Our Staff
Meet Our Leadership Team
Kevin Oye • Executive Director and Professor of the Practice, Tufts Gordon Institute; Director, MSIM Program
Kevin joined the Tufts faculty with over 35 years of experience leading product development, corporate strategy, and merger and acquisition teams. Previously, he was the Vice President of Systems and Technology at Sycamore Networks, Inc., where he led a global team that created and delivered global and nationwide optical networks for customers such as NTT, Vodafone, Sprint, and the U.S. Department of Defense. He started his career at AT&T Bell Laboratories, where he held various engineering and management positions in digital communications systems. He currently mentors at the non-profit EforAll business accelerator and provides advisory and consulting services to startups and corporations.
Contact me: E: Kevin.Oye@tufts.edu
Elaine Chen • Cummings Family Professor of the Practice in Entrepreneurship and Director, Derby Entrepreneurship Center at Tufts
Elaine is the Cummings Family Professor of the Practice in Entrepreneurship and Director of the Derby Entrepreneurship Center at Tufts. She directs the undergraduate Entrepreneurship Minor and teaches several courses, while also overseeing a wide range of programs—from student coaching and summer accelerators to small grants and workshops. Before joining Tufts, Elaine spent nearly a decade at MIT’s Martin Trust Center, where she coached students and helped scale equitable access to entrepreneurship education.
With a background in engineering and product leadership, Elaine has brought dozens of products to market and holds 22 patents. She’s also the founder of ConceptSpring, a consulting firm that helps organizations spark innovation. In her spare time, she serves on several advisory boards and enjoys mentoring emerging inventors and entrepreneurs. Elaine has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, and TechCrunch, and is author of Bringing a Hardware Product to Market: Navigating the Wild Ride from Concept to Mass Production. Above all, she has a passion for helping students turn bold ideas into real-world impact.
Contact me: E: Elaine.Chen@tufts.edu
Filip Čučkov • Director, Auster Center for Applied Innovation and Research
Filip Čučkov is the inaugural Director of the Auster Center for Applied Innovation Research and Auster Professor of the Practice at Tufts. A seasoned engineer, educator, and researcher, Filip brings deep expertise in robotics, automation, and cyber-physical systems to his role. Before joining Tufts, he led research programs at Northeastern’s Kostas Research Institute and taught at institutions including UMass Boston and Old Dominion University, his alma mater.
At Tufts, Filip is excited to build a collaborative hub for translating cutting-edge research into real-world solutions. With over 50 peer-reviewed publications and a passion for transdisciplinary innovation, he looks forward to connecting faculty, students, and industry to tackle global challenges. Outside of his work, Filip is a senior IEEE member, certified PMP, and an enthusiastic mentor of emerging engineers and innovators.
Contact me: E: Filip.Cuckov@tufts.edu
Amy Hirschfeld • Distinguished Senior Lecturer & Co-Director, Undergraduate Programs
Amy Hirschfeld has more than 30 years of experience in writing, editing, publications production, and marketing. She has taught technical writing, public speaking, and business communication courses at Tufts University since 2001 and joined Tufts Gordon Institute in 2009, where she is a distinguished senior lecturer. Previously, she held positions with academic publishers, including the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, Walter de Gruyter Publishers, and Brill Academic Publishers, where she served as the Marketing Director for North America. She has also worked as a professional archaeologist and served as the executive director of a non-profit organization focused on archaeological research.
Contact me: E: Amy.Hirschfeld@tufts.edu
Sam Liggero • Academic Director, MSEM & MSTML Graduate Programs
Samuel Liggero, formerly CTO and co-founder of AirPrint Networks, spent over 30 years in the imaging industry as an executive at Polaroid Corporation. He joined Polaroid in 1970 and held leadership positions in research and development, manufacturing, sales and marketing, training and education, and customer service. Until November 2001, he was corporate vice president and program fellow of research and development for Polaroid's Instant Digital Printing division. Since leaving Polaroid, Liggero has started a consulting business, co-founded AirPrint Networks and served as an expert witness in patent infringement litigation. At Tufts Gordon Institute, he is a professor of the practice and academic director of the MSEM program. Liggero specializes in new product development, technology strategy and innovation, and management of innovation. His online course is titled Essentials of Technology Strategy.
Contact me: E: Samuel.Liggero@tufts.edu
Jill Parlee • Director, Programs & Operations
Jill shares responsibility for managing administration, operations, and program development at Tufts Gordon Institute. She brings program management experience in higher education at both Tufts University and McGill University, as well as a commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Jill's dedication stems from her work in sustainability across for-profit and non-profit organizations, supported by her academic background: an M.Sc. in Natural Resource Management from the University of the West Indies and a B.Comm. in Social Context of Business from McGill University. Outside of work, Jill finds joy in outdoor activities like hiking and baking, and she's an avid traveler, having studied and lived abroad for several years. Every year, she eagerly welcomes new students with a warm smile and helpful heart.
