About Us
The iDegrees Graduate Business Association (iGBA), a new University of Illinois registered student organization (RSO) exclusively for currently enrolled iDegrees graduate students. Access to the iDegrees
Graduate Business Association (iGBA) Constitution, a foundational document outlining policies, operational framework, and governance principles.
History
- 2018 – Founded as iMBA Student Council
- 2021 – Rebranded as iDegrees Student Council
- 2022 – Onboarded first iMSA and iMSM members
- 2022 – Received RSO Status
Purpose
- Advocate for the iDegrees student body to enhance experience
- Advise Gies Online administration on student wants and needs
- Drive or Support student-led initiatives
MISSION
- Represent the interests of all currently enrolled online graduate students in the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign through the iDegrees Graduate Business Association (iGBA).
- Serve as the official liaison between online graduate students and College and University administration to advocate for curriculum enhancement and improved student experience, facilitated by the iGBA.
- Promote professional development and foster a sense of community among online graduate business students through various activities, programs, and initiatives administered by the iGBA.
VISION
The iGBA is the official voice for iMBA, iMSA, and iMSM students, replacing the iDegrees Student Council. Committed to Professional Development, Degree and Program Development, Student Experience, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we aim to enhance the student journey and advocate for our community's needs.
Board of Directors
List of Services
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Shaza Sanaullah, President
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Program: iMBA
Graduation Date: 2027
Career Background: Legal industry;
Non-profit; Law enforcement
About Me: I currently work in Legal Operations, volunteer with Administer Justice, and received my bachelor’s in criminal justice from Loyola University Chicago.
My Why: I am deeply honored to serve on a team dedicated to advocating, elevating, and celebrating everything that makes our iDegrees journey extraordinary. The MBA program has already been a catalyst to my professional and personal growth (most recently the Vietnam immersion capstone) and I am grateful for the chance to give back to the Gies community.
I’m driven to help my fellow colleagues leverage their educational experience and attain their goals by empowering voices, strengthening alumni engagement, and fostering support systems bridging us across time zones, experiences, and industries - all while building connection, joy, and purpose.
Fun Fact: I love spending time with my family; my siblings and I love to play tennis and travel together! I also enjoy hiking, yoga, catering to my cats, and cheering on Chicago sports teams.
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Raluca Balazs, Executive Vice President, Student Experience
Hometown: Chicago
Program: iMBA
Graduation Date: May 2026
Career Background: Sales and Business Development
About me: I'm a big believer in the power of connections and community. My background is in B2B sales across different industries, and building strong client partnerships, plus I've got a genuine passion for helping people. Whether I'm helping teammates win together, bringing people into new networks, or jumping into new projects, I love being a superconnector and making things happen.
My Why: I am driven to empower students by fostering a vibrant community, promoting flexible and innovative learning, and ensuring everyone feels supported to reach their full potential. By sharing my experiences, championing the transformative value of in-person and global opportunities, and inspiring others through active advocacy and leadership, I strive to contribute meaningfully to the growth and success of the iDegree program and its community.
Fun Fact: I know the birthdays of every one of my 100 closest friends, and I never miss sending a greeting.
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Matt Socha, VP of Finance
Hometown: Chicago, IL.
Program: iMSA
Graduation Date: May 2026
Career Background: Finance and Accounting leadership in private equity real estate, financial services, alternative investments, and transformative business strategies.
About Me: As a finance leader with a knack for driving financial turnarounds, streamlining operations, enhancing enterprise value through data-driven decision-making and cross-functional collaboration, I’ve always wanted to continue my personal and professional growth in pursuing a masters. Part of the enrichment of higher education is the connections you make and creating an ecosystem that pushes you to be a better version personally and professionally, something I value greatly.
My Why: The Illini family is full of people with diverse cultures and professional background, with one thing in common, striving for professional and self development that will not only benefit themselves, but the people and communities that surround them. With the experience I’ve gained thus far it’s time to contribute to the program and its participants, while still learning myself through other people's experiences.
