News

PMINEO is excited to announce Crys S. Curkendoll-Draconi, PMP as the new Director of Student Leadership Development, a role that leads one of our Chapter’s most visible and impactful initiatives: Academic Outreach.

Crys brings more than 15 years of experience in program leadership, organizational development, curriculum design, and mentorship across major academic medical institutions. She currently serves as a Program Manager at Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital, where she oversees multiple residency programs, manages accreditation and compliance, develops strategic initiatives, and supports faculty and residents in quality improvement and professional development. She is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and an active contributor to national conversations on leadership, education, and program innovation.

Across her career—including key roles at Tufts Medical Center, Cleveland Clinic, and national consulting work—Crys has built a reputation for strengthening programs, elevating standards, and mentoring emerging leaders. She has authored articles, book chapters, and presented on topics such as program evaluation, recruitment strategies, and effective educational models. Her service on influential boards and committees, including ACGME Milestones 2.0 workgroups and FULGME, highlights her dedication to improving education and leadership development nationwide.

Now, she brings this passion and expertise to PMINEO as she steps into leading our Student Leadership Development and Academic Outreach efforts.

About PMINEO's Academic Outreach Initiative

PMINEO’s Academic Outreach program builds relationships with colleges and universities across Northeast Ohio to introduce students to project management as a career path. This work includes:

• Presenting to classes about project management fundamentals and career opportunities
• Hosting information tables on campus to engage students one‑on‑one
• Participating in job fairs and career events
• Developing connections with faculty, advisors, and student organizations

As the new Director, Crys will guide these efforts, expand our presence at regional institutions, and strengthen pathways for students to explore the value and versatility of project management.

We Need Your Help - Join our Academic Outreach Team

Academic Outreach is powered by the enthusiasm and generosity of PMINEO members. If you'd like to help inspire the next generation of project managers, we have opportunities for all interest levels:

• On‑Campus Coordinators
  Help build relationships with specific colleges or universities and coordinate chapter activities on campus.
• Classroom Presenters
  Share your project management experience directly with students—no prior teaching experience required.
• Information Table Volunteers
  Staff PMINEO tables at career fairs or campus events, answering student questions and sharing your PM journey.

Your involvement—whether once a semester or several times a year—helps introduce students to a career that changes industries, organizations, and communities.

Want to Get Involved? Reach out to Crys

If you’re interested in supporting any part of PMINEO’s Academic Outreach initiative, please contact: studentldrdev@pmineo.org

Crys is eager to connect with members who want to help strengthen our impact and bring the world of project management to students across Northeast Ohio.