Business Administration Faculty

Adjunct Faculty
cmelgaard@mwcc.mass.edu

Christine Melgaard has over 25 years of business experience spanning sales, customer care, and marketing.  Her philosophy as both an educator and business leader is that respect and kindness above all else drive success.  Her success as a leader is a direct result of listening to colleagues and employees, finding the right fit for each employee, showing appreciation for their effort, and celebrating each success. She believes that customers are people, too, who deserve to have their needs met. These fundamental beliefs, coupled with tactical execution, attention to detail, and a laser focus on strategic initiatives and KPIs, result in top-line growth and bottom-line results.

Currently, Christine serves as Director of Sales for a nationwide service-based organization, where she is responsible for driving sustainable performance gains in revenue generation, customer acquisition, and sales efficiency. In this role, she ensures strategic alignment, operational excellence, and a high-performance sales culture.

Since 2009, Christine has also served as an adjunct faculty member at MWCC. She is a strong advocate for remote learning—having earned both her BS and MBA online—and continues to champion flexible, accessible education while leading remote teams in her professional career. Her education includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from University of Maryland Global Campus, and a MBA in Management, from Isenberg School of Management, UMass Amherst.

Adjunct Faculty
M.B.A., Fitchburg State College, Accounting, B.S., Fitchburg State College, Management, A.S., Mount Wachusett Community College
ckinney1@mwcc.mass.edu

Chris Kinney has over 30 years of experience working as a civilian with the federal government.  Chris is currently working within the Quality Directorate, Office of Audits and Inspections, Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General.  Prior to his position at the VA OIG, Chris served 29 years within the Department of Defense including 10 years at the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) reaching the level of Supervisory Auditor.  As a Supervisory Auditor, Chris supervised a team consisting of professional auditors to accomplish a significant segment of the total audit program plan at a large defense contractor resident office.

In a previous position within DCAA, Chris performed FAO Assistant for Quality (FAQ) duties.  As a FAQ, Chris served as the FAO focal point to ensure that audits complied with GAGAS/Agency policies/procedures covering two geographically separated offices and four audit teams.  Chris provided training to FAO staff on current Agency guidance and other quality-related issues.

Before arriving at DCAA, Chris performed an Internal Auditor’s duties within the Internal Review Directorate of the Massachusetts National Guard.  His duties included serving as an Auditor-In-Charge, performing all aspects of audit, follow-up, and advisory/consulting assignments of medium or complex size following GAGAS.

Chris also served as a Non-Commissioned Officer in the Massachusetts Army National Guard, retiring in 2010 after 29 years in the military.  Chris is a veteran of the Iraq War (Operation Iraqi Freedom I).

When not on the job, Chris is the father of seven and grandfather of three.  He also serves as a member of the Sky View Middle School Site Council and the board member of the VA OIG Veterans Affinity Group.

Adjunct Faculty
dthrope@mwcc.mass.edu

David Thrope brings over 30 years of experience in higher education, teaching courses in business ethics, marketing, management, accounting, and computer science. He has taught both in-person and online here at MWCC as well as other institutions including Bunker Hill Community College, Grand Canyon University, University of Phoenix, and Southern New Hampshire University. David holds his M.B.A. in Marketing and Finance from Babson College, an Accounting Certificate from Bentley College and his B.A Philosophy from New York University.

With a strong background in distance learning and corporate training, David specializes in business software, communication, and leadership development. He has also consulted for nonprofit organizations, helping them implement and manage accounting systems using Sage and QuickBooks.

David enjoys helping students connect theory to real-world practice, emphasizing practical skills, professional growth, and a strong ethical foundation in every course he teaches.

Adjunct Faculty
D.B.A., University of Phoenix, John Sterling School of Business, M.B.A., University of Phoenix, Marketing Concentration
cthompson11@mwcc.mass.edu

Chris Thompson has over 25 years of experience in sales, sales management, advertising, and marketing in the broadcast industry, including fourteen years as the General Manager of a 50,000- watt radio station. Upon his graduation with his MBA, Chris began teaching and currently teaches here at MWCC, QCC, as well as graduate MBA classes at Fitchburg State University.

