Tiffany Hoxie '09, '11

Associate Director of Leadership and Organizational Development at University of Connecticut
Alumni Achievement Award, School of Applied Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
Tiffany Hoxie '09, '11 began her journey in education 18 years ago, working primarily in Youth Development and Early Childhood Education. Tiffany holds an Associates degree in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor's degree in Child Studies from Goodwin University. Invested in the non-profit sector while in college, Tiffany climbed the ladder to Director of Education with the Boys & Girls Club organization, where the passion and desire for working with underserved and often unseen communities was born. This is also the time when the seed for leadership and organizational development was planted. Tiffany achieved a Master of Management and Organizational Leadership from Albertus Magnus College in 2015, and at that time, the pivot into higher education and entrepreneurship occurred. She pursued an entrepreneurial path that focused on “quality educational services from baby and beyond”. Additionally, she was the Assistant Director of Early Childhood and Child Studies programs at Charter Oak State College and then transitioned to UConn as the Assistant Director of Leadership and Organizational Development in 2023, where she now serves as the Associate Director. In this role, she leads a dynamic team which executes programs and services for students related to leadership development. She teaches UNIV (first and second year) courses, facilitates career and leadership workshops, is a direct liaison with campus partners, and serves as a support for students. In addition to her role at UConn, she is an adjunct professor at external colleges, focusing on courses related to childhood education as well as business. Tiffany is passionate about ensuring that all students have access to a quality and equitable education. 

Damaris Florian '21, '23

Human Resources Generalist in

Higher Education
Alumni Achievement Award, School of Business, Technology, & Advanced Manufacturing
Damaris Florian '21, '23 is a dedicated Human Resources professional with a strong passion for employee advocacy and organizational improvement. After enrolling at Goodwin University through the Educational Opportunity Program, Damaris earned her Associate degree in Business Administration in 2021, followed by her Bachelor’s degree in 2023, when she was honored as valedictorian. Following her degrees from Goodwin, Damaris earned her Master’s in Management and Organizational Leadership at Western Governors University in 2024. Damaris began her human resources career in the pharmaceutical sector, starting as an intern before advancing into a full-time role in recruitment, employee relations, and data analysis. Today, she serves as a Human Resources Generalist in the academic sector, where she works to foster positive workplace environments and challenge the negative stigma often associated with human resources. Driven by a mindset of continuous learning and improvement, Damaris is deeply passionate about advocating for the working class. She is committed to making meaningful contributions that enhance employee experiences and support organizational success. Eager to grow in her field, Damaris is always ready to take on new challenges and make a lasting impact in the ever-evolving world of human resources. 

Lucy Kariuki '15

Director of Health Services at

Key Human Services
Alumni Achievement Award, School of Nursing &

Health Professions
Lucy Kariuki '15 is a compassionate and energetic nurse with over nine years of experience spanning clinical nursing, management, and leadership. With a strong background in communications, she is deeply committed to serving diverse communities and advocating for inclusive healthcare practices. Lucy holds dual master's degrees—one in Nursing and the other in Communications—reflecting her dedication to providing holistic care and fostering clear, empathetic communication with patients, their families, and colleagues. Her academic training has given her a profound understanding of healthcare systems and effective patient engagement strategies. After starting her career in acute nursing, Lucy discovered her true passion for disability nursing six years ago. This shift sparked her advocacy for individuals with diverse abilities and a commitment to championing inclusive healthcare policies. She currently serves as the Director of Health Services at Key Human Services, an organization that supports individuals with disabilities in Connecticut by helping them transition from institutional settings to community-based homes filled with opportunities for growth and independence. Outside of her professional work, Lucy is deeply involved in volunteer efforts, mentoring nursing students and working with families of children with developmental and intellectual disabilities in her native Kenya. Her community service further highlights her dedication to making a broader impact on healthcare and society. In her free time, Lucy enjoys reading, traveling, interior decorating, swimming, and walking. These hobbies provide balance and creativity, fueling her passion for both personal and professional growth. 

John O'Brien '20

Regional Director of Operations at

Assisted Living Services, Inc.
Master's Professional Achievement Award
John O’Brien '20 is an accomplished senior care professional with extensive experience in dementia care and team operations. He began his career as an aide, working with elderly and clients with mental health challenges, and has since advanced to multiple Director roles within the industry. Currently, John serves as the Regional Director of Operations for Assisted Living Services, Inc., where he leads efforts to improve care and operations across the organization. John earned his Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Goodwin University in 2020 and is currently a Doctoral Candidate at The University of Arizona Global Campus, focusing on organizational development and leadership with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion. He is also conducting research on job satisfaction among CNAs working in senior living communities across New England. Outside of his professional achievements, John is happily married to his wife Megan, and a proud father to his 5 year old daughter, Mia. Additionally, John is an elite cyclist with the CCB Racing Team based in Boston. He takes pride in being a supportive spouse and father, a competitive athlete, and a passionate advocate for seniors, always striving to make a positive impact in both his family life and career. 

