Jason Burroughs '23
How did SU shape your career path?
One of my favorite memories was walking into Conway Hall for the first time—seeing students playing on the lawn and sitting outside the School of Social Work, feeling both nervous and inspired. Listening to MSW students share their journeys motivated me as I began my BASW path. Salisbury truly became my home for learning and growth. My internship at Hudson Behavioral Health turned into a job, inspiring me to earn licensure as an addiction professional. After graduation, I started as a mental health therapist with Chesapeake Healthcare, and the MSW program prepared me well to pass my licensing exam on the first try. Salisbury helped me redefine my 30s and opened doors I never expected.
Lloyd William Gibbons '23
What inspired your academic journey at Salisbury later in life, and what keeps you motivated?
I graduated from SU on May 25, 2023, magna cum laude, at the age of seventy-seven. I became a father for the first time in 2011 when I was 65 years old and found myself concentrating on raising my daughter while attending classes part-time. Studying psychology at SU helped me understand not only other people and society in general, but also myself, my past and my daughter. Although my career paths came before Salisbury and I’ve retired four times, I’m now planning to attend law school. My journey shows it’s never too late to pursue your goals, and life doesn’t have to follow society’s expectations.
Tyler Gibson '16
What was your favorite activity at Salisbury University?
I was deeply involved in the Student Government Association, starting as a sophomore Senator and eventually serving as President my senior year. What began as a way to make friends quickly grew into a passion for leadership and positive change. I’m proud of achievements like helping bring student tailgating to campus, overturning restrictions on student regalia at Commencement, and reforming SGA’s Constitution to make it more accessible. These experiences taught me how to collaborate with university leaders and advocate for my peers. My time in SGA shaped me into a confident leader and laid the foundation for my career in higher education fundraising. Salisbury gave me the skills and opportunities to grow personally and professionally — and I’m forever grateful.
Michael Webber '16, '18
How did Salisbury University prepare you for your future?
My time at Salisbury University was truly transformative, both personally and professionally. The experiences I had—whether hosting “The Morning Buzz” at WXSU, engaging in thought-provoking discussions in my Modern British Literature class, or leading civic engagement initiatives—shaped my career path and helped me develop crucial skills in leadership, communication, and community-building. Salisbury not only provided me with the knowledge and tools to succeed in higher education but also fostered a deep appreciation for the power of collaboration and the importance of supporting students’ success. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunities and mentorship I received, which continue to influence my work today.
Mitchell Northam '15
What’s your favorite memory from your time at SU?
SU is where I met my wife, Rachel Taylor. All of my favorite memories involve spending time with her, from class projects we worked on together in journalism and communications courses taught by Dr. Jen Cox, to spending long hours in the office together editing The Flyer, to covering a Gull Fest concert by Mac Miller, to hanging out at coffee shops around campus. Besides that, I loved being the sports editor for The Flyer and covering big games—from playoff field hockey to War on the Shore lacrosse. I wouldn’t be the journalist and storyteller I am today without my time at Salisbury.
Brian Mike '14
What’s one unforgettable moment that made Salisbury feel like your home away from home?
My favorite memory is move-in day as a freshman — full of excitement about independence, meeting new friends, and discovering who I am. My parents helped me move in, and I could feel their pride as their son headed off to college. Funny story: People say I have two first names (Brian Mike)—and my roommate had two first names as well, Mike Julian! It was a perfect match. Move-in day was a whirlwind of emotion and activity, symbolizing the foundation I was laying for future success. If I could choose my college again, it’d be Salisbury, ten days out of the week. The people, teachers, campus, location, and diversity were all perfect for me. I’m proud and honored to be an SU alum.
Emma Brackin '13
How did being involved in campus life and academics at Salisbury shape your journey?
I loved serving on the SOAP board from sophomore year through graduation. My first Gullfest as a volunteer, helping build the stage and meeting Jason Derulo, hooked me on event planning! As an Earth Science major, the welcoming Geoscience department and field study to the Mojave Desert were highlights. Now, I’m a lead Montessori guide teaching middle and high school students, using leadership and organizational skills I learned on the SOAP board. My professors showed me teaching can be personable and meaningful, and I still stay in touch with many of them. Choosing Salisbury—encouraged by my dad, an alum—was the best decision I made. I brag about my SU experience and proudly share it with others!
Benjamin Toms '10
What are some of your favorite Salisbury memories, both on and off the field?
I loved playing intramural soccer and squash, joining the War on the Shore, hanging out in Red Square, and dining with friends in the dining hall. One magical memory was a snow day when we all bundled up and had a huge snowball fight between University Park and University Village, then just hung out around campus. Those moments made Salisbury feel like home. I started as a student business leader but realized my true passion was working with kids. So, I went back for my master’s in elementary education and now teach in Manhattan, NY. Salisbury helped me find a new beginning after high school and taught me the value of hard work. I made lifelong friends and memories I’ll always cherish.