Throughout his career, Chris has helped hundreds of companies in Worcester County prosper by developing effective marketing campaigns and managed radio stations and sales departments across Central Massachusetts.

Chris has worked with numerous charities to develop programming for public service campaigns including The United Way and The Salvation Army. For 20 years he has served as a mentor to many internship programs both at the high school and college level and was awarded the Sponsor of the Year Award by Dynamy in 2013.

Adjunct Faculty, Accounting, CIS & Math
erivas1@mwcc.mass.edu

M.B.A. in Accounting/Finance, Assumption University; C.A.G.S. in Business, Assumption University; B.A., Accounting, Minor in Mathematics and Information Technology, Assumption University; B.P.S., Technology Management, Concentration in Information Technology, Excelsior University; A.S., Business Administration, Quinsigamond Community College

Originally from El Salvador, Professor Eduardo Rivas brings more than a decade of experience in accounting, taxation, finance, and computer information systems to Mount Wachusett Community College. He began his education in El Salvador and continued his studies in the United States, earning an Associate of Science in Business Administration from Quinsigamond Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting with a Minor in Mathematics and Information Technology, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Accounting and Finance, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) with a concentration in Business from Assumption University, as well as a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Technology Management (Concentration in Information Technology) from Excelsior University.

At MWCC, Professor Rivas teaches a variety of Accounting, Finance, Mathematics, and Computer Information Systems courses in person and online formats. His teaching focuses on practical applications, critical thinking, and the integration of technology to help students bridge academic learning with professional experience.

Professor Rivas has held a variety of positions in accounting and business, including roles at DataRobot and Bavelloni in Italy, where he contributed to international financial operations, market analysis, and business development initiatives. He also brings valuable experience from his work at H&R Block, where he prepared complex individual and business tax returns and advised clients on federal and state tax matters. He has also worked at Assumption University, where he coordinated community service and outreach initiatives, and at Quinsigamond Community College, where he integrated business concepts into experiential learning opportunities that connected students with real-world practice.

With over ten years of tax-preparation experience, Professor Rivas serves as Site Coordinator and Faculty Advisor for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, a national initiative sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that provides free tax preparation services across the United States. Through his leadership at the Main South Community Development Corporation (CDC) in Worcester, he and his team assist more than 400 taxpayers each year, giving students hands-on learning opportunities while serving the community.

In addition to his teaching and tax work, Professor Rivas has served as a business consultant for small businesses in the Worcester area, helping local entrepreneurs with accounting, finance, and grant applications. He also serves as Treasurer for the Main South CDC, contributing to the organization’s financial management and community development projects.

Professor Rivas has taught college-level courses at multiple institutions in Massachusetts and has helped create transfer articulation agreements to facilitate students’ smooth transitions between institutions. He has also led initiatives to expand educational access for immigrant and bilingual students, including the development of bilingual course offerings and prior-learning credit pathways that recognize students’ professional and language experience. He also brings years of experience as a Designated School Official (DSO), helping international students navigate their educational and immigration processes.

A 2024 recipient of the NISOD Teaching Excellence Award, Professor Rivas is recognized for his innovative teaching, commitment to inclusive education, and dedication to connecting classroom instruction with meaningful, real-world experience.

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Professor, Business & Economics
M.B.A., Anna Maria College, B.A., Walla Walla University, A.S., Walla Walla University
978-630-9294
eeubanks@mwcc.mass.edu

Originally from Costa Rica, Mr. Eubanks is currently professor of Business, Economics, and Strategic Management. He has served on the Presidents Leadership Team and as Chair of the Faculty Assembly and currently serves as Department Chair.

