Jie Chen joined the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department as a research technician on Jan. 5. Nara Giannella joined the Art an Art History Department as an assistant visual resources librarian on Jan. 10. Andrew Chatfield joined the Center for the Arts as a press and marketing manager on Jan. 11.

Robert Herrick III was hired by the Psychology Department as a web programmer on Feb. 9. Edgardo Quinones was hired by the Green Street Arts Center as the technical and maintenance coordinator on Feb. 16.

Rico Brogna, who had a nine-year career in Major League Baseball from 1992 through 2001, will rejoin the Wesleyan University football coaching staff as an assistant during the 2009 season. Brogna was an assistant football coach at Wesleyan during the 2004 season, handling receivers. His specific assignment for 2009 has not been determined, however, he will be on the offensive side of the ball, according to 18-year Head Coach Frank Hauser. Playing with the Tigers, Mets, Phillies, Red Sox and Braves during his nine-year major league career, Brogna moved into high school football coaching for three years before joining the…

Charles Salas was hired by the Office of the President as the director of strategic initiatives on Dec. 1. Salas's appointment is for five years, overlapping substantially with the rollout of a fundraising campaign. Salas will work closely with President Michael Roth, the faculty and cabinet officers to ensure that plans for new facilities, programs and outreach are implemented in a creative, sustainable and effective way. Salas has a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkley; a master's degree in history from Wesleyan; and a Ph.D in history from the Claremont Graduate University. Michael Marotta was hired by Physical…

The following people joined Wesleyan University in September and October 2008. Rebecca McCallum was hired by Olin Library as a cataloging librarian. Kathy Tedone was hired by the Center for the Humanities as an administrative assistant. Lisa LaPlant was hired by the President's Office as an assistant to the secretary of the university. Brian Nangle was hired by Residential Life as an area coordinator. Denise Skura was hired by Human Resources as a payroll and human resources assistant. Karen Nichols was hired by the Usdan University Center as an administrative assistant. Lashawn Springer was hired by the Office of Admission…

Tom Volgenau '08 was hired by the Office of University Relations as an assistant director of alumni relations on Oct. 6. Volgenau worked as a student intern for alumni and parent relations.  He will be working on regional activities and councils.