Contact me: E: Jill.Parlee@tufts.edu
Jane Seminara • Senior Lecturer & Co-Director, Undergraduate Programs
Jane Seminara has extensive experience teaching courses in ethical leadership, social justice, and public speaking in various educational settings. She joined TGI in 2008 as a part-time lecturer and began teaching "Humanistic Perspectives on Leadership" for the Master of Science in Engineering Management program. In 2016, she created a Graduate seminar titled, "Unbounded Perspectives" for the newly formed Master of Science in Innovation and Management program. In 2022, Jane Seminara was appointed as a full-time Senior Lecturer at Tufts Gordon Institute. In 2008, Seminara was awarded the "Exemplary Teacher Award" by the Lynch School of Education at Boston College.
Contact me: E: Jane.Seminara@tufts.edu
Maura Vogel • Director, Student Recruitment & Strategic Partnerships
Maura leads the recruitment strategy for Tufts Gordon Institute (TGI), shaping its approach to attracting top talent to its graduate programs. With an MBA from Simmons College and a degree in Business Administration from Northeastern University, her diverse background equips her to drive successful recruitment efforts. Maura oversees outreach with alumni, corporate, and community partners, enriching TGI's academic community and professional network. She plays a pivotal role in engaging prospective students and guiding them through the admissions process, always finding joy in calling newly admitted students to share the good news.
Beyond work, Maura cherishes time with family and friends, cooking memorable meals and enthusiastically supporting her daughter's soccer league.
Contact me: E: Maura.Vogel@tufts.edu
Meet Our Staff and Mentors
Teresa Aloi • Program Coordinator
Teresa works within the operations team at Tufts Gordon Institute, managing program logistics and ensuring student success with a warm smile and positive energy. With a master's degree in Higher Education from Merrimack College, she brings a wealth of experience in student life to her role. Outside of work, Teresa enjoys skiing, attending book clubs, and cooking new meals. Her fondest memories at TGI include accompanying MSIM students on "Innovators Mindset" trips, and her dream vacation would be exploring the breathtaking Amalfi Coast.
Contact me: E: Teresa.Aloi@tufts.edu
Cody Damon • Entrepreneur-in-Residence
Cody Damon is a strategic communications advisor known for his impactful work in the social good sector. With a career spanning various communication disciplines, Cody has collaborated with organizations like (RED), NRDC, and the Atlantic Council, crafting and executing large-scale digital marketing programs to drive positive change. A graduate of the University of Massachusetts and the American University of Paris, Cody is deeply involved in various board and advisory roles, particularly drawn to high-impact organizations with a global reach. Outside of work, Cody coaches softball at Boston College, explores rural New England roads on his motorcycle, and ventures into new cities with his children. He eagerly anticipates the infusion of fresh ideas from students each year, cherishing the energy they bring, along with the anticipation of coaching sessions before competition.
Contact me: E: Cody.Denning@tufts.edu
Carol Denning • Assistant Director, Derby Entrepreneurship Center at Tufts
Carol is the driving force behind the Derby Entrepreneurship Center, spearheading events, workshops, and seminars. She also leads our marketing efforts, managing program literature, social media content, and communications. With a background in corporate retail, Carol's expertise is invaluable. She holds a B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from the University of Massachusetts. Carol joined Tufts to make a difference in students' lives, and she cherishes the opportunity to have a positive impact on them. Outside of work, Carol finds joy in walking her dog, Stella, and getting lost in the pages of a good book.
Contact me: E: Carol.Denning@tufts.edu
Morgan Dent • Marketing & Communications Specialist
Morgan collaborates with the marketing team at Tufts Gordon Institute, documenting student life, events, and innovative ideas. With a B.F.A in Photography & Design from Lesley University, she brings experience from gallery art, university, and corporate industries to create engaging content for TGI. She enjoys showcasing student stories and innovation on social media, capturing their enthusiasm for learning at TGI. Beyond Tufts, Morgan enjoys exploring with her Rolliecord film camera, aspiring to photograph all U.S. National Parks and much of the world.
Contact me: E: Morgan.Dent@tufts.edu
MaryAnn DiRamio • Senior Administrative Coordinator
MaryAnn is the backbone of support at Tufts Gordon Institute, where she assists staff, faculty, and students alike. Her administrative prowess covers everything from coordinating meetings and events to managing finances and aiding students with project meetings and commencement preparations. A proud Italian, MaryAnn finds joy in visiting Italy, cooking for her loved ones, and soaking in the ocean breeze. Her passion for connecting with students has fostered many meaningful relationships with colleagues and faculty over the years.
