Colleges & Campus News | ɫ�� News

UCF, Orlando Health Co-Locate to Accelerate Healthcare Innovation

Robyn Lorfink — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:15:27 +0000

Yesterday, Orlando Health celebrated the opening of Orlando Health Strategic Innovations located within SPRK, UCF’s innovation building, expanding the health system’s presence at the center ɫ��’s main campus.

Designed to accelerate innovation, the Orlando Health Strategic Innovations group connects real clinical and operational challenges with student and academic talent, creating a healthcare environment where ideas are tested, informed by feedback, and continually improved. The space serves as an extension of the system’s downtown headquarters and is jointly funded by Orlando Health Ventures and the Orlando Health Innovation teams.

Orlando Health’s presence within SPRK aligns with UCF’s broader co-location strategy, which brings industry partners onto campus to catalyze innovation through proximity. The approach emphasizes shared space, shared challenges and shared outcomes to accelerate problem-solving, support experiential learning and speed the translation of ideas into practice.

The co-location marks the latest milestone in Orlando Health’s long-standing partnership with UCF.

“By working side by side at SPRK, we are accelerating innovation and moving real-world healthcare solutions more quickly into the communities we serve.” — Alexander N. Cartwright, UCF president

The Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute provides comprehensive, year-round care for UCF student-athletes, including on-field coverage, primary care sports medicine, and specialized imaging. As a Pegasus Partner, Orlando Health pledged $5 million toward the , which supports nursing internships, scholarships, and hiring, helping to address the state’s nursing shortage. In addition, Orlando Health and UCF collaborate on advanced technology projects — such as the AI for Medical Surgery system — jointly offer specialized residency programs and collaborate in many additional ways.

“Orlando Health has been an exceptional partner, demonstrating what is possible when industry and academia come together with shared purpose. This next phase of co-location builds on that foundation,” says UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright. “By working side by side at SPRK, we are accelerating innovation and moving real-world healthcare solutions more quickly into the communities we serve.”

Healthcare Innovation at the Center of Campus

Located in approximately 2,649 square feet within SPRK, the Strategic Innovations group was intentionally placed, here, to foster continuous collaboration with faculty and students across disciplines.

This co-location enables a new operating model. Orlando Health brings real health system challenges directly into the academic environment, and interdisciplinary teams of students, faculty, and Orlando Health innovators rapidly design, test, and refine solutions.

Early collaboration has already begun to generate impact in areas such as cancer research, digital health, creation of AI models and various orthopedic innovations.

“The opening of an Orlando Health Strategic Innovations space at UCF represents our shared commitment to advancing healthcare delivery through bold new ideas,” says Jamal Hakim, M.D., chief physician officer, Orlando Health. “Through this partnership, we are creating a collaborative environment where clinicians, researchers, students and industry leaders can generate real-world solutions and drive innovations that will shape the future of how we care for patients.”

Built to Go For Launch

The latest milestone in , this co-location represents UCF’s deep commitment to the ecosystem of support powering our vision for the future.

Through a collective effort — combining philanthropy and transformational giving with corporate partnerships, research commercialization and other revenue-generating endeavors — UCF is charting a bold new path forward and building a future the world has only begun to imagine.

“This co-location with Orlando Health exemplifies the kind of partnership that powers Go for Launch, bringing industry and academia together to create real-world impact,” says Rod Grabowski, UCF vice president for Advancement and Partnership, and CEO of the UCF Foundation. “By aligning visionary partners with UCF’s innovation ecosystem, we are accelerating discovery, expanding opportunity and advancing solutions that improve lives.”

4 Knights Named Goldwater Scholars, Elevating UCF to a Historic National Milestone

Shawna Welter — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 13:30:04 +0000

Four outstanding undergraduate students are redefining the boundaries of STEM through their high-impact research — and in doing so, placing the university among the nation’s top producers of Goldwater Scholars.

The prestigious Goldwater Scholarship identifies and supports the nation’s best student researchers in the fields of engineering, mathematics and natural sciences.

This year’s honorees — all expected to graduate next spring — have propelled UCF into an elite tier of research institutions, surpassing several Ivy League institutions and tying for fourth in the nation in total Goldwater Scholars produced alongside Stanford University, the University of Notre Dame and the University of Chicago. Their impactful work reflects UCF’s commitment to building a high-level research environment that empowers students to lead projects addressing significant global and scientific challenges.

Supporting Space Exploration

Goldwater Scholar: Keanu Brayman

Major: Mechanical engineering

Ultimate Goal: To develop robotic systems to support human exploration on Mars.

Keanu Brayman’s passion for space began early.

“One of my earliest memories is watching a Space Shuttle streak across the sky from a beach in South Florida,” Brayman says. “I remember being amazed there were people on board and feeling drawn to one day help explore the stars and discover what lies beyond our planet.”

