Center for Women in Government & Civil Society (CWGCS) Staff

Dina Refki, D.A., is the Executive Director of CWGCS. She oversees implementation of the Center’s mission, vision and objectives. Dr. Refki provides leadership in developing the Center’s strategic planning, and in preparing operational and financial plans. She establishes partnerships with stakeholders, including: community groups, nonprofits, state agencies and regional businesses to advance the Center's goals. She represents the Center and its programs with agencies, organizations and the general public. She received a doctorate in Humanistic Studies and a Master of Arts in Africana Studies from the University at Albany. She is an adjunct faculty, teaching world history, women's studies and immigration studies. Her research is focused on advancing gender equity in leadership positions and facilitating the integration of immigrant women. Dr. Refki is a 2000 Fellow on Women & Public Policy. Email Dina

Bonnie Beard is Program Director of CWGCS. Ms. Beard has 25 years experience working with diverse and multicultural groups, both in the United States and abroad, designing and implementing educational program in the professional nonprofit world. Utilizing national and international networks and resources, she works in all Center program areas with an emphasis on the development and management of the Women's Leadership Academy. Ms. Beard holds a BS in Cultural Anthropology with graduate study in Multicultural Service, Management and Leadership. Email Bonnie

Abigya Eshete is the Center's Administrative Assistant, providing support for all programs and projects. Ms. Eshete previously worked for the Center as a Research Assistant on the Charitable Barometer Study. She is currently pursuing her B.A. in Globalization Studies at the University at Albany. Email Abigya

Cara Long is the Deputy Director at CWGCS. She works on several program areas at the Center including; Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Women's Leadership. Ms. Long is responsible for planning and creating the Center's outreach and marketing plans and materials, as well as planning and implementing the outreach component of all center programs. She holds a M.A. in Media Production from Emerson College. Email Cara

Judith Saidel, Ph.D is a Senior Research Associate at the Center. Dr. Saidel served as the Center's Executive Director for 18 years. She is an Associate Professor at the Department of Public Administration, University at Albany. Dr. Saidel is a renowned expert in nonprofit management and governance. Her research focuses on gender, race and ethnicity of appointed policy makers in state government and understanding the factors that influence advancement of women to leadership positions in appointed policy making and influencing positions. Email Judith