30 Under 30: MFS graduates are everywhere, near and far

PHILADELPHIA
Clinical Research Assistant at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Erin Chen studied molecular and cellular biology and computer science as an undergraduate at Johns Hopkins University. While completing her B.S. (2020), she was heavily involved in community service, research, and varsity athletics. She volunteered as both a caregiver and a mentor in the Baltimore area, and she was captain of the women’s fencing team during her junior and senior years. She holds the Johns Hopkins University record for career Sabre wins and all weapons. During her summers, Erin worked at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s 22q and You Center, where she researched the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, a disorder that is caused by a missing piece of chromosome 22 and characterized by several developmental issues. She is currently continuing in this role while she applies to medical school as an aspiring physician. Her favorite part of the job: connecting with patients and their families.

In her spare time, Erin works part-time as a fencing instructor. When she was at MFS, she participated in fencing as well as girls’ soccer. Her favorite memory is winning the NJSIAA Non-Public B South soccer championship in 2015. Erin won the Herm Magee Award for outstanding female athlete 2015-16.

She looks back fondly on her MFS experience. “The small, tight-knit community at MFS that fostered inclusivity showed me the importance of creating relationships and being open-minded,” said Erin. “Most importantly, MFS taught me how to learn and grow from my mistakes. Throughout my different experiences and this pandemic, I have had many opportunities for self-reflection. I know I would not be the person I am today without reflecting on the failures, lessons, and feedback from others. Meeting for Worship showed me the value of taking time to think, and it is a skill I know I will use for the rest of my life.”

“MFS taught me how to learn and grow from my mistakes.” 

BROOKLYN, NY
Playwright and Writer, Assistant to Branden Jacobs-Jenkins

Noah Rubenstein is a playwright and writer as well as an assistant to Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, a Pulitzer Prize finalist and MacArthur Grant fellow. Noah does both short-term administrative duties as well as longer-term research projects and, before the pandemic, script supervision. Last year, he developed his own play during a residency at SPACE on Ryder Farm, a nonprofit organization that combines art with environmental sustainability. As an assistant, Noah has contributed to five full productions that have appeared at off-Broadway and regional theaters.

At MFS, Noah learned that “it’s not uncool to take your work seriously.” Being around like-minded, driven peers helped him transition to an undergraduate workload. “When I got to NYU I was sort of shocked at how much easier it was than high school,” said Noah “That’s not because I’m a genius (I’m not) it’s because having lots of work didn’t feel like a big deal after going to a rigorous school like MFS. Doing the work was just the expectation.” Though he wishes he had been more involved in student government, his fondest memories come from being the Clerk of Meeting for Worship for Business.

Noah earned his B.F.A. in Dramatic Writing at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

“I think the most valuable thing I learned at MFS was just the simple idea that it’s not uncool to take your work seriously.”

PORTLAND, OR
Marine Inspector at US Coast Guard, Marine Safety Unit

Ensign Josh Murdy serves as a Marine Inspector at the United States Coast Guard’s Marine Safety Unit in Portland, OR. Primarily, he inspects vessels to ensure the safety of the crew, passengers, and onboard environment. In the past, he was able to identify two vessels that had sub-standard safety. “Left unchecked, these issues could have contributed to a future marine casualty with significant harm to the vessel, environment, or most importantly, the crew,” he said. His other roles include Morale Fund Custodian, which deals with finances, and IT Liaison Officer, which deals with technology.

In his limited spare time, Josh likes a little friendly competition. At MFS, he participated in several academic challenges as well as varsity soccer; now, he focuses on chess and enjoys the camaraderie that comes with playing games. Josh appreciated MFS’s academic rigor and diversity; he was able to earn college credit for four courses. He also acknowledges the impact that the Quaker testimonies had on him, citing “simplicity” as the most significant in his life. He continues to benefit from and contribute to MFS’s supportive alumni network.

Josh graduated with high honors with a bachelor’s degree in operations research and computer analysis from the United States Coast Guard Academy.

“The connections built at MFS, whether with classmates or instructors, can have significant professional impacts down the line.”

BURBANK, CA
Current Programming Assistant at Walt Disney Television

Austin Harris is a Current Programming Assistant at Walt Disney Television. He works alongside the Vice President and Executive Director of Current Programming, contributing to scripts, tablereads, sets, and more. Right now, Austin is working on five current series: Black-ish, Mixed-ish, The Good Doctor, The Rookie, and American Housewife. Austin was a finalist in the 2021 Walt Disney Television Writing Program; his goal is to become a TV and feature writer.

