Our Staff
Wendy Allen
Dean of Admissions and Recruitment
Phone: 607.844.8222, Ext. 4336
Email: WA015@tompkinscortland.edu
How did you come to join the Admissions Team? I have worked in higher education for over 20 years and most of that time has been in community colleges. My own college journey began after high school in a community college and, after starts and stops, it ended in my 50's with a Masters degree! I am a life-long learner. I believe in the mission that we are your community and your college! TC3 is in my back yard and I am so happy to be here.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Tompkins Cortland? The people. We are a proud bunch! Proud of our students and our college. The faculty, staff, and students are engaged and welcoming. "Panther Pride" is a thing! And, of course, the campus is beautiful! Please come for a visit.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new student what would it be? Never stop learning and never think you can't start (again) or finish! And if you ever question this – come talk to us and we will set you straight! There is a place for you here.
What is your favorite spot on campus? The grounds are gorgeous. Views from the classrooms and offices are spectacular. There is a lot of peace here and you can always find a spot to reflect.
Kar-Leam Toxey
Associate Director of Admissions
Phone: 607.844.8222, Ext. 4333
Email: ToxeyK@tompkinscortland.edu
Student Territories: Out-of-state and nursing students.
How did you come to join the Admissions Team? I have always had a passion to work with the students that I felt were in the most need. Being a community college graduate myself, I felt I could forge stronger bonds with the incoming students and play an integral part in helping them achieve their goals.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Tompkins Cortland? I love working with the wonderful faculty and staff here at Tompkins Cortland. Everyone here continually goes above and beyond to make sure all of our students get the best service possible.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new student what would it be? Higher education at any level is an opportunity, please don’t take it for granted. In this day and age there are very few second chances.
What is your favorite spot on campus? The Enrollment Services Center: It’s a one stop shop designed to put every student on the right track.
Katarina "Katie" Carroll
Admissions Advisor
Phone: 607.844.8222, Ext. 4313
Email: kc087@tompkinscortland.edu
Student territories: Eastern NY
How did you come to join the Admissions Team: I have always had a passion for helping people meet there goals and higher education is a great way to explore and attain goals.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Tompkins Cortland? The community that is built by faculty and staff.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new student what would it be? You don't need to know exactly what you want to do, but don't take your time for granted, take the time to explore and expand.
What’s your favorite spot on campus? I think all the unique outdoor courtyards in the center of the building are so cool!
Peter Mancarella
Admissions Advisor
Phone: 607.844.8222, Ext. 4330
Email: pm048@tompkinscortland.edu
Student territories: Hudson Valley, NYC, Long Island
How did you come to join the Admissions Team: I come from a private recruiting background, and I worked in admissions when I was an undergraduate at SUNY Oswego.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Tompkins Cortland? The Fireside Café! I love getting a Cortado and a muffin and hanging out.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new student what would it be? Take ownership over your educational journey. Make sure the classes, internships, and work experiences you're engaging in are serving your goals.
What’s your favorite spot on campus? The Arboretum – there are some really nice places to sit and enjoy nature!
Julie Partigianoni
Admissions Advisor
Phone: 607.844.8222, Ext. 4314
Email: jlp037@tompkinscortland.edu
Student Territories: Adult Students, Community Agencies and Microcredential Programs
How did you come to join the Admissions Team: As a TC3 alumna and adult student, I gained more than an education at the college. I am excited for the opportunity to help others realize their own educational goals and share the unique learning opportunities and positive experiences they will have at Tompkins Cortland.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Tompkins Cortland? The welcoming community and ongoing support for students and staff.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new student what would it be? Everyone here wants you to succeed! Get to know faculty and staff at the college, we are here to help you! Don't be afraid to explore and ask questions. There are so many options in front of you.
What’s your favorite spot on campus? The Fireside Café is a comfortable place to do your work with a warm cup of coffee and welcoming fireplace. I also enjoy walking outside around the campus and seeing the beautiful landscape.
Earl de los Santos
Admissions Advisor
Phone: 607.844.8222, Ext. 4307
Email: edd010@tompkinscortland.edu
Student Territory: Western NY
How did you come to join the Admissions Team: I studied International Studies here at TC3 not too long ago and fell in love with the campus and its supportive community. After I graduated, I applied for a part-time position in TC3's Career and Workforce Development office and then made my way into Admissions.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Tompkins Cortland? Sully the Golden Retriever! I love dogs and Sully is an absolute pillar of the community.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new student what would it be? Always ask questions. Believe me, adulting is hard and it can be difficult to navigate the ins-and-outs of balancing classes with working, or taxes, or figuring out what to have for dinner (or how to cook!). Academics may be the primary focus of college, but it's not the only thing, so take this time to grow yourself as person, in addition to learning as a scholar.
What’s your favorite spot on campus? If you're looking for a place to hangout besides the Panther Den in the Student Center, the Best Life Lounge is a very welcoming and fun space. There are a lot of student-led activities such as coloring, movie-watching, and ping pong. It's also where Sully hangs out on Tuesdays!
Shannon Allen
Enrollment Services Specialist
Phone: 607.844.8222, Ext. 4304
Email: SMA2@tompkinscortland.edu
Special Responsibilities: Overseeing our student ambassadors.
How did you come to join the Admissions Team? I started out in the registration and billing department and worked my way over to the admissions department about two years ago.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Tompkins Cortland? The students! Knowing that I can positively impact the students future by helping them grow and mature into adults.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new student what would it be? Enjoy it, it’ll be over before you know it so join in and take advantage of every moment.
What is your favorite spot on campus? The fitness center.