Career & Experiential Learning Team

Amy serves as the Associate Vice President and Dean of Career & Experiential Learning, focusing on creating opportunities for students to have clear pathways to commencement, innovation in career development and developing successful outcomes. Overseeing efforts of Student Advising and Services, the O’Brien Center for Career Development and Employer Engagement, her goal is to provide the experiences for students to develop skills that will prepare them for a successful future. Amy is dedicated to creating partnerships and stewarding relationships with industry leaders to enhance programs and pathways for students. She is committed to working with students, helping them become great advocates for their interests and providing the support they need to reach their goals. She knows that Merrimack is a place where students can explore their curiosities, challenge their intellects and find relationships that will motivate and inspire them.

Amy has extensive experience in higher education and student affairs. She has worked in student activities, residence life, admission, advising and alumni relations. She successfully develops partnerships with campus colleagues and industry leaders to best address the concerns of students.

What is the best piece of advice you can give to students about career development?

Your academic experience is important and so are all of your experiences outside of the classroom. Building skills through experiences and learning how to connect your strengths will help you find a career where you can be successful and proud of your accomplishments. College is the time to try new things and learn from everything and everyone around you. As St. Augustine said, “You aspire to do great things? Begin with the little ones.”

Chris joined Merrimack College in the fall of 2022. In Chris’s role as Senior Director of Employer Engagement and Experiential Partnership Development, he serves as a primary resource for employers who are interested in recruitment, brand building and strategic engagement at the College.  

Chris came to Merrimack College after spending four years at the University of Washington where he led employer relations for the Career Center at The Foster School of Business. He also brings 12 years of campus recruiting and university relations experience with major corporations including Hilton, Accenture, LinkedIn, Amazon, BP and Lockheed Martin. At these organizations, Chris managed strategic relationships with partner universities to recruit for internships and graduate roles in multiple disciplines. These include various business and engineering disciplines, computer science and environmental sciences. 

Chris also brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the development and implementation of internship programs, leadership development programs and diversity programs. He is passionate about supporting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and would be happy to support your organization with such initiatives at Merrimack College.  

Chris earned his bachelor’s in communication arts and Spanish from Framingham State University and a master’s in higher education administration from Northeastern University. Chris is a proud first-generation college student. 

What does Chris wish he knew about career development when he was in college? 

Networking and mentorships can be a powerful tool for career development. Reaching out to alumni can be a simple and effective way to explore career paths and opportunities while expanding your professional network. Participating in mentoring programs can be an opportunity to take ownership of your professional development while creating long-lasting relationships. LinkedIn is one of the best tools for expanding your network and for identifying mentors.

As the Senior Director of Career Development, Shannon oversees the O’Brien Center for Career Development including educational workshops, signature career development events and all opportunities that promote career-readiness across campus. Shannon’s previous Merrimack positions focused on building relationships with area employers interested in recruiting our students.

Shannon earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and organizational science from Coe College and her master’s degree in higher education from Merrimack College as a first-generation college student. She came to campus with experience in Admission in the Midwest before finding her home in career development.

What does Shannon wish she knew about career development when she was in college?  

It’s okay to meet with an advisor or participate in an event, even if you are unsure of what you’d like to do in the future. These appointments and events are meant to be ways you can learn about different career opportunities in your field(s) of interest. You can network with alumni who were in your shoes and hear about their career paths, hear about a job title you didn’t know existed, and so much more by just joining in!

Ellen re-joined the O’Brien Center team in October 2022 after working in marketing for a public library where she promoted library services and resources to the community.

Prior to that, Ellen was a graduate fellow in the O’Brien Center where she led marketing campaigns that encouraged students to network with one another, participate in internships, and strengthen their professional development skills. 

Ellen earned her M.Ed in Higher Education from Merrimack College, and her B.S. in TV/Video Production from Hofstra University.

What is the best piece of advice you can give to students about career development?

“It’s okay to change your mind or adjust your goals! Your degree does not necessarily define your career trajectory for the rest of your life. If you’re unsure of your career path, focus on transferable skills such as leadership, project management, teamwork, and solid interviewing skills to prove yourself to a potential employer. My career has already spanned at least 3 different industries! ”

Jessica joined Merrimack’s team in January 2023 as the Assistant Director of Employer Relations and Engagement. Prior to joining the team, Jessica worked in corporate recruiting and human resources where she streamlined communication between candidates and clients.

Jessica is a Double Warrior and earned her bachelor’s in management and her master’s in management from Merrimack College.

What does Jess wish she knew about career development when she was in college?  

It’s never too early to think about your future. Merrimack made the career center and other resources very accessible, and I took advantage of the resources but not until later in my college career. I wish that I had known as soon as freshman year it can be useful to pave the way and explore career opportunities. There are so many ways to grow, develop and make connections.

Audrey joined Merrimack’s team in 2022. Prior to this Audrey worked in various customer service and relations roles where building professional relationships was a key focus of her job. 

Audrey earned her bachelor’s degree from Endicott College with a major in English literature and language and a minor in business administration. 

What is the best piece of advice you can give to students about career development?

Building relationships to further your career development doesn’t have to be scary. Being personable and having a positive attitude is a great way to make lasting professional connections. Having worked in various different fields, I’ve had the opportunity to see how different fields can be intertwined by interpersonal connections that can expand your network!

Danielle is the Career Education & Preparation Graduate Fellow. Danielle earned her bachelor of science in elementary education from Westfield State University this past spring. Danielle is pursuing her master’s degree in school counseling at Merrimack.

What does Danielle wish she knew about career development when she was in college?

One thing I wish I knew about career development in my undergraduate career would be that it is okay to explore and never to be discouraged if your first few options are not your callings. There will always be someone there who is eager to help you out and explore other options to get you where you want to be.