University Life Space & Events
Meet The Leadership Team
Saleem serves as the principal advisor for University Life Space and Events, overseeing the management and operations of collaborative University Life spaces, with a special emphasis on Houston Hall—the nation’s oldest operating student union in the country. In his role, he works closely with the central administration team within University Life and reports directly to the Assistant Vice Provost for Strategic Planning & Operations.
Before joining Penn, Saleem received a B.A. from Rutgers University and an M.P.M. from the University of Maryland. He also previously held positions within operations and talent at Princeton University, developing a core expertise in operations and logistics, organizational development, and team engagement. Today, Saleem leads a dynamic team dedicated to creating meaningful campus experiences through diverse services and programs.
To schedule an appointment with the Director, please email Regina De La Cruz.
If you would like to learn more about the functional areas within Space & Events or connect with another member on our team please visit our contact page.
Meet The Administration & Finance Team
As the Associate Director for Administration and Finance for University Life Space and Events Management (ULSE) LaShanetta is responsible for overseeing the department’s financial and administrative operations, ensuring compliance, integrity, and efficiency in all business processes. In her role, LaShanetta maintains close partnership with the Provost Administrative Affairs finance team to prepare budgets, ensure adherence to established procedures, provide financial and administrative updates to senior leadership and collaborate on human resource functions, including onboarding, payroll, and staff performance processes.
Additionally, this role supervises the financial and administrative support staff, develops policies, oversees departmental communications, and ensures the effective financial stewardship of Penn Student Agencies. LaShanetta also support the Director of ULSE and the Assistant Vice Provost for Strategic Planning & Operations by monitoring staff professional development, managing resource allocation, financial activity, and delivering clear reports for forecasting and strategic planning.
LaShanetta is a graduate of Chicago State University in Chicago, IL with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and has a Master of Public Administration from Governors State University in University Park, IL. Prior to accepting this position, she served as the Department Administrator for Westphal College’s Performing Arts department at Drexel University and the Administrative Coordinator I at Rutgers University New Jersey Medical School. LaShanetta is originally from the Chicagoland area and recently relocated to the Philadelphia area with her husband. She is the mother of five adult children: three sons, one daughter and a bonus daughter. In her free time, she enjoys reading, shopping, singing in her church choir, working with the youth and traveling. She is also a member of Pi Alpha Alpha Honor Society for Public Administration and Public Affairs.
The Administrative Assistant & Office Coordinator provides administrative support to the Director of University Life Space and Events and front office, administrative and other support to managers, employees, students, and office visitors by handling a variety of administrative and clerical tasks to ensure that all interactions between the department (University Life Space and Events and Penn Student Agencies) and others are positive and productive. With a dotted line reporting relationship to the Director, the Office Coordinator serves as the interface for the Director, working closely with the Associate Director for Administration and Finance on all aspects of administrative functioning of University Life Space & Events
Regina is an alumna of Arcadia University, where she graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She is originally from Florida and is new to the Penn Community. Regina loves to experience new things whether it’s traveling to a new country, trying new cuisines, or just adding some spontaneity to her everyday routine. She isn’t afraid to go outside of her comfort zone, which is what led her to the University of Pennsylvania, where she now serves as the Administrative Assistant and Office Coordinator to University Life Space & Events. Her role is crucial in supporting the Director of ULSE, the administration and finance team, and the strategic goals and principles of University Life Space & Events.
The Financial Coordinator provides administrative and financial support to University Life Space and Events Management. Their responsibilities include accounts payable, payroll, procurement, billing, and onboarding responsible for the day-to-day financial operations of University Life Space and Events which includes maintaining all financial records, assisting in the oversight of budgets, and ensuring the integrity and compliance of financial transactions processed within the budgetary units.
Sarah was born in Cuba and has lived in Minnesota, California, Iowa, Spain, and Japan. She speaks English, Japanese, and Spanish, and wishes she had time to learn a million more languages, write books, cook fancy things, and go hiking in beautiful places. She got her BS in Economics and International Business at Penn State way back in 2000, and then went on to get her MA from the University of Pennsylvania in 2007. After graduating, she worked as an architect in San Francisco and Stair Designer in Seattle before coming back with her husband to Philadelphia to raise their daughter near family. Since returning, she worked at Penn in the Weitzman Architecture department as a Graduate Student Records Coordinator for 7 years and is currently the Financial Coordinator for University Life Space & Events. She is responsible for the day-today financial operations of the department, which includes maintaining all financial records, assisting in the oversight of budgets, and ensuring the integrity and compliance of financial transactions processed within the budgetary units. Additionally, she coordinates all event billing activities of the department, utilizes KX Event software to maintain client records, reconcile charges, and send out invoices.