Mr. Eubanks is also a management consultant focused on small business planning and non-profit management. He has also held several previous roles, such as: Vice President of Commercial Lending at Citibank; Sr. Deputy Director Fannie Mae; CEO/Executive Director of Boston Aging Concerns Young and Old United (a non-profit organization dedicated to expanding affordable housing opportunities, creating intergeneration communities, and developing innovative models of housing).

At Neighborhood Reinvestment Co., he was a Management Consultant and specialized in organizational and economic development, developing human resource capacity among the member organizations; strategic planning, personnel policies and procedures; job descriptions; and assisting organizations with transitions and growth opportunities related to executive change management.

As Executive Director of Centro Las Americas, he fostered the growth and start-up of several Latino businesses and employment opportunities for low to moderate-income individuals.

Prior to working for Neighborhood Reinvestment and Centro Las Americas, Mr. Eubanks worked as the Director of the John Laws Institute in Worcester, where he developed relationships with area CEOs’ to assist underprivileged youth in obtaining access to free tuition to area Universities. As Assistant Director for Enrollment Management for Atlantic Union College in Lancaster, where he was responsible for assisting minority students in obtaining a college education bringing minority enrollment to over 6o percent.

As an experienced tri-lingual and bicultural administrator, Mr. Eubanks has in-depth knowledge of economic and educational program development, strategic planning and marketing. A proven leader who combines expertise in business fundamentals and strategic planning with the entrepreneurial self-reliance and decisiveness gained while holding various educational and administrative positions.

A public policy leader, Mr. Eubanks was Appointed by Governor Mitt Romney to the Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council in 2006; Candidate for State Representative in 2000; City of Worcester Elections Commissioner from 2004-2009; was Appointed to Worcester State College board of trustees by Gov. Swift; Appointed by Governor Weld and re-appointed by Gov. Cellucci to the Urban Initiative Fund serving as chairman until the fund merged in June; Worcester City Managers Strategic Planning Committee; and the Worcester Community Response Team.

Mr. Eubanks has also served on several Boards: Main South CDC – Economic Development Committee; Director, Family Services of Central Mass.; Deveroux Foundation; Big Brother Big Sister; Worcester Art Museum; Higgins Armory Museum; Las Vegas Junior Academy; and the Valley Economic Development Center. Founder of the Worcester Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Worcester Business Inclusion Council.

Mr. Eubanks was awarded the Anna Maria College Mission Statement Award for his service to the community and he has also been part of the Adjunct Faculty at Nevada State College, Atlantic Union College, Anna Maria College, and Quinsigamond Community College.

Adjunct Faculty
Director, TRIO Student Support Service Programs
M.B.A., University of Massachusetts, B.A., University of Pune, B.S., Institute of Hotel Management
G_Khanna@mwcc.mass.edu

Adjunct Faculty
Bachelors of Arts, Accounting
MBA

Jennifer Targett is a Business Professor and Co-Owner, Senior Tax Analyst of the 4th largest H&R Block franchise in the United States, which is primarily located in Vermont and New Hampshire. Jennifer teaches at a variety of institutions including Clark University and Franklin Pierce University, mostly focusing on Finance, Accounting, and Taxation. Jennifer is a former member of the U.S. Army Military Intelligence and an active Goldman Sachs Business Advisor in their 10KSB program which works in conjunction with Babson College. Currently pursuing her Doctor of Business Administration through Walden University, Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting, and an MBA with an emphasis in Leadership.

As a mother of four children and a grandmother of one, Jennifer understands the excitement and opportunities that can be provided through the community college experience and works hard to make sure students enjoy their academic experience while learning challenging topics.

Adjunct Faculty
Ph.D. UMass Amherst, Communications
j_szivos@mwcc.mass.edu

Dr. John Szivos, a seasoned professional, holds a Ph.D. in Communication from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, with a focus on Organizational, Interpersonal, and Intercultural Communication. His academic journey also includes an MBA and graduate degrees in Counseling. Dr. Chetro-Szivos has held prestigious positions, including Full Professor and Dean, at renowned institutions such as Clark University, Fitchburg State University, and Assumption University. He has been an integral part of MWCC for over three decades as an adjunct professor. His extensive work experience spans roles including serving as the CEO of multiple behavioral health organizations, working as an organizational consultant internationally and domestically, advising the World Health Organization, and contributing significantly to academia. Dr. Szivos’s scholarly contributions are evident in his numerous journal articles, book chapters, and three books.

