My professional journey has been quite a whirlwind, but every experience has been an unexpected journey on the unbeaten path which has helped shape who I am today. While I have my BA in Psychology, I’ve been lucky enough to explore different career interests in tourism, events, and hospitality. After graduation I spent 3 years working case management for adults with disabilities on Long Island. My course shifted when I had an opportunity to return to my alma mater to work in Student Activities, an enjoyable and impactful 6-year experience. I implemented several programs aimed at mentoring and developing leadership for our students, as well as planned a wide variety of campus events.
When my position was impacted by restructuring, I chose instead to pursue a long-time goal of relocating. Staying focused on the end goal, the “what” and “how” revealed itself in a way least expected. This led me to a one of a kind exciting, challenging and rewarding experience working for an all-inclusive resort as live-on site staff in Florida and the Caribbean. A diverse variety of roles include instructing dance and Zumba, performing in shows, organizing social and recreational events, dressing as different characters to entertain guests, and training staff – all while getting the fortune to meet interesting people from all over the world.
In 2013 I returned to NYC for an opportunity to work for one of the top tourist attractions in the world. In 2017 I returned to higher education, working as a Program and Administrative Manager who helped launched a brand new academic department at a major University that is striving to make a difference in the health field.
I’ve been entertaining people since before I could walk! An energizer bunny and social butterfly who has a natural ability to engage people of all ages and backgrounds has made my 15 years freelancing in hospitality, events, and entertainment a true passion and joy. Described by peers and employers as a dynamic, vibrant, well-spoken professional with a winning smile and contagious enthusiasm who delivers superior brand representation and customer service. My skills have been seasoned from staffing a wide range of trade shows, sporting events, concerts, private and corporate functions, and more that includes major venues and brands as well as with VIP and celebrity clientele. Management for a major NYC tourist attraction, at an international resort, as well as for campus activities with events ranging from 50 to 4000 attendees has developed my team leadership and event operation skills.
Areas of Expertise:
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Public Speaking & Hosting
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Interpersonal & Communication Skills
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Exemplary Guest Engagement & Customer Service
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VIP and Celebrity guest service
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Program & Event Management
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Project Planning/Execution
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Public Relations
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Team Leadership & Collaboration
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Staff Training & Development
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Performance Management
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Team Leadership & Collaboration
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Interpersonal & Communication Skills
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Performance Management
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Strategic Planning
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Crisis Management
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Meticulous attention to detail
Experience:
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Columbia University, New York City 2017-Present
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Administrative Manager & Executive Assistant 2021-Present
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Administrative Coordinator & Executive Assistant 2019-2021
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Executive Assistant 2017-2019
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Empire State Building Observatory, New York City 2013-2016
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Department Manager 2013-2016
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Seasonal Group Sales Coordinator 2013
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Club Med Resorts, Florida, 2010-2012
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Training Coordinator, Bahamas, Turks & Caicos 2012
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Events Management/Dance Instructor 2010-2012
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University of Delaware, Newark DE 2004-2010
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Program Coordinator
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Brand Ambassador, Various Promotions & Cities 2005-Present
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Adults & Children with Learning & Developmental Disabilities, Melville NY 2001-2003
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Case Management Coordinator
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Volunteer Organizations:
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Operation Impact 2021-present
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University of Delaware Alumni Club Board
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New York City 2013-2019
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New Castle DE 2008-2010
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US Junior Chamber (Jaycees)
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Board Member Newark DE 2008-2010
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Lalena's Blog 