30 Under 30 - Xavier University
30 Under 30 - Xavier University
More Impact
More Inspiration
Xavier’s 30 Under 30 inaugural class celebrates a dynamic group of young alumni who embody the spirit of excellence, innovation, and service. These individuals, all under the age of 30, have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields while making meaningful contributions to their communities. From trailblazers in business and healthcare to leaders in education, social justice, and the arts, this group reflects the values and mission of Xavier University. The recognition highlights not only their professional accomplishments but also their dedication to making a positive difference in the world.
Achievement
These Musketeers have risen to the top of their respective fields, distinguishing themselves from their peers through their incredible professional accomplishments and successes.
John McJohn
Michael Arens (’21)
CEO, Clean Earth Rovers
Management and Entrepreneurial Studies
As a co-founder of Clean Earth Rovers, Michael helped raise more than $400,000 to bring the company’s water quality sensing smart buoys and debris cleaning robots to municipalities in Florida and the West Coast. Michael and his team at Clean Earth Rovers have collected thousands of pounds of harmful pollutants from U.S. waterways since their founding in 2019. He was recognized with Xavier’s Excellence and Entrepreneurships Award in addition to his inclusion as part of Forbes’ 30 Under 30.
Ben Baumeister ('17)
Senior Director, Event Strategy, Beemok Sports & Entertainment
Sport Management
During his 8-year career with the Cincinnati Open, Ben climbed the ranks from intern to senior leader. He develops and executes growth strategies for the Cincinnati Open, helping the organization deliver an exceptional experience for fans. Under Ben’s leadership, revenue for ticketing has doubled and the organization has seen a 197 percent increase in new fans. A member of Forbes’ Cincinnati 30 Under 30, Ben played an integral role in the decision to keep the Cincinnati Open in Cincinnati.
David Constantine (’21)
Commercial Analyst, Redwood Logistics and Co-Founder, Clean Earth Rovers
Entrepreneurial Studies
David co-founded Clean Earth Rovers – an environmental company that has drawn national acclaim for using innovative technology to remove pollutants from fragile ecosystems and environments. Under David’s leadership, Clean Earth Rovers has collected thousands of pounds of harmful pollutants from U.S. waterways since their founding in 2019. A member of Forbes’ 30 Under 30, David is actively involved in his local community, providing inner city youth with opportunities to get involved with local wrestling programs.
Kelsey Murphy (’17)
Senior Brand Manager, Procter & Gamble
Marketing and Entrepreneurial Studies
Kelsey’s ascent through Procter & Gamble is highlighted by her use of data-driven strategies and insights to better understand consumer behavior. In her role as a senior brand manager, Kelsey helped her P&G division reverse losses and exceed goals in sales, volume, household penetration and market share growth. Kelsey was honored with the esteemed P&G CEO award in recognition of her contributions. Kelsey is deeply involved in student mentorship, strengthening the pipeline between P&G and Xavier.
Carson Rayhill ('22)
Junior Data Scientist, The World Bank
Finance and German
Carson’s graduate research on European migrant populations and sustainable regional development propelled him into a career at The World Bank, where he works with economists to understand migrant worker behavior while facilitating economic development in migrant host and origin countries. Carson is currently studying at University College Dublin, continuing his research that promotes economic and human development across Europe and the world.
Jeremiah Van Auken (’18)
Senior Associate, The Ferguson Group, LLC
History
As a lobbyist with The Ferguson Group in Washington, D.C., Jeremiah has helped his clients secure nearly $75 million in federal funding and advance legislative and regulatory priorities on Capitol Hill. His efforts have strengthened communities and driven socio-economic growth by supporting critical road and water infrastructure, public safety equipment, new medical treatments, and university research programs. Jeremiah also mentors Xavier students through the PPP program, guiding their lobbying efforts and offering valuable career insights.
Benjamin Weibel ('18)
Global Director of Marketing, L’Oréal
Marketing
Benjamin is the Global Brand Marketing Director at L’Oreal, the #1 cosmetic company in the world. With over six years experience in product design and innovation, Benjamin has worked across global brands like Maybelline, L'Oreal Paris and Thayers to create beauty that moves the world. After most recently completing his two-year expat rotation in Paris, France Benjamin has returned to New York to manage the three-year innovation strategy for Maybelline's Sky High Mascara and Shadow business. His passion for democratizing beauty & mentorship has connected him with many recent Xavier graduates and aspiring brand marketers in the New York City area.