His goal in the courses he teaches is to help students deepen their practical knowledge by exploring theory, believing that both are needed to understand concepts, develop critical thinking, and attain career success. In his classes, he works to bring the practical and theoretical together through readings, reflective discussions, projects, and writing, asking students to reflect on the material and their own experiences. He works to make the classroom a place where people feel safe and enjoy interacting and learning together.

He resides in the Greater Gardner area with his wife, and their home is often filled with the laughter and mischief of their four grandchildren and two silly dogs.

Adjunct Faculty
J_Reilly@mwcc.mass.edu

Adjunct Faculty
M_Greenwood@mwcc.mass.edu

Department Chair, Professor, Business, & Management
M.B.A., University of Massachusetts Lowell, B.B.A., University of Massachusetts Lowell, A.S.B.A., Northern Essex Community College
978-630-9296
ncochrane@mwcc.mass.edu

Nicholas (Nick) Daniel Lichanos Cochrane has over 25 years of business experience within the Restaurant/Retail industries, Transportation, Financial Services, and Human Resources. He has worked inside Fortune 500 companies, family-owned businesses, union environments, and as an entrepreneur. Acknowledged with multiple recognitions and publications for successfully leading diverse teams and fostering inclusive environments for people with disabilities; developed operational standards, processes, principles, and best practices; lead project management thru site survey, cost-benefit analysis, scheduling, and completion. He has also directed operations of both corporate run and franchised locations.

During his leadership at Starbucks, Nick executed a new store opening with over 30 employees in Leominster with drive-thru service included. Exceeded new store opening sales expectations by 4% in first quarter and 18% for 1st Year; Developed 2 Store Managers, 3 Assistant Store Managers, 6 Supervisors; utilized several employee recognition programs and methods to increase happiness and lower turnover. Nick also lead organizational turn-around of an existing store in Marlborough with declining sales and challenged guest service to an increase in year-over-year sales (comp) of 16%; engaged partners into delivering on higher guest snapshot results; developed and managed staff of over 33, including mentor training for new locations and collaborated with neighboring stores to strengthen civic ties by organizing community service events.

While serving as a Human Resources Supervisor at United Parcel Service (UPS), Nick creatively implemented new recruitment strategies, resulting in exceeding staffing goals by 6% for two consecutive quarters; worked on diversity initiatives and inclusiveness training; conducted interviews, scheduled and performed orientations, completed all hiring paperwork; and partnered with colleges, career offices, and community organizations.

As a General Manager at Finagle A Bagel, Nick exceeded sales budget by 13% in year one and 19% in year two (Unit Sales $.7M-$1.2M /Yr.); developed 4 Store Managers; worked on career development of many staff members into various other positions and roles within the store and company; helped implement “children’s music hour” for sales building, which was adopted by entire company; introduced new “Ice Cream” product rollout which was successful in building afternoon and evening revenue; helped to create successful catering division in store by developing local business partnerships, which boosted overall sales by 10%; recognized by area businesses and newspapers for excellent service and community involvement; and conducted employee training seminars on customer service, food preparation and quality.

Nick also served as an Assistant Operations Manager for U.S. Shuttle, Inc., helping to manage an airport shuttle company which transported over 150,000 passengers per year with annual revenue of $4.3m out of Logan International Airport in Boston, MA; trained and supervised over 75+ drivers and 10+ call center representatives; facilitated group training sessions in both classroom settings and on the road; and was promoted from within company and started out in other roles including driver and dispatcher.