Corrie Betts '21

President of the Greater Hartford NAACP branch
Alumni Service Award
Corrie Betts '21 is a dedicated community leader, currently serving as the President of the Greater Hartford NAACP Branch, where he advocates for civil rights, social justice, and equality. In this influential role, Corrie works tirelessly to challenge discrimination, build relationships with local organizations, and fight for marginalized groups' rights. Corrie earned his Master's in Organizational Leadership from Goodwin in 2021. A proud Hartford native, Corrie is also a devoted husband and father of four, embodying love, empathy, and generosity in his personal life. As a compassionate minister at Glory Chapel International Cathedral, he has inspired and mentored countless individuals, leading with integrity and purpose. In his professional role as the Second Phase Director at Youth Challenge CT Inc., Corrie plays a crucial role in helping men affected by substance abuse transition into productive, fulfilling lives. His leadership and dedication have helped many individuals overcome addiction and build a brighter future. Corrie is deeply committed to his community, mentoring young men struggling with substance abuse, and addressing the challenges faced by Hartford’s youth, including limited economic opportunities and the ongoing drug epidemic. Additionally, Corrie works alongside civil rights organizations, lobbying for policies that promote equality and justice. Through his work with the NAACP and Youth Challenge, Corrie is making a lasting impact on the community, fighting for a more just and equitable society. 

J. Asha Lassen '23

Senior Administrative Assistant at Goodwin University
Alumni Service Award
J. Asha Lassen's life is defined by resilience, leadership, and service. Born in Gdańsk, Poland, during the Solidarity movement, she immigrated to the United States at the age of 15, navigating cultural and language challenges while excelling academically. She graduated in the top 5% of her high school class, earning a full academic and athletic scholarship to Concordia College, along with recognition through the Greater Hartford YMCA/United Technologies Youth Citizenship Award. J. Asha dedicated 16 years to mental health services at Manchester Hospital, providing crucial support to over 10,000 patients in crisis. Now, she provides support to the Dean of Nursing & Health Professions at Goodwin University. She earned her Master's in Organizational Leadership at Goodwin with a 4.0 GPA, becoming the first in her family to earn a master's degree. Her civic leadership extends to serving as a board member of the North Central Area Agency on Aging, where she advocates for veterans and seniors. Within the Polish American community, she has led the Hartford Polish Saturday School, guided the Polish National Home of Hartford, and co-founded the National Immigrant Heritage Center, celebrating the remarkable contributions of immigrants in Connecticut. J. Asha has been recognized with several prestigious honors for her impact, including an Official Citation from the Connecticut General Assembly and the Polonia Distinguished Service Award. During an official visit to Connecticut, the President of the Republic of Poland presented her with a national flag and a congratulatory letter, commending her exceptional contributions to Polish social, cultural, and economic initiatives in the state. 

Corey Smith '15

Owner and Chef at One Bar + Kitchen
Entrepreneurial Spirit Award
Corey Smith '15, also known as Chef CT Smith, has had a lifelong passion for the culinary arts—an appreciation he inherited from his family. While attending Goodwin, Corey shared a moment with his grandmother that would change his life. After preparing her lunch, she was so impressed with his cooking that she suggested, "You should make food and sell it. It could help you pay for school." At the time, Corey laughed it off, but after reflecting on her words, he realized she might be onto something. In 2010, Chef CT began seriously exploring the culinary world. By 2013, he hosted his first pop-up event at First Cathedral Church in Bloomfield. The experience was a turning point, sparking his deep commitment to honing his craft. A native of Hartford, Chef CT used his local connections and a growing social media presence to build momentum. What started with simple posts about where and when he was cooking quickly snowballed into something much bigger. Through hard work, creative thinking, and a constant drive to perfect his recipes, Chef CT now proudly owns and operates One Bar + Kitchen in Hartford—his first restaurant and a testament to his dedication and passion.

Deon Milardo '24

Owner of Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC
Entrepreneurial Spirit Award
In the bustling town of Middlefield, Connecticut, nestled among the charming streets and cozy cafes, you will find Healing Haven Psychiatry LLC. This haven of mental health care is not just a clinic; it's a sanctuary where compassion and expertise intertwine seamlessly. Deon Milardo '24 opened the doors to Healing Haven Psychiatry in November 2024. The visionary behind Healing Haven didn't just stumble into the world of nursing - he charged into it with passion and purpose. With several degrees, including a Master’s from Goodwin in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program, Deon honed his skills and nurtured his calling.  At Healing Haven, Deon doesn't just offer medical assessments and medication management; he crafts personalized journeys towards healing. From toddlers to adolescents to adults, his blend of psychotherapy and medication sets the stage for transformative growth. The clinic isn't just a place for treatments; it's a space for understanding, growth, and empowerment. Deon’s entrepreneurial journey reflects visionary leadership, as he has built a thriving business that not only addresses the mental health crisis but also inspires others to think outside the box in their own careers. Deon’s ability to innovate and problem-solve in the complex field of mental health is a testament to his forward-thinking approach and commitment to improving lives.