Austin was the editor-in-chief of both the Middle School Murmur and WordsWorth at MFS. In his English classes, he learned to write persuasively. “My English classes, especially Mrs. Galler’s where we wrote persuasive essays, have helped me in writing pitches, summaries, and loglines for projects,” said Austin. Using that persuasion, he convinced former English teacher Mr. Mark Gornto to create and advise a filmmaking elective. Both his academic and extracurricular experiences have prepared him for a career in journalism and media.

Austin attended New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts; he earned his B.F.A. in film and television production in 2017.

“My MFS English classes have helped me in writing pitches, summaries, and loglines for projects.”

PHILADELPHIA
Artist and Educator at Temple University and Westfield Friends School

Alicia Link currently teaches in the Foundation and Painting Department at Temple University’s School of Art and Architecture. She also works part-time at Westfield Friends School as an assistant art teacher and world languages program manager. In the past, Alicia has held many roles, including university educator, dog walker, studio assistant, freelance writer, and more. Her priority, though, has always been her art.

Alicia’s paintings have been exhibited in numerous solo, duo and group exhibitions, with shows at MASS Gallery in Austin (TX), the Musa Collective and Galatea Fine Art in Boston (MA), the Wayfarers Gallery and Space Heater Gallery in Brooklyn (NY), and at many more arts spaces.

Last year, she began a residency at Tiger Strikes Asteroid, a non-profit network of independently operated, artist-run exhibition spaces with locations in Philadelphia, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Greenville, SC. Alicia also published a review on an exhibition at Galleries at Moore in Philadelphia for the Broad Street Review. She enjoys sharing stories through her work and being a lifelong learner.

While at MFS, Alicia was involved in Gender Equality Forum. She fondly remembers spending lunches, watching movies, and going on field trips with former Math Teacher Ms. Kim Greeley and former History Teacher Dr. Eliza McFeely, the club’s advisors. “My world opened up during this brief time,” Alicia said. “As I was learning about this thing called the patriarchy, I was gaining agency. I’m so grateful to those women.”

After 12 years of Quaker education, Alicia furthered her studies at Boston University, where she earned her B.F.A. in painting. In 2017, she earned her M.F.A. in Studio Art at the University of Texas at Austin.

“Gender Equality Forum will always be an incredibly special time and space for me.”

LOS ANGELES, CA
Third-Year Law Student at the University of Southern California Gould School of Law

Mary Daniel is completing her final year of law school at the University of Southern California Gould School of Law. This past summer, she worked as a Law Clerk in the U.S. Copyright Office, and she has had several internships in music licensing. Currently, Mary is serving as an Executive Senior Editor for the Southern California Law Review and will have her article on the relationship between copyright law and street art published in the journal in 2021. After graduation, Mary plans to pursue a career in intellectual property law in the entertainment industry.

Mary was involved in sports, theater, and student government at MFS. Balancing these responsibilities helped her practice time management, a skill that has proved useful in law school.

Mary earned her B.A. in communications and fine arts at Loyola University Maryland.

“MFS really helped my time management ability.”

PHILADELPHIA
Resident in Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania

Before going to medical school, Monica Chelius spent two years as a research assistant at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, a hospital that provides care to children, teens, and adults in New Jersey and New York. Now, she’s completing her residency at the University of Pennsylvania and training to be a radiation oncologist. Monica spends most of her time talking with patients about their cancer care, drawing on findings from past studies to make suggestions. She also works behind the scenes to plan the radiation treatments, from dosage to distribution. At the University of Pennsylvania, Monica frequently bumps into other MFS graduates.

She attributes her scientific enthusiasm to her former teachers Mr. Drew Newman and Dr. Barb Kreider. “I remember not liking science very much before I came to MFS,” said Monica. “That all changed when I met Dr. Kreider and Mr. Newman. They had so much enthusiasm for science, it was contagious. They involved us in extracurriculars such as the Science Olympiads, Envirothon, and Deborah Heart Challenge. These experiences were fun, mind opening, and attracted me to science.”

Monica earned her undergraduate degree at Duke University after graduating from MFS. She finished her medical degree at Dartmouth College.

“At MFS, I learned how to analyze issues, solve problems, and dig deep into the subjects that interested me. I learned the satisfaction of working cooperatively on team projects with my very talented classmates.”