ɫ��, Brayman has refined that dream with the support of faculty and mentors — including Associate Professors Adrienne Dove (physics) and Tarek Elgohary (mechanical and aerospace engineering), and NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Engineer Christopher Proctor — as well as through programs like the .

He plans to pursue a doctoral degree in aerospace engineering to support lunar exploration and NASA’s Artemis program, as well as develop robotic systems that can extract resources and build infrastructure to support human exploration on Mars.

Engineering the Brain

Goldwater Scholar: Kyle Coutray

Majors: Computer engineering and biomedical sciences

Ultimate Goal: To research ways to restore communication, movement and cognitive function to the brain through engineering methods.

Kyle Coutray is focused on the intersection of neuroscience and technology.

“I’m interested in building systems that interact directly with the brain,” Coutray says. “In the lab, … [I’m] blending [both majors] into one approach.”

He aims to pursue a doctoral degree in neural engineering to further his research on brain-computer interfaces that translate complex brain activity into useful functions.

A 2026 Order of Pegasus inductee and a Burnett Honors Scholar, Coutray credits his success to disciplined focus and strong mentorship, particularly from Charles N. Millican Professor of Computer Science Joseph LaViola and Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Helen Huang.

Advancing Patient Care

Goldwater Scholar: Varun Nannuri

Major: Molecular and cellular biology

Ultimate Goal: To pursue a career as a physician-scientist.

Varun Nannuri is driven by a desire to understand why people experience different health outcomes and improve care.

“Through my clinical experiences, I have seen how much patients and families rely on physicians during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” Nannuri says. “My research experiences have shown me that better care depends on asking better questions.”

Nannuri plans to pursue a dual M.D./Ph.D. degree and become a physician-scientist. His ambition earned him recognition as a 2026 Order of Pegasus inductee while also completing his Honors Undergraduate Thesis. Nannuri is also a member of the Burnett Honors College as a Burnett Medical Scholar, a program that offers guaranteed admission to the UCF College of Medicine upon completion.

“UCF has given me opportunities to grow as a student, researcher, leader and future physician,” Nannuri says.

Restoring Human Senses

Goldwater Scholar: Trevor Overton

Majors: Electrical engineering and biomedical sciences

Ultimate Goal: To improve the lives of people with disabilities through advanced robotic prostheses.

Burnett Honors Scholar Trevor Overton’s work centers on neuroengineering and next-generation prosthetics.

“I’ve always had a passion for building things, and I also love reading and watching sci-fi,” Overton says. “When UCF offered me the opportunity to join the MEDD [ … I knew I had to take it.”

UCF’s MEDD program provides scientifically driven students like Overton with a unique opportunity to integrate engineering principles into medicine.

Much like the development of cochlear implants, Overton imagines similar breakthroughs with vision and touch.

“I envision a future where robotic prostheses are so advanced that they could completely replace or enhance the abilities of humans,” Overton says. “It’s not entirely impossible.”

After earning a doctoral degree in electrical engineering with a focus on neuroengineering, he hopes to inspire the next generation — just as his professors inspired him — emphasizing that UCF’s strength lies in professors who actively invest in their students.

A Growing Research Powerhouse

With four 2026 Goldwater Scholarship recipients, UCF continues to strengthen its position as a leader in undergraduate research. The achievement reflects both students’ immense dedication and a university-wide commitment to driving innovation, mentorship and hands-on discovery. As these Knights prepare for the next steps in their academic journeys, they carry forward a shared mission: to turn research into real-world impact.

Students interested in applying for the Goldwater Scholarship or other major national awards should contact the Office of Prestigious Awards at opa@ucf.edu.

UCF Assistant Professor Named Among Nation’s Top Nurse Leaders

Julie Harper ’01 — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:00:38 +0000

More than 5,000 nurse leaders gathered in Chicago last month for the American Organization for Nursing Leadership’s annual conference, aimed at shaping the future of healthcare and recognizing those who are already driving it forward. Among them: Assistant Professor Joy Parchment ’15�ʳ��.

Assistant Professor Joy Parchment ’15�ʳ�� joins the 2026 class of fellows of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, becoming the only nurse leader from a Florida university selected.

Parchment is one of just two nurse leaders in Florida — and the only one from a Florida university — inducted into the 2026 class of fellows. The distinction honors individuals who’ve made sustained contributions to nursing leadership and are influencing the future of healthcare.

With more than two decades in the field, including her recent role as corporate director of nursing strategy implementation at Orlando Health, Parchment has guided two hospitals to Magnet Recognition, an honor for quality patient care, nursing excellence and innovation in practice. She’s actively mentored nurses and built systems that help them progress. At one multi-hospital health system, her framework supported 62% of clinical nurse leaders in advancing professionally.

Turning Mentorship Into Momentum

Since 2022, Parchment has mentored graduate students at UCF as an assistant professor in the College of Nursing, helping prepare future nurse leaders.

