2026 Election Candidates
Voting opens on June 19, 2026 and closes on July 12, 2026. Review the candidate bios below before casting your vote.
President-Elect
Pauline McKeown
Motivation
My journey with PMI Buffalo has been one of service, growth, and commitment to our project management community. I began as a volunteer and steadily expanded my involvement, serving as Director of Certification Training and now as Vice President of Certification Training. Throughout that time, my focus has remained the same: creating opportunities for our members to learn, grow, connect, and advance their careers.
In my current role, I have helped expand certification training programs, launched and supported study groups, recruited and developed volunteers, and worked to ensure our chapter delivers meaningful value to project professionals at every stage of their careers. Beyond certification, I have actively represented PMI Buffalo throughout the Western New York community, speaking at professional events such as Women in Tech WNY, engaging with organizations such as the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, and helping strengthen our chapter's visibility and influence across the region.
I have also worked behind the scenes to bring engaging speakers, innovative programming, and new partnerships to our members. My professional experience leading large-scale transformation initiatives across government, healthcare, banking, manufacturing, and international organizations has given me a broad perspective on leadership, strategy, and organizational growth that I bring to chapter service.
What sets me apart is not simply the positions I have held, but my commitment to building relationships, developing future leaders, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. I believe strong chapters are built by engaged volunteers, empowered members, and leaders who listen, collaborate, and act. My vision for PMI Buffalo is to continue growing our impact, strengthening member value, expanding professional development opportunities, and ensuring our chapter remains a vibrant, welcoming, and innovative community for project professionals throughout Western New York.
I am seeking the role of President-Elect because I care deeply about this chapter, its volunteers, and its future. I am ready to build on the strong foundation established by those who came before us and help lead PMI Buffalo into its next chapter of growth and success.
Bio
Pauline McKeown is an accomplished project and program management leader with more than 20 years of experience delivering complex transformation initiatives across government, healthcare, banking, manufacturing, and international organizations. She currently serves as an IT Project Manager at MOOG, where she leads strategic technology initiatives supporting global operations.
Throughout her career, Pauline has successfully led large-scale digital transformation, PMO development, Agile transformation, organizational change management, and portfolio governance efforts. Her experience spans leadership roles with Moog, M&T Bank, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, the U.S. Department of State, and her consulting practice, Baraza Consulting.
Pauline holds multiple industry certifications, including PMP, PMI-ACP, CSM, and CSPO, and is deeply committed to advancing the project management profession. She currently serves as Vice President of Certification Training for PMI Buffalo, where she leads certification strategy, study groups, volunteer engagement, and professional development initiatives that help members advance their careers and achieve their certification goals.
Her professional background aligns strongly with leading PMI Buffalo through a combination of strategic leadership, volunteer development, community engagement, and a passion for lifelong learning. Having served the chapter in multiple leadership roles and represented PMI Buffalo throughout the Western New York business community, Pauline brings a proven ability to build partnerships, develop future leaders, and create meaningful value for members. She is committed to ensuring PMI Buffalo continues to grow as a vibrant, innovative, and inclusive professional community.
VP, Marketing & Communications
Rupali Sood
[HEADSHOT]
Motivation
I'm seeking a role on the PMI Buffalo Board because I'm passionate about supporting the project management community and helping create value for our members. Serving as Vice President of Marketing & Communications has given me the opportunity to collaborate with an exceptional team, strengthen member engagement, and contribute to the chapter's growth and visibility.
My professional experience as a Project Manager in all different domains like healthcare industry, Service, telecom, consulting combined with my volunteer leadership experience with PMI Buffalo, has strengthened my ability to lead initiatives, engage stakeholders, and drive results. I look forward to continuing to support the chapter's mission, enhance the member experience, and help foster professional growth within our project management community.
Bio
I am a PMP-certified project and program management professional with over 20 years of experience leading complex technology, infrastructure, and business transformation initiatives across healthcare, cloud computing, telecommunications, and engineering industries. Throughout my career, I have managed multi-million-dollar programs, led cross-functional teams, and partnered with executive stakeholders to deliver strategic outcomes in highly regulated environments.