NEW YORK CITY
Vice President, Representation and Inclusion Practice at Forbes

Sadé Muhammad recently founded the Forbes Representation and Inclusion Group and now serves as the Vice President of Representation & Inclusion Practice. She helps marketers “use their cultural influence to advance the cause of equity.” Her work has led to the creation of Forbes EQ, Forbes and Harlem Capital MORE EQUITY Pitch Competition, and For(bes) The Culture – Culturally Accountable Summit. All three programs focus on providing business opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and people of color, while Forbes EQ and the MORE EQUITY Pitch Competition center around women entrepreneurs.

Sadé Muhammad previously worked for Forbes as an Associate Director of Content Marketing; Sade received a 30 Under 30 Award from the International News Media Association for her achievements in advertising.

Her most memorable MFS moment was landing in London as part of a trip with Katy Rinehart’s AP English Class. It was “the trip of a lifetime.”

Sadé studied magazine journalism and marketing at Syracuse University.

“After spending a few years on Forbes’ content marketing team and working directly with marketing partners to amplify their thought leadership, I saw an opportunity to weave inclusion into the critical conversations they were having.”

NEW YORK CITY
Producer at CBS News

Erica D’Costa is a producer for CBS This Morning, which airs weekdays on CBS and CBSN. Erica researches current events, interviews experts, and collaborates with writers and edits, all with the end goal of informing the public about important issues. At MFS, she fostered an open-minded, curious mentality. “With the myriad of minor classes to choose from, at MFS I learned the power of taking advantage of opportunities and always trying new things,” said Erica. “I still have that mentality today.”

She fondly remembers traveling to Costa Rica for Intensive Learning and engaging with a culture completely foreign from her own. “When I traveled to Costa Rica, I met people who thought and lived very differently; people whose culture was so beautiful yet a stark contrast of my own,” said Erica. “I learned so much from them. It still reminds me of the importance of meeting new people with different perspectives and backgrounds.”

Erica studied journalism, media, and political science at Rutgers University.

“At MFS I learned the power of taking advantage of opportunities and always trying new things.”

SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Production Coordinator at Pixar Animation Studios

Vincent Salvano is a Production Coordinator at Pixar Animation Studios in the San Francisco Bay Area. He’s currently working on Win or Lose, Pixar’s first original series, which will debut on Disney+ in 2023. He collaborates with the Story, Editorial, and Script departments on a daily basis. “I think animation is the single most collaborative art form out there,” he said. “To tell these amazing stories, it really is a team effort!”

Before moving to the west coast, Vincent lived in New York City, where he interned for DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and Late Night with Seth Meyers. In his early days at Pixar, he had the opportunity to work on Toy Story 4, which ended up winning an Oscar. As a life-long fan of the Toy Story franchise, Vincent described this experience as “surreal.”

While at MFS, Vincent was able to explore his interests within an encouraging environment. He thanks his former English Teacher Mark Gornto for helping develop his passions in writing, filmmaking, and comedy. Some of Vincent’s best MFS memories include starting Sitcom Club, making a film for the fall musical Gypsy, and contributing to the school’s 225th anniversary documentary video.

Vincent studied film and television production at New York University.

“Being a student at MFS always felt like being a part of a community, and I think the values I learned in community and team-building at MFS directly translates to making a film or TV series.”

LOUISVILLE, KY
Professional Soccer Player

Vanessa Kara is a professional soccer player. Last season, she was a member of Finland’s Tikkurila Palloseura and helped the team win a silver medal in the Kansallinen Liiga (the national league). Vanessa is currently trying to break into the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), where she hopes to earn a contract. At press time, she was on trial with Racing Louisville FC. If unsuccessful, she plans to return to resume playing in Europe.

She enjoyed a very successful collegiate career at Drexel University and the University of Florida. At Drexel, she was the Colonial Athletic Association Rookie of the Year in 2015 and a First-Team all conference selection in 2016 and 2017. Vanessa earned All-Region honors all three of those years and is the second-leading goalscorer in program history with 22.

After a medical redshirt year, she transferred to the University of Florida in 2019 and made an immediate impact. She led the team with 10 goals and was an All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) second-team selection.

At MFS, Vanessa was captain of the girls’ varsity soccer team and led the team in 2014 to the first NJSIAA sectional championship in program history. She had always dreamed of playing Division I soccer, but after several ACL tears, her dream seemed nearly impossible. Looking for advice, she spoke with her math teacher, Dorothy Lopez, who told her “you’re more than your sport.” This had a lasting impact on Vanessa and guided her both personally and professionally. She’s currently writing a book about the adversity she’s faced as a soccer player and hopes to eventually have it published.

