Co-Chairs
Martin Casiano ’15 (He/Him/His)
Brand Activation Manager, Sephora
Martin is a Boston native and first generation college student who graduated from the College of Arts and Sciences with a major in Communication. During his time at Boston College he was an admissions tour guide, Resident Assistant, and served in various roles in the UGBC GLBTQ+ Leadership Council (GLC) ultimately serving as the UGBC Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion during his senior year. Martin has worked in the advertising and marketing industry since graduating from Boston College, volunteers with a non-profit called Bottom Line, and a founding member of the LGBTQ+ Alumni Council.
I loved the community of LGBTQ+ friends I built as an undergrad at Boston College and wanted to continue to build that LGBTQ+ community of Eagles post-graduation.
Arthur Makar, ‘72 (He/Him/His)
Retired Nonprofit Executive and Volunteer
I grew up in Salem, MA and attended BC when it was still primarily a commuter school, majoring in English and Theatre. While a student, I active in the School of Education Senate and President of Kappa Phi Kappa, a professional educators fraternity. In 1972, I was first recipient of the John Schmitt Award and in 2002, was named one of the Fifty Faces of the Lynch School of Education in conjunction with its fiftieth anniversary.
My career was spent in the nonprofit sector, retiring last year as Executive Director of Fight for Sight, which has funded promising eye and vision researchers for seventy-five years. I have lived in NYC with my partner, Jon, for a quarter-century.
In 2022 I will become a Golden Eagle. Prior to moving to NYC, I was involved in orchestrating LGBTQ+ alumni events on the BC campus. I am interested in renewing this relationship, especially as it relates to outreach among alumni from earlier classes.
Executive Committee
Denning Aaris ’02, STM ’07, CGSOM ’26 (She/Her/Hers)
I recently re-joined the Boston College community after serving Babson College for the past 14 years. After finishing my Master's degree at the School of Theology and Ministry at Boston College, I found myself working at Babson College where she served in Residents Life, Faith and Service and then Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. I got involved in the LGBTQIA focus group at Babson College where staff, faculty and students worked together to implement LGBTQIA programming for the college which eventually led to a permanent staff position and the implementation of Lavender Graduation. I continued my advocacy work when I transitioned into Alumni Relations where I supported Affinity based alumni programming and established the Babson LGBTQ+ Alumni Affinity Group. Because of my dedication to Diversity Equity and Inclusion work at Babson College, I was honored with the Lewis Institute Changemaker Award in 2015 and the Babson Pride LGBTQ+ Staff award in 2019. I have been working in Higher Education for a little over 20 years and have started my next adventure in admissions work within the School of Theology and Ministry at Boston College. I am excited about staying involved by supporting and serving the BC LGBTQ+ Alumni Council.
Lou Chrostowski ’77 (He/Him/His)
I grew up in CT and moved to Boston in 1973 to attend BC, and never looked back. While I was out in high school, I went back in the closet when I started at BC. it wasn’t until my last year there that I encountered a gay group facilitated by two Jesuits and my BC experience changed dramatically as I came out to my classmates who were very accepting.
After graduation, I embarked on a career in Human Resource where I worked in the areas of executive development and diversity & inclusion. In 2001, I worked for Putnam Investments whose parent company had 3,000 people in the World Trade Center. We lost 295 people on 9/11, and on 9/12 I moved to NYC to set up and run a support center for the victim’s families. Needless to say this changed my perspective on life and what it is that I truly value.
The events surrounding that day was the catalyst for me to create life change at a relatively early age. I left my corporate career to pursue my passions. I obtained certification from Columbia University as an executive coach which do on a part time basis so I can follow my other passions – time with family and friends, travel, and giving back to the community.
I live with my husband of 44 years on the Rhode Island coast in the summer, and in the Turks and Caicos in the winter. In addition to my coaching work and serving on the BC LGBTQ+ Council, I’m on the board of directors for South County Pride, consult to Lloyds Bank’s Rainbow Network, serve on the Trust and Transformation Committee of South County Hospital, and volunteer for the Turks and Caicos Islands International Film Festival.