Meet The Events & Operations Teams
As Senior Associate Director, Patrick manages the day-to-day operations of Houston Hall, Irvine Auditorium, the ARCH building and oversees the vision, strategy and execution of ULSE events management &operations.
In this role, he leads departmental and university-wide initiatives to align event practices with industry and higher education standards, develops policies, procedures, and service-level agreements that support Penn’s strategic vision for events management to ensure consistent and high-quality representation of Penn across public and private events. Patrick also fosters strong relationships with external campus partners, student groups, and Penn departments to promote collaborative planning and ensure the seamless execution of events.
If you have any event related questions please email Andrea Krapevka.
Pat has over 10 years of Youth Development/Community Experience. He was born and raised in Camden, NJ and spent a lot of time visiting the city of Philadelphia growing up. He loves watching sports and spending time with his family.
The Scheduling & Events Manager is responsible for the overall vision, strategy, and oversight of Penn’s events management operation. Ensures a high level and consistent image of the university in the wide variety of public and private events. Leads departmental and university-wide changes in approaches to university events that reflect best practices in higher education and the industry. Develops and sustains policies, procedures, and service level agreements that support the implementation of the vision for events management across Penn. Build effective relationships with departments across Penn and collaborative planning efforts for each event.
Andrea is a 2015 graduate of Rowan University where she earned her B.A. in Theatre Arts and M.S. in Teaching: Theatre Education. She spent a decade as a theatre arts educator and program director. That chapter of her professional journey allowed her to foster supportive communities, create student-centered experiences, and helped shift her career into Event Management. She is also a yogi, loves to keep active, and seeks all opportunities to soak up the sun with her loved ones and pup named Sophie! She manages scheduling and event reservations and a team of Event Coordinators for Space and Events.
As the Coordinator for Scheduling and Events, LaShae serves as a centralized resource for university-sponsored events and external clients hosting conferences and programs within University Life spaces, and non-academic use of the central pool classrooms.
She also provides event advising, consultation, and logistical support, and select conference and event management. As well as advises and supports student, faculty, and administrators with all aspects of planning events scheduled in Perelman Quadrangle, University Life venues, and central pool classrooms (non-academic use). In this role, LaShae works closely with on-campus student organizations to determine event needs and facilitates arrangements with campus partners. This may include advising on venue selection, catering and dining arrangements, audio/visual equipment, event design, transportation arrangements, housing accommodations, event budget management, and management of related staff. As a coordinator, LaShae also provides guidance, awareness, and education on policies, laws, and protocols applicable to planning events on campus, connect internal clients with university service providers, and recommend external vendors and other services as required.
LaShae attended Peirce College for Business and Marketing, with plans to eventually run her own business. She currently works as an Event Coordinator, focusing on coordinating events for Penn-affiliated departments. Off the clock, you can find LaShae watching the Phillies alongside her puppy Harper (Rhyse Schwarber), and an iced coffee in hand.
As the Coordinator for Scheduling and Events, Monica serves as a centralized resource for university-sponsored events and external clients hosting conferences and programs within University Life spaces, and non-academic use of the central pool classrooms.
She also provides event advising, consultation, and logistical support, and select conference and event management. As well as advises and supports student, faculty, and administrators with all aspects of planning events scheduled in Perelman Quadrangle, University Life venues, and central pool classrooms (non-academic use). In this role, Monica works closely with on-campus student organizations to determine event needs and facilitates arrangements with campus partners. This may include advising on venue selection, catering and dining arrangements, audio/visual equipment, event design, transportation arrangements, housing accommodations, event budget management, and management of related staff. As a coordinator, Monica also provides guidance, awareness, and education on policies, laws, and protocols applicable to planning events on campus, connect internal clients with university service providers, and recommend external vendors and other services as required.
Monica graduated from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington with a B.A. in Chemistry and a Minor in Japanese Studies; she currently attends Georgetown University where she is a candidate for M.P.S Higher Education Administration. Her hobbies include watching anime, cooking, baking, playing with her puppy (Mary Jane), and playing video games. She currently serves as one of the Events Coordinators at University Life Space and Events, specializing in student organizations.
