Meet the Admissions Team

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Meet the Admissions Team

The Admissions Team strives to recruit, admit, and enroll a diverse and academically accomplished student body who also excels in leadership and service. We hope that you'll take advantage of reaching out to us and utilizing the team as a resource. We look forward to working with you…Go Seawolves!

Mark A. Cortez
Mark A. Cortez
Executive Director of Admissions

Mark A. Cortez joined Stony Brook University in May 2023. In his role he oversees Undergraduate Admissions, inclusive of international, transfer, and domestic recruitment in addition to campus visits and experiences, application review and academic partnerships, enrollment communications, and admissions operations and systems.

Katie McFarland
Katie McFarland
Director of Recruitment

Katie McFarland joined the Undergraduate Admissions Office in July 2003 and while working as an Admissions Counselor, earned her Masters in Professional Studies from Stony Brook in 2007. As a native of Stony Brook, NY Katie takes great pride in sharing top-ranked SBU with students, families and counselors- especially highlighting the hidden gem that the North Shore of Long Island is.

New York

Christina Lofaso
Associate Director,
New York State Recruitment
Christina Lofaso
Associate Director,
New York State Recruitment

Working in college admissions since 2008, it has been an honor to assist so many students, their supporters, and school counselors all over New York State with their next step in higher education. With my passion for providing as much knowledge and access as possible about the college process, it is my goal to see students thrive on our University and beyond. With my team of New York State counselors, we are there to help you understand why Stony Brook University is one of the top public institutions in America!

  • All the seasons have their moments, but the Cherry Blossoms outside of our office in the Spring is my ultimate favorite view of campus.
  • Going to the Roth Pond Regatta every year reminds me why our students, faculty, staff and alumni are so much fun!!
Ken Wohl
Admissions Counselor
New York
Ken Wohl
Admissions Counselor

Having also taught history classes on campus, I am excited to continue to work with students and help them thought the college process!

  • I love eating at our wide variety of food trucks!
  • My favorite event on campus is the Roth pond Regatta
Dena Asfour
Admissions Counselor
New York
Dena Asfour
Admissions Counselor

Being able to work for a university such as Stony Brook has been amazing. The opportunities we are able to provide and see our student's thrive in is on another level!

  • My favorite food on campus is the chicken roll from SAC.
  • I love to attend events hosted by students like pocket theater when given the chance!
Christopher Boldis
Admissions Counselor
New York
Christopher Boldis
Admissions Counselor

Being able to work for a school like Stony Brook has been nothing short of spectacular. It’s inspiring to see all the talent and involvement our students bring to campus, and the pride they have in being Seawolves.

  • My favorite place to walk is by Roth Pond
  • My favorite food on campus is Chatime
Alex Contento
Admissions Counselor
New York
Alex Contento
Admissions Counselor

As the Long Island recruiter, I get the opportunity to help local students discover all the unique and life changing opportunities that Stony Brook has to offer.

  • My favorite spot on campus is the Wang Center Zen Garden
  • I love having so many food trucks on campus.

Out of State

Bryan Friebel
Admissions Manager
MA, ME, NH, VT
Bryan Friebel
Admissions Manager

A joy of being in this profession is to help share the pride and passion I have as an alumni of Stony Brook with new students. Come visit our campus and be amazed!

  • My favorite Spot on campus is the North Reading Room.
  • I graduated from SBU in the 5 year MBA Track.
Kelly Slater
Admissions Manager
Southeast US
Kelly Slater
Admissions Manager

I enjoy working with families in the Southeast and introducing them to all that Stony Brook and Long Island have to offer. You may not find sweet tea and hear "y'all" quite as readily, but we assure you that you'll find a welcoming and supportive community full of the hospitality that you know.

  • My favorite place to eat on campus is Halal N.Y.
  • I love walking along Roth Pond and seeing the turtles.
Catherine Bittlingmeyer
Admissions Counselor
DE, MD, PA, VA
Catherine Bittlingmeyer
Admissions Counselor

As an Admissions Counselor here, I am excited to share the amazing opportunities and supportive community that makes Stony Brook a place all students can call home, just like I have been able to. We encourage you to come visit us and Go Seawolves!!!

  • My favorite Campus Spot is the Administration Fountain.
  • I am getting my MA in Higher Education.
Jessica Cavaiani
Admissions Counselor
Midwest US
Jessica Cavaiani
Admissions Counselor

Although I grew up in the midwest, and currently live in the midwest, I love sharing Stony Brook with students because there is truly so much to offer academically, and extracurricularly and SBU is in such a fun and unique location!

  • My favorite spot on campus is Roth Pond!
  • My favorite food on campus is all the sushi.
Cameron Chungata
Admissions Counselor
Texas
Cameron Chungata
Admissions Counselor

Being able to introduce students to Stony Brook University as an out of state admissions counselor and then seeing them take their first step toward their future and knowing I played a small part is what keeps me passionate about the work I do every day.

  • My favorite food on campus is sushi burritos at Jasmine!
  • I love seeing the Cherry blossom trees bloom every spring.
Kory Kaelin
Admissions Counselor
New Jersey
Kory Kaelin
Admissions Counselor

After graduating Stony Brook in 2023, I realized I wanted to continue my time here and help other students see how great this campus is by guiding them through the admissions process.

  • I took a class here about the zombie apocalypse.
  • My favorite SBU groups are the tennis club and ESports team.
  • My favorite SBU groups are the ESports team and tennis club.
Sophia Nicastro
Admissions Counselor
CT, RI
Sophia Nicastro
Admissions Counselor

As a proud Stony Brook alumni, I have firsthand experience with all the opportunities this school has to offer. From performing on our dance team, to working at the Child Care Center, and being a research assistant, I'm really proud of my accomplishments here and I know you will be, too!