“In my career, I have learned that continual growth and lifelong learning are essential,” she says. “As our profession continues to evolve, it is crucial that experienced leaders help guide the path forward, navigate new norms and provide support during times of change.”

Filling the Gaps in Leadership Training

Her research — cited nearly 50 times in national and international journals and books — examines professional nursing practice and leadership science, including defining role-specific factors behind workplace bullying among nurse managers and its effects on those in these leadership positions.

One of her most notable contributions is an evidence-based manual for interim nurse managers that addresses a critical gap in leadership training. It equips managers with the skills and resources to lead in complex, demanding environments and has been downloaded nearly 200 times to date. The manual was recognized by the Association for Leadership Science in Nursing as an innovative solution to the nurse manager workforce crisis and adopted by a 357-bed hospital to support its nurse manager transition-to-practice program.

Advancing Nursing at the National Level

Beyond the classroom and research lab, Parchment’s influence extends nationally. She serves as the academic commissioner for the American Nurses Credentialing Center Commission on Magnet Recognition and sits on The Nurses Legacy Institute board. She’s also an active member of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership and the Association of Leadership Science in Nursing, where she co-led three funded national research studies on nursing leadership and system science priorities within healthcare leadership.

“I will continue to advocate for the profession, advance nursing leadership [and] nurture future leaders …”

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, an organization that has encouraged me to seize opportunities and use my voice to inspire transformation across levels of healthcare,” she says. “I will continue to advocate for the profession, advance nursing leadership, nurture future leaders and empower them to excel in today’s challenging healthcare landscape.”

Taking Apart the Mystery of Vocal Fatigue

Robert Stephens — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 13:30:10 +0000

To better understand Assistant Professor Hamzeh Ghasemzadeh and his work, he goes back to a childhood memory of broken toys. Within hours of receiving little robotic figures or remote-control cars, he’d dissembled what had once been a carefully crafted package of technology. To him, sitting among the remnants of a new gift meant he was sitting in a circle of fun.

“My favorite game was to take the toys apart to see how they work and then try to put them back together,” Ghasemzadeh says. “My parents saw my curiosity as a great thing.”

“This is why I came to UCF. I’ve been able to jump right in and address mysteries that haven’t received much attention.”

That same curiosity now drives his research at , where he seeks to take apart discomforted voices, figuratively, so he can develop strategies to make each one whole again. Ghasemzadeh, who joined UCF in late Summer 2025 and will teach in the school’s newly launched , has already secured one research project funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and is developing another.

“This is why I came to UCF,” he says. “I’ve been able to jump right in and address mysteries that haven’t received much attention until now.”

A Common Problem Without Clear Answers

The first such mystery sounds quite straightforward: vocal fatigue, a common vocal complaint. Beneath the surface, however, it’s deceptive. Solutions have mostly evaded scientists, leaving vocal fatigue as an ongoing problem for many people who rely on their voices, like coaches, public speakers, singers and teachers. Many of Ghasemzadeh’s colleagues experience the very throat discomfort that he’s deconstructing during the funded project just underway.

“We want to collect … multi-modal data and use machine learning models to analyze [vocal fatigue] and develop recommendations for each person.”

“Some instructors get vocal fatigue quickly, some get it slowly and some don’t get it at all,” he says. “There’s a genetic component, but there are also behavioral components. How do they use their voice? How often do they use it? What about the environment where they’re using it? What about personality? We want to collect such comprehensive multi-modal data and use machine learning models to analyze it and develop recommendations for each person.”

The recommendations might include pacing voice usage, projecting the voice efficiently and allowing the voice to recover. Ghasemzadeh envisions this model being predictive and — this is the part he stresses most — personalized.

“The approach to general medicine started with an assumption that while we’re different on the outside, we are very similar inside. Patients with similar ailments took the same medications and [the] same dosages. But we now know that people don’t always respond to pills the same way. If we can quantify how we’re different inside, we can create a computational model to predict responses to medications and optimize treatment plans.”

To integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into vocal fatigue solutions, subjects in Ghasemzadeh’s study will wear sensors that track how and where they use their voices. He’ll prompt them to perform specific vocal tasks and monitor their phonatory function throughout the day. The AI model will analyze these patterns in real time to identify early signs of vocal strain and predict when fatigue is likely to occur.

“We are different. Every prescribed solution should be different, too.”

Participants will also visit his lab at the in Central Florida Research Park, where specialists will collect imaging, aerodynamic and acoustic data. The highly equipped facility brings together America’s leading hearing and voice scientists to develop new technologies and clinical tools for people with hearing loss or voice disorders.

With all of that in hand, including the technology, Ghasemzadeh and his team hope to unwind the mystery of vocal fatigue — one person at a time.

“That’s the idea I want to put forward with every project,” he says. “We are different. Every prescribed solution should be different, too.”