As the Coordinator for Scheduling and Events, Sahar serves as a centralized resource for university-sponsored events and external clients hosting conferences and programs within University Life spaces, and non-academic use of the central pool classrooms.
She also provides event advising, consultation, and logistical support, and select conference and event management. As well as advises and supports student, faculty, and administrators with all aspects of planning events scheduled in Perelman Quadrangle, University Life venues, and central pool classrooms (non-academic use). In this role, Sahar works closely with on-campus student organizations to determine event needs and facilitates arrangements with campus partners. This may include advising on venue selection, catering and dining arrangements, audio/visual equipment, event design, transportation arrangements, housing accommodations, event budget management, and management of related staff. As a coordinator, Sahar also provides guidance, awareness, and education on policies, laws, and protocols applicable to planning events on campus, connect internal clients with university service providers, and recommend external vendors and other services as required.
Sahar bio coming soon…
The Operations Manager is a member of the team responsible for a broad range of venue and event management support for University Life spaces. The Manager is responsible for event logistics including staffing, coordinating workflow, and managing equipment inventory. The Manager provides direction and advisement to the operations coordinator team which provides day-to-day venue/facility management and oversees the full-time event services team (through the Operations Team Lead) to ensure accurate, highly detailed, and timely set up of banquet and meeting spaces for events within University Life managed venues, and supported spaces.
Ben received his Master’s in Communications from West Chester University, with a focus in Public Relations. As the Systems Manager, he is responsible for maintaining the scheduling systems, facilitating the effectiveness of the reservation processes, and managing the implementation and utilization of event planning and reservation software. When Ben isn’t working, he enjoys playing soccer, gaming, and listening to podcasts. GO BIRDS!!!
The Operations Coordinator is responsible for monitoring the daily operation of Perelman Quadrangle facilities including the student Center at Houston Hall, Irvine Auditorium, and the Arts, Culture, Research House. This includes serving as a customer service point person, performing opening and closing the facility, assisting with room set ups and take downs, assist with training and supporting staff including student employees. The coordinator also addresses equipment and facility cleanliness and performs required clerical work to ensure smooth facility operation.
Barthel is responsible for timely setup and breakdown of events within University Life spaces, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues. He provides advisement to part-time and student staff assisting with events. Barthel assists with the overall operational needs of venues managed, supported, and occupied by the University Life team.
The Operations Coordinator is responsible for monitoring the daily operation of Perelman Quadrangle facilities including the student Center at Houston Hall, Irvine Auditorium, and the Arts, Culture, Research House. This includes serving as a customer service point person, performing opening and closing the facility, assisting with room set ups and take downs, assist with training and supporting staff including student employees. The coordinator also addresses equipment and facility cleanliness and performs required clerical work to ensure smooth facility operation.
Brian received his Bachelor’s in Adult and Organizational Development at Temple University in 2018. Before graduating from Temple, he received an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts at the Community College of Philadelphia in 2014 and used to serve as a Facilities Manager at North Light Community Center. Brian is a Philadelphia native, who grew up as an only child within the Roxborough & Manayunk community. As an Operations Coordinator, Brian is responsible for assisting with the management of daily operational activities and facility related issues for both, Houston Hall and Irvine Auditorium, contributing within a leadership role to help observe, review, and analyze processes to improve inefficiencies and areas that need improvements, and facilitating daily event planning information between team members, while presenting a customer service atmosphere toward clientele. During his free-time, Brian loves watching sports, playing basketball, managing fantasy sports, hiking, gaming, and traveling.
The Operations Coordinator is responsible for monitoring the daily operation of Perelman Quadrangle facilities including the student Center at Houston Hall, Irvine Auditorium, and the Arts, Culture, Research House. This includes serving as a customer service point person, performing opening and closing the facility, assisting with room set ups and take downs, assist with training and supporting staff including student employees. The coordinator also addresses equipment and facility cleanliness and performs required clerical work to ensure smooth facility operation.
Caleb is responsible for monitoring the daily operation of facilities including the student union at Houston Hall, Irvine Auditorium, and Iron Gate Theater. This includes serving as a customer service point person, performing opening and closing the facility, assisting with room set ups and take downs, and assisting with training and supporting staff. Caleb’s role encompasses identifying areas of improvement and growth within the operation and aiding in creation solutions. Caleb is responsible for being forward thinking and ensuring all operational practices, procedures, and policies are followed.