Currently, I work at Kaleida Health, where I support healthcare technology and infrastructure initiatives, including Epic-related programs, clinical systems integrations, and operational modernization efforts. Prior to Kaleida Health, I held leadership roles with Amazon Web Services (AWS), KPMG, Rogers Communications, BlackBerry, and Wipro Technologies, delivering large-scale programs focused on governance, operational excellence, and organizational transformation.
In addition to my professional experience, I serve as Vice President of Marketing & Communications for PMI Buffalo, where I help drive member engagement, chapter visibility, strategic communications, and community outreach initiatives.
Bruce Izard
[HEADSHOT]
Motivation
I am a strategic business leader with a proven record of driving organizational growth, building high-performing partnerships, and delivering measurable results in complex, highly regulated environments. I have been blessed with good mentors over the year like Jeffrey Manhardt and Brian Griffin when I was at M&T Bank. I believe that we have a great local organization and I want to increase awareness, provide great communication, and help motivate more skilled people to consider project management as their career.
Bio
I am an active project manager with a diverse blend of experience in New Product Development, Construction, Information Technology and Banking. I have worked in Retail Sales, Manufacturing, Banking and currently I work at NFTA helping run the Buffalo and Niagara Falls Airports, a Fleet of 327 Buses and 6.4 miles of train. I am a regional subject matter expert in RFP's, Bids and negotiation. I currently serve as VP of Finance at Sycamore Reservation Inc., a 501C3 scout camp in Zoar Valley. I volunteer for American Lung Association Buffalo Stair Climb and this is my second year doing the Ride for Roswell. I have worked and thrived in both the public and private sectors providing leadership and training to aspiring project managers.
Dawn Sakalian
[HEADSHOT]
Motivation
As a recent MBA graduate from the University at Buffalo with concentrations in Marketing and Consulting, I am excited about the opportunity to serve PMI Buffalo as Vice President of Marketing & Communications.
My interest in this role stems from a passion for connecting people with professional development opportunities and helping organizations build meaningful relationships with their communities. Throughout my academic, professional, and volunteer experiences, I have been drawn to work that involves communication, engagement, leadership, and creating value for stakeholders.
During my MBA program, I was selected to join the University at Buffalo MBA Consulting Group, where I worked with organizations to solve business challenges and develop strategic recommendations. I was later elected Director of Finance & Special Events, where I took the initiative to establish the organization's first University at Buffalo financial account, creating a transparent process for managing dues and donations. I also supported recruitment efforts, participated in member selection, and helped coordinate activities that strengthened member leadership and development. These experiences strengthened my leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills while demonstrating the value of taking initiative to improve operations.
Professionally, I served as a Global Digital Marketing & Communications Intern at Rich Products, where I supported branding, communications, and digital marketing initiatives across global markets. I also currently serve as an Instagram Content Creator and Manager for St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, helping engage members of the community through consistent and meaningful content.
As a PMP-certified professional and active PMI Buffalo member, I am passionate about supporting others in their project management journeys. Following my successful completion of the PMP exam, I was invited by my former professor at the University at Buffalo to speak to an MBA-level Project Management course about my preparation strategy, study approach, and lessons learned throughout the certification process. Sharing my experience with aspiring project managers reinforced my commitment to professional development and helping others achieve their goals.
I am eager to give back to an organization that supports project managers throughout Western New York. I would be honored to help increase awareness of the chapter's programs, strengthen member engagement, enhance chapter communications, and support PMI Buffalo's continued growth and success.
I believe my combination of marketing expertise, communications experience, project management knowledge, leadership experience, initiative, and commitment to service would allow me to make a meaningful contribution to the Board and to the chapter's members.
Bio
Dawn Sakalian, MBA, PMP is a marketing and communications professional with experience in project management, digital marketing, consulting, content creation, and stakeholder engagement.
Prior to earning her MBA, Dawn served as an Assistant Project Manager at the Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University, where she coordinated project activities and community outreach initiatives, and worked with the museum's marketing team to promote exhibitions, films, and public events.
Dawn earned her MBA from the University at Buffalo with concentrations in Marketing and Consulting. During her graduate studies, she was selected to join the University at Buffalo MBA Consulting Group and later served as Director of Finance & Special Events. In that role, she established the organization's first University at Buffalo financial account, supported recruitment and member selection efforts, and helped coordinate member events.