From Engineering to Human Connection

Many would think a toy-reassembling boy is destined to become an engineer. That’s what Ghasemzadeh thought, too. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering and began his career with a focus on telecommunications and signal processing.

“There was something important missing,” he says. “Human connection.”

“Speech became my research interest because … it sets us apart as a species and as individuals.”

He crossed paths with a close friend who mentioned his own research in a field Ghasemzadeh was vaguely familiar with: communication sciences and disorders. The conversation sparked Ghasemzadeh’s enthusiasm for applying his expertise in areas such as signal processing to personally help others.

“Speech became my research interest because it’s the signal we predominantly use to communicate,” he says. “It sets us apart as a species and as individuals.”

For example, it’s quite easy to identify Ghasemzadeh without even seeing him. He sounds young yet intelligent enough to have dual doctoral degrees. There’s an inflection of humility in his voice. The curiosity is always there, too. In fact, his peers have noticed, from his work, what his parents noticed among his broken toys: his curiosity leading to great things. Shortly after arriving at UCF, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association chose Ghasemzadeh for its Early Career Contributions in Research Award.

“It’s also a reminder that I’m early in my career,” he says, “and the sky is the limit.”

At the center of his work as a principal investigator is a belief that progress doesn’t happen alone, but through teamwork.

“You have to surround yourself with different skillsets, all of us willing to take things apart that have never been taken apart, with everyone focused on one goal,” Ghasemzadeh says. “When you win, I win and everyone wins.”

Research reported in this publication was supported by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders of the National Institutes of Health under award number R00DC021235. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

Honoring Charlie Gray: The Grandfather ɫ�� and an Architect of Central Florida

UCF — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 20:40:33 +0000

Before UCF became one of the nation’s largest universities and Orlando grew into a global center for innovation, tourism and opportunity, J. Charles “Charlie” Gray was helping shape its future.

Gray, who died April 22 at age 94, leaves behind a legacy woven into nearly every corner of Central Florida. A lawyer, civic leader, builder and philanthropist, he helped create the institutions, infrastructure and opportunities that generations have benefited from.

“At a time when this region was still defining its future, Charlie Gray was among those who saw what could be — and had the courage and persistence to help build it.” — Alexander N. Cartwright, UCF president

For UCF, his impact was foundational. It exists in every student who walks campus with possibility ahead of them, in every graduate who helps shape the future of this region and in every reminder that one person can change the course of a community.

“At a time when this region was still defining its future, Charlie Gray was among those who saw what could be — and had the courage and persistence to help build it,” Cartwright says. “His leadership and belief in the power of higher education helped lay the foundation for the ɫ��, an institution that has opened doors of opportunity for generations of students and strengthened communities across Central Florida and our state.

“When we first arrived at UCF, Charlie and Saundra were incredibly gracious in welcoming Melinda and me. It meant a great deal to know him not only as a leader and champion of this university, but as someone whose warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on our family.

“On behalf ɫ��, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and legacy. We are grateful for his contributions and will continue to honor the example he set for what is possible.”

Building a New University for Central Florida

Gray is often described as the “grandfather ɫ��,” a title earned through decades of action. In the mid-1960s, as a young attorney and rising political strategist, he helped deliver the momentum needed to turn the vision of a Central Florida university into reality.

After Gray helped Haydon Burns win the race for governor for 1965-67, Burns asked what he wanted in return. Gray’s answer was simple: “Number one, I want a new university.”

Burns delivered, making the project the state’s top higher education funding priority and helping secure what would become Florida Technological University — now UCF.

It was a defining example of Gray’s leadership style: he asked not for personal gain, but for something transformational for the community.

Today, UCF graduates nearly 19,000 students annually and stands as one of the region’s greatest economic engines. Gray remained deeply connected to the university long after its founding, serving as chair of the UCF Foundation and helping guide its growth. In 2016, he received an honorary doctorate of public service.

Driving Prosperity Across Florida

Gray’s impact extended far beyond UCF.

As chairman of the Florida Turnpike Authority, he oversaw the design and construction of the turnpike interchange with Interstate 4 — the gateway to Walt Disney World. That infrastructure helped solidify Walt and Roy Disney’s decision to bring their vision to Central Florida, forever reshaping the region’s economy and identity.

He also secured state support for State Road 408, opening new pathways for growth. As Orange County Attorney, he helped resolve a crippling sewer moratorium, advance the Tourist Development Tax and support development of the Orange County Convention Center, downtown County Administration Center and expansion of the Orange County Library System.

Gray co-founded the Orlando Economic Development Commission (now the Orlando Economic Partnership) and helped attract major employers and mission-driven organizations, including Campus Crusade for Christ and Wycliffe Bible Translators.

He also helped finance the original Orlando Arena, supporting the city’s effort to secure an NBA franchise and helping Orlando become what many called a “major league city.”

In every chapter, Gray believed strong communities do not happen by accident — they are built by people willing to think long-term and serve selflessly.