The Operations Team Lead supervises a designated team, manages workflows, assists with the interviewing and training of new hires. Supports the management team and other leaders in the efficient running of day-to-day operations. Works in a lead capacity and usually does the same type of work as the team they are overseeing.
DaShawn was born and raised in Philadelphia and began his career as a Personal Care Attendant at Universal Institute Charter School. He is responsible for timely setup and breakdown of events within University Life spaces, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues. Provide advisement to part-time and student staff assisting with events. Dashawn assists with the overall operational needs of venues managed, supported, and occupied by the University Life team.
He loves traveling, spending time with family, learning new things, and watching as well as playing sports. Love all my Philadelphia teams.
The Operations Associate plans, direct, and coordinate operations and functionalities of facilities and buildings. May include responsibility over multiple buildings or locations. This position provides a diverse range of routine general custodial and building operations support, including, custodial services, equipment operation, basic maintenance and repair, materials handling, logistical support, routine security and/or customer service in support of the day-to-day requirements of the facility.
Julian is responsible for timely setup and breakdown of events within University Life spaces, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues. He provides advisement to part-time and student staff assisting with events. Julian assists with the overall operational needs of venues managed, supported, and occupied by the University Life team.
The Operations Associate plans, direct, and coordinate operations and functionalities of facilities and buildings. May include responsibility over multiple buildings or locations. This position provides a diverse range of routine general custodial and building operations support, including, custodial services, equipment operation, basic maintenance and repair, materials handling, logistical support, routine security and/or customer service in support of the day-to-day requirements of the facility.
Laron is responsible for timely setup and breakdown of events within University Life spaces, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues. He provides advisement to part-time and student staff assisting with events. Laron assists with the overall operational needs of venues managed, supported, and occupied by the University Life team.
The Operations Associate plans, direct, and coordinate operations and functionalities of facilities and buildings. May include responsibility over multiple buildings or locations. This position provides a diverse range of routine general custodial and building operations support, including, custodial services, equipment operation, basic maintenance and repair, materials handling, logistical support, routine security and/or customer service in support of the day-to-day requirements of the facility.
Reece has worked at Penn for 10 years. When he is on the job, he enjoys uplifting his colleagues.
As an Operations Assistant, Jerwayne works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist with departmental operations including monitoring building conditions, opening, and closing facilities along with setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Jerwayne handles day to day operation needs, He enjoys woking with a team and takes pride in completing tasks and ensuring customer satisfaction.
As an Operations Aide, Amos works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Amos is apart of the House Crew event service team and has been with Penn for over 6 years. In this time he has built a passion for the role and lives by the motto “team work makes the dream work.”
As an Operations Aide, Chelse works primarily in the ARCH to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Chelse has been at for nearly 4 years. When she’s not working you can find her listening to music or reading.
As an Operations Aide, Jahad works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Jahad earned his bachelor’s at the University of Maryland Eastern shore studying sociology. He is currently 26 years old and a Philadelphian native, who enjoys writing, bowling and skating during his free time.
As an Operations Aide, Jerwayne works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Jerwayne Haywood Jr. is member of the Space & Events operations team. In his time so far at Penn he has been able to build community and a sense of belonging with his team. When he is not at work he enjoys spending time with family.
As an Operations Aide, Kahlil works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Kahlil has been with Penn for over a year and lives by the motto “hard work means getting the job done.”
As an Operations Aide, Tommy works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Tommy was born and raised in North Philadelphia and moved to West Philadelphia after graduating from Overbrook High School. He is a diehard Philly fan, people person, and enjoys playing baseball, basketball, and video games during his free time. He joined the Space & Events team in 2022.
As an Operations Aide, Tauheed works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Tauheed has been with the University of Pennsylvania for nearly 4 years, enjoying his role as an Operation Aide and building community with colleagues.
As an Operations Aide, Rowan works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Rowan is currently a student at Drexel University, who has worked at Penn for two years. In his free time he enjoys spending time with family and watching sports.
As an Operations Aide, Virgilio works primarily in the Houston Hall student center and Irvine Auditorium to assist in setup and breakdown of events within University Life space, central pool classrooms, and other University Life supported venues.
Virgilio’s bio coming soon…
Meet The Building Administration Team
As the Associate Director for Building Administration within Space & Events, Chris serves as the principal administrator for all facility issues concerning the operations, maintenance and renovations and oversight of all physical plants operations within ULSE Spaces. As well as the supervision of daily operations, building services and utilization of all facilities within University Life.
