NewHavenBIZ

28 n e w h a v e n B I Z | M a r c h 2 0 2 0 | n e w h a v e n b i z . c o m NEW HAVEN POWER 50 JUDY OLIAN PRESIDENT QUINNIPIAC UNIV ERSITY Residence: Hamden Education: Hebrew University, BA; University of Wisconsin, MSc., Ph.D. When QU undertook an "international search" for a successor to John Lahey, it was no mere gesture: A native Australian educated in Israel, Olian assumed the helm July 1, 2018. What is Quinnipiac's impact on the surrounding community? e university's direct and indirect economic impact in the region exceeds $3 billion a year. We perform thousands of hours of community service and volunteer projects, from distributing hot meals to tax-preparation clinics to mentoring in local schools, to coaching youth athletics. What personal characteristic has most contributed to your professional success — and how? Being both curious and resilient have helped shape who I am and where I've landed. Living in different countries around the world at an early age led me to appreciate, respect and admire different cultures and perspectives. What advice would you give young professional people? Start with just saying yes to opportunities that come to you, or when someone asks for your help on a project — even if it's outside your sweet spot. What is an interesting facet about you that most people don't know? I wanted to be a ballet dancer when I was growing up, but I wasn't nearly good enough to make it a career! MARGARET ANNE TOCKARSHEWSKY EXECUTIV E DIRECTOR NEW H AV EN MUSEUM Residence: New Haven College(s): Cornell University, BS; Columbia University, MS Describe your role in your organization: Get people excited about their history! My role is to provide leadership for collecting, preserving and interpreting the history and heritage of greater New Haven by building a strong collection and a robust schedule of exhibitions, education programs, and outreach activities to engage new audiences, partners and supporters. What personal characteristic has most contributed to your profes- sional success — and how? I am genuinely interested in people and their stories, and that has made me more collaborative. Museums can be an incredibly unifying resource. When people from all walks of life, with differ- ing viewpoints and experiences visit the museum, nearly every one of them agrees that the Elm City and its history are worth celebrating — and protecting. What advice would you give young up-and-coming business profes- sionals? Pursue opportunities for professional development, be a good listener, and be open to new ways of thinking. Get to know the community. Don't wait for people and opportunities to come to you. What is something about you that most people don't know? I studied ballet for more than 25 years. One day I'd like to drive Route 66 in an Airstream. JENNIFER MORGAN DELMONICO M A NAGING PA RTNER MURTH A CULLINA, LLP, NEW H AV EN Residence: Milford College(s): Northwestern University, Bachelor of Music; University of Virginia, JD Respected barrister specializing in commercial litigation and product liability defense. One of the business community's most effective advocates, as current chair of the Connecticut Business & Industry Association and immediate past chair of the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. Winner of professional and civic awards literally too numerous to mention. Describe your role: My goal as managing partner has been to grow the firm's practice groups by adding top quality lawyers who provide legal services in practical, business-friendly manner to help our clients succeed in an ever- changing business environment. In five years, we have more than doubled the number of attorneys. What personal characteristic would you say has most contributed to your professional success? To have the discipline to prioritize what is most important and will have the most impact, to focus on those items, develop strong plans to address them, and assemble teams of talented people to execute. What advice would you give rising professionals? Do excellent work, and make the most of every opportunity you have to demonstrate your abilities. You never know who is watching and when an opportunity will arise. What don't most people know about you? I was a professional musician (oboe) before going to law school. SUSAN A. MARTINELLI, CPA OFFICE LEA DER & AUDIT PA RTNER RSM US LLP, NEW H AV EN Residence: Southington College(s): Central CT State University, BS; UConn, MS Heading New Haven office of one of the largest ac- counting/con- sulting firms in Connecticut, 43-year-old CPA is an acknowl- edged star in her company and industry. Just completed term as president of board of 6,000-mem- ber Connecticut Society of Certi- fied Public Accountants. Describe your role in your orga- nization: I manage day-to-day operations of RSM US LLP's New Haven office and ensure that our local practice is delivering the power of being understood to our clients, colleagues and communi- ties through world-class audit, tax and consulting services focused on middle-market businesses. What personal characteristic has most contributed to your profes- sional success? Adaptability. When I am faced with a challenge, a change, or a different perspective from mine, I look at it as an opportunity to learn and grow. What advice would you give to up- and-coming professionals? Be your true, authentic self. Pick a few core values that are important to you and stick to them. Also, you are an influencer at every stage of your career. Your title does not really matter. How you carry yourself does. Unchained melody: I love different types of music and enjoy attending concerts — especially Pearl Jam! >> Higher Education/Non-Profit >> Professions

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