“To do well at MFS, I had to be disciplined and curious about learning,” said Vanessa. “Discipline and curiosity have led me to grow tremendously personally and on the field, and I am grateful for having been introduced to these values at a young age.”

Vanessa earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Drexel and a master’s degree in sports management from the University of Florida.

“Discipline and curiosity have led me to grow tremendously.”

NEW YORK CITY
Senior Consultant at Michael Page and Executive Board Member of the American Heart Association of NJ

Matt Tamburri works as a Senior Consultant at Michael Page, a recruitment company that places employees in a variety of sectors. Matt focuses on the construction and development industry in the New York City Metro Area. He likes the “fun and fast” tempo of both his job and of New York City itself. Outside of his work as a consultant, Matt, a cardiac arrest and coma survivor, is an Executive Board Member and inspirational speaker for the American Heart Association of New Jersey. His primary functions include fundraising and attending events, but he also enjoys connecting with people who have had similar experiences with heart health.

Matt’s fondest memories of MFS include doing the Monday morning announcements with Mr. Brunswick and playing for the boys’ soccer team. He keeps in close contact with his teachers and classmates.

“My MFS education has stuck with me each and every day of my life,” said Matt. “I loved every second of being at MFS and never take for granted those great memories. MFS taught me to be a nice person, to work hard, and to cherish my friends and family.”

Matt attended the College of Charleston, where he studied business and marketing.

“MFS taught me to be a nice person, to work hard, and to cherish my friends and family.”

BALTIMORE, MD
Business Development Associate at CMC Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Simone Stanley works as a Business Development Associate at CMC Pharmaceuticals, Inc. She identifies business opportunities and partnerships that will help grow the company. She is involved in sales, client communications, and networking with the end goal of boosting brand awareness in the pharmaceutical and biotechnical industries. In her previous role, Simone led a team that developed a virus-detection strategy. Her work directly addresses COVID-19 and will help reduce the likelihood of future pandemics.

At MFS, Simone was particularly close with Dr. Barb Kreider, who supervised her independent study in organic chemistry. Dr. Kreider taught Simone how to “study science” rather than study the specifics, a skill that’s been useful for Simone both academically and professionally. She travelled to Hawaii with Dr. Kreider for an environmental science Intensive Learning trip, citing it as her “most poignant memory.”

In her spare time, Simone teaches dance. She’s currently an Artist in Residence at Georgetown University and the Founder of Alafia Doula & Dance Services, an organization that combines dance with hypnobirthing.

Simone studied chemical engineering and graduated summa cum laude from Howard University. She then earned her master’s degree in biotechnology and entrepreneurship at Georgetown University.

“Dr. Barb Kreider was pivotal in my STEM education. She told me that I wouldn’t remember the specifics in later years, but I would learn how to study science.”

SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Data Scientist at Coursera

Peter Barna is currently a Data Scientist at Coursera, an organization that offers online courses and collaborates with over 200 companies and universities. He focuses on Coursera’s user experience, using statistical testing, data analyses, and prediction models to continuously inform the company’s decisions and provide the best possible product. Peter has helped Coursera deliver free online courses to millions of students across the globe, many of whom are taking advantage of its flexibility in response to the pandemic.

At MFS, Peter was always learning something new about the world and those around him. He enjoyed going on an intensive learning trip to Costa Rica, so much so that he returned the following summer with his family. Now, he belongs to an improvisational comedy group in San Francisco.

Peter earned his B.A. in philosophy, politics, and economics (PPE) from the University of Pennsylvania.

“MFS prepared me to embrace diversity in my friends and in the workplace.”

LOS ANGELES, CA
Producer at Tremolo Productions, Director at Hierophant Films

Emma Baiada works as both a producer at Tremolo Productions, a company focused on non-fiction, and a director at Hierophant Films, a group of observational filmmakers. As a director, Emma has full creative control over a story and how it’s portrayed, “both aesthetically and structurally.” As a producer, she works with directors to help them achieve their visions; this includes doing research, creating and executing shoot plans, seeking subjects, and more. Emma was the Associate Producer on Won’t You Be My Neighbor? and the Co-Producer on Shangri-La. She is currently working on her first feature film, Song of Salt about the isolated town of Trona, CA.

One of Emma’s favorite MFS experiences was Hallway Decorating, part of the Upper School’s annual Spirit Week competition. “It was so fun to be ‘director’ to [bring] a creative vision to life – and was good practice for what I do now!” she said.

