Business, Digital Communications, Computer Science Boards

WILLIAM BOYD

Registered Representative, New York Life

WILLIAM BOYD

Registered Representative, New York Life

Will Boyd is a Registered Representative with New York Life Insurance Company, where he has been helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals since February 2023. With a focus on providing tailored financial solutions, Will is passionate about empowering others to make informed decisions that support long-term stability and growth.

Will’s educational path rooted in Appoquinimink School District, attending Olive B. Loss, Everett Meredith Middle, and Appoquinimink High School. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Music from Delaware State University in 2017, followed by a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing Management from Wilmington University in 2021.

Driven by a genuine desire to help others succeed, Will is committed to making a positive impact both professionally and within his community. He finds fulfillment in giving back, building relationships, and supporting people through life’s milestones. Outside of work, he enjoys listening to music, following sports, and staying actively engaged in community outreach efforts.

DR. REBA BUSINSKY

Entrepreneur, Namaste for Life

DR. REBA BUSINSKY

Entrepreneur, Namaste for Life

Dr. Reba Businsky, Ph.D., CPC, is the owner of Namaste For Life, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals to prioritize their well-being. She is deeply passionate about helping people find balance, reduce stress, and live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Dr. Businsky founded Namaste For Life to create a nurturing, inclusive space where individuals and families can explore a variety of healing practices within a supportive community. The organization is committed to fostering personal growth, connection, and holistic wellness for all.

In addition to her work with Namaste For Life, Dr. Businsky is a full-time college professor at Harford Community College, where she teaches business courses. She also serves as a part-time instructor in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program at Goldey- Beacom College, in the business program at Wilmington University, and in the supply chain program at American Public University Systems. Since 2016, she has proudly served on the Business Advisory Board for the Appoquinimink School District, where she enjoys contributing to the educational and professional journeys of high school students in this exceptional district.

SHANECE CHONGLING

Area Support Manager, Dover Federal Credit Union

SHANECE CHONGLING

Area Support Manager, Dover Federal Credit Union

Shanece Chongling is a financial industry professional with over 14 years of experience and a deep passion for financial education. Currently overseeing all retail locations at Dover Federal Credit Union, she combines her leadership role with a strong commitment to empowering others through financial literacy.

As a proud mother of three children ages 4-12, who are all students in the Appoquinimink School District, she is especially motivated to make a meaningful impact in her community by promoting financial guidance and education for families and future generations.

DR. KAREN L. GRAVES

Chair of Finance and Economics, Assistant Professor, Wilmington University

DR. KAREN L. GRAVES

Chair of Finance and Economics, Assistant Professor, Wilmington University

Dr. Karen L. Graves is an Assistant Professor of Business at Wilmington University, where she also serves as Chair of the Finance and Economics Program. With over 24 years of experience, she is a transformative executive leader who has guided multi-million-dollar organizations across Philadelphia.

She holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy (Nonprofit Management and Leadership), an MPA in Public Policy, an MBA in Accounting, and a BS in Accounting and Finance. Dr. Graves has held leadership roles including Chief Financial Officer, Director of Fiscal and Operations, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Compliance Officer in major drug and alcohol organizations, mental health services, and federally qualified health centers.

Dr. Graves has played a pivotal role in driving financial stability and organizational growth. Her work reflects a deep commitment to community health, particularly in advancing care coordination and improving outcomes for African American communities in Philadelphia.

She currently serves as Treasurer and member of Freedom Worship and has previously held leadership roles at Eastern University Academy Charter School. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Graves is passionate about educating future leaders and advocating for health equity and underserved communities.

MICHELLE GRAMLICH

Chief Executive Officer, Middletown Chamber of Commerce

MICHELLE GRAMLICH

Chief Executive Officer, Middletown Chamber of Commerce

As CEO of the Middletown Area Chamber of Commerce, Michelle Gramlich brings a strong background in economic development, business advocacy, and community partnerships to her role on the Appoquinimink Business Advisory Board. She leads with energy, vision, and a deep commitment to strengthening both the business community and the region at large. Her work with hundreds of local businesses gives her unique insight into workforce readiness, educational alignment, and the need to prepare students for real-world success.

