Meet the Leadership Team
Saleem Curry
(He/Him)
Director of ULSE University Life Space and Events Management falls under the Assistant Vice Provost for the Strategic Planning and Operations Cluster within University Life. Saleem Curry serves as the principal advisor for all of University Life Space and Events. He is responsible for the overall management and operational needs related to collaborative University Life spaces, with a specific focus on Houston Hall – the oldest operating student union in the country. His core competencies include operations and logistics, organizational development and effectiveness, and talent management and team engagement. Saleem also oversees a dynamic team who create meaningful experiences for the campus community through the implementation of services and programs.
To schedule an appointment with the Director or to be connected with the appropriate ULSE Team member, please email Regina De La Cruz.
Chris Kessler
(He/Him)
Associate Director for
University Life Facilities
Chris brings over 20 years of experience managing Penn’s student activities and performing arts facilities to our team. As a Facilities Coordinator, he is responsible for monitoring building conditions in Space and Events managed spaces, coordinating and tracking necessary repairs and maintenance, and supporting the Operations team through professional staff coverage of the Houston Hall. He also works closely with the Events team to coordinate housekeeping, security, and access needs for events in Houston Hall, Irvine Auditorium, and Central Pool classrooms.
Jonathon May
(He/Him)
Associate Director for
Student Engagement
LaShanetta Harris
(She/Her)
Associate Director for
Administration & Finance
Patrick Faulk
(Mister)
Senior Associate Director for
University Life Space & Events
Meet the Administration & Finance Team
LaShanetta Harris
(She/Her)
Associate Director for Administration & Finance
She 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.
In her role as Associate Director for Administration and Finance for University Life Space and Events Management (ULSE) she oversees the financial and administrative operations of the department. In this role she ensures compliance and integrity of business processes and practices including resource management, and financial activity through close partnership with Provost Administrative Affairs.
Sarah Lam (She/Her) Finance
Coordinator 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.
Regina De La Cruz (She/Her) Administrative Assistant & Office Coordinator
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.
Meet the Events & Operations Team
Patrick Faulk
(Mister)
Senior Associate Director 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. As the Senior Associate Director for Space & Events, he handles the day-to-day management of the Event and Operations Teams at Houston Hall.
Andrea Krapevka
(She/Her)
Scheduling & Events Manager 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.
Ben Naroden
(He/Him)
Operations Manager 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!!!
LaShae Wright
(She/Her)
Event Coordinator 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.
Monica Kessel
(She/Her)
Event Coordinator
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.
Barthel Akins
(Mister)
Arch Operations Coordinator
(Interim) 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.
Brian Larthey
(He/Him)
Operations Coordinator 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.
Caleb Harvey
Operations Coordinator 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.
DaShawn Jackson
(He/Him)
Operations Team Lead 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.
Julian Lawrence
Operations Associate 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.
Laron Overby
Operations Associate 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.
Meet the Student Engagement and Development Team
Jonathon May
(He/Him)
Associate Director for
Student Engagement
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. Jonathon is 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 Student Union.
Michael Warren II
(He/Him)
Program Manager forPenn Student Agencies 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!
Mo Wood
(They/Them)
Coordinator forStudent Engagement & Operations 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.
Spencer Allen
(He/Him)
Graduate Assistant of
Houston Hall Programming Spencer’s bio coming soon…
Yoanna Dimitrova
(She/Her)
Graduate Assistant of
Penn Student Agencies Yoanna’s bio coming soon…
Sophia Yu
(She/Her)
Graduate Assistant of Board of Director
& Communication Sophia’s bio coming soon…
University Life Space & Events Campus Partners
Meet the Audio Visual Team
Dawn Blandford
(She/Her)
Director of Client
Services for Visual Sound
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 Nandi
(He/Him)
Technical Support Coordinator
for Visual Sound
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 Fuller
(He/Him)
Technical Operations Manager
for Visual Sound
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 Katinsky
(He/Him)
Technical Support Coordinator
for Visual Sound
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 Williams(She/Her)
Director of Catering
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.
David Spinosa(He/Him)
Catering Sales Manager 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(He/Him)Catering Operations Manager 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.