Boston, MA. (July 11, 2025) --- Dr. Jacqueline Schuman, vice chancellor and director of athletics and recreation at UMass Boston, is proud to announce the formation of the Vice Chancellor of Athletics and Recreation's Advisory Council. This newly established body is dedicated to supporting and advancing the mission of UMass Boston Athletics.
 
"This Advisory Council represents an exciting step forward for UMass Boston Athletics," said Dr. Schuman. "Each member brings a unique perspective and a strong connection to our university. Together, we will elevate the student-athlete experience and strengthen the long-term vision for our programs and community."
 
The Advisory Council will serve as a strategic partner to the vice chancellor and director of athletics and recreation, offering insight and guidance on key departmental priorities. Council members will contribute their expertise to help shape and strengthen programs and initiatives. In addition, the council will actively support the department's development efforts by engaging in fundraising and fostering meaningful connections across the UMass Boston community.
 
Joining Dr. Schuman on the council are five distinguished and engaged alumni of Boston State College and UMass Boston:
 
Dany Edward Bandar
Dany Bandar earned his bachelor's degree in economics from UMass Boston and has since built a career in real estate development, specializing in both commercial and residential sectors. His work spans a broad range of property types including hospitality, mixed-use developments, multifamily housing, condominiums, and student housing.
 
Michael J. Beatrice
Michael Beatrice graduated from Boston State College in 1976. A former football player and two-time team captain (1972–1975), he was inducted into the UMass Boston Hall of Fame in 2014 as an individual and again in 2023 with the 1975 championship team. Beatrice has spent over four decades in the hospitality industry and currently serves as CEO of Il Fornaio, a prominent Italian restaurant group based in California, where he has led for 30 years.
 
Kristen Bowes
A 2003 graduate with a degree in criminal justice, Kristen Bowes was a three-sport student-athlete, competing in soccer, basketball, and softball. She was inducted into the UMass Boston Hall of Fame in 2010. Bowes holds a master's degree in criminal justice from California Coast University and has served as a Quincy police officer for over 20 years. Currently assigned to the detective unit, Bowes remains closely connected to her community. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and supporting her children in their sports and activities.
 
Grace Fisher
A 2020 graduate, Grace Fisher earned a B.S. in business management with a minor in economics. A four-year member of the women's ice hockey team, she also served on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Executive Board and was a True Beacon Mentor. Following graduation, Fisher began working as a contracts specialist for UIC Government Services. She has since earned a graduate certificate in procurement and contract management from the University of Virginia and recently completed her first year of law school at Duquesne Kline School of Law. Fisher continues to contribute to the hockey community by coaching youth travel hockey at her local club.
 
Daniel Watson
Daniel Watson was a member of the UMass Boston lacrosse team from 2012 to 2015. He currently lives in Brooklyn, New York, and works as a senior experience designer at Squad—a fan engagement and data platform that helps sports teams monetize fan experiences.