Anthony Darby '05
How did Salisbury help lay the groundwork for where you are today?
Club lacrosse and PACE were big parts of my time at Salisbury. One highlight was playing the University of Maryland’s club team at home—an intense game and a great time with my roommate and friends. Academically, working on my final research paper with Dr. Basehart stands out. It was my longest paper, and I really appreciated his guidance and mentorship. After graduation, I started in FinTech sales and went on to launch the Eastern Shore’s first cannabis dispensary in 2017. I sold the business in 2022 and now consult with retail cannabis operators across the East Coast. The experiences and relationships I built at SU have truly been the foundation of my success.
Christina Finch '02
How did Salisbury help you find both your purpose and your place?
Salisbury University gave me both wings and roots. Growing up just 30 minutes south in Pocomoke, SU felt close to home, yet opened up a whole new world. As a freshman, I had no clear major or career path—just an interest in science, math, and art. Exploring General Education courses led me to the Department of Geography and Geosciences, where I discovered GIS and cartography—tools that combined data with visual storytelling. That journey led to a fulfilling career applying geography and GIS to emergency management. Now, I hope to encourage others—especially women—to explore science, technology, and careers that reflect the communities we serve. I’d be honored to support SU in inspiring the next generation of changemakers.
Juliana Herscher '99
How did Salisbury prepare you to lead in the classroom—and beyond?
Salisbury University truly is far above the rest in the education field. The professors were experts in their subject areas and genuinely invested in their students. I especially loved working with local schools through internships and volunteer opportunities. The community was committed to helping build the teaching profession. The knowledge I gained from SU’s professors helped set me apart in my career and gave me the confidence to thrive. I’m now a National Board Certified Teacher in Early and Middle Childhood Literacy: Reading-Language Arts, and I support other educators in pursuing certification through Charles County’s National Board Academy. I’ve taught for 26 years, and I truly credit Salisbury with laying the foundation for all I’ve accomplished.
Laura Jane Byrne '94
How did your diverse experiences at Salisbury shape your journey and inspire your life’s work?
At Salisbury, I wore many hats — president of the Baptist Student Union, RA in the nursing dorm, anthropological aide during a satellite launch, Maryland’s youngest female correctional officer, and hostess at the Ward Museum as it gained worldwide recognition. Back then, I even rolled to class on roller skates! One unforgettable moment was shaking Frank Perdue’s hand while receiving my diploma. Salisbury taught me gratitude and growth. It’s a place where professors, counselors, and even cafeteria workers want each person to excel in their learning journey— so we can thrive and help others do the same.
Holly Stofa '93
How did your experiences at Salisbury shape your passions and career?
My three favorite activities at Salisbury perfectly reflected my life passions: field hockey, dance, and exploring the world as a Geography major. Playing field hockey, including reaching the 1992 NCAA Division III Final Four, taught me that hard work pays off and built lessons I apply as a coach and in life. Dance classes were a great space for growth—especially watching football players embrace vulnerability—and I still use those warm-ups with my student-athletes today. Academically, geography sparked a curiosity that led me to a career as a CIA covert intelligence officer—something I never imagined growing up on the Eastern Shore. Salisbury gave me a safe, encouraging place to take risks and dream beyond my beginnings.
Monica Moody Moore '92
What made Salisbury feel like a place you belonged?
At Salisbury, I found an engaging space to explore new ideas, new friends, and new possibilities. Sorority life with Alpha Kappa Alpha connected me with incredible women from all over the country. I loved being a DJ at the radio station, an RA helping students in the residence halls, and working in the Dean of ¶¶ŇőÉçÇř¶ĚĘÓƵ office with Carol Williamson—oh, the love I have for her! Vaughn White, director of multicultural affairs, was like a dad on campus. He supported us, held us accountable, and made us feel deeply loved. Just writing this brings tears to my eyes. If information is power, Salisbury—even to this day—is a powerful asset that opened so many doors for me.
David Brian Burke '92
How did your time at Salisbury shape both your personal life and career?
Working with Public Safety gave me great chances to walk the campus and meet people—my wife Lisa even walked with me sometimes! I also filmed projects like the Ward Wildfowl Museum construction and worked on a drive sober campaign. A car accident kept me from playing football, but it opened other doors, including meeting my wife. Living in Dogwood and helping with student check-in were highlights, too. Communications at Salisbury helped me succeed professionally, and now I’m a contractor supporting government financial management. Even though we live three hours away, my wife and I will always be Gulls at heart. Salisbury gave me lifelong friends, love, and opportunities I cherish.