Larry Holodak ’84 (He/Him/His)
Managing Director, JPMorgan Chase
I live in New York City and work at JPMorgan Chase in the Corporate Compliance department. Outside of work I am actively engaged in non-profit work to support leadership and academic skills development for students from communities of color. I am a proud practicing Catholic and a founding member of the Out@StPaul ministry at St Paul the Apostle Church in NYC and co-produced a short documentary film, Owning Our Faith.
I wanted to be a part of the team that helps reconcile and reunite BC's LGBTQ+ alumni with the university. There is much work to be done and I am excited to work with this talented group to make it happen.
Lisa Kahlman ’02 (Any Pronouns)
Executive Director, Policy & Public Affairs; Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc.
I am a gay woman living with my wife in Portland, Oregon. I love strength training, hiking, cycling, reading and learning how to do DIY home projects.
I knew I was gay from the time I was 12 but didn't come out until I was 30. I wasn't in a place in my life to be out at BC but I want to create an open, welcoming place for any current students who identify as LGBTQ+.
Matthew Lane ’98 (He/Him)
Director of College Counseling at the Branson School
I grew up in Westport, CT before matriculating at Boston College. At BC, I was very involved in the music scene, serving as President of the BC Acoustics and Vice President of the University Chorale. Other involvement included the Kairos program, volunteering with the Samaritans, giving tours with the admission office, and working a part time job at the College Sub Shop. A double major in Psychology and Sociology, I knew that I wanted to spend my career helping others.
After college, I worked in college admission at Providence College, Babson College, and then back at my beloved Boston College. I realized just how much I love working with students, so I left the college side and began working as a college counselor in high schools. Currently, I'm the Director of College Counseling at the Branson School, in Ross, CA, about 10 miles north of San Francisco. One of my favorite non-work commitments is volunteering with the Point Foundation, an organization that provides scholarship, mentorship, and leadership development for LGBTQ+ college and grad students. I live in the city with my husband, Brian, also a BC alum from the class of '98.
I am thrilled to be joining the Executive Committee for the LGBTQ+ Alumni Council as I get to combine my affection for my alma mater with my commitment to make every space a more inclusive and celebratory space for all.
Joan Jungbin Lee MCAS ’18
As the neurodivergent eldest child of Korean immigrants, Joan learned early on about the importance of adaptive equitable educational support. She graduated from Boston College studying History & Philosophy as a first-generation student. She was highly involved in PULSE Council.
As a NYer living in the South, Joan still doesn’t know how to drive but has learned to smile at neighbors. They currently live in New Orleans with their partner, two cats (Moomin & Bub), two dogs (Rolo & Pluto), and a rotating cast of foster animal(s).
Robert Murray Jr. ’88 (He/Him/His)
I came to BC from Northern New Jersey, graduating in 1988 from Carroll School of Management with a BS in Finance. While on campus, I was an admissions volunteer, and a four year manager for the men's basketball team. Upon graduating I began a career in equity trading in New York, transferring to San Francisco after a year. Arriving there at the heights of the AIDS crisis was a huge eye opener for someone just coming out, and I don't remember I time when I wasn't involved in some kind of organizing or fundraising for causes that advanced the rights and health of the LGBTQ+ Community.
Having recently sold my business, I look forward to reconnecting with BC and help to create a campus that allows everyone to live their truth with respect and dignity. The progress made since I graduated is impressive, but it's also clear we have a long way to go to achieve full acceptance.
Jay Nam ’18 (He/him)
Analyst, Blackstone Group
I was born and raised in Southern California to Korean immigrant parents. I studied Philosophy, Finance, and Information Systems at BC and was actively involved with the AHANA Management Academy, Career Center, and various service orgs.
I wanted to join the Council to create a more inclusive, supportive environment for LGBTQ+ students at BC. In addition, I hope to open doors for alum and current students to connect on career opportunities and LGBTQ+ visibility in the workplace.
Annelise Hagar Preciado, MCAS'14, MCGS'15
Annelise Mirella Hagar Preciado is a Double Eagle BC alum (B.A. Sociology and Hispanic Studies, ‘14, M.A. Sociology, ‘15). While at BC, she was involved in Allies, the Montserrat Coalition, Organization of Latin American Affairs, Vagina Monologues, AHANA Caucus, University Chorale, and McNair Scholars Program. Coming from the Latinx and queer communities, Annelise firmly believes in the power of people, diversity & inclusion—a mentality that makes her consistently seek out opportunities to amplify the voices of those in marginalized communities. She is excited to be joining BC’s LGBTQ+ Alumni Council so that she may strengthen the connection between LGBTQ+ BC alumni and increase support to queer BC students as they navigate college and prepare to enter the post-grad world. Annelise grew up in the Los Angeles area and now resides in San Francisco with her cat Chloe.