  • My favorite food on campus is anything from Jasmine.
  • I got my job here through our Career Center!
Mohamed-Khadar Qas
Admissions Counselor
Western US
Mohamed-Khadar Qas
Admissions Counselor

I love the opportunity connecting with students and helping them solve some of the same challenges I had when I was looking for colleges to attend. As someone who went away for college, I have first-hand experience on the complexities that students who go away for college face. My educational and experiential experience helps me find creative solutions for problems of any size.

  • My favorite place to eat on campus is at the Wang Center. It's one of the most beautiful buildings on campus.
  • I grew up in California, but I enjoy watching winter sports such snowboarding.

International

Benjamin Dobbs
Director of International Admissions
Benjamin Dobbs
Director of International Admissions

Benjamin Dobbs joined Stony Brook University in October 2025. With an extensive background working with international populations including first year, transfer and graduate, he has traveled to many countries around the world to market the top-tier academic, professional and personal benefits of a U.S. college experience. He is excited to work to continue advancing the competetive, diverse and enriching value that a Stony Brook University educational experience has to offer international students.

  • Stony Brook's vibrant campus serves as an excellent backdrop for a high quality learning environment.
  • The diverse student population makes Stony Brook a stellar educational experience.
Jing Li
Admissions and
Partnerships Manager
Jing Li
Admissions and
Partnerships Manager

I was born and raised in China and came to Stony Brook University as an international student. With my multicultural background and firsthand experience, I enjoy speaking with prospective students and their families from diverse backgrounds about the many opportunities and advantages SBU has to offer. I understand the challenges and opportunities that international students face, and I am passionate about helping them navigate their journey with confidence and support.

  • My favorite spot on campus is Music Library.
  • I attended Bruno Mars concert on campus during my college life at SBU.
Paul Crimi
Admissions Counselor
Paul Crimi
Admissions Counselor

As a person who is open to new experiences, one of the things I like a lot about Stony Brook University is the diversity on campus from the majors to the clubs and organization to the student population, it makes for great mix of people and environment.

  • I love the sculptures over by the Engineering buildings.
  • I love walking around campus during the fall.
Nicholas LaChance
Admissions Counselor
Nicholas LaChance
Admissions Counselor

I have lived on Long Island my whole life and have been lucky to enough to meet so many great friends and peers throughout my time on the Island. I graduated from SBU with my bachelor's degree in 2021. It has been a dream of mine to come back here and build a career with this great university!

  • My favorite place on campus is the Wang Center.
  • I have an M.A in sociology and still have plans to get my PhD in the future!

International Recruitment Support

In line with our commitment to enhancing transparency in the international student recruitment process while supporting the expansion of international student recruitment, Stony Brook University has contracted with select companies to provide dedicated international support services in certain countries to assist prospective international students interested in applying to Stony Brook's academic programs. The individuals listed below are employees of the respective recruitment support service companies referenced. Stony Brook does not recruit students, wherever they are located, who may be eligible for U.S. financial aid.

Transfer

Maria Campanella
Director, Transfer and Special Population Admissions
Maria Campanella
Director, Transfer and Special Population Admissions

I grew up on Long Island and have been at Stony Brook University in various Director roles since September 2016. I've been working in higher education for many years, both as an administrator and instructor, and I truly enjoy working with students. Supporting transfer students' transition during all phases of enrollment is essential to their success. From recruitment, to admission, to enrollment, all the way through graduation, transfer students need both academic and student services support to help navigate challenges that they may face. It is my ultimate goal that transfer students feel welcomed, valued and supported in their journey, not only to enhance their sense of belonging but ultimately to ensure their academic success in completing their degree.

  • My favorite place on campus is the Wang Center - Be sure to check it out!
  • I love the fountains on campus and the Brook.
Caroline Mierzwa
Admissions Counselor
Caroline Mierzwa
Admissions Counselor

Stony Brook's unique combination of excellent academic programs, affordability, and strong sense of community impressed me from day one. I knew I wanted to work in a university that places such value on inclusion and growth.

  • My favorite place to eat lunch is the back terrace of the Wang Center.
  • There is no way to describe the excitement and reunion of the campus community after summer break. The first week of classes continues to be one of my favorite times on a college campus.
Kevin Wrobleski
Admissions Counselor
Kevin Wrobleski
Admissions Counselor

I became an Admissions Counselor at Stony Brook University because, as a native Long Islander, I understand the value of this institution firsthand. Guiding prospective students through their higher education journey is deeply fulfilling to me. I'm passionate about helping students discover their potential and connect with the transformative opportunities that Stony Brook offers, shaping their academic futures.

  • My favorite spot on campus is the zen garden in the Wang Center.
  • I used to go to Seawolves basketball games as a kid.
Tracey Iorio
Assistant Director, ATAS
Joint Admissions
Tracey Iorio
Assistant Director, ATAS
Joint Admissions

I joined Stony Brook University in the fall 2002. I have lived on Long Island for 33 years and my favorite part of living here is the BEACH! I have loved working in higher education for the last 37 years. The students keep me energized and young. As an Assistant Director for Transfer Services I work primarily with Suffolk County Community College and Nassau Community College students. I assist them with their class schedules, their Associate and Bachelor degree requirements and how to seamlessly transfer to Stony Brook University. My current position as the Coordinator for the Seawolves at Suffolk program allows me to be at the community college campuses advising students on a regular basis. The program also provides a numerous opportunities for our community college students to participate in the many events on the Stony Brook campus.

  • I love going to the Simons Center is a beautiful space and the food is delicious.
  • Roth Pond Regatta and Homecoming are my two favorite campus traditions
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