Dr. James W. Kella '89
How did Salisbury help you change your future—and celebrate along the way?
I was a first-generation college student from a low-income background, and Salisbury gave me the support—financial, personal, and professional—to overcome obstacles and find a clear path to graduation. I worked as a student manager in the Gull’s Nest, which was such a fun place. We had parties, dances, and plenty of socializing—not to mention a great cheesesteak! One of my favorite memories was graduating in May 1989. I was the first in my family to earn a college degree. My parents hadn’t graduated high school, and the pride I saw on their faces that day was overwhelming. I’ll never forget it. Salisbury gave me all the tools I needed to change the trajectory of my life and build a brighter future for my family.
Kris Nystrom '85
How did campus activities shape your journey at SU?
Being part of the Outdoor Club and helping it grow with Rick Maloof was a highlight. I’ve watched it evolve over 40 years to serve students and the community. My favorite memories also include deep conversations in English classes and hours spent in Blackwell Library exploring poems and essays—I didn’t realize then I was a bit of a nerd! Salisbury shaped my professional and personal disposition, teaching me to recognize how privilege affects opportunity. That foundation led me to become a secondary English teacher and now run a nonprofit called Reading the World, which addresses school deserts in Africa. Salisbury helped keep my path clear and full of potential.
George Michael John '79
What made your Salisbury days unforgettable—and unbeatable?
During my time at then-Salisbury State College, I had a great run of campus game tournaments—nine wins in total! I went undefeated in four chess tournaments, won two in ping pong, and took home trophies in pinball, Monopoly, and checkers. I even placed second in poker and third in backgammon. It was a small, friendly campus back then—simpler, less formal. I once finished a philosophy paper while sitting at my professor’s kitchen table! Salisbury has grown a lot since those days, but I imagine the spirit of connection and community still lives on. I’m proud to have been part of SU during that era—and proud to see what it’s become today.
Robert Scott Bogard '78
What moment at Salisbury changed everything for you?
Graduation in December 1978 was one of the greatest days of my life. I needed 21 credits to finish my degree, and my advisor, Mrs. Bosserman, believed in me enough to let me take them all in one semester. I promised Dr. Crawford I’d succeed—and I did. Both of them handed me my diploma that day. It was an incredible moment for my family and me. Salisbury changed the trajectory of my life. I went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Villanova and have spent the last 45 years in higher ed, trying to impact students the way Mrs. Bosserman and Dr. Crawford impacted me. SU taught me that if you stay focused and bring others along with you, you help build a better community.
Karen Lynn Hughes '77
How did SU shape your college experience and career path?
Cheering for the SU lacrosse and football teams, traveling to away games, made my time at Salisbury unforgettable. Back then, the campus and classes were small, which allowed me to connect deeply with my favorite subject, biology, and learn from dedicated instructors who stayed on for years. Graduating with a physical education and health degree, I taught PE before managing a community center for Parks and Recreation. For over 40 years, I’ve owned fitness centers and studios, helping people find health through fitness and Pilates. I’m proud to see how much Salisbury has grown—especially its commitment to making education accessible. My daughter and her husband are both SU grads and successful local business owners, continuing the tradition.
Martha Dembeck '73
What student experiences and friendships at Salisbury have stayed with you throughout your career?
Working in the dining hall was a favorite activity—it felt good to be part of meal preparation. Living in the dorms with close friends, especially the girls I grew with, created lasting bonds; we still Zoom every Sunday despite the miles between us. My favorite academic experience was student teaching—preparing to teach children was incredibly rewarding. I spent 25 years teaching, mainly in special education, and 9 years as an administrator. Salisbury State College blessed me with kind, caring professors and lifelong friendships. I also earned Master’s degrees later, and though I’m now retired, my time at Salisbury set the foundation for a fulfilling career in education.
Karen Elizabeth Rayne '70, '93
How did Salisbury shape not just your career—but your life?
I know it sounds hokey, but I truly loved going to class. I had incredible teachers—Bob Elderdice, May Gay Calcott, Francis Fleming, Wavie Gibson, Elizabeth Curtin, Gary Harrington, and more—who made learning unforgettable. After graduating in 1970, I taught high school English, then returned to SU in 1991 for my master’s and found where I truly belonged: teaching college writing and literature. Over the years, I taught everything from composition to women writers of color, served on key university committees, presented at national conferences, and even appeared in three SU plays. When I retired in 2020, I was honored to be named Professor Emeritus. SU is the largest part of my life outside of my family. I can’t imagine who I’d be without it.
