Rosa Taormina, President
Rosa joined Salem State University in July 2017 as an Administrative Assistant II in the Bertolon School of Business. She became an APA union member in May 2018 when she was promoted to the role of Assistant Director of Operations, Assessment and Accreditation. After helping the school achieve initial AACSB accreditation, Rosa accepted a new position as a Business Advisor – CARES Act at the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, where she has been helping small business owners navigate federal COVID relief programs.
Rosa served as chapter grievance officer since December 2018 and is excited to make a difference in this new role. She lives with her husband, two daughters, and Boston Terrier Jackie Daytona, in neighboring Beverly. A Connecticut native, Rosa has lived in Massachusetts since 2003 and tries very hard to get her children to pronounce the letter “r”. Rosa holds a BA from Providence College and a JD from Massachusetts School of Law.
Email Rosa
Derek A. Barr, Vice President
Derek Barr has been involved with the APA for well over a decade at Salem State University, assisting with elections, special events and contract inquiries. He has worked at Salem State for over 32 years, in various positions, including the likes of instructional media specialist and instructional technologist when he worked in the Center for Teaching Innovation.
Currently, Derek serves as the Assistant Director of Digital Media and Classroom Technology Services in Information Technology.
Barr’s hard work has been noted by receiving the governor’s Citation of Performance Recognition Award (four times in the 14 years). Derek is here to answer your questions. If he can’t, he will get an answer for you.
Email Derek
Kevin Linton, Lead Grievance Officer
Dr. Kevin David Linton is an educator, advocate, and student affairs professional with over a decade of experience supporting first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students in higher education. As the Director of TRIO Student Support Services at Salem State University, Kevin has dedicated his career to fostering equity, access, and belonging—values that remain central to his work as the Lead Grievance Officer.
Kevin believes in the power of listening with empathy and leading with integrity. In his role as Lead Grievance Officer, he brings a deep commitment to fairness, transparency, and trust. He understands that behind every concern is a colleague with a story—and he is ready to listen, support, and help find a way forward.
Both personally and professionally, Kevin has always been guided by a belief in community and care. His lived experience as a first-generation college graduate and his professional journey in student advocacy inform his approach to serving fellow APA members with compassion, discretion, and resolve.
Above all, Kevin is proud to stand alongside his peers, working to ensure that every voice is heard and every concern is taken seriously. He is honored to serve in this role and looks forward to supporting his colleagues across campus with respect and care.
Email Kevin
Randy Cloke, Membership Coordinator
Randy Cloke is an alumnus of Salem State and Saint Joseph’s University, having earned a Master of Education in Higher Education in Student Affairs from SSU and a Bachelor of Arts in History SJU. With a rich background in academic coaching, student retention, and advising, Randy has dedicated his career to fostering student success through individualized support, the development of critical academic skills, and the promotion of holistic student development. His expertise extends to managing student caseloads, collaborating with faculty and staff to overcome barriers to success, and leading initiatives that enhance the student experience, particularly for commuter students, first-generation students, and students from underrepresented communities.
Email Randy