Professionally, Dawn served as a Global Digital Marketing & Communications Intern at Rich Products, where she supported branding, communications, digital asset management, and marketing initiatives across global markets. She currently serves as an Instagram Content Creator and Manager for St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, developing content that supports community engagement and organizational goals.
Dawn holds the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and is an active member of PMI Buffalo. She was invited to speak to a University at Buffalo MBA Project Management course about her experience preparing for and passing the PMP certification exam.
VP, Professional Development
Bogdana Sokolov
[HEADSHOT]
Motivation
With the recent ramp up of AI technology, I believe my skills would make me a good addition to the Buffalo Chapter team as we help our members navigate upcoming challenges and changes and build skills that would prepare them to steer their respective clients and organizations through a rapidly evolving environment.
Bio
I am a Financial Services professional with 20+ years of regulatory compliance, change management and governance experience who has led multiple teams (including internationally) and held strategy and leadership positions through numerous transformations. I worked for 8 years at HSBC Mortgage Corporation, then moved to a privately owned company – 1st Priority Mortgage where I established the Compliance program and later transitioned to managing the Broker-Dealer Licensing and Registration team at Citi. I owned the Global Mandatory Absence Program at Citi for 5 years and later transitioned to Finance where I am responsible for Capital Management Transformation. I have handled diverse roles, stakeholders, products, jurisdictions, and requirements and have built the resilience and expertise necessary to thrive during change.
Michael Fiandalo
[HEADSHOT]
Motivation
I am excited to apply for the Vice President of Professional Development position! I have roots and passion for helping others learn, grow, and achieve their professional goals while advancing the project management profession. Throughout my career, I have benefited from mentors, educational opportunities, and professional communities that have shaped my development as a leader. Serving in this role would provide an opportunity to give back to the profession and contribute to PMI Buffalo's mission of supporting its members and strengthening the project management community throughout Western New York.
I have always found the most rewarding aspects of leadership to be coaching, mentoring, and supporting the growth of individuals and teams. Whether through training programs, knowledge sharing, certification preparation, or career development initiatives, I enjoy helping others expand their capabilities and realize their potential. I am particularly inspired by PMI's commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence, as well as the chapter's ability to create meaningful connections among professionals across industries and experience levels.
I am excited by the opportunity to support PMI Buffalo's M.O.R.E. objectives by helping enhance Membership value through high-quality professional development opportunities, increasing Outreach to project professionals and future leaders, strengthening Relationships among members, organizations, and community partners, and driving greater member Engagement through relevant and impactful learning experiences.
By aligning professional development initiatives with these objectives, I hope to help PMI Buffalo continue to grow its influence, deliver value to its members, and advance the profession within our region.
Bio
Michael V. Fiandalo's background combines executive leadership, project and portfolio management expertise, education, and professional development. As Associate Vice President of Enterprise Project Management at Appalachian Regional Healthcare, Michael leads enterprise-wide initiatives that align strategy with execution while supporting the growth and development of project managers, leaders, and cross-functional teams. Prior to this role, he served as Associate Director of Project Management Operations for the AACR Project GENIE Coordinating Center, where he helped lead complex, multi-institutional oncology research initiatives.
Michael brings strong foundations in education, research, and mentorship. He has developed and delivered training programs, instructed students and professionals, mentored emerging leaders, and supported workforce development throughout my career. His experience spans academic research, healthcare, project management, and organizational leadership, providing me with a broad perspective on professional growth and lifelong learning.
Michael's professional credentials combined with my experience serving as a PMI PMO Awards judge and actively contributing to the project management community, these experiences afforded him a deep appreciation for the value of professional development and the importance of creating opportunities that help individuals advance their careers and maximize their potential.
VP, Technology & Business Services
Antoneo Page
[HEADSHOT]
Motivation
My motivation for pursuing the Vice President of Technology role comes from my commitment to service, innovation, and helping PMI Buffalo continue to grow as a modern, forward-thinking chapter. My current role as Director of Application Support for PMI Buffalo has allowed me to contribute directly to the chapter's technology needs, application related processes, digital operations, and member support. Through this role, I have gained a deeper understanding of how important reliable systems, secure access, communication tools, data management, and technology strategy are to the overall success of the chapter.
Bio
I am confident that I am prepared to step into the Vice President of Technology role because my background combines technical expertise, operational leadership, and business strategy. I have more than 15 years of leadership experience across information technology, logistics, operations, risk management, training, and business development. My professional experience includes serving as a Director of Application Support, Information Technology Service Desk L4 Technician, Data Center Engineering Analyst, Chief Operations Officer, Assistant Vice President of Risk Management, and Transportation and Logistics Executive.
My technology work experience includes application support, IT service delivery, data center operations, asset management, CMDB migration, hardware installation and maintenance, equipment commissioning and decommissioning, documentation, audit support, networking, stakeholder coordination, and cross-functional project execution. I have worked in environments where reliability, documentation, communication, security, process improvement, and execution were critical to success.
What sets me apart is my non-traditional yet highly effective professional journey. I understand technology not only from a technical perspective but also from an operational and business perspective. I know how to connect people, processes, and systems to create stronger outcomes. Throughout my career, I have led teams, managed complex operations, supported technical environments, mentored professionals, and helped build systems that improve accountability and performance.
If selected as Vice President of Technology, my focus will be to strengthen PMI Buffalo's technology foundation, improve digital tools, support board collaboration, enhance member engagement, and help the chapter embrace innovation. I am passionate about digital transformation, artificial intelligence, automation, cybersecurity awareness, project management technology, and creating technology solutions that enhance the member experience.
In addition to my current PMI Buffalo Board service as Director of Application Support, I bring strong qualifications in application support leadership, IT service delivery, infrastructure operations, project coordination, risk management, stakeholder communication, process improvement, training, and mentorship. I have also served as a mentor, trainer, business advisor, and community advocate throughout Western New York and across the United States, helping professionals develop skills, transition careers, and build confidence through education and support.
I am already deeply invested in the success of PMI Buffalo, and I am ready to continue contributing at a higher level. I will bring continuity, commitment, executive-level leadership, creativity, accountability, and a service-first mindset to the Vice President of Technology role. My goal is to help PMI Buffalo become even more connected, efficient, secure, innovative, and prepared for the future of work.
Thank you for considering my nomination. I would be honored to continue serving PMI Buffalo and its members as Vice President of Technology.
Board Trustee
Katie Dieter
[HEADSHOT]
Motivation
My role as VP Professional Development for PMI Buffalo expires on Dec 31. I have volunteered on the Prof Dev team for 3 years. I am looking for a new role to continue being actively involved in the chapter and I feel that I can provide the most benefit to the Trustee position.
Bio
I have been in the utilities industry for over 20 years, providing engineering services to electric, gas and telco utilities across the U.S. I have been in a project management role for over 12 years and earned my PMP in 2018. Currently, I am a Program Manager at Davey Resource Group, helping this relatively new subsidiary grow and increase efficiencies and profitability.
Navaid Jamal
[HEADSHOT]
Motivation
I strongly feel that I can contribute meaningfully as a Trustee at the PMI Buffalo Chapter after having served in various Executive and VP level positions at various PMI chapters (national and global). Specifically, I have served as Director for Southwest venue for the PMI Houston, VP Marketing & Communication at the GPPMA in Dubai, UAE, and VP Certification at the PMI Buffalo.
My current career and focus is on transformation ideas across industries. I am on a learning path for the AI and its usage in the healthcare operations. I would like to bring the same exposure and experience to the Buffalo Chapter and help it transform and grow to attract new members as well as get recognized at the national level for its innovation and techniques across all areas of operations.
On my last role as VP certification at the PMI Buffalo, I had faced a revenue making contract terminated with Medaille college due to changes at the college. Very quickly, I worked with another vendor at projectmanagment.com to onboard their program to earn healthy commission. I also worked with Projectbites' CEO to bring a FREE PDU earning solution for our members at a very nominal cost to the chapter.
Bio
A PMP- and Scrum-certified professional with extensive experience leading complex business and technology projects across global teams in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. A technologist at heart, with strong expertise in business operations and project management, focused on resolving challenges and ensuring successful project delivery through effective team facilitation. A customer-focused leader who collaborates closely with clients to deliver solutions aligned with their expectations and business goals.
I believe that my strategic and executive level exposure to various operational and support roles will enable me to add meaningful participation at the Trustee Level. This time, I want to join the PMI Board to help the chapter operate and grow and continue to excel in the growing and changing field of the project management. I appreciate your consideration.