Emma graduated with a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania in 2014.

“MFS instilled in me a deep sense of curiosity and openness to people from all walks of life.”

CAMDEN, NJ
English & Art Department Chair at Camden Academy Charter High School

Gaby Martínez serves as the English & Art Department Chair at Camden Academy Charter High School and teaches both English II and English II Honors.

At Camden Academy Charter High School, Gaby strives to “equip, encourage, and empower” her students both in and outside the classroom. Attending MFS inspired Gaby to focus on service and social justice; being able to give back to her hometown is a bonus. “The Quaker tenets shaped my understanding of what it means to have a purposeful profession – one that pursues a safer, more inclusive and equitable world,” she said. Her work aims to individualize education and celebrate student voices. Outside of being an educator, Gaby volunteers as a Youth Ministry Leader at her church.

Gaby, a former Camden Scholar, studied English and education at Haverford College before receiving her M.S.Ed in school leadership from the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. 

“The Quaker tenets shaped my understanding of what it means to have a purposeful profession.”

HOPEWELL, NJ
Senior Engineer at AIL Research, Inc.

Eric Teitelbaum is a Senior Engineer at AIL Research, Inc., a research and design company that develops energy products and is sponsored by the U.S. government. Eric designs, fabricates, and evaluates energy systems specifically meant for buildings. Eric’s work has been published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) and featured in the Washington Post. Overall, he is passionate about sustainability-driven science, design, and construction.

At MFS, Eric participated in the Science Olympiad and enjoyed woodworking. With the help of science teachers Barb Kreider, Tim Clarke, and Art/Woodworking Teacher Marty Richter, Eric built such a stellar instrument for a competition that was disqualified for having supposedly “come from a kit.” Remarked Eric: “I’ve laughed at this story ever since because nowhere else could such an incredible group of teachers get a goofy high schooler to that point. It was quite an honor being disqualified!

Eric earned his bachelor’s (chemical and biological engineering) and master’s (civil and environmental engineering) degrees from Princeton University. He is currently working towards his Ph.D. in material science and architecture, also at Princeton. In his free time, he builds custom treehouses some of which can be found on Airbnb.

“The best ideas come not from dedicating yourself solely to one discipline, but thinking creatively about how to draw upon all aspects of your interests.”

NEW YORK CITY
Assistant Vice President at CCS Fundraising

Omari Scott is the Assistant Vice President at CCS Fundraising, a strategic firm that helps nonprofits plan and execute a range of initiatives. He works with organizations of several sizes and across sectors, helping them grow by developing successful fundraising strategies. This includes doing campaign management, development operations, prospect research, and feasibility studies.

Omari is passionate about service, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and racial justice. “My Quaker education has solidified my commitment to a life of service,” he said. “From teaching to working with social justice oriented nonprofits to my post-graduate academic pursuits, I owe much of it to the values instilled in me at MFS.” After graduating from college, Omari taught special education with Teach for America and stayed with the program for several years. At CCS, he’s had the opportunity to work with organizations that are focused around these issues. In his free time, he serves on the board of the Brooklyn Community Pride Center.

Omari remembers participating in MFS’s 2008 Mock Primary Election, led by former history teacher Judy van Tijn. He enjoyed learning about politics in a civil, supportive, and positive way.

Omari studied political science, public policy, and peace and conflict studies at Swarthmore College. He earned his M.S.Ed. at Hunter College and is currently working towards his Executive M.P.A. at Syracuse University.

“My Quaker education has solidified my commitment to a life of service.”

ANN ARBOR, MI
Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Michigan, Research Associate at the University of Oregon, and Production Assistant at A Way with Words Radio Show and Podcast

Rachel Weissler is heavily involved in linguistic research that incorporates neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, and sociology to “answer questions about variation in linguistic perception based on race.” She’s currently completing her Ph.D. in linguistics at Michigan. Her master’s thesis investigated race, gender, and identity in conjunction with the “angry Black woman” trope. She has facilitated research collaborations, given lectures, presented her research, and been published. As a production assistant at A Way with Words radio show/podcast, Rachel contributes to public understanding by viewing linguistics through the lens of history, family, and culture.

