Connor Gafford is a second-year Master of Business Administration (MBA) student at the Knauss School of Business with a concentration in Organizational Leadership. Originally from Lakewood, California, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Politics from the University of California, Santa Cruz after beginning his studies at Cerritos College. Connor served four years as a Signals Intelligence Analyst in the U.S. Army and currently works as an usher at Snapdragon Stadium.
As GSG President, Connor aims to strengthen collaboration across USD’s graduate and law programs, building a unified student community and ensuring GSG delivers meaningful support to all students. He also serves as Co-President of the Law and Business Mediation Caucus and Vice President of Student Organizations for the Graduate Business Student Association.
Connor plans to pursue a career in the tech and defense industry as a contract manager and is working toward his personal goal of visiting all 50 state capitol buildings—only 20 to go. In his free time, he enjoys collecting maps, watching documentaries, and spending time with his dog, Ember.
Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering
Davenj Bradley
GSG Vice President
As a Regional Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Manager, Davenj Bradley oversees multi-site operations in Colorado, Texas, Maine, and Arizona. With an accredited degree in Occupational Safety and Health, professional certifications, and years of hands-on experience, he specializes in developing and leading effective EHS programs across manufacturing facilities. Davenj's expertise includes hazard identification, risk assessment, ergonomic compliance monitoring, and a strong command of OSHA, EPA, and DOT regulations. He also excels in managing workers’ compensation programs and conducting cross-site safety audits to enhance workplace safety and compliance.
Currently, Davenj is pursuing a Master’s in Engineering, Sustainability, and Health at the University of San Diego, focusing on environmental engineering, biometrics, and sustainable solutions. His passion for environmental stewardship drives him to explore innovative approaches that integrate biometric technologies with sustainability initiatives to improve environmental monitoring, resource conservation, and climate resilience.
In his free time, he enjoys traveling, exploring nature, and skateboarding. He hopes to bring Leadership & Accountability as well as his 14 years of experience in business operations across multiple industries and sectors to the GSG.
Kroc School of Peace Studies
Gener Abdon
Director of Communications & Operations
Gener Abdon is a second-year part-time student in the Master's in Peace and Justice Program at the Kroc School of Peace Studies. He envisions a world that improves the livelihoods of underrepresented communities. Gener completed his Bachelor of Arts in International Security and Conflict Resolution at San Diego State University. He currently works full-time remotely as a Project Coordinator for the Center for Sustainable Energy. Gener grew up in southern San Diego, specifically across Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, and National City to a big Filipino-American immediate and extended family. He lives with his fianceé, Ceci, and 2 cats, Edward and Chesa, in North Park. Outside the school and work spaces, Gener loves to go for runs and occasionally goes on camping trips or travels with his friends doing activities that are on his life bucket list.
His vision for GSG is to increase engagement, build access and visibility, and support USD's strategic plan. Gener is always willing to meet with students outside of school and workspaces as well.
Mariann Sanchez
GSG Advisor
Mariann Sanchez is the Director for Graduate Student Life. She has been an employee at USD since 2004. Mariann serves as the Administrative Ex-officio (advisor) to the GSG. She completed her Masters in International Relations at USD. Mariann also helps oversee the operations of the Graduate and Law Student Commons in SLP 401. If you ever need any help at USD please do not hesitate to contact her or a GSG member for assistance.
Haley Rich
GSG Advisor
Haley Rich is a second-year student in the SOLES MA in Leadership Studies program. She grew up in Richmond, Virginia and earned her Bachelor's degree in Human Development from Virginia Tech in 2022. Haley is the Graduate Assistant for Graduate Student Life and serves as an advisor for the GSG.
