Michael graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, in December 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology concentrating in Law & Society. He is now pursuing his Master of Science in Organizational Dynamics, also at Penn. He is originally from Pittsburgh and before returning to Penn, he spent some time living in New York City working for a consumer wellness start-up.
During his undergraduate years at Penn, Michael discovered his innate passion for business and entrepreneurship as a devoted member of Penn Student Agencies (PSA). Now, as the Program Manager of PSA, he plays a pivotal role in molding the next generation of student entrepreneurs. His role is crucial in providing and supporting transferable skills development for students in the program, overseeing the overall operations & compliance, budgeting & financial procedures, and general administrative functions of the department.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Michael knows the importance of balance. He finds solace in the great outdoors, usually Wissahickon, with his two dogs, Nola & Gio!
The Program Manager is responsible for the overall management and operation of all student-run businesses within Penn Student Agencies (PSA). The Program Manager is the direct supervisor of all student leadership and full-time staff, with indirect supervision of 80+ student staff. This role focuses on providing entrepreneurial/small business experiential training and mentorship for young adults while coaching them on: staff management; professional development training; administrative and HR responsibilities (recruiting, hiring, on-boarding); strategic marketing; customer service; and fiscal responsibility.
Jonathon graduated from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia with a degree in Sociology and Religion, has a Master of Arts degree in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University, and a Doctor of Education degree from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Prior to joining Penn, Jonathon served as the Class Dean for 3rd & 4th year students at Allegheny College and as Director of Student Services at Larkin University.
Jonathon brings to Penn a wealth of experience in student affairs, as well as a proven track record of success in Student Engagement – skills that will prove invaluable in meeting departmental goals and objectives. Jonathon lives with his partner and their two cats (Donatella and Spud) in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. On the weekends you will find him tending his gardens and exploring the beautiful mountains and beaches that New Jersey has to offer.
In his role, Jonathon will be responsible for supervising the Student Engagement Team, providing development and advisement to the Welcome Desk, Building Ambassador, and Penn Student Agencies teams, while also collaborating with colleagues across the university to provide student-focused programming for Houston Hall.
Yoanna is pursuing a Master’s in Behavioral Science and Decision Making (MBDS) at the College of Liberal and Professional Studies. Driven by her vast curiosity, she has lived in three different locations and has delved into diverse professional fields such as data analysis, data engineering, and product management before honing her focus on behavioral science. Outside of her professional and academic endeavors, she finds joy in reconnecting with family in Bulgaria and friends around the globe or unwinding in art galleries. Yoanna is eager to channel her skills and insights into nurturing student entrepreneurship at Penn Student Agencies.
The PSA Graduate Assistant (GA) will support Penn Student Agencies in delivering experiential and leadership training, and mentorship to students managing on-campus businesses within Penn Student Agencies. Key responsibilities include assisting with financial management, guiding student entrepreneurs in product development and evaluation, and ensuring adherence to established protocols. The role also involves managing the annual calendar of events and programming, supporting project implementation, and assisting in program assessment and student engagement initiatives.