That philosophy shaped GrayRobinson, the law firm he co-founded in 1970. His guiding principle — “when you build your community, you will build your firm” — became the base of one of Florida’s most influential law firms.

Honoring Charlie Gray’s Legacy

Beyond his professional accomplishments, those closest to him remember a man defined by faith, family and partnership.

He and his wife, Saundra, shared more than 70 years of marriage and adventure — sailing around the world aboard Sea Gem, ranching cattle and preserving Florida’s natural beauty. Together, they donated their beloved Gemini Springs home to Volusia County as a permanent public park.

Gray is remembered as a selfless leader who gave freely to help others, as he believed in putting in the hard work to solve problems, empower people and build together.

A service will be held Monday, April 27, at 3 p.m. at Orlando Lutheran Towers in the Chapel, with the entrance on Liberty Avenue.

In lieu of flowers, consider honoring Gray by — those building a future Gray would be proud of.

Sharon Tucker Named Orlando Health Endowed Chair in Nursing

Julie Harper — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:48:43 +0000

UCF Pegasus Partner Orlando Health has named , dean ɫ��’s College of Nursing, the Orlando Health Endowed Chair in Nursing.

The prestigious endowed faculty position, which will support Tucker’s nursing research, teaching and scholarly activities, is just the latest example of how UCF is leveraging industry partnerships to drive real-world impact.

Tucker is a distinguished scholar in both psychiatric mental health nursing and evidence-based practice who has made sustained impacts on the field, for nurses and patients alike. She is nationally board certified as an adult psychiatric-mental health clinical nurse specialist and integrative nurse coach.

Her research, which has been published in more than 100 peer-reviewed publications and presented around the world, focuses on behavior change through mental health and wellness interventions and organizational change through evidence-based practice.

“With its partnership, Orlando Health is elevating excellence in education and research to support future Knight nurses and improve the health of our communities.” — Sharon Tucker

“I am incredibly honored to be named to this esteemed endowed position, and grateful for Orlando Health’s support of the college,” says Tucker. “Partnerships are powerful and with its partnership, Orlando Health is elevating excellence in education and research to support future Knight nurses and improve the health of our communities.”

In addition to the new endowed chair appointment, Tucker holds the prestigious distinctions of fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and fellow of the National Academies of Practice in Nursing.

Orlando Health has been a long-standing partner ɫ�� and the College of Nursing. The Orlando Health Endowed Chair in Nursing was established in 2009, and Tucker is the second faculty member to be named to the appointment. It was formerly held by Professor Emerita Mary Lou Sole, the previous dean and a renowned critical care researcher.

Kelly Edmondson, Orlando Health’s senior vice president of nursing and patient care services, says the partnership speaks to the organization’s mission to improve the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities they serve.

“Dr. Tucker’s research supports our efforts to empower nurses and elevate clinical excellence to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care,” Edmondson says. “It is an honor to continue to partner with UCF to strengthen the nursing workforce and create a healthier future for all.”

In 2023, Orlando Health became one ɫ��’s inaugural Pegasus Partners with a $5 million commitment to support the Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion as well as provide tuition assistance and additional paid internships for UCF nursing students.

to support the College of Nursing

Philanthropic support is critical to the creation of endowed faculty positions, helping UCF attract and retain nursing experts, and support groundbreaking research that impacts the profession and the health of communities. Help launch more faculty experts to lead nursing into the future by joining UCF’s Go for Launch campaign.

Conquering Spring 2026 Finals Week with the Right Resources

Shawna Welter ’18 — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:31:24 +0000

Between final projects, presentation, and the exams themselves, finals week can be stressful. UCF has the resources to help you confidently power through the final exams of the semester.

Academic Support and Study Strategy

Preparation is the best way to reduce anxiety, and UCF offers a variety of coaching, tutoring, or peer support to help you conquer your study strategy.

From Monday, April 27 through Friday, May 1, the Student Union again will become your campus study headquarters, offering free live review sessions led by tutors and Supplemental Instruction leaders across a variety of courses. Plus, Academic Consultation & Engagement peer consultants will be available to provide personalized academic support.
:��Peer mentors from the Office of Academic Advocacy will host a Mindsets & Motivations Event on Tuesday, April 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., in Trevor Colbourn Hall, room 202. They will also be in the Student Union Atrium during the hours listed below to connect you with resources, such as the Writing Center (Trevor Colbourn Hall, room 109 and the John C. Hitt Library, room 330) and Math Lab (Mathematical Science Building, rooms 153, 241, 240, and 242). Graduate students, remember that the is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. in Trevor Colbourn Hall, Room 213.
Reserved Study Rooms: We all know how busy the library can get during finals week. Use the to book a room at the John C. Hitt, Downtown, or Rosen libraries in advance to make sure you have a designated quiet space to study.

Wellness Resources

Your mental health is the foundation of your academic performance. If the pressure begins to feel unmanageable, there are several ways to find support.