Rachel spends a considerable amount of time engaged in service. She’s worked with Detroit youth while living in Michigan, directing workshops and other sessions on leadership and research. She is a member of the Language Matters Initiative at the University of Michigan, which “promotes awareness about linguistic discrimination, social justice, inclusivity, and equality.” She has taught several classes in linguistics, including phonology, semantics, and syntax, as well as a course on language and discrimination. Finally, Rachel has mentored undergraduate and high school students by creating “brave spaces,” encouraging student engagement, and increasing course accessibility.

More than anything, Rachel cherishes the relationships she still has with her MFS teachers. She’s grateful to Ms. Tina Corsey, Ms. Melissa Keylock, Ms. Karen Washington, and more for providing a place of refuge, support, and joy. Rachel also remembers shadowing at Orchard Friends School, which focuses on helping children with language-based differences, for her Senior Project. She credits this experience, as well as the Quaker principle of service, with catalyzing her career in linguistics and justice.

Rachel earned both her bachelor’s and master’s in linguistics, from Bryn Mawr College and the University of Michigan, respectively.

“I believe that anything can be taught well in a space that is conducive to learning, but learning requires equity and justice for all students.”

PHILADELPHIA
Senior Scientist at Merck

Phillip Dorsey is currently a Senior Scientist at Merck, one of the leading research-intensive, biopharmaceutical companies that strives to save and improve both human and animal lives. Phillip’s work involves discovering and formulating drugs and vaccines. Specifically, he conducts early stage research and uses innovative academic findings to develop drug delivery systems and other new technologies. Outside of work, Phillip serves as a mentor for students who are interested in science.

Phillip is grateful for the academic rigor at MFS. His favorite classes were math, physics, chemistry, and biology, all of which contributed to his confidence in the STEM fields. He appreciates his teachers’ mentorship and acceptance; “no question was too silly to ask,” he said.

Phillip earned a B.S. in chemical engineering at Princeton University and a Ph.D. in chemical and molecular engineering at Johns Hopkins University.

“Regardless of what my interests were, particularly in the sciences, my MFS teachers fueled my curiosity.”

RUNNEMEDE, NJ
Social Media Manager at Perfect Game USA

Tim Stoeckle is the Social Media Manager at Perfect Game USA, the world’s largest high school baseball scouting service. At Perfect Game, Tim creates content for social media in order to boost brand awareness and increase registration for their various national events.

For the past five years, and before switching to Perfect Game, Tim worked as the Social Media Coordinator for the Philadelphia Phillies. He was able to travel with the team, going to spring training and working at Citizens Bank Park. He helped build the Phillies social media presence from the ground up.

Tim is grateful for the lifelong friendships that began at MFS. He still keeps in touch with many of his old classmates, with Spirit Week being one of their favorite shared memories. He joked: “Winning the Jell-O Eating Contest my junior year is still one of my greatest achievements.”

Tim earned his B.S. in business administration (Sports Marketing) at Saint Joseph’s University.

“The most important aspects of my MFS education that still impact me today are the lifelong friendships.”

PHILADELPHIA
Third-Year JD/MBE Student at the University of Pennsylvania

Larissa Morgan is currently in her third year of graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania, where she is earning a cross-disciplinary JD/MBE in Law and Bioethics. She is set to work
on corporate healthcare regulation at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, a legal and consulting firm with 22 locations across the United States, United Kingdom, and China.

The English program at MFS helped Larissa harness valuable skills. “MFS was tremendously foundational in helping me identify and explore my passions,” she said. “I focused my studies at MFS on English and writing, which helped me gain skills I use every day in law school, including critical thinking, concision and precision in word choice, and reason-based analysis.” Larissa also is thankful for life lessons learned during her time at the school: “MFS taught me important lessons in leadership, collegiality, and community. These are qualities I gained early on at MFS, and I am forever grateful to my mentors at MFS who guided me throughout my formative years.”

After graduating from MFS, Larissa earned her Bachelor’s degree in both psychology and political science. She graduated summa cum laude from Villanova and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa in 2017.

“MFS was tremendously foundational in helping me identify and explore my passions.”

ORLANDO, FL/AUDUBON, NJ
Planning and Industrial Engineering at Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products

Matt Purcell has always had an interest in engineering; at MFS, he fondly remembers building a model zoo during Intensive Learning. Now, he works in Planning and Industrial Engineering for Disney, where he and his team focus on park technology, revenue initiatives, and process improvement. During his career, he’s helped lead the logistical planning behind Star Wars: Galaxy’s
Edge and Toy Story Land, two major park attractions at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL. He also uses his engineering skills to support Give Kids the World Village, a nonprofit resort for children with critical illnesses and a past destination for MFS Intensive Learning.