Lydia Rigby, CSOM ’08, CGSOM ’23
As a proud double Eagle, I am a Latina transgender gay woman deeply rooted in my love for both the Boston College community and the broader LGBTQ+ community. My passion for fostering inclusivity and equality has led me to meaningful roles, including co-leading the Lesbian and Bi Women's Discussion Group at the Cambridge Women's Center, where I championed a supportive and inclusive environment. I have actively sought to transform professional spaces into LGBTQ+ friendly environments, spearheading initiatives like incorporating gender pronouns in emails and the introduction of gender-neutral restrooms in the workplace in my previous roles.
My commitment to these causes stems from a deep-seated love for the queer community and an unwavering loyalty to Boston College, my alma mater. Serving on the Boston College LGBTQ+ Alumni Council is not only a privilege but also an extension of my commitment to improve the lives and experiences of the queer community. I look forward to using this platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, foster dialogue, and work towards a more inclusive and supportive BC community.
Christopher Rizzo, MCAS ’22
I was born and raised in Brookfield, Wisconsin and moved to Boston to attend Boston College in the fall of 2018. I graduated with a BA in Art History in 2022. I now live in Brookline and work at TDC, a nonprofit consulting firm based in Boston. During my time at BC I played the oboe in the University Wind Ensemble, worked as a student ambassador at the McMullen Museum, and was involved in the LGBTQ+ community at BC as a Spectrum retreat lead, GLBTQ+ Leadership Council (GLC) E-Board member, and eventually as chair of GLC.
My time at BC, and particularly my involvement in the Queer community, changed me for the better. I want to support BC students, other alumni, faculty and staff as they work to make Boston college more welcoming, diverse, and open. I am grateful for my BC experience, and I hope to create community with all who share an identity as Queer eagles to express my gratitude.
Kristopher Robinson, LSOE ’12 (he/him)
Kris Robinson (he/him) is a higher education and non-profit professional with ten years of experience working at various colleges and universities, including Fordham University, the City University of New York (CUNY), and Pace University. He currently works as a Counselor for the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program at Passaic County Community College and is the Deputy Director of Southern Scholars Initiative. Kris is a staunch advocate for student success, holistic development, and equity in education. He received his BA in Human Development and Communication from Boston College, his M.S.Ed in Rehabilitation Counseling from Hunter College, and a second M.S.Ed in Higher Education Administration from Baruch College. He is currently a doctoral student at Rowan University in their Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Ed. D.) program.
Kris enjoys serving as a mentor, coach, and guide to young people and believes it is his vocation. He is also a published author, having his work featured in Disability Experiences: Memoirs, Autobiographies, and Other Personal Narratives (Vol. 1. ) where he composed a book review on Geography of the Heart: A Memoir (1996).
In his free time, he enjoys watching movies and TV shows, writing, reading, and hanging out with friends and family. He is excited to join BC’s LGBTQ+ Alumni Council to help positively shape the experiences of current and future LGBTQ+ students and alumni within the BC community.
Emma Rooney ’22 (She/Her/Hers)
I'm originally from East Windsor, NJ. I graduated from Boston College in 2022 with a degree in Communication. I am currently attending graduate school at the Lynch School of Education studying Higher Education with a concentration in Student Affairs. During my time at BC, I was a member of the Boston College Dynamics, participated in BC Theatre, was a student DJ at WZBC, and was an orientation leader.
I was never a part of LGBTQ+ leadership at BC and wanted a chance to forge connections with the larger LGBTQ+ BC community, as well as help generate inclusivity and positivity in the undergrad and graduate experiences of queer eagles. :)
Catherine “Cat” Senoyuit CSON ’18
I grew up in a small town in Bucks County PA and felt like I hit the jackpot when I was admitted into BC in 2014. While I was at BC, I participated in the Student Nurses Association, the International Assistants program, and Navy ROTC.