Mental Health Support: Beyond traditional counseling, (CAPS) provides 24/7 crisis support by dialing 407-823-2811.
Free Mental Health Apps: Students have free access to , an anonymous peer-to-peer mental support community, and for free tele-therapy sessions, including evening and weekend appointments.

Meeting Basic Needs: If your budget is tight during finals, the provides food, toiletries and even clothing to Knights in need.

Finals Week Events Around Campus

Conquer the end of the semester with these main campus events. Whether a study session or a social break, these opportunities are designed to help you cross the finish line feeling supported and confident.

OverKnight Study (various dates between April 20 – May 5, 1 – 6 a.m.): The John C. Hitt Library will extend normal hours during to accommodate late-night study sessions in a safe, quiet environment.
Sunset Yoga at Lake Claire (April 22, 7 – 8 p.m.): Join the Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC) for a special end of semester Sunset Yoga session — the perfect way to decompress and stretch out after a long day of studying. Check the to register for a spot.
Float Into Finals (April 23, 4 – 5:30 p.m.): Graduate Student Life to Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 213 for some well-deserved ice cream floats and good vibes with other students.
Study Union (April 27 – May 1): SARC partners with the Student Union to bring multiple final exam review sessions in-person and online before and after finals week, with by a Peer Tutor or Supplemental Instruction Leader.
Late Knight Breakfast (April 28, 10 p.m. – midnight):��Mark your calendars to come by the Student Union Atrium to enjoy your favorite breakfast foods. Hosted by Student Government, for students.
Mindsets & Motivations with PeerKnights (April 28, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.): Held in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 202, this event helps students prepare for finals with campus resources focused on time management, study tips and staying motivated.

Transportation and Parking

To avoid parking delays, students are encouraged to arrive at campus early during finals week.

will run on their regular schedule Monday, April 27 through Thursday, April 30, from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and on Friday, May 1, from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Need a ride on Saturday? There is a special shuttle service on May 2. Routes 1–10 will provide transportation to the Main Campus from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Quick Links for Success

Whether you are hitting the books in a reserved study room, meeting with a PeerKnights coach or taking a brain-break at the gym, remember that every resource at UCF is designed to help you succeed. Take a breath, trust your preparation and know that the UCF community is there to help and cheer you on.

Lifelong Knight Fred Kittinger ’80 Retires, Leaving Legacy of Collaboration and Growth

Jenna Marina Lee — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:08:05 +0000

For many in our region, Fred Kittinger ’80 is UCF.

In his role as the senior associate vice president for government and community relations, Kittinger has been a constant and trusted presence in UCF’s work across Central Florida.

He has faithfully represented the university with a spirit of collaboration, generosity, and care that has strengthened relationships and opened doors for years, leading to some of the university’s most impactful, long-lasting, and strategic partnerships.

On April 22, Kittinger will conclude his tenure at his beloved alma mater after nearly 23 years of service.

“Fred Kittinger has approached his work with authenticity, optimism and a sincere joy that brings people together and builds the connections that propel our success,” says UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright. “He has left a lasting impression with everyone he has worked with and leaves an enduring legacy at UCF.”

Fred Kittinger ’80 commemorates the founding ɫ�� Downtown in 2017.

Joining Knight Nation

An Orlando native, Kittinger remembers the main campus being built in the 1960s. He enrolled at UCF in 1977, known then as Florida Technological University.

He was intent on staying one year to save enough money to eventually transfer to another, more established university in northern Florida. He abandoned the plan in mere weeks, falling in love with the school that he would later spend so much of his career serving.

“We always had that chip-on-our-shoulder attitude, even back then. I like that part ɫ��,” Kittinger says. “We were the little engine that could. We knew we were going someplace. We knew we were important.”

He served on orientation team and President’s Leadership Council, joined Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, witnessed UCF’s first home football game in 1979 and stockpiled memories he now relays with a smile before graduating with his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

After completing his master’s degree at Florida State, he went on to work as a legislative aide in the Florida Senate and as vice president with the then Orlando Chamber of Commerce. He later served as chief of staff for City of Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood.

In 2003, he was approached by the late Senior Vice President Emeritus Dan Holsenbeck and Board of Trustee charter member Patrick Christensen to gauge his interest in a position at UCF working with local governments.

Now nearly 23 years later, he’s ready for his next adventure.

For years, this Florida Tech Blvd. street sign — procured when the university changed its name to UCF in 1978 — hung in Fred Kittinger’s office at Millican Hall. (Photo by Antoine Hart)

Advocating for his Alma Mater

When you’re anywhere as long as Kittinger has been at UCF, you’re bound to pick up a few keepsakes. Precious items that once adorned his office walls and bookshelves will now have a new place in his home.

A metal pipe from the Reflecting Pond’s old plumbing before it was refurbished in 2018.

