All posts by imreal

AGB Names Mary Papazian as New Executive Vice President


Papazian, a two-time former university president with extensive governing board experience, will focus on thought leadership, strategic planning, and media engagement at the association.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) announced today that Mary Papazian, PhD, has joined the association as executive vice president. A two-time former university president with extensive board experience, Papazian will orchestrate AGB’s strategic planning processes to strengthen members’ satisfaction with AGB, engage with media and external stakeholders to advance the association’s thought leadership, and oversee partnerships with grantmakers and subject matter experts to expand reach and impact. AGB is the premier organization advocating strategic board governance in higher education.

“In my career, I have served on a dozen boards in the higher education, nonprofit, and corporate arenas, and I believe strongly in the significant value of strategic leadership from governing boards,” Papazian said. “AGB is the expert source on leading governance practices. I jumped at the opportunity to join the AGB team and look forward to making a difference for governing boards and those who value postsecondary education.”

With more than 35 years of experience in higher education leadership, Papazian will serve as AGB’s primary thought leader on board governance and will integrate AGB’s thought leadership throughout the association’s resources and services, including research and publications, member convenings, consulting, and executive search. She will also oversee the creation of strategic partnerships with philanthropic organizations to enhance AGB initiatives. Additionally, Papazian will lead AGB’s strategic vision and planning efforts and serve as a media spokesperson for the association. Through these efforts, combined with her work on thought leadership, she will play a crucial role in shaping the public discourse on governance and the future of higher education.

“I can’t overstate the value that Mary will provide to AGB and its members,” said Henry Stoever, AGB president and CEO. “She knows the needs of board members because she is one, and she has a passion for both service and strategic thinking. She has a keen sense of higher education’s challenges and what will be required of governing boards to overcome them. I look forward to her partnership.”

Most recently, Papazian was interim CEO of the Business-Higher Education Forum, a nonprofit membership organization that connects higher education institutions to business talent.

Previously, Papazian was the third woman to lead San JosI State University (SJSU), serving as president from 2016 to 2021. Money magazine named SJSU the #1 Most Transformative University during her tenure. She established SJSU’s Division of Research and Innovation and the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. From 2011 to 2015, Papazian served as president of Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) and led the creation of a student success task force that drove more effective student services throughout the university, established the Office of STEM Innovation and Leadership, and secured a bioscience partnership between SCSU and the city of New Haven, Connecticut. Prior to serving as a university chief executive officer, she served as a provost, dean, and faculty member at other higher education institutions.

Papazian’s array of board service has included the following roles:

  • Board chair of the Business-Higher Education Forum, Coalition of Urban Serving Universities, and Mountain West Athletic Conference
  • Vice chair of the Armenian Society of Fellows and Higher Education Resource Services (HERS)
  • Board member of the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U), Bay Area Council, Joint Venture Silicon Valley, NCAA, Silicon Valley Leadership Group, and Haigazian University

She received certifications from the Higher Education Leadership Institute, the Institute for Management and Leadership in Education at Harvard University, Corporate Directors International, and Competent Boards.

Papazian earned her PhD, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees from UCLA, focusing on English literature.

Media Contact

Morgan Alexander, Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges, 1 202-776-0853, [email protected], www.AGB.org

SOURCE Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges

United Pump Introduces Innovative Service, Sitewatch®, for Enhanced Monitoring and Security


United Pump, a leading provider of pumping solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its newest service, Sitewatch®. Designed to revolutionize monitoring and security in the industrial fueling sector, Sitewatch offers comprehensive solutions to safeguard assets and optimize operational efficiency.

SUWANEE, Ga., Aug. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — United Pump, a leading provider of pumping solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its newest service, Sitewatch®. Designed to revolutionize monitoring and security in the industrial fueling sector, Sitewatch offers comprehensive solutions to safeguard assets and optimize operational efficiency.

In today’s ever-evolving fueling landscape, businesses face increasing challenges in maintaining the security and integrity of their operations. Recognizing this need, United Pump has developed Sitewatch®, a cutting-edge service that combines state-of-the-art technology with unparalleled expertise to deliver excellent protection and peace of mind.