Fun Fact: When I’m not looking underneath the hood of a thriving or distressed business, I’m looking under the hood of my next car project. Obsessed with food and travel, but who isn’t… Also, an avid sailor with a goal to circumnavigate all five oceans.
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Daniel Nguyen, VP of Marketing and Communications
Program: iMSM
Graduation Date: May 2026
Career Background:
Marketing Operations in Tech
About Me: I’ve always loved problem solving and enjoy turning complex challenges into streamlined solutions. Therefore, in my day to day work, I help create automated workflows, implement new tools into the marketing tech stack, and develop processes that enable teams to scale and work smarter. As a result, I get to combine strategic thinking with hands on execution, something I find both exciting and rewarding.
My Why: Serving on the board has given me the opportunity to shape how we engage with our student community. Whether that's through enhancing online interactions, strengthening our branding, or utilizing new communication platforms to connect students, I'm hoping to foster strong, lasting networks for all in the program during my time on the board.
Fun Fact: Food, film, and language are some of my favorite ways to explore and understand the world and I’m always curious to discover more of each!
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David Guede, VP of Membership
Program: iMBA
Graduation Date: May 2026
Career background: I am a Health Actuary with experience in reserving and disability. I’m passionate about using data-driven insights to help organizations achieve meaningful outcomes and drive strategic decision-making.
About Me: I chose to pursue this program to deepen my understanding of management and decision-making, while also developing leadership skills essential to success in today’s business environment.
My Why?: I’m excited to contribute to student engagement initiatives and collaborate with fellow board members to create a positive and lasting impact on the university community.
Fun Fact: I speak French and love going on long bike rides along Lake Michigan!
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Ryan Sullivan, VP of Social Engagement
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Program: iMBA
Graduation Date: December 2025
Career Background: Lead Software Engineer
About Me:
- I previously attended the Grainger College of Engineering for my Bachelor Degree in Computer Science. I am excited to continue my education here at the University both physically and virtually.
- I have two cats, Pilsner and Lacie, that will be 13 and 19 this year!
- I spend most of my time training for marathons. In June 2024 I ran 7 half marathons in 7 consecutive days in 7 different states!
My Why: I’ve spent 15 years working as a software engineer and am now pursuing my iMBA to deepen my understanding of business strategy, operations, and leadership. My goal is to bridge the gap between technical execution and organizational impact.
Fun Fact: I have been a member of the Yelp Elite Squad for 10 years and counting! I love helping my friends, the community, and millions of tourists find the best of what the world has to offer.
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Chaitanya Rani, Vice President of Professional Development
Hometown: Seattle Washington
Program: iMBA
Graduation Date: August 2026
Career Background: Program Manager
About Me: I thrive on connecting people, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities that help others grow both personally and professionally.
My Why?: I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves the tools and support to achieve their goals.
Fun Fact: Beyond work, I'm an explorer at heart, having visited all 50 states, 32 National Parks in the US and traveled to 20 countries, When not venturing outdoors, I find solace in cooking, baking, and art.
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Patrick Surrett, VP of Access and Community
Program: iMBA
Graduation: May 2026
Career Background: Program Operations and Strategy Manager
About me: I'm a second-year MBA student and full-time strategy and operations professional with a background in government and healthcare. I’ve always been drawn to roles that connect people, streamline systems, and create space for meaningful impact.
My Why: As VP of Access and Community, my goal is to ensure every student feels a genuine sense of belonging, regardless of their path, life circumstances, or how they show up in this program. I believe community isn’t built through big moments alone, but through intentional inclusion and the small, consistent ways we support and uplift one another.
I’m a lifelong learner who’s always seeking new experiences and perspectives; a mindset that shapes how I live, work, and lead. Thankfully, I have a very patient husband and two dogs who keep me grounded along the way. I hope to contribute to the Gies culture, which thrives on curiosity, respect, and authentic connection.
Fun fact: I geek out over practical uses of AI, whether it’s streamlining workflows or helping improve healthcare operations.
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Dmitry Moiseev, VP of Technology
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Program: iMBA
Graduation Date: Dec 2026
Career Background: Engineering leadership in wireless infrastructure, embedded systems, and cybersecurity
About Me: I lead engineering teams building wireless and fiber connectivity products, with a focus on embedded systems, security, and cloud-connected infrastructure. I enjoy working at the intersection of technology and strategy and have also spent time exploring early-stage product ideas. My background includes a Master’s in Cybersecurity and a deep interest in building secure, reliable systems.
My Why: I joined iGBA to help our iMBA community use technology more effectively. As VP of Technology, I focus on improving the systems that support connection, communication, and collaboration — and on guiding how we can use digital tools more purposefully. The iMBA program has already expanded how I think as a leader, and I’m excited to give back in a way that supports others on their journey.
Fun Fact: I’m advising a next-generation hardware startup and mentoring my daughter as she designs her first mobile app. I also enjoy cybersecurity events, hiking, and eating my way through Chicago's best steakhouses.
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Swaminathan Harakrishnan, VP of International Outreach
Hometown: Mumbai, India
Program: iMSM
Graduation Date: 2026
Career Background: Global experience across blockchain, fintech, and consulting, specializing in strategy, operations, partnerships, marketing, and business development.
About Me: I am passionate about bridging cultures and building communities. Whether its mentoring peers, leading cross-border initiatives, or championing inclusion in the digital economy. When I’m not working, you’ll find me on a squash court, behind a camera, or planning my next travel adventure.
My Why?: I believe that when people from all walks of life connect, possibilities multiply. Serving on the iGBA Board is my way of helping ensure that every student, no matter where they are in the world, can access the full value of the Gies experience.
Fun Fact: I am an avid ice skater and also play the Mridangam, a South Indian percussion instrument.
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Katrina Church-Chmielowski, VP, iMSM Program Affairs
Hometown: Copper Center, Alaska
Program: iMSM & iMBA
Graduation date: iMSM Summer 2024 & iMBA Spring 2026
Career Background: Entrepreneur (AirBnB and small construction company), 19+ years higher education, Alaska Native tribal services
About Me:
- I am from Alaska and we live on my parents’ homestead in a very small, rural community.
- My husband and I are proud parents of three contributing adults: one foreign service graduate student interning in Tajikistan, one geology graduate, and one industrial electricity tech school graduate.
- We have two retirement small businesses that keep us busy in the summer season.
- I’m passionate about education of all kinds and at all levels, from children to adults. We use our businesses to help teach young people trades and life skills. Giving back to the community is vital to me.
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Ines Weitgasser, VP of iMBA Program Affairs
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Program: iMBA
Graduation Date: December 2025
Career Background: Audio-Video Postproduction / Project Management
About Me:
I’m an Austrian native who loves traveling, playing music, writing, and learning new languages. My curiosity and interests span a wide range of topics. I’m also TEFL-certified and enjoy volunteering in my spare time.
My Why:
When the former iGBA president asked me to step into the role of VP of iMBA Program Affairs, I was honored to continue serving the iGBA community, building on the experience I gained as VP of International Outreach last year. My goal is to represent student voices by connecting their needs and ideas with Gies leadership, helping shape emerging coursework, specializations, and experiences that reflect our evolving professional landscape. In particular, I’m interested in the intersection of business, technology, and ethics as a foundation for striving toward a future focused on responsible innovation and ESG. I'm excited to contribute to the Gies community for another year and to encourage others to connect our education with a meaningful impact on the world by upholding the college’s philosophy: Business on Purpose.
Fun Fact:
I collect musical instruments from around the world, I’m a long-time Bob Dylan enthusiast, and I’m a card and board game nerd.
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Dalton Joy, Member at Large
Hometown: Louisville, KY
Program: iMBA
Graduation: December 2025
About me: I grew up in central Illinois and always dreamed of getting a degree from the University of Illinois! I currently work as a sales and operations leader for an IoT company focused on compressed air. We recently were acquired and are now part of Ingersoll Rand.
My why: I am passionate about this University and giving back to the community that has truly adopted me. I enjoy solving problems and believe that the iGBA truly operates with the best interest of the student body in mind.
Fun fact: Outside of work and school I am an avid traveler, foodie, and golfer!