After I graduated from CSON in 2018, I served five years in the Navy working as a Nurse in San Diego and Southern Spain. I recently moved back to the US after separating from the military and am currently living in St. Petersburg FL working as an ER nurse in a community hospital.
I wanted to get involved in working with the LGBTQ+ alumni group so all members of BC, past and present, feel they have a safe and supportive community around them.
Jess Shapiro '14 (she/her/hers)
Assistant Director for Student Engagement, Ithaca College
I am originally from Santa Monica, CA but have lived on the East Coast since moving to Boston for college. At BC, I majored in Elementary Education and Psychology and simultaneously realized I loved the higher education environment and wanted to continue working in it. I went on to earn a Master's degree in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University in Ohio and then moved to Ithaca, NY to work at Ithaca College. After my time at BC as a Resident Assistant, Student Admissions Program volunteer, UGBC member, and more, I have now worked professionally in Residential Life, Campus Center, and Student Engagement. Outside of work, I love watching movies and plays, reading, baking, and spending time with my amazing spouse and our ginger cat.
I owe much of my initial sexual identity development to my time at BC, where I came to understand myself as a bisexual cisgender woman. I absolutely loved my junior year involvement in the GLBTQ+ Leadership Council (GLC) as Director of Communications and truly felt at home in the LGBTQ+ community created in and around GLC. I look forward to continuing to foster that sort of community in our alumni.
Kyle Taylor ’22 (He/Him/His)
I am originally from the SF Bay Area and graduated from the College of Arts and Sciences with a major in Economics. At BC, I was involved as a Freshman League Captain, 4Boston Leader, and VP of the Marketing Academy. This fall, I will begin my professional career in Boston as a strategy consultant for EY-Parthenon.
I am looking forward to joining the Executive Committee this year because I am excited about giving back to the BC LGBTQ+ community, through expanding advocacy efforts and strengthening community social bonds. Also, I am very interested in building networking relationships and mentorship opportunities for BC LGBTQ+ career professionals, who may often face varying barriers to success because of a lack of representation, discrimination, etc.
Catherine “Cat” Tepoz, CGSOM ’22
Cat was born and raised in Queens, New York to Mexican immigrant parents and has been living in the Boston area since 2011. As a first-generation college student, Cat graduated with her MBA from Boston College through the part-time MBA program. During her time at Boston College, she served as an ambassador for the part-time MBA program and was a member of Stand Out at Carroll (STOC).
Cat is passionate about building a community of LGBT+ alumni and looks forward to creating a safe space for promoting support and networking.
Chair Emeritus
Laura DelloStritto ’13 (Any Pronouns)
Project Manager, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute
I am originally from Worcester, MA and through my experience working with the GLBTQ+ Leadership Council and the Women's Center while at BC, I became focused on advocating for groups with unmet needs, which led me to obtain a Masters in Public Health. My goal is to work to improve health outcomes for underserved populations; toward that goal, I have been involved in LGBTQ+ organizations since 2011 and currently serve on the board of the Bisexual Resource Center, where I help coordinate the annual #BiHealthMonth campaign each March. In my free time, I enjoy breaking out of escape rooms and planning donut shop tours.
Being involved with the GLBTQ+ Leadership Council as an undergrad was one of the most formative experiences of my life as it allowed me to find queer community, build enough confidence in my identity to come out to my family and friends, and subsequently support my peers through tailored student-led programming. I became involved with the LGBTQ+ Alumni Council to help create space for similar community-building among our many LGBTQ+ BC alums, as well as to promote dialogue around LGBTQ+ issues and serve as a resource for the University, current students, and other alumni networks.
Matt Putorti ’06 (He/Him/His)
Counsel, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
I grew up in a small, rural town in upstate New York. I came out during my senior year at BC, spent two years after BC doing service work, and moved to New York City in 2008 to study at Fordham Law School. I have lived in the City since then and am a litigator at a private law firm.
I am grateful for many parts of my BC experience, which reinforced the importance of being humans for others, and connected me to so many wonderful people. One way for me to express that gratitude is to help build a visible and strong community of LGBTQ alumni who can advance progress.
For inquiries regarding the Boston College LGBTQ+ Alumni Council, please contact: lgbtqalumni@bc.edu