Within University Life Facilities, Chris ensures the upkeep of equipment, maintenance, renovation, on-going operations, and ADA & building code compliance. In this position, Chris works closely with Penn’s Department of Facilities and Real Estate Services, Office of the University Architect, the University Registrar, building administrators, faculty, architects, contractors and technology consultants to continuously improve UL facilities.
Chris brings over 20 years of experience managing Penn’s student activities and performing arts facilities to our team.
The Student Development and Building Administration Coordinator is responsible for supervision, training, and evaluation of Building Ambassadors who provide guest services, technical assistance, room setup, signage, access, generalized operational support, and aid in opening/closing at Houston Hall (Penn’s Student Union) and Irvine Auditorium. They maintain a “student/campus center” presence, provide advisement to student programming, advisory, and events team members, aids in facilitation of student-centered programs on behalf of Houston Hall, and collaborates with the Student Engagement Team in the planning, implementing, executing and evaluating of annual and ongoing student staff training and development. They are responsible for the daily monitoring of physical conditions in a core set of departmentally managed venues, and provides advisement and support to staff who manage, lease, or are officed within university spaces. They will respond to emergencies and coordinate services to address facility repair and maintenance needs, in addition to day-to-day needs related to the facility.
Mo graduated from Syracuse University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Photography focusing on the Commercial & Advertising track. They minored in Sociology and Entrepreneurship. Mo is the Operation & Engagement Coordinator for University Life Space and Events. They oversee the students at the Welcome Desk, help to plan and put on Houston Hall Programming events, as well as assist in maintaining operational needs of the venues University Life Space and Events support. When they are not at work, Mo can be found playing all types of games, consuming horror media, or spending time with friends.
Meet The Student Development Team
Jonathon is responsible for supervising the Student Development 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 Student Union. As the Associate Director for Student Development, Jonathon is responsible for the overall management of student leadership, development, programs and support for University Life Space and Event Management, most notably Penn’s student union, Houston Hall.
Jonathon joined the UPenn family in May 2024, bringing with him over twenty years of Student Affairs experience. Jonathon graduated from the University of Mary Washington with a BA in Sociology and Religion; he earned an MA in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University, and a Doctor of Education degree from Nova Southeastern University. 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.
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– which includes agency directors and the executive suite– and a full-time Financial Assistant, with indirect supervision of 100+ student staff. This role focuses on entrepreneurial/small business experiential training and mentorship for students while advising them on staff management, coaching, training, administrative and HR responsibilities (recruiting, hiring, on-boarding), marketing, customer service, and fiscal responsibility.
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 Student Development and Building Administration Coordinator is responsible for supervision, training, and evaluation of Building Ambassadors who provide guest services, technical assistance, room setup, signage, access, generalized operational support, and aid in opening/closing at Houston Hall (Penn’s Student Union) and Irvine Auditorium. They maintain a “student/campus center” presence, provide advisement to student programming, advisory, and events team members, aids in facilitation of student-centered programs on behalf of Houston Hall, and collaborates with the Student Engagement Team in the planning, implementing, executing and evaluating of annual and ongoing student staff training and development. They are responsible for the daily monitoring of physical conditions in a core set of departmentally managed venues, and provides advisement and support to staff who manage, lease, or are officed within university spaces. They will respond to emergencies and coordinate services to address facility repair and maintenance needs, in addition to day-to-day needs related to the facility.
Mo graduated from Syracuse University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Photography focusing on the Commercial & Advertising track. They minored in Sociology and Entrepreneurship. Mo is the Operation & Engagement Coordinator for University Life Space and Events. They oversee the students at the Welcome Desk, help to plan and put on Houston Hall Programming events, as well as assist in maintaining operational needs of the venues University Life Space and Events support. When they are not at work, Mo can be found playing all types of games, consuming horror media, or spending time with friends.
The Graduate Assistant for Student Development-Student Advisory Council Advisor & Communications will report to the Associate Director for Student Development within University Life Space and Events. This role focuses on three main areas: advising the Student Union @ Houston Hall Student Advisory Council, collaborating with the Student Development Team for marketing and communication needs related to trainings, events and employment opportunities and providing leadership and administrative support to the “Wake Up Wednesdays” WUW Fairs that take place weekly for student organizations and campus partners to table in Houston Hall. The GA will also oversee social media accounts for Student Development while developing and refining communication/marketing strategies to enhance student development with the Student Union @ Houston Hall programs and employment.