“MFS taught me to value the importance of teamwork and diversity of individuals and ideas,” said Matt. “Every Guest and Cast Member views the world differently and it’s important to embrace those differences to create a more inclusive and holistic experience for everyone.”

Matt earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and his master’s degree in industrial and systems engineering at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Recently Matt and his wife moved back to South Jersey, as he is able to continue to work remotely in his role at Disney.

“MFS taught me to value the importance of teamwork and diversity of individuals and ideas.”

NEWARK, NJ
Founder and CEO of MindRight Health

Ashley Edwards is the founder of MindRight Health, a Newark-based “tech start-up providing culturally-responsive and trauma-informed mental health coaching to youth and young adults.” As CEO, Ashley sets the company’s long-term strategy, takes fiscal responsibility, and ensures the achievement of their mission. MindRight received a $100,000 grant from the Google for Startups Black Founders Fund in 2020. Ashley is the first Black female founder to raise $1 million in venture capital in New Jersey, and she is one of Forbes’ top “healers” of the century. She credits MFS with fostering her interest in service, a key theme in both her work and her personal life.

Ashley fondly recalls an MFS Intensive Learning trip to Tanzania. “It was my first trip to the African continent and catalyzed my passion for learning more,” she said. “Since then I’ve worked in East Africa, studied Yoruba in college, and have made several trips back to the continent to visit other countries.”

Ashley attended Yale University before earning her M.B.A. and M.A. in Education at Stanford University. At Stanford, she received the Miller Social Change Leadership Award.

“What I appreciated most about my experience at MFS was how everything was grounded in service and giving back.”

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ
Chief Resident at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital

Janak Bhatt is the Chief Resident in anesthesiology at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. As an anesthesiologist, he performs epidurals and nerve blocks, places breathing tubes, and resuscitates trauma patients, all with the overarching goal of keeping patients comfortable. At MFS, Janak learned the importance of empathy; in medical school, this lesson was further realized. He uses his sense of humor to lighten the mood, and every day, he enjoys making a “small but significant” difference in someone’s life. Outside of work, Janak enjoys playing Jeopardy! and supporting Philadelphia sports.

According to Janak, his MFS experience was quite meaningful to his medical school experience and career. “At MFS and in medical school I learned about empathy but empathy is woven into the culture at MFS, not taught,” he said. “What medical schools preach to future physicians is already instilled in MFS graduates which made my transition into medicine seamless.”

Janak graduated from Emory University in 2013 and from St. George’s University School of Medicine in 2017.

“Empathy is woven into the culture at MFS, not taught.”

NEW YORK CITY
Clinical Coordinator at the Bowery Residents’ Committee

Katie Loane is a Clinical Coordinator for the Bowery Residents’ Committee Transit Homeless Outreach Stabilization Program, one of the leading nonprofit organizations that provides housing and other resources to 8,500 New Yorkers each year. In her day-to-day work, she screens client referrals, manages crises, corresponds with city agencies, and conducts psychiatric evaluations, all while supervising a team of 15 clinical staff. She enjoys working in homeless services, making connections with her clients, and using her voice in both clinical and political processes.

“I tend to think back a lot on the Quaker values that MFS taught – in both my personal and professional life,” said Katie. “Being a part of a community that I saw as valuing equality, acceptance, and helping out one another has always been something I’ve been grateful for.”

Katie earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s in social work at Rutgers University, New Brunswick.

“It feels wonderful to see a client make a breakthrough in their case or take that first step to coming inside off the street.”

NEW YORK CITY
Vice President at Extend Enterprises, Inc.

Alyss Vavricka leads implementations and operations at Extend Enterprises, Inc., a digital credit card distribution platform. In this role, she is responsible for both internal and external work—interacting with clients, selling products, developing processes, and managing a team. Alyss enjoys the revolutionary aspects of working in technology as well as the systematic, efficient nature of her job. She credits MFS Math Teacher Michael Omilian with inspiring her affinity for economics, her confidence in her coursework, and her love of learning. In the coming years, Alyss hopes to continue her education and earn her Ph.D. by researching the impact of cultural variables on economic outcomes.

Alyss studied economics and Italian at Barnard College, part of Columbia University. She has become an active volunteer to Barnard alumnae and students and just concluded a four-year term on the Board of the School’s Alumnae Association, serving as Chair of the Young Alumnae Committee. Said Alyss: “Now, I’m thrilled to kick off my role as a member of Beyond Barnard’s new Advisory Council, helping to develop our strategy and programs supporting students and alumnae in their post-college lives.