Nick is currently the CEO of two entrepreneurial ventures, a Home Restoration and Renovation Business: UniqueOldHomes, located in Central Massachusetts. Some of his projects include restoring a home which was once used as an 1830’s boarding house for meatpackers; an 1890’s Victorian which housed the manager of the Star Worsted Woolen Mill; and restoration of a 1840’s Greek Revival Colonial Farmhouse which was used as Funeral Home for 50 years. He also runs the LacFactor, a dairy-free consultancy and travel venture. Conducting travel reviews, and grading businesses on their food dietary inclusiveness. His social media following includes over 2 million. In addition to his professional experience, and time here at Mount Wachusett Community College, Cochrane has also been a member of the adjunct faculty at the University of Massachusetts Lowell Robert J. Manning School of Business since 2018 where he teaches Organizational Behavior and Leadership Processes.

Nick is a 2-time graduate of the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Under the Robert J. Manning School of Business, he received his Master’s in Business Administration with concentrations in Managerial Leadership and Marketing, and his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Political Science. He is also formerly a first-generation community college graduate from Northern Essex Community College. Here at the Mount, his courses include Principles of Management, Introduction to Business, Business Ethics, Customer Relations, Personal Finance, and Macroeconomics. Nick currently serves on the Faculty Academic Senate, and as a leader for the Faculty Academy, a group of faculty who work together on developing and implementing pedagogical approaches aimed at increasing student retention and creating an improved sense of belonging.

Adjunct Faculty
p_lincoln@mwcc.mass.edu

Adjunct Faculty
rsurrette@mwcc.mass.edu

Adjunct Faculty, Accounting and Taxation
M.B.A.,   Miami of Ohio, B.A.,   Albion College
S_Hartshorn@mwcc.mass.edu

A 45-year Business career in the Automotive, Furniture, Steel and Defense industries.  Currently the Finance manager for a mid-tier defense contractor.  40 years of adjunct teaching experience emphasizing the accounting basics to build a strong professional career.   Owned and operated a family furniture manufacturing business in  Gardner after starting his career with the Ford Motor Company in Dearborn MI.  Spent 6 years with Siemens AG. Commercial project managing steel mill installations primarily in China.  Likes to bring real-world experience into the classroom with relevant work experience.  Successful family with 5 grown children and enjoys riding around in his Model T when not sailing.

Assistant Professor of Accounting
M.B.A., Leadership, Franklin Pierce University, B.A., Accounting and Mathematics, Franklin Pierce University
tsmith62@mwcc.mass.edu
978-630-9560

Tara Smith has 15 years of experience in managerial accounting for nonprofit organizations in New England. She has also taught Accounting and Mathematics during these 15 years at both community colleges and four year universities. She has ties to Mount Wachusett Community college through coworkers and family who have taken advantage of the opportunities a community college offers to get a start at college or expand on career knowledge. Tara has traveled extensively which has allowed her to see how different economic environments, political and governmental influence and cultural and ethical standards can influence business around the world. This travel has also introduced her to people from an assortment of backgrounds and she really appreciates the diversity of students that The Mount attracts. Teaching is her true passion and she enjoys supporting students in attaining their future goals in and out of the classroom. Her current goal is to obtain a Certified Managerial Accountant (CMA) license, the managerial equivalent to a CPA license. She also likes to keep her feet wet in the accounting field by doing consulting work. When not in the classroom or assisting students Tara can be found enjoying the outdoors, a good book or any local adventure with her young son and husband.

Adjunct Faculty
tsullivan12@mwcc.mass.edu

Adjunct Faculty
w_dejnak@mwcc.mass.edu

Wayne Michael Dejnak has been an Adjunct Professor at MWCC School of Business for over 20 years.  He has taught Finance, Principles of Management, Economics, and Business Ethics.

Wayne served in the USAF, in Texas, where he began his teaching career.  He has a Master of Business Administration from Midwestern State University and worked for the Office of the Inspector General in Texas.  Wayne accepted a Director of Internal Audit position with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (MDC) in Boston to be closer to family once the children came upon the scene.

I am encouraged about our future as a nation because our students show leadership and a willingness to learn.