Daniel Zalla (’20)
Classical Painter, Daniel Zalla Fine Art and Principal Instructor, Florence Academy of Art
Fine Art
Daniel launched a career as an award-winning, nationally renowned painter and professor, having spent several years studying at the prestigious Florence Academy of Art. With a primary focus on portrait and figurative painting, Daniel has made an indelible impact on the art world. He has commissioned paintings for churches and prominent figures while selling his work to art collectors around the world. He has been recognized by several prominent publications, including an appearance in Southwest Art Magazine’s 2023 edition of “21 under 31.”
Community Impact
These Musketeers have used their Xavier education to make a difference in the lives of others through professional leadership and service to their local communities.
Name
Natalie Browske (’18)
Certified Nurse-Midwife, Novant Health
Nursing
Natalie has received critical acclaim for the standard of care she provides for her patients as a certified midwife. Upon completing her post-secondary education, Natalie opened a full scope midwife practice at Novant Health Womancare. As a midwife, Natalie provides holistic inpatient and outpatient care to her patients, managing prenatal appointments, the labor process and high-risk scenarios for women. She has promoted and advocated for the midwife profession through several publications and community events.
Paul Fritschner ('19)
Host, Producer and Content Creator, 1831 Media Network
Public Relations and Sport Management
Through sports broadcasting, Paul promotes Xavier values, Xavier athletes and athletic programs and the Big East conference. In 2023, Paul co-founded the 1831 Media Network, which launched the Sean Miller Podcast. This weekly show highlights Xavier Men's Basketball Head Coach Sean Miller and the program's rich history. In its first year, the podcast has grown exponentially, getting featured on Bally Sports Ohio as well and reaching thousands of subscribers on YouTube.
Lydia Glover ('18)
Founding Dean of Academics, Allegiant Prep Academy
Philosophy, Politics, and the Public Honors Program
Lydia works to bring high-quality education to students of all backgrounds and abilities. She designs and monitors inclusion programs, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed. Lydia received the Black Excellence in Education Award recognizing her exemplary leadership and commitment to improving educational outcomes, particularly within underrepresented communities. Additionally, she was named Administrator of the Year for her extraordinary ability to lead and inspire excellence within her institution.
Meagan Guthrie (’17, MA ’19)
Director of the Office of Addiction Response, Hamilton County (Ohio)
Philosophy, Politics, and the Public Honors Program
Meagan has made transformative contributions in the fields of addiction response, public health and public safety as the Director of Addiction Response for Hamilton County. Through innovative public health and safety systems, Meagan has actively helped address the local opioid crisis. Nationally recognized for her contributions, Meagan has presented to the Congressional House Caucus on Addiction Treatment and Recovery and hosted roundtable discussions with the Executive Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.
Nick Hessler ('18)
Social Media Communications and Channel Manager, Amazon
Marketing
Nick leads global social content and community strategies for Amazon's global operations. He previously held leadership roles at the NCAA and Vanderbilt University, driving significant growth in digital engagement. His career reflects a strong commitment to leadership, mentorship and innovation. Nick also volunteers with Scouting America, where he serves as an adviser and member of the National Marketing Committee. He received the Distinguished Service Award for his contributions to Scouting.
Zachary MacMillian ('18)
Sales and Social Media Manager, Xavier University Leadership Center
Public Relations
As the Co-Founder and Head Coach of the Cincinnati Cyclones Special Hockey Team, Zachary has been instrumental in developing and running the team since 2018. He also serves as the Social Media Manager for the American Special Hockey Association (ASHA). His efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of individuals with special needs. Zachary has played an integral role in the continued growth and development of Xavier’s Leadership Center through his role as Sales and Social Media Manager.