Contact me: E: Mary.DiRamio@tufts.edu / P: 617.627.3110
Benjamin Friedman • Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist
Ben is the creative mind behind Tufts Gordon Institute's marketing campaigns and communication channels, crafting engaging content to showcase our programs and engage students and alumni. With a background in copywriting and digital marketing in the tech and healthcare sectors, Ben brings a wealth of experience to our team. He holds a B.A. in Film & Literature from the University of Connecticut and an M.A. in English Literature from Boston College. Outside of work, Ben indulges in reading, writing, and watching movies, with a dream of vacationing on the moon someday.
Contact me: E: Benjamin.Friedman650311@tufts.edu
Marcus Johnson-Smith • Entrepreneur-in-Residence
Marcus Johnson-Smith, honored as one of Boston Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 in 2022, is a seasoned entrepreneur with a decade-long track record in retail business development, online marketing, fundraising, and real estate procurement. Marcus is a results-driven executive and excels in strategic partnership development and brand management, particularly in cannabis retail, brand and product development.. He holds a Bachelor of Science in African American Studies and Literature, along with a Master of Science in Corporate and Organizational Communication from Northeastern University. Marcus finds joy in the curiosity new students bring and eagerly looks forward to coaching their ideas into reality as an EIR at Tufts.
Contact me: E: Marcus.Johnson_Smith@tufts.edu
Audrey Marroquin • Industry Outreach Manager
Audrey Marroquin connects students with high-impact learning experiences as Industry Outreach Manager at Tufts Gordon Institute. With an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, she brings a dynamic background in aerospace, management consulting, and higher education to her role. Audrey builds strategic partnerships with national labs, tech firms, and global employers to expand co-op placements, applied learning opportunities, and clear pathways to employment for TGI’s graduate students. She also helps students strengthen career-readiness skills and secure roles at organizations like Pfizer, Draper Labs, Raytheon, Moderna, Medtronic, and Amazon Robotics.
Outside of work, Audrey is a California native who loves swimming in the ocean, paddle boarding, sailing, hiking, and watching the sunset. At home, she’s often in the garden, cooking with her kids, or creating poetry and art together. Her family frequently finds themselves crossing the Atlantic to visit one another in Europe, where they share a love for travel, culture, and strong espresso.
Contact me: E: Audrey.Marroquin@tufts.edu
Idicula Mathew • Entrepreneur-in-Residence
Idicula is dedicated to educating, mentoring, and coaching Tufts students while spearheading innovative programming at the Derby Entrepreneurship Center. Each year, he looks forward to The Ideas Competition and seeing students ventures shine during Tufts Accelerator Demo Day. Idicula brings over eight years of experience in scaling startups, venture capital, and medical device innovations and has led startups to raise millions in funding. Beyond Tufts, he serves as the co-founder and CEO of Hera Health Solutions, a pharmaceutical device company specializing in long-acting therapeutics. He holds a degree in biomedical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Contact me: E: Idicula.Mathew@tufts.edu
Annika Murphy • Program Manager
Annika manages the Gordon Institute’s marketing and communications multi-channel campaigns, including digital marketing, advertising, and the overall branded digital presence. With a background in social media and digital marketing across various industries, including higher education and entertainment, Annika brings a wealth of experience to Tufts. She holds a B.S. in Motion Pictures/Art from the University of Miami and a graduate certificate in Children’s Literature from Penn State University. Outside of work, Annika enjoys arts and crafts with her daughter and cherishes time with friends and family. Her dream vacation destinations include Prague and Antiparos in Greece.
Contact me: E: Annika.Murphy@tufts.edu
Brianne Odom • Senior Assistant Director, Admissions
Brianne is the primary contact for prospective students applying to Tufts Gordon Institute programs. With five years of admissions experience at Bay Path University and Savannah College of Art and Design, she brings expertise in strategic recruitment and application review. Brianne collaborates closely with the Director of Admissions & Professional Programs on virtual and in-person admission events. She has a B.F.A. in Fine Arts from Lesley University and an M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University. Outside of work, she enjoys snuggling with her cat Penny and dreams of traveling to Egypt. Brianne is always eager to assist students through what can be a confusing admissions process and looks forward to meeting prospective students along their journey to becoming a Jumbo!
Contact me: E: Brianne.Odom@tufts.edu
Peter Om • Program Coordinator, Programs & Operations
Peter serves as a coordinator for program operations at Tufts Gordon Institute primarily focusing on undergraduate studies and event planning. His passion and experience in logistics, administrative work, and education will help contribute to the unique projects and events that the Gordon Institute creates. Peter obtained a Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial & Systems Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology with a minor in Visual Arts & Technology.
Contact me: E: Peter.Om@tufts.edu
Sandy Rosenberg • Executive in Residence
Sandy Rosenberg joins the Tufts Gordon Institute team as our first ever Executive in Residence (XIR). Sandy brings over 30 years of experience in company formation, capital structuring, business strategy, operations, and direct investment to this position. As XIR, Sandy will serve as a mentor and resource to any students, faculty, or staff of Tufts Gordon Institute and the greater Tufts community seeking to launch a new venture, scale their existing startup, or grow professionally through a career transition.