A Florida Tech Boulevard street sign, which may or may not have been procured in an unofficial capacity in 1978 under the guise of darkness by some of his fraternity brothers.

But his most treasured mementos are the relationships he carries with him — from the university to the community to government offices across the state.

“My greatest fortune is the number of folks I’ve had a chance to work with and develop long-term friendships with.” — Fred Kittinger

“It takes that trio to make an impact — you’ve got to have private industry, you’ve got to have government, and you have to have the non-profit independent sector all working together,” he says. “My greatest fortune is the number of folks I’ve had a chance to work with and develop long-term friendships with. I’ve been very blessed.”

He says his proudest moments are wrapped up in some of the university’s biggest milestones, all made possible through partnerships: approval for the College of Medicine; the creation ɫ��’s Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA); the UCF Downtown campus; the growth of the UCF Business Incubation Program that spans all Central Florida counties; and working on the team that secured $90 million in Tourist Development Tax revenues from the Orange County Board of Commissioners to invest in Acrisure Bounce House.

“His ability to build trust and make people feel valued has left a lasting impression on colleagues, partners and communities across our region,” says Janet Owen, UCF vice president for government and community relations and associate general counsel.

Fred Kittinger addresses the 2025 Legislative Scholars, a program he helped start in 2005.

More Than a Job

In addition to his role as an administrator, Kittinger played an active part in students’ lives for many years.

Alongside Holsenbeck and former government relations team member Alison Schultz, Kittinger helped form and guide the UCF Legislative Scholars Program, a premier, immersive, full-time experience during state legislative sessions. From the classroom to the Capitol, students gain firsthand exposure to the legislative process by working directly with legislative staff and professional lobbyists in Tallahassee, Florida. Since the program’s inception in 2005, more than 320 students have participated.

Kittinger served as a longtime adjunct instructor in the , which is part of the College of Community Innovation and Education (CCIE).

Alongside his wife of 43 years, they established the Fred and Sandra Kittinger Scholarship Fund in 2020. This scholarship supports graduate students in public administration, assisting with tuition, textbooks, fees and any other items included in the cost of education.

“What has always set Fred apart is not just what he has done, but how he has done it,” Owen says. “He brings a genuine positivity and a welcoming presence to every interaction, approaching his work with kindness, thoughtfulness and a sincere interest in others. On a personal level, I am especially grateful for Fred’s friendship and counsel over the years. He will be deeply missed.”

UCF Recognizes Faculty Excellence With 2026 Promotion and Tenure Awards

Scott Mauro — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:17:42 +0000

UCF has recognized 100 faculty members with promotion and tenure for the 2025–26 academic year, marking a significant milestone in their academic careers and contributions to student success and the university.

Over the course of nearly a full academic year, peers, departmental and college leadership, and the university promotion and tenure committee engaged in a rigorous, multi-stage review to ensure candidates met UCF’s high standards in teaching, research, and service. Ultimately, they recommended 100 faculty members for promotion, including 23 for tenure.

Following the review process, the president and provost make final decisions on promotions, while the UCF Board of Trustees provides final approval for tenure candidates. These decisions directly advance UCF’s strategic plan and its focus on recruiting and retaining highly qualified faculty – especially those who elevate student success, accelerate discovery and research, and strengthen the talent pipeline that drives innovation and economics for the state of Florida.

“ɫ��, promotion and tenure reflects a thoughtful, rigorous review process and the high standards we set as an institution and state,” says John Buckwalter, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “It’s a significant moment for these faculty, not just for the years of hard work it recognizes, but for what promotion and tenure represents: a sustained commitment to excellence, a deep dedication to student success, research that boldly improves lives, and the future we’re building together.”

Promotions and tenure conferrals annually take effect on Aug. 8.

The faculty members recognized below represent the continued strength and momentum ɫ��.

Promotion to Associate Professor with Tenure

John Gardiner, College of Arts and Humanities
Tadashi Ishikawa, College of Arts and Humanities
Sara Raffel, College of Arts and Humanities
Jeffery Redding, College of Arts and Humanities
John Bush, College of Business
Seongho An, College of Community Innovation and Education
Cynthia Williams, College of Community Innovation and Education
Jiannan Chen, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Chinwendu Enyioha, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Ozlem Garibay, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Yao Li, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Miguel Bandres, College of Optics and Photonics
Robert Fitak, College of Sciences
Shyam Kattel, College of Sciences
Kelsey Larsen, College of Sciences
Kangsang Lee, College of Sciences
Xialing Lin, College of Sciences
Emily Zavodny, College of Sciences
Kayode Aleshinloye, Rosen College of Hospitality Management
Carissa Baker, Rosen College of Hospitality Management
YunYing Zhong, Rosen College of Hospitality Management

Promotion to Associate Professor of Medicine with Tenure

Taj Azarian, College of Medicine
Thomas Kean, College of Medicine

Promotion to Professor (Tenured)