Sophia’s bio coming soon…
The Graduate Assistant for Student Development Programming (GA) will support students in delivering programming, training, and professional development experiences to students. Key responsibilities include planning signature programming events (monthly including the Fall and Spring Porch Parties), assisting the Student Development Team in the development and execution of Training for student employees and overseeing the logistics, attendance tracking and assessment of SEEDS, our yearlong student employee professional development workshop series. The GA will also assist the Coordinator for Student Development in developing SEEDS Workshop themes and content and securing guest speakers.
Spencer’s bio coming soon…
The PSA Graduate Assistant (GA) will support Penn Student Agencies in delivering experiential and leadership training, and advisement 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 policies and protocols. The Graduate Assistant also manages the annual calendar of events and programming, supports project implementation, assists in program assessment, and student engagement initiatives.
Yoanna’s bio coming soon…
University Life Space & Events Campus Partners
Meet The Audio Visual Team
Dawn is the Director of Client Services/Operation for the University Life Spaces and Events Audio-Visual Department. She gained corporate experience during her ten-year career with Mellon Bank (now called Citizen’s Bank) as a Sales & Marketing Support Manager. After leaving Mellon Bank, she pursued a career in Entertainment as a singer, songwriter, and producer whose accolades include a vast number of performances for corporate, private, and public events throughout the United States. Dawn’s combined corporate and entertainment backgrounds are reflected in her ability to interact and build relationships with clients and direct the AV team in the logistical and creative execution of Audio-Visual services. Dawn is intentional on loving life with family, friends and music with a focus on ministry.
Arnab serves as a Technical Support Coordinator for the University Life Spaces and Events Audio-Visual Department, specializing in AV logistics, technical equipment, and event management. He is also a DJ, music producer, audio engineer, and graduate of Temple University. In his free time, Arnab enjoys creating music and performing across the country. Arnab takes pride in balancing his professional and creative life.
Brian is the Technical Operations Manager for the University Life Spaces and Events Audio-Visual Department and is passionate about ensuring operational efficiency and quality assurance. In his role, he oversees all technical operations of the staff, equipment and run of shows. Brian is a graduate of Full Sail University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Film Production. One of his fondest memories was meeting Lloyd Kaufman from Troma Films during his time at Full Sail University. Outside of work, Brian enjoys skateboarding, motorcycle mechanics, and is an avid dirt bike rider. He is also a full-time Cat Dad to Michelangelo, a domestic short hair tabby.
Will serves as a Technical Support Coordinator for the University Life Spaces and Events Audio-Visual Department, specializing in AV logistics, technical equipment, and event management. He attended Johns Hopkins University, where he was the recipient of the I. Cyrus Gutman Scholarship Award and earned a BA in The Writing Seminars. After school, he built his interest in music production into a career, working with live concerts and events before returning to the education sphere. In his free time, he enjoys guitar, Nintendo games, seeing family/friends, and spending time in nature.
Meet The Bon Appétit Catering Team
Kala N Williams is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in Event and Project Management spanning over a decade. Currently serving as the Director of Catering for Bon Appetit Management Company, Kala brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Her journey in customer experience spans various industries, including non-profit, legal, and customer service, cultivating a deep-rooted dedication to ensuring a positive client journey. Driven by a passion for people, Kala has centered her career on community engagement and client satisfaction, making a tangible impact in every role she undertakes. Her commitment to delivering exceptional service led her to the vibrant University of Pennsylvania campus, where she leads a team dedicated to providing an unparalleled catering experience. Kala’s enthusiasm and commitment to excellence shine through as she strives to create memorable and satisfying experiences for clients, reflecting her unwavering dedication to the art of hospitality and service.
Dedicated catering sales professional with a rich background from Widener University. Proven track record in selling large conferences to intimate weddings. Backed by a robust operational expertise ensuring seamless execution. Let’s turn your events into unforgettable experiences.
Kito Pearson, originally hailing from Accomac County, VA, ventured to Philadelphia in his early years. Initially trained in culinary arts at the Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College, Kito’s journey took a fortuitous turn when he found his true passion lay in front-of-house operations. His career path has led him through esteemed establishments such as Ruth’s Chris, Hotel Palomar, Philadelphia International Airport, and Di Bruno’s House of Cheese. Today, as the Catering Operations Manager at the University of Pennsylvania, Kito seamlessly combines his culinary expertise with his exceptional management skills to create memorable dining experiences for the university community.