Madeline Martini ('18)
Head of Network, Cintrifuse Capital
Marketing and Business Analytics
Madeline has supported tech and startup ecosystems through growth and operations roles at companies like Bumble and Lime. As Head of Network for Cintrifuse Capital, she works to make Cincinnati a premier startup hub by fostering connections and building programs that empower founders. Her commitment to community service stems from values cultivated at Xavier University. She has also chaired junior boards at Lurie Children’s Hospital, leading efforts to fund pediatric brain tumor research.
Alfredo Mercedes ('20)
Strategic Partnerships Manager, Defense Unicorns
International Studies
Alfredo is dedicated to fostering innovation and relationships in the defense technology sector. He has made meaningful contributions to advancing the principles of democracy, promoting diversity and inclusion and safeguarding civil liberties through his work in both the defense technology sector and public service. Alfredo has served on Orlando Mayor Veterans Advisory Committee, spearheaded his prior company’s Diversity Employee Resource Group and was recruited for the Maritime Response Unit for the Florida State Guard.
Lee Weeks (’18)
Corporate Communications Operations Associate
Sociology and Gender and Diversity Studies
As a Captain in the US Army Reserve, Lee deployed to the Middle East region in support of Operation Allies Refuge. His unit coordinated the evacuation of citizens, refugees, service members and materials out of Afghanistan. In Milwaukee, Lee has made significant contributions through board leadership and committee work in arts-based organizations including the Milwaukee Art Museum and Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra. Professionally, Lee is a Corp Communications Specialist at Baird and a PhD Candidate of Gender Studies at Indiana University.
Bella Viatoe (’24)
Intervention Specialist, Oak Hills Local School District
MEd Special Education
After earning her teaching license in moderate-to-intense disabilities, Bella built the first social communication classroom for students with autism at C.O. Harrison Elementary School. Her classroom model uses a variety of methods to help autistic students communicate open and freely. Bella’s expertise in special education was recognized with a nomination for the prestigious Teacher of the Year award made by the Council for Exceptional Children. Bella continues to further her understanding of autism spectrum disorders through coursework at the Kelly O’Leary Center.
Mission and Values
These Musketeers have demonstrated a deep commitment to the Jesuit Catholic mission and values of Xavier, advocating for justice as they walk in solidarity with those around them.
Name
Gabriel Bahala (MHSA ’22)
CFO, Mercy Health Fairfield
MHSA Health Services Administration
Gabriel has served in several key financial leadership roles at Mercy Health that have empowered the organization to continually improve patient care across Greater Cincinnati. He’s worked on several initiatives geared toward meeting community health needs. Currently serving as Chief Financial Officer at Mercy Health Fairfield Hospital, Gabriel continues to focus on positive financial performance of the site, alongside enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Nailah Johnson (MA ’22)
Therapist, Xavier University Counseling Services
MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Nailah earned her post-graduate degree from Xavier then stayed at the University to take a position as a counseling therapist. Nailah works with students in to promote mental health and wellness. Her professional outreach extends specifically to minority students as she focuses on using social media and presentations to dismantle barriers minority students face in accessing mental health services.
Bri Ledsome ('19)
Development Director, SHE+ Foundation
Philosophy, Politics, and the Public Honors Program and Political Science
Bri turned seven years of experience in campaign politics into a position as the Development Director of the SHE+ Foundation. In her role, Bri helps to set the strategic direction for the nonprofit – working to advance women’s sexual health and well-being through research, education and support initiatives. Bri empowers survivors of sexual violence with her project, What I Wish People Knew, and serves on the board of the MUSE Women's Choir.
Becky Terkula (’19, MA ’21)
Occupational Therapist, Carespring Health Care Management
Human Occupation Studies and MA Occupational Therapy
Since completing her graduate degree, Becky rose from working as an occupational therapist in a skilled nursing facility to working as a lead therapist in the organization’s largest assisted and independent living facility. Currently, she handles coordination between other disciplines, scheduling, management of patient charts and insurance, along with her own patient caseload. Outside of work, Becky coaches high school cross country and track, mentoring teenage girls to become the best versions of themselves.