Thaddeus Anderson, College of Arts and Humanities
Ann Gleig, College of Arts and Humanities
Lanlan Kuang, College of Arts and Humanities
Sandra Sousa, College of Arts and Humanities
Mel Stanfill, College of Arts and Humanities
Melanie Guldi, College of Business
Xin He, College of Business
Laurie Campbell, College of Community Innovation and Education
Eric Merriam, College of Community Innovation and Education
Woo Hyoung Lee, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Thomas Wahl, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Yang Yang, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Jacqueline Towson, College of Health Professions and Sciences
Romain Gaume, College of Optics and Photonics
Jacopo Baggio, College of Sciences
Matthieu Baudelet, College of Sciences
Karin Chumbimuni Torres, College of Sciences
Geoffrey Cook, College of Sciences
Amy Donley, College of Sciences
Hsin‑Hsiung Huang, College of Sciences
Brigitte Kovacevich, College of Sciences
Arkadiy Lyakh, College of Sciences
Peter Smith, College of Sciences
Xiaohu Xia, College of Sciences

Promotion to Associate Professor of Medicine

Maria Farooq, College of Medicine

Promotion to Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine

Naziha Slimani, College of Medicine
Sharon Wasserstrom, College of Medicine

Promotion to Clinical Professor of Medicine

Mariana Dangiolo, College of Medicine

Promotion to Research Associate Professor

Crystal Maraj, Office of Research

Promotion to Associate Lecturer

Jonathan Barker, College of Arts and Humanities
Sara Willox, College of Business
Elizabeth Yost, College of Business
Michael Gilbrook, College of Community Innovation and Education
Alison Redd, College of Health Professions and Sciences
Michael Redd, College of Health Professions and Sciences
Michael Chetta, College of Sciences
Heather Edwards, College of Sciences
Seongchun Kwon, College of Sciences
Adam Parrish, College of Sciences
Jamie Vega, College of Sciences
Tong Wan, College of Sciences
Rong Zhou, College of Sciences

Promotion to Senior Lecturer

Christy Flanagan‑Feddon, College of Arts and Humanities
David Head, College of Arts and Humanities
Deborah Leitch, College of Arts and Humanities
Amanda Snyder, College of Arts and Humanities
Jeanine Viau, College of Arts and Humanities
Constance Goodman, College of Community Innovation and Education
Daniel Stephens, College of Community Innovation and Education
Shane Trenta, College of Community Innovation and Education
Marino Nader, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Sudeshna Pal, College of Engineering and Computer Science
Rachid Ait Maalem Lahcen, College of Sciences
Cynthia Bayer, College of Sciences
Martha Hubertz, College of Sciences
Tamra Legron‑Rodriguez, College of Sciences
Hyung Park, College of Sciences
Widaad Zaman, College of Sciences

Promotion to Associate Instructor

Meeghan Faulconer, College of Arts and Humanities
Yukari Nakamura, College of Arts and Humanities
Carolina Salazar, College of Arts and Humanities
Punam Desormes, College of Health Professions and Sciences
Jorri Bright, College of Sciences
Richard Hall, College of Sciences
Nicholas Zuccarello, College of Sciences

Promotion to Senior Instructor

Rita De Luca Guerriero, College of Arts and Humanities
Steven Ton, College of Community Innovation and Education
Todd Fix, College of Health Professions and Sciences
Julie Matura, College of Health Professions and Sciences
Lance Speere, College of Sciences
Abigail Ferreira, UCF Global

Promotion to Associate Instructional Designer

Rebecca McNulty, Division of Digital Learning

Promotion to Senior Instructional Designer

Amy Sugar, Division of Digital Learning

Promotion to Associate Librarian

Renee Montgomery, UCF Libraries

Promotion to University Librarian

Sai Deng, UCF Libraries
Sarah Norris, UCF Libraries
Andrew Todd, UCF Libraries

First-Gen Alumnus Behind Transformational Gift Believes in Power of Philanthropy to Change Lives

Jen Cramer — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:04:36 +0000

When Barry Miller ’95 was graduating from high school, his dad decided to make a move from northeast Pennsylvania to the warmer climate of Daytona Beach, Florida. He urged his son, who was interested in business and accounting, to check out UCF. Since there wasn’t much information available online in the early 1990s, Miller ultimately sent a letter to UCF requesting a brochure and an application.

Miller was impressed by our reputation as an early leader in technology and STEM fields, our connection to the space program and our success expanding into other areas. In fact, UCF boasted one of the highest certified public accountant (CPA) pass rates of any public university — impressive to an aspiring accountant.

So Miller applied, was accepted and committed to UCF sight unseen. It was the beginning of a journey that would change his family’s trajectory, along with the university’s.

Today, he committed a transformational $50 million gift — the largest single philanthropic investment in the university’s history — to position UCF as a global leader in fintech, artificial intelligence (AI) and business innovation by establishing the Barry S. