Sandrine Akindo, Omicron Pi, Frostburg State University
Sandrine is a Senior Human Resource Manager for PepsiCo, Inc. She has led and implemented a new business unit within PepsiCo and digitized several work streams to streamline the work HR is doing and encourage more self-service for their employee population. Sandrine is also a philanthropist. She is the Co-Founder and Executive Board Member for Assistance for Kids in African Villages (AKAV) which is a new non-profit organization focused on enhancing the educational experience of students in African villages. Sandrine has been active with Delta Zeta since graduation and when she moved from Maryland to California, she served as the Alumnae Chapter President for West Inland Empire Alumnae Chapter. And, in 2022 Sandrine was named a Delta Zeta 35 Under 35 honoree.
Danielle Levien, Pi Theta, Rollins College
As Communications Manager for Magic Kingdom Park and Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Danielle’s role is to create and execute communication strategies that distinctly tell Disney stories strengthening the reputation of Walt Disney World Resort and showcasing how the company leads the way in business and innovation. She also leads Executive Communications support for the Vice Presidents of both Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom while overseeing internal communications to more than 20,000 Cast Members stationed at either park. Danielle’s notable projects include: Leading the TRON Lightcycle/Run Communications Core Team, Return of Traditional Character Greetings (hugs) and other entertainment post-Covid, Closure of Splash Mountain/Introduction of Tiana's Bayou Adventure, DAK Cast Engagement for the release of Avatar 2, DAK 25th Anniversary, Return of the Walt Disney World Railroad. Danielle has been named an Orlando Business Journal 40 under 40 and a 2019 Delta Zeta Sorority 35 Under 35 honoree.
Ali Manion, Sigma, Louisiana State University
Ali graduated from Louisiana State University in 2012 with a B.A. in Mass Communication, concentrating in Public Relations and minoring in Dance and Business Administration.
Growing up, Ali eagerly anticipated her family’s annual vacations to Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL and discovered her dream to become a Disney Cast Member. After college graduation, Ali pursued this dream through the Disney College Program, kick-starting her career at Walt Disney World. Ali has spent the majority of her Disney career in Entertainment as a performer, Guest Experience Manager and Communications Manager and has also worked in social media and as a Disney Traditions Facilitator. She currently serves as one of the 2022-2023 Walt Disney World Ambassadors, representing more than 75,000 Cast Members as a company spokesperson for media and in the Central Florida community, while also planning and participating in Cast Member recognition events. She is honored to carry on the legacy of the Disney Ambassador Program at Walt Disney World, a program that was started by Walt Disney himself.
In her free time, Ali enjoys reading a good book, traveling, exploring the Central Florida foodie scene and participating in runDisney events throughout the year.
Melissa Skiera Myers, Xi Psi, Grand Valley State University
Melissa is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and has been in the financial services industry since 2000 and earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification in 2012. She believes that regardless of where you might be on the wealth spectrum, everyone can benefit from a financial road map. Think of her as your financial GPS. She'll help you determine where you are, where you want to be, and she'll provide the services to help you pursue your financial destination.
Giving back to her community is important. In support of the local arts, Melissa served a seven-year term as a board member for the West Michigan Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, she is a member of All Shores Wesleyan Church and volunteered as a budget counselor in their Good $ense Program. In November 2016, she became a certified Faith and Finances facilitator. Melissa is a member of Lake Michigan Estate Planning Council, the Grand Haven Eagles, Tri-Cities Women Who Care, Grand Rapids Alumnae Chapter of Delta Zeta and serves as a board member for Women with Knives.
Melissa is a self-proclaimed foodie in search of fabulous restaurants specializing in unique and amazing food. At home, she loves cooking, boating and relaxing poolside with a great book. She stays active by skiing, playing tennis and going to spin class.
Kelley Cofiell Turner, Pi Beta, University of Hartford
Kelly is an accomplished Mortgage Loan Officer at Total Mortgage, located in Glastonbury, CT. With her extensive expertise in the mortgage industry, she excels in assisting clients in securing the most suitable mortgage options tailored to their individual needs and financial goals.
Not only does Kelly excel in her professional role, but she also possesses a remarkable talent for networking. Recognizing the power of connections, she goes above and beyond to leverage her extensive network, connecting individuals to forge valuable relationships that contribute to personal and professional growth. Kelly's innate ability to bring people together has earned her a reputation as an expert in fostering meaningful connections.
In addition to her responsibilities as a Mortgage Loan Officer, Kelly is the driving force behind Mom Bosses CT, the largest entrepreneurial group for women in the state of Connecticut. Through her leadership and passion for empowering women, she has created a vibrant and supportive community where female entrepreneurs can connect, collaborate and propel their businesses forward. Kelly's dedication to fostering an inclusive environment has played a pivotal role in helping numerous women achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
Cheri Dowling, Executive Director, American Society for Deaf Children
Cheri has worked for more than 25 years helping families navigate the special education process and providing parent
support. Cheri serves on both state and national committees that support families with deaf and hard of
hearing children. Cheri has received various awards for her advocacy work and dedication to families.
Cheri and her husband, John, are the proud parents of 2 young adults, one who is deaf with disabilities.
Sandra Hijikata, Chief Development Officer for SeriousFun Children’s Network
Sandra is responsible for SeriousFun Children’s Network fundraising efforts which include corporate, foundation, individual, organization, and event initiatives that supports our 30 Member Camps and Partner Programs, and the Support Center. Prior to joining SeriousFun Children served in numerous development positions including the most recent as the Chief Development Officer for JDRF, International where she was responsible for a development budget of $225 Million which was raised through grassroots and centralized fundraising initiatives. She also served in numerous development local, regional and national positions with both the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association.
Sandra has a Masters of Non-Profit Management from New England College and a Bachelor of Arts from Hamline University where she majored in music and education.
Sandra resides in Tuckahoe, New York where she enjoys the close proximity to New York City as well as easy access to the many beautiful walking, hiking and biking trails in New York.