Key features of United Pump’s Sitewatch service include:

  • Real-Time Monitoring: Sitewatch® utilizes advanced sensor technology and artificial intelligence algorithms to provide continuous, real-time monitoring of critical assets and infrastructure. This enables businesses to detect and respond to any abnormalities or potential risks promptly.
  • GA EPD Required Monthly and Annual Walkthrough Inspections and ATG Compliance Reports
  • Annual ATG Certification Testing and Compliance Audit
  • Monthly Spill Containment Inspections and Water Removal
  • Monthly Pump and Dispenser Inspections
  • Remote Access and Control: With Sitewatch, businesses can remotely access and control their monitoring systems, allowing for seamless management and instant visibility of critical processes. This feature facilitates efficient decision-making and streamlines operations.

Commenting on the introduction of Sitewatch, [Company Spokesperson] expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited to unveil our latest service, Sitewatch, which represents a significant step forward in monitoring and security solutions. By combining cutting-edge technology with our industry expertise, we aim to empower businesses with comprehensive asset protection and actionable insights. Sitewatch will help our clients mitigate risks, enhance operational efficiency, and ultimately achieve their goals.”

United Pump’s Sitewatch service is available immediately to fueling businesses across North Georgia, and surrounding states. To learn more about Sitewatch® and how it can benefit your operations, visit https://www.unitedpump.com or contact United Pump at (770)-662-0440 for a consultation.

About United Pump: United Pump is a trusted provider of petroleum equipment supplies, delivering high-quality products and services to industrial clients for over 50 years. With a commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer satisfaction, United Pump continues to be a leader in the industry, providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of commercial and fleet fueling systems.

Media Contact

Travis Benton, United Pump, 1 770-662-0440, [email protected], https://unitedpump.com 

SOURCE United Pump

Children’s Bedtime Story Takes Reader on Illustrated Dreamland Journey


I hope to share the love and light of Christ through these precious dreamland journeys,” said Hastings. “Children are participants in the dream and are gently cradled to sleep in the Lord’s arms of Love.”

Hastings began creating these stories for her grandchildren, and has published the most recent ones, “Vincent’s Dream Beach Fun with BFF’S” and “Vincent’s Dreamy Freeze Ice Cream Parlor.” She also illustrates the entire book herself. Each page has a large full color drawing, 40 of them in “Book 7.”

“Through a daily scripture, the Holy Spirit led me in creating these delightful stories of adventure, creativity, fellowship, love, laughter and fun, all the while drawing the readers to know Christ,” said Hastings.

“Granmama’s and Vincent’s Dreamland Journey Book 7: Vincent’s Dream Beach Fun with BFF’S”
By Diana Hastings
ISBN: 9781489746573 (softcover); 9781489746566 (hardcover); 9781489746580 (electronic)
Available at LifeRich Publishing, Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the author
Diana Hastings owns and operates Dance Infinity, a dance school, together with her daughter, for over 45 years. She has two children and two grandchildren, and currently resides in Brownsville, Texas.
To learn more, please visit http://www.liferichpublishing.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/850251-granmamas-and-vincents-dreamland-journey-book-7.

Media Contact

Ziggy Goldfarb, LAVIDGE, 4803067065, [email protected]

SOURCE LifeRich Publishing

Medical Technology Associates acquires Air Filtration Management Further expands northeast presence.


Medical Technology Associates, LLC (“MTA”), a leader in controlled environment testing and certification, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Air Filtration Management, Inc. (“AFM”). AFM is headquartered in Pennsylvania and has been servicing the technology and life sciences industries since 1988. AFM is MTA’s second acquisition in the Northeast market and expands MTA’s capabilities in the testing and certification of all types of critical controlled environments.

PINELLAS PARK, Fla., Aug. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Medical Technology Associates, LLC (“MTA”), a leader in controlled environment testing and certification, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Air Filtration Management, Inc. (“AFM”). AFM is headquartered in Pennsylvania and has been servicing the technology and life sciences industries since 1988. AFM is MTA’s second acquisition in the Northeast market and expands MTA’s capabilities in the testing and certification of all types of critical controlled environments.

Founded in 1988 by Mike Wieder, AFM is an independent NEBB Certified firm providing critical controlled environment, cleanroom and laboratory fume hood operational performance evaluation and validation services. “Our relationship with Medical Technology Associates is perfect for our organization both culturally and professionally,” said Mike Wieder. “It will provide enhanced value to both our employees and clients. We are excited about the opportunities that MTA brings to AFM, and together to the industry.”

Adding AFM to MTA’s family of companies deepens our market coverage in the northeast and further extends our expertise in the life sciences industry. AFM also brings additional technical depth given their high-quality team with strong service excellence and expertise in Current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations (cGMP). Leveraging MTA’s infrastructure and back-office platform, AFM will now have access to robust and flexible software platforms for the benefit of employees and customers. “Together, we will broaden our service offerings, expand our footprint, and leverage technology to drive customer success,” said Val Marks, MTA CEO. “It’s a real win/win for customers and employees.”

Mike is a seasoned leader in the industry with a strong and committed customer and employee following. It was one of the many reasons that MTA was honored and excited to have the AFM team join the MTA family of companies. Mike will remain President of AFM and his team will continue in their roles.

Medical Technology Associates, LLC is a national leader in healthcare compliance testing, inspection, certification, calibration, and equipment. As a single source provider, MTA delivers a wide range of services and equipment for Medical Gas, Environmental Monitoring, Calibration and Controlled Environment services on a national basis. MTA has nearly 40 years of industry experience. Branch offices are in FL, TX, AZ, KS, IN and PA with technicians across the U.S.

Air Filtration Management, Inc has over 35 years of experience in testing and certification in controlled environments. Headquartered in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, AFM specializes in the technology and life sciences industries.

Media Contact

Val Marks, Medical Technology Associates, LLC, 1 727 548-8600, [email protected], www.mtausa.com

SOURCE Medical Technology Associates, LLC

International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. Announces 2023 Starfish Awardees


Employees nominate charities within their communities to receive financial and volunteer support as part of annual campaign, now it its 14th year

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTS) has named Friends of MACC and Nashville Diaper Connection recipients of the 2023 Starfish Campaign awards, the company’s annual giving initiative.

In selecting these organizations as recipients, ISTS commits to volunteer engagement from staff throughout the year as well as a one-time monetary contribution.

Friends of MACC is a volunteer-led nonprofit organization that works directly with Metro Animal Care and Control (MACC), Nashville’s only open admission shelter that serves nearly 7,000 homeless animals each year. Friends of MACC strives to amplify MACC’s impact by providing resources, financial support and increased awareness of MACC’s lifesaving initiatives including the Foster Program, Safety Net Program and Emergency Medical Fund.

Nashville Diaper Connection is a nonprofit diaper bank that that distributes free diapers to families in need through a network of partner agencies in Middle Tennessee. Through drives, wrapping events and other volunteer activities, NashDiaper provides diapers to an average of 4,500 babies in need each month in support of its “No Child Wet Behind” mission.

Through the Starfish Campaign, ISTS has donated nearly $20,000 to more than 35 organizations since 2010. Read more about the Campaign’s history and past recipients at applyISTS.com/about/Community.

About International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTS)
Founded in 1985, International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. provides comprehensive management of educational assistance programs, including scholarships, grants, loan repayment and tuition reimbursement. ISTS is a 100% women-owned company, focused on offering innovative technology and sustainable solutions to corporations, foundations, associations, unions and other organizations worldwide.

Media Contact

Carissa Willcoxon, International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc., 615-777-3735, [email protected], https://www.applyISTS.com

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SOURCE International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc.



Renew Co Partners with Searchspring® to Enhance Search for Natural Healthy Concepts and Professional Supplement Center.


In today’s digitally connected world, consumers are turning to Renew Co to seek health and wellness solutions tailored to their individual needs. With access to a plethora of information at their fingertips, they are able to make informed decisions when purchasing vitamins and supplements. Through reviews, expert opinions, and recommendations directly from our licensed healthcare practitioners, individuals are now empowered to choose products that align with their unique health goals and lifestyles.

“Online shoppers seek relevant, personalized shopping experiences. Being able to help clients like Renew Co create data-driven personalized experiences and giving them the ability to highlight products they know their customers care about will result in an immediate impact on conversion and basket size,” said Alex Kombos, CEO of Searchspring. “We look forward to being part of Renew Co’s growth by providing best-in-class on-site search, merchandising, and personalization tools that center around improving the overall shopper experience.”

The integration of Searchspring into NetSuite SCA was a custom development project for Renew Co. However, Searchspring has easy, out-of-the box integrations with major shopping platforms such as Shopify, Adobe Commerce, and BigCommerce. Utilizing the Searchspring reporting dashboard, Renew Co can now easily measure important KPIs such as Revenue per Search and Conversion Rate per Search.

For more information on Renew Co, please contact Matt Kemp or visit www.therenewco.com.

About Natural Healthy Concepts:

Founded in 2004, Natural Healthy Concepts (www.NHC.com) has established itself as a trusted source for people on their journey of improving their overall health. NHC believes that the foundation of health and wellness lies in proper nutrition and licensed practitioner guided supplementation as needed. NHC assists customers looking for support throughout their journey of achieving optimal health and wellness.

About Searchspring

Searchspring delivers the ultimate shopping experience. As the #1 search, merchandising, and personalization platform built exclusively for ecommerce, Searchspring enables brands to get the right product, to the right person, at the right time. With Searchspring, customers such as Chubbies, Pura Vida, Moen, Fabletics, Peet’s Coffee, SKIMS, West Elm, Specialized, Wildfang, and Ripcurl are increasing cart size, conversion, and repeat customers. Founded in 2007, Searchspring has offices in San Antonio, Denver, Toronto, Krakow, and Sydney. Learn how Searchspring is helping ecommerce businesses thrive at searchspring.com.

Media Contact

Matt Kemp, Renew Co., 1 8134568614, [email protected]

SOURCE Renew Co.

Roswell, Georgia’s, Premier Dental Clinic, Roswell Complete Dentistry Welcomes Dr. Liudmila Poznyak to the Practice


More about Roswell Complete Dentistry:

Dr. Ravi Patel and the professional dental team at Roswell Complete Dentistry deliver the very best in advanced oral health care. Roswell Complete Dentistry is conveniently located at 1875 Old Alabama Rd., Ste. 130 in Roswell, GA, and the clinic provides general and preventive dental services, as well as restorative, cosmetic and orthodontic care (OrthoFX). They provide convenient tooth repairs, fillings, crowns, as well as emergency care for unexpected dental problems. The clinic accepts most dental plans, and for those without insurance, they offer affordable self-pay options that can give patients the dental care they need at a low cost. At Roswell Complete Dentistry, they strive to provide patients with the best care that modern dentistry has to offer and have equipped the clinic with cutting-edge dental technology. Their use of these innovative devices and equipment improves the efficiency, comfort and safety of dental procedures for their valued patients. For more information, please call 404-595-1840 or visit http://www.roswellcompletedentistry.com. 

Media Contact

Dipesh Patel, Roswell Complete Dentistry, 404-595-1840, [email protected], https://roswellcompletedentistry.com/

SOURCE Roswell Complete Dentistry

Optimizing Rare Disease Clinical Trials Through Patient Experience, Upcoming Webinar Hosted by Xtalks


Speakers will provide key guidelines for engaging with rare disease communities and advocacy groups from a research perspective, including clinical transparency, collaborating with patients as partners and data privacy and protection. With this approach, stakeholders can establish stronger partnerships with patient communities and advocacy groups, paving the way for more effective and patient-centric rare disease clinical trials.

This discussion will deliver critical insights vital for the success of rare disease clinical trials including emerging trends, breakthrough technologies and evolving regulatory landscapes that have the potential to revolutionize the field. The panel will provide the knowledge and tools necessary to stay ahead and adapt to the dynamic nature of rare disease research and clinical trials.

This webinar offers a unique opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the challenges faced by rare disease clinical trials and how patient experience can be optimized to improve trial outcomes. Attendees will learn more about making a significant impact on rare disease research and improving the lives of patients and their families.

Join Pam Cusick, SVP, Rare Patient Voice; Monica Dudley-Weldon, Founder, SYNGAP1 Foundation; and KimberLee Heidmann, EVP Patient Experience and Customer Success, Scout Clinical, for the live webinar on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 10am EDT (4pm CEST/EU-Central).

For more information, or to register for this event, visit Optimizing Rare Disease Clinical Trials Through Patient Experience. 

Media Contact

Vera Kovacevic, Xtalks, +1 (416) 977-6555 x371, vkovacevic@xtalks.com

SOURCE Xtalks

Empowering Businesses with Advanced Technologies, Data-Driven Solutions


Fintech in the U.S. is regulated at both state and federal levels. Each state and the federal government have their own laws for financial services, often with overlapping scopes of authority. Federal law generally takes precedence over state laws in cases of conflict; however, fintech matters where no specific federal law exists are subject to regulation by both levels of authority.(1)

Protecting consumers during a transaction is a concept conceived nearly 50 years ago. Lawmakers passed the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) in 1974 to protect consumers against inaccurate or fraudulent credit card charges.(2) These government protections include the right for consumers to contest charges they feel are illegitimate or in error to receive a refund, known as a chargeback. Customers rely on chargebacks as a safety mechanism against credit card fraud, billing errors, and merchant misconduct. However, fintech payment methods like cryptocurrency and P2P do not offer chargeback protections like credit card transactions, which may delay the widespread adoption of some fintech payment methods.

Unlike traditional payment systems, where chargebacks can be initiated through banks or credit card companies, cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible by design. This poses a significant challenge for consumers seeking refunds or recourse in cases of fraudulent or disputed transactions, as the anonymity of cryptocurrency transactions makes it difficult to trace and identify the parties involved.

Similar to crypto fraud, P2P scams involve fraudulent transactions where a scammer convinces an individual to send money through a peer-to-peer payment platform, such as Venmo or PayPal, for a product or service that doesn’t exist or is never delivered. P2P transactions are generally not covered by the same protections as credit or debit card purchases, making it challenging to recover funds once they have been sent.(3)

For developers of emerging and alternative methods of payment, Eaton says much is needed to implement viable consumer protection solutions, and fintech companies should be leading the charge on creating these solutions. Fintech innovations have reshaped how businesses handle chargebacks, empowering them with advanced technologies, data-driven insights, and streamlined processes. Now, as the payments landscape evolves even further, it’s imperative for industry stakeholders to embrace these changes and leverage next-generation solutions to provide insight that helps mitigate losses, drive automation on otherwise unscalable processes, and ultimately achieve sustainable growth.

Eaton affirms, “At Chargebacks911, we support the transformative innovation in fintech—as our world evolves to champion convenience through new-age payment methods, we must evolve with it. New technology requires us to challenge legacy mindsets and expand protections. As an industry, we have a responsibility to set standards that protect customers using these breakthrough technologies.”

About Chargebacks911
Chargebacks911 is a global leader in chargeback management and remediation technology. As a provider and supplier to financial institutions and enterprise businesses, Chargebacks911 and Fi911 safeguard more than 2.4 billion transactions per year in 87 countries around the world. For details on Chargebacks911’s comprehensive dispute management solutions, visit https://chargebacks911.com.

References:‥
1. Global Legal Group. (n.d.). Fintech laws and regulations: USA: GLI. GLI – Global Legal Insights – International legal business solutions. globallegalinsights.com/practice-areas/fintech-laws-and-regulations/usa#:~:text=The%20Consumer%20Financial%20Protection%20Bureau,protection%20laws%20that%20impact%20Fintech
2. Kagan, J. (2023, June 19). Fair credit billing act (FCBA): How it protects consumers. Investopedia. investopedia.com/terms/f/fair-credit-billing-act-fcba.asp
3. How bad actors leverage payment apps to carry out P2P scams. Chargebacks911. (2023, February 17). chargebacks911.com/p2p-scams/#:~:text=Can%20you%20get%20your%20money,credit%20or%20debit%20card%20purchase

Media Contact

Karla Jo Helms, JOTO PR™, 727-777-4619, [email protected], jotopr.com

SOURCE Chargebacks911

Ben Chodor Assumes Role of CEO at CallRevu, a Serent Portfolio Company


Brendan Reidy, Executive Chairman of CallRevu, praised Chodor’s vision and commitment. “Ben’s dedication to empowering both our team and clients underscores his suitability for the CEO role. His leadership will undoubtedly steer CallRevu toward continued success.”

Chodor expressed his enthusiasm about joining CallRevu in this capacity. “It is an honor to lead CallRevu as CEO and collaborate with its remarkable employees and customers,” Chodor commented. “I am excited to further strengthen our position as an industry leader, driving innovation and delivering exceptional value to our partners.”

With an impressive background in driving growth and innovation across technology sectors, Chodor’s appointment brings a new era of leadership to CallRevu. His focus on customer-centric solutions and his dedication to advancing the automotive communication landscape position the company for sustained excellence.

Media Contact

Susan Lovett, CallRevu, 443.632.9119, [email protected], www.callrevu.com 

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SOURCE CallRevu