Meet the new CState Human Resources Team

After an extensive search taking place over several months, the College is pleased to introduce the new Human Resources Team.

Falonda Buycks-Rodgers is the Director, Human Resources & Organizational Development, and Title IX, IV and Section 504 Coordinator.

Falonda is a seasoned Senior Human Resources leader with over 20 years of diverse experience in areas such as employee relations, HR compliance, talent management, performance management, unemployment, benefits, and labor relations.

Falonda has used her strong HR background in private, publicly-traded and non-profit organizations to affect positive change. She says she "believes in building strong HR teams of trust to accomplish HR goals."

Falonda also has served as an adjunct instructor at Clark State Community College.

Falonda has a master’s degree in Human Resources Management from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s degree in Business Administration from University of Phoenix. She is currently preparing for the credentialing exams for Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM-Senior Certified Professional.

To balance work and life, Falonda spends time with her family and friends, and she’s reported to be an exceptional cook. Falonda also loves to decorate and plan parties and events.

Grace Cuneo, the Benefits Manager, brings to the College more than 10 years of human resources and benefit experience in a variety of business sectors. Grace is currently focused on preparing for the annual Open Enrollment process, so watch for more information coming soon!

Although she's new to Cincinnati State, Grace said that prior to the pandemic, she was in process of enrolling at the College to continue her passion for learning. She earned master’s degrees in HR Management and Public Administration, both from the Keller School of Management at Devry University.

Grace said, "This is my first time working in Higher Education. I enjoy being here, and having the opportunity for change.”

Outside of work, Grace enjoys spending time with her adult children and grandchildren, shopping at flea markets and repurposing furniture, and "hanging with my dog."

Janet Lee, an HR Coordinator, started at Cincinnati State in 2011 as a Clerical Assistant in the Registrar's Office assisting students and staff with all aspects of registration. After two years in this position she moved to the Admissions Office as the Records Supervisor.

Janet said, “My work in registration and admissions gave me great knowledge and understanding of the needs of prospective and current students at the College, and gave me opportunities to interact and cross-train with a diverse population of employees at Cincinnati State."

She added, "Moving to Human Resources has been a positive step for me and I thoroughly enjoy being involved with the onboarding of new employees."

Janet has a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Xavier University.

In her spare time Janet enjoys weekend getaways (especially Hocking Hills) breweries, outdoor events, and spending time with family. She also loves cats and hopes to become more involved volunteering at the Ohio Alleycat Resources Clinic after COVID restrictions are lifted.

Seth Urbont is an HR Coordinator, and is seen here with his son, Liam. Seth brings a strong HR recruitment background to his role. He has already worked with many managers and screening teams, helping to attract new talent to the College.

Seth is Cincinnati "born and raised" and now lives in Hyde Park. He earned his bachelor's degree in Business Management from Xavier University, where he also played soccer for the Musketeers.

Seth says his son, who is age 7 and in the first grade, "takes up the majority of my time."

Seth added, "I have always had an interest in HR and am very grateful for the opportunity to work at Cincinnati State. I have really enjoyed my time here so far.”