knowledge in the Administration/Business world. This is only the beginning, and I'm excited to grow and meet new individuals who enjoy learning something new every day. 

What I hope to gain from this community: I hope to gain networking opportunities, along with meaningful connections with professionals across various industries. I'm especially interested in learning from others' experiences, gaining insights into leadership and career development, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. I also look forward to sharing my own experiences in healthcare administration and contributing to a collaborative and supportive community.

------------------------------
Zoe Evans
Charleston WV
------------------------------

Name: Christine "Nessie" Semones

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): University of San Diego, California

Industry/Current Role: I am an active duty Naval Aviator currently serving as an Officer Instructor with the NROTC unit here at University of San Diego. 

What I hope to gain from this community: I hope to connect with likeminded driven individuals, gain new perspectives outside of my military background, and continue growing as a leader who can make a meaningful impact.

------------------------------
LT Christine "Nessie" Semones
US Naval Aviator (MH-60S)
NROTC San Diego Consortium Officer Instructor
------------------------------

------------------------------
Christine Semones
Chula Vista CA
------------------------------

------------------------------
Brittany Hulse
Shelley ID
------------------------------

Name:
Naoki Matsuura

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter):
University of Massachusetts Lowell – MBA Program

Industry/Current Role:
Aerospace & Advanced Composites Manufacturing / Process Technology Manager

What I hope to gain from this community:
I am currently working in the aerospace composites industry, focusing on scaling advanced materials from R&D to full-scale production. My role involves bridging technical development and operational execution in a highly complex manufacturing environment.

Through the BGS community, I hope to connect with professionals across industries, exchange perspectives on strategy and operations, and continue developing a global business mindset. I am particularly interested in learning how others navigate the intersection of technology, leadership, and large-scale execution.

I also look forward to building meaningful relationships and contributing insights from my experience in manufacturing, cross-functional leadership, and international business.

------------------------------
Naoki Matsuura
Manager, Process Technology
Campbell CA
------------------------------

------------------------------
Chirinma Nwude
Glen Burnie MD
------------------------------

• Name: Eileen Blümel
• BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): The University of Kansas
• Industry/Current Role: Graduate Student in Business Analytics
• What I hope to gain from this community: Hello everyone! I am excited to connect with all of you and exchange ideas on various topics. I am a Business Analytics student at KU, but I am originally from Germany. I look forward to learn from your experiences, especially in the area of analytics and AI. Thanks!

------------------------------
Eileen Bluemel
Business Analytics Student
Freigericht
------------------------------

Hi Eileen! Your interest in analytics and AI caught my eye. A couple months ago BGS held a webinar called "From Classroom to Boardroom: Developing Business-Ready AI Talent", co-hosted with Appalachian State University. You might find it interesting! Here is the link to rewatch: https://youtu.be/YsknnbXwX_0?si=E-MoplDd3E_OxYW6

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 04-28-2026 14:49
From: Eileen Bluemel
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

• Name: Eileen Blümel
• BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): The University of Kansas
• Industry/Current Role: Graduate Student in Business Analytics
• What I hope to gain from this community: Hello everyone! I am excited to connect with all of you and exchange ideas on various topics. I am a Business Analytics student at KU, but I am originally from Germany. I look forward to learn from your experiences, especially in the area of analytics and AI. Thanks!

------------------------------
Eileen Bluemel
Business Analytics Student
Freigericht
------------------------------

Hi McKenna,

very cool, thanks for mentioning that! I‘ll check it out! :)

---------------------------------
Eileen Bluemel
Business Analytics Student
Freigericht
---------------------------------



Original Message:
Sent: 04-30-2026
From: McKenna Sawchak
Subject: RE: April 2026: New Members START HERE

Hi Eileen! Your interest in analytics and AI caught my eye. A couple months ago BGS held a webinar called "From Classroom to Boardroom: Developing Business-Ready AI Talent", co-hosted with Appalachian State University. You might find it interesting! Here is the link to rewatch: https://youtu.be/YsknnbXwX_0?si=E-MoplDd3E_OxYW6

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------

Name: Nour Abdelghani

BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): American University of Beirut 

Industry/Current Role: Masters in Business Analytics graduate

What I hope to gain from this community: 

I'm excited to be part of the BGS community and to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about growth and impact. Through this network, I hope to gain valuable insights, expand my perspective, and learn from the experiences of others across different fields.

I'm especially interested in exploring remote career opportunities, expanding my professional network beyond geographical boundaries, and discovering new ways to grow in a flexible and global work environment.

I also look forward to building meaningful connections, contributing my own knowledge and experiences, and being an active member who adds value to the community.