Under Michelle’s leadership, MACC has expanded its impact, enhanced member services, and launched key initiatives that drive economic growth and collaboration across the region. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing and organizational leadership, she is passionate about bridging the gap between students and the broader business community. She firmly believes that strong schools are the foundation of a thriving economy, and that strong partnerships build stronger communities.

Michelle is also a proud parent of two boys in the district, a dedicated community volunteer, current President of the MOT Rotary Club, and an active member of the Joint Military Affairs Leadership Committee. Her priorities include transparency, community engagement, and fostering meaningful connections that benefit students, families, local businesses, and the future of our MOT community.

DR. TOMMY LU

Retired Department Chair, Information Technologies, Delaware Tech Community College

DR. TOMMY LU

Retired Department Chair, Information Technologies, Delaware Tech Community College

Tommy Lu, EdD, has been working closely with community-based Chinese heritage language schools and organizations for over 20 years. He has served in variety of positions, including teacher, principal, and president in local, regional, and national Chinese heritage language organizations. He also served as co-chair of the ACTFL Heritage Language Special Interest Group. He is now serving as a board member and a Language Representative with the Coalition of Community-Based Heritage Language Schools, which includes all heritage languages in the United States. He was also a member of America’s Languages Working Group of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences (AAAS) and advisor to the Chinese Early Language Immersion Network (CELIN) of Asia Society and the Washington Metropolitan Association of Chinese Schools (WMACS).

Tommy has been an active member of Lions Clubs International and local Chinese American Community Center. He has served as Delaware Lions District Governor and currently served as a board member of Chinese American Community Center in Hockessin, DE. Dr. Lu retired as the Department Chair of Information Technologies at Delaware Technical Community College in Wilmington, Delaware.

AISHA ORTIZ

Human Resource Executive

AISHA ORTIZ

Human Resource Executive

Aisha Ortiz, SHRM-CP, is a seasoned HR Executive and the Founder of The Confident Hire, a career development platform designed to empower professionals through strategic coaching and practical tools. With over 15 years of experience in human resources, Aisha currently serves as Vice President, Human Resources Business Advisor at JPMorgan Chase, where she partners with business leaders to drive inclusive talent strategies and elevate the employee experience.

Known for her relatable and actionable approach, Aisha has led workshops and spoken for organizations including The Mom Project, Delaware SHRM, and Culture Amp. She has also partnered with the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s annual Workforce Development Conference as both a featured speaker and a member of the conference planning committee.

Aisha holds a Master’s in Organizational Management and HR Development from Manhattanville College and multiple certifications in DEI, leadership, and inclusive hiring. She currently serves as Workforce Development Chair for Delaware SHRM and is a passionate advocate for equity and access in the workplace.

KAYLA PARKER

Intern Program Director, Office of Management and Budget, State of Delaware

KAYLA PARKER

Intern Program Director, Office of Management and Budget, State of Delaware

Kayla Parker serves as the Intern Program Director for the Office of Management and Budget. Before joining the Office of Management and Budget, she held several roles within various State agencies, including Senior Accountant at the Department of State and Fiscal Management Analyst at the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).

A proud Delawarean, Kayla earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from Wesley College in 2014 and a Master's Degree in Finance from Wilmington University in 2018. Prior to her public service career, she gained extensive experience in the private financial and accounting sector, which laid a strong foundation for her work in State Accounting and Management.

Kayla values enthusiasm and curiosity, thriving on fresh perspectives that challenge conventional thinking and spark creativity. Committed to lifelong learning, she is continuously inspired to explore new ideas, embrace diverse viewpoints, and adapt with openness and curiosity.

DR. JOHN SPARCO

Director, Finance, Accounting, Economics, & Analytics, College of Business and Technology, Wilmington University

DR. JOHN SPARCO

Director, Finance, Accounting, Economics, & Analytics, College of Business and Technology, Wilmington University

Dr. John Sparco is the Director of Finance, Accounting, Economics and Analytics for the College of Business and Technology at Wilmington University in New Castle, Delaware. Dr. Sparco is the co-founder and current Chair of the Undergraduate Business Analytics Program at Wilmington University. He leads a full-time and adjunct faculty staff and is responsible for curriculum in the Undergraduate Business Analytics Program as well as the MBA Business Analytics Concentration.

Dr. Sparco holds a B.S. in Computer Science from the College of William and Mary and holds an MBA and Ph.D. in Operations Research from the University of Delaware. He has taught at the Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral levels at Wilmington University on a variety of topics related to statistics and data analytics, business intelligence, research design and measurement, project management, and organizational decision making.