“The diversity of thought encouraged while I was a student at MFS is something I reflect on often.”

NEW YORK CITY
Drexel University Student/Audio Engineer and Assistant at Manhattan Beach Recording

While still finishing up his bachelor’s degree at Drexel University, Spencer Dennis is an audio engineer and assistant at Manhattan Beach Recording, a studio in New York City. He spends the bulk of his time in engineering sessions, which include setting up instruments and equipment, collaborating with other artists, and recording, mixing, and mastering audio. As an engineer, Spencer sometimes teams up with “A-list” artists requiring him to keep his work professional and confidential. One of his projects — a collaboration with a popular hip-hop artist — is set to be released later this year.

In February, Spencer broke Manhattan Beach’s long-standing record for most hours spent engineering audio. “I work with other professionals with the same drive and passion for music and in an environment that challenges me to be better and grow as an audio engineer,” he says of the studio. Over quarantine, Spencer produced a song called “How We Used To” with singer-songwriter Candice Lee. The single broke 20,000 Spotify streams in its first month and was mentioned in Rolling Stone India. Spencer credits former teachers in the Arts Department for positioning him for his early-career success. “The MFS Arts Department, especially former English and Theatre Teacher Mr. Mark Gornto and Arts Department Chair Mr. Brian Howard, pushed me to follow my passion and gave me the environment to learn and grow,” he said. Spencer also credits his MFS English classes with helping him write both academically and professionally.

Spencer fondly remembers his time on the varsity soccer team. “From the long bus rides to and from games and the grueling fitness runs of preseason to winning regional titles and ‘Fast Food Friday,’ I’ll always think back to my four years playing soccer with the Foxes,” he said.

Spencer will graduate from Drexel University this spring with a B.S. in music industry and a concentration in record arts and production. He is simultaneously working towards his Master’s in music production at Berklee College of Music. 

“The MFS Arts Department pushed me to follow my passion and gave me the environment to learn and grow.”

COLLEGE PARK, MD
Ph.D. Candidate and Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Maryland College Park

Jake Rosvold is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in optics and working as a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Maryland College Park’s Optics Biotech Lab. On a normal day, Jake can be found in the lab, using his strong background in design and theory to inform his newest optics experiment. His dissertation aims to “leverage light-matter interactions to actively modulate the optical properties of microscope cover glasses for various aims, such as super-resolution and light direction.” In other words, he hopes to create better microscopes.

At MFS, Jake learned the importance of balancing community with self-expression. No matter where he goes, he tries to be a leader. To that end, he served on the executive board of the Optical Society of America when he was an undergraduate at the University of Rochester. He connected students of all ages – preschool through grad school – with science as the common ground.

Jake’s former physics teacher, Mr. Clarke, taught him problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity. He tries to emulate Mr. Clarke by creating a “fun-loving atmosphere” wherever he goes. In his free time, Jake brews coffee with his sister Carly and plays chess with his brother Luke.

Jake earned his B.S. in optical engineering and his M.S. in optics at the University of Rochester’s Institute of Optics. After completing his Ph.D., he hopes to become an intellectual property attorney.

“I think that my MFS education really instilled the importance of community and self-expression in me.”

SEATTLE, WA
Senior Product Manager at Amazon

Louise Peterson is a Senior Product Manager at Amazon.com, Inc. and is headquartered in Seattle. Her role includes pitching ideas to company leaders, crafting requirements for approved ideas, and working with several teams, like marketing, legal, and sales, to build and launch new products. Right now, she’s working on a novel (and confidential) consumer shopping experience. In the past, Louise has helped launch Amazon Hub, Same-Day Delivery, Amazon Prime (in Turkey and Saudi Arabia), and Prime Gaming.

At MFS, Louise learned how to think critically and write effectively, two skills she still uses daily. “MFS taught me how to think and how to write,” she said. Louise also enjoyed Meeting for Worship: “I reflect fondly on that time and miss the weekly opportunity for communal meditation,” she said. She keeps in contact with a number of MFS alumni who work at Amazon, including Nathan Owens ’11, Bryce Langlotz ’11, and Alex Levy ’07. In her free time, Louise plays violin, goes hiking and running, and mentors for Built by Girls, an organization that helps female and non-binary teens get involved in technology.

Louise graduated with a B.A. in economics from Bucknell University.

“Teachers encouraged us to ask questions and challenge assumptions.”