Myles Thomas ('19)
Area Business Manager, Sanofi
Marketing
Myles educates prescribers and helps improve patients access to medicine. He also serves on Sanofi’s global diversity, equity and inclusion board, where he champions inclusivity and equity for all global employees. Myles leverages his business experience through mentorship opportunities, both in his local community and at Xavier. He remains closely connected to mentorship programs within the Williams College of Business, using real-world experience to provide personalized guidance and career advice to students.
Miles Tiemeyer (’20)
Campus Minister, Walsh Jesuit High School
Philosophy, Politics and the Public Honors Program, Political Science and History
Miles completed his post-graduate work in theology before using his education to provide spiritual guidance to students of all ages as a campus minister. Miles has helped high school and college students alike become closer to God through the framework of Ignatian Spirituality. He has coordinated immersive experiences and retreats throughout the Northeastern Ohio region. Miles serves on the Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice Steering Committee where he helps facilitates connections and conversations on Catholic social justice teaching.
Troy Weathers (PsyD ’22)
Psychologist, Dayton VA Medical Center
PsyD Clinical Psychology
Troy works on an interdisciplinary team to help veterans with a wide range of mental health concerns. He also serves as an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator and provides resources, support and evidence-based affirming care to veterans who identify as LGBTQ+. He leads a team of social workers and psychologists who deliver Dialectical Behavior Therapy – a powerful form of therapy he learned during his time at Xavier. Troy is also involved in the education and training of future psychologists.
Inspiration
These Musketeers have overcome adversity and pushed the boundaries of what is believed to be possible. Their journeys serve as an example for current and future Musketeers.
Name
Lauren DiFiore (’19)
Relationship Manager, Rockefeller Capital Management
Finance
Lauren manages high-net-worth individuals’ investments totaling over $1.508 billion. When servicing clients, she focuses on communication, efficiency and meaningful relationships. Lauren gives back to her community by coaching youth basketball, serving meals at Ronald McDonald House and teaching financial literacy to high schoolers. As a cancer survivor, Lauren has raised over $6,000 for blood cancer research and was Xavier’s Relay for Life Keynote speaker in 2019. She serves on Xavier’s Junior Board of Advisors for the Finance Program.
Taylor Healey ('18)
Owner, Taylor Healey Jewelry
Fine Art
Taylor spent more than four years as a lead jewelry designer at Geraci Fine Jewelry before opening his own business, Taylor Healey Jewelry, in 2023. As a custom jewelry designer and master goldsmith, Taylor found success through a business model rooted in honesty and integrity. He is actively involved in his community of jewelers from his store in Blue Ash; he is an active member of several jeweler professional trade organizations: Jewelers Helping Jewelers and the Jewelers Board of Trade.
Colby Jones ('24)
Professional Basketball Player, Sacramento Kings
Entrepreneurial Studies
After leaving Xavier following his junior year, Colby finished his degree remotely during his rookie NBA season – a goal he’d held since he committed to Xavier in high school. He credits the support of the Xavier community for the success he’s achieved. Colby gives back through volunteering with important causes, such as holding a youth basketball camp in his hometown. He partners with the Sacramento County Opioid Coalition and “Put Me In,” a nonprofit dedicated to helping kids with incarcerated parents.
Piper Kelly ('23)
Head Youth Climbing Coach, Momentum Climbing
Exercise Science
Piper devoted herself to competitive speed climbing from an early age. After sustaining a potentially career-threatening shoulder surgery during her first year at Xavier, Piper spent two years rehabilitating her shoulder with support from her Xavier Family. She eventually returned to competition and won the 2023 Pan American Games, qualifying her for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Piper uses her knowledge and platform to inspire others. She uses her knowledge in exercise science and psychology to coach youth speed climbing while serving as an advocate for female athletes around the world.
Courtnie Sprouse ('23)
Production Assistant, ESPN
Digital Innovation, Film and Television and Communications
During her first year at ESPN, Courtnie has worked in production for multiple sports, including hockey, tennis, golf and her current assignment with Monday Night Football. Her professionalism and skill quickly earned the trust of her producers, who have tasked her with high-end promotions and edits. She has also utilized her time under the Disney umbrella to volunteer in the community by donating to a back-to-school supply drive. She also serves as a peer mentor within the local Bristol, CT, schools and volunteers at the Connecticut Children's Hospital.