Prior to joining Wilmington University Dr. Sparco founded a GIS consulting firm that provided geographic analysis for state government and private firms, and he spent 4 years at Conrail as a systems programmer in the IT group doing performance tuning and capacity planning of online transaction processing and database management systems. In 1996, he joined QVC where he provided data-guided support in a data-rich environment to Marketing, Distribution & Fulfillment, Call Center Operations, New Business Development, and C-Level and Senior Management decision makers. He coordinated a team of analysts engaged in high-level quantitative analysis to support multiple areas of QVC’s business and provided statistical consulting to the organization. He finished his 18-year career with QVC as the Senior Manager of the organization’s data analytics team.

HARRIET STOKES

Real Estate Agent

HARRIET STOKES

Real Estate Agent

With over eight years of experience as a licensed Realtor in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, I bring a teacher’s heart and a deep passion for helping others into every real estate journey. As a retired educator with three Master’s degrees and multiple certifications, I’ve successfully transitioned from the classroom to real estate—guiding clients with patience, clarity, and care. Education remains at the core of my work. I regularly host financial literacy workshops and Home Buyer/Seller seminars to empower individuals and families with the knowledge they need to make confident, informed decisions. I also mentor students exploring real estate as a career, helping them lay a strong foundation for success.

My commitment to service extends beyond real estate. Each quarter, I mentor young women in my home and lead monthly Zoom sessions focused on personal growth and encouragement. I also teach Deep Water Aerobics at the YMCA, combining wellness, connection, and joy. As a lifelong learner, musician, and craft enthusiast, I find joy in uplifting others—whether they’re finding their dream home or discovering their life’s purpose. I strive to make a lasting impact, one relationship at a time. I’m a proud wife, mom to four adult children, and grandmother to one sweet granddaughter. I live each day with intention, kindness, and a heart for helping others thrive.

SUSAN YOCUM

Community Relations Officer, Dover Federal Credit Union

SUSAN YOCUM

Community Relations Officer, Dover Federal Credit Union

DR. SCOTT WALTON

Chair of Marketing Program, College of Business, Wilmington University

DR. SCOTT WALTON

Chair of Marketing Program, College of Business, Wilmington University

Dr. Scott Walton is Chair of the Undergraduate Marketing Program at Wilmington University’s College of Business in New Castle, Delaware. He leads a team of faculty and teaches a range of undergraduate and graduate courses. He has also served on dissertation committees for doctoral candidates, bringing a dynamic perspective shaped by his experience as a business owner, consultant, and educator.

Before joining Wilmington University full time, Dr. Walton held roles as a corporate executive, entrepreneur, and adjunct instructor. At UPS, he spent five years in management, supply chain, and project oversight. As a consultant, he worked with companies like Starbucks, helping streamline operations across hundreds of locations. He also founded Velocity Performance Apparel, a screen-printing and embroidery business.

Dr. Walton has taught at Harford Community College, Cecil College, and Wilmington University, specializing in marketing, entrepreneurship, business management, and accounting. He is a frequent speaker on topics such as generational dynamics, team development, and effective communication, addressing audiences that include small business owners, executives, and government contractors.

He remains active in community service, serving on the board of EDGE, supporting underserved youth in Wilmington, and previously as Vice Chair of the Havre de Grace Housing Authority. He has also contributed to race and event committees across Maryland.

Dr. Walton holds a DBA from Wilmington University, an MBA from Loyola University Maryland, and bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Economics from Washington College. He resides in Forest Hill, Maryland, and is a proud single father of two daughters.

SANDRA WEBB

Owner, Saladworks+Frutta Bowls

SANDRA WEBB

Owner, Saladworks+Frutta Bowls

Sandy Webb, Owner of the Saladworks+Frutta Bowls in Middletown, DE and the Saladworks in Dover DE, has been a passionate advocate of helping "grow" our youth into great employees. She was instrumental in forming the Appoquinimink Culinary and Hospitality Advisory Board and has continued to support our students through Work-based Learning. Sandy fosters a mentoring and coaching work environment and loves watching our youth blossom!

Business, Digital Communications, Computer Science Boards

Business, Digital Communications, Computer Science Boards

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