------------------------------

Nour Abdelghani

MSBA graduate

Lebanon 

------------------------------

------------------------------
Nour Abdelghani
sour
------------------------------

------------------------------
Mary Yanira Alfaro
Lancaster CA
------------------------------

Hi Mary! Welcome to Beta Gammas Sigma.

I noticed you mentioned being a small business owner. Can you tell us a little more about your business and what it's like going through an undergrad program while owning a small business?

I know members of our community would be interested in hearing your story!

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 07-14-2026 00:22
From: Mary Yanira Alfaro
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

• Name: Mary Alfaro 

• BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): California State University Bakersfield

• Industry/Current Role: Small Business Owner | B.S Accounting Student

• What I hope to gain from this community: Being part of the BGS community is an honor and an exciting opportunity to connect with diverse and driven individuals. I am looking forward to expanding my networking skills and to learning how to transition into the accounting field. 

------------------------------

Mary Alfaro

Lancaster, CA

------------------------------

------------------------------
Mary Yanira Alfaro
Lancaster CA
------------------------------

Hi, McKenna! 
I've had the opportunity to learn and experience the many roles one takes in operating a family-owned bakery since 2006 in the city of Lancaster, CA. My experience in the undergrad program has been amazing because it aligned with what I was looking for to develop and understand what it takes to manage a business in the long term. I appreciate the many different case studies we have investigated while being in the undergrad program. Working in teams has been essential to learning how to analyze and exchange input from different perspectives, whether looking at them from a financial perspective or from the decision-making by leaders. It's been a great experience to connect with individuals who are also passionate and want to expand their business knowledge. The professors I've had have inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and to network. And here I am, excited that I am finally doing it. 

------------------------------
Mary Yanira Alfaro
Lancaster CA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 07-14-2026 12:29
From: McKenna Sawchak
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

Hi Mary! Welcome to Beta Gammas Sigma.

I noticed you mentioned being a small business owner. Can you tell us a little more about your business and what it's like going through an undergrad program while owning a small business?

I know members of our community would be interested in hearing your story!

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 07-14-2026 00:22
From: Mary Yanira Alfaro
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

• Name: Mary Alfaro 

• BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): California State University Bakersfield

• Industry/Current Role: Small Business Owner | B.S Accounting Student

• What I hope to gain from this community: Being part of the BGS community is an honor and an exciting opportunity to connect with diverse and driven individuals. I am looking forward to expanding my networking skills and to learning how to transition into the accounting field. 

------------------------------

Mary Alfaro

Lancaster, CA

------------------------------

------------------------------
Mary Yanira Alfaro
Lancaster CA
------------------------------

This is an amazing background, Mary! What a way to take decades of small business experience and still find ways to grow within your undergrad program. It sounds like you have an incredibly bright future ahead of you.

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 07-22-2026 18:38
From: Mary Yanira Alfaro
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

Hi, McKenna! 
I've had the opportunity to learn and experience the many roles one takes in operating a family-owned bakery since 2006 in the city of Lancaster, CA. My experience in the undergrad program has been amazing because it aligned with what I was looking for to develop and understand what it takes to manage a business in the long term. I appreciate the many different case studies we have investigated while being in the undergrad program. Working in teams has been essential to learning how to analyze and exchange input from different perspectives, whether looking at them from a financial perspective or from the decision-making by leaders. It's been a great experience to connect with individuals who are also passionate and want to expand their business knowledge. The professors I've had have inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and to network. And here I am, excited that I am finally doing it. 

------------------------------
Mary Yanira Alfaro
Lancaster CA
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 07-14-2026 12:29
From: McKenna Sawchak
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

Hi Mary! Welcome to Beta Gammas Sigma.

I noticed you mentioned being a small business owner. Can you tell us a little more about your business and what it's like going through an undergrad program while owning a small business?

I know members of our community would be interested in hearing your story!

------------------------------
McKenna Sawchak
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
BGS HQ
------------------------------



Original Message:
Sent: 07-14-2026 00:22
From: Mary Yanira Alfaro
Subject: April 2026: New Members START HERE

• Name: Mary Alfaro 

• BGS Affiliation (University/Chapter): California State University Bakersfield

• Industry/Current Role: Small Business Owner | B.S Accounting Student

• What I hope to gain from this community: Being part of the BGS community is an honor and an exciting opportunity to connect with diverse and driven individuals. I am looking forward to expanding my networking skills and to learning how to transition into the accounting field. 

------------------------------

Mary Alfaro

Lancaster, CA

------------------------------

------------------------------
Mary Yanira Alfaro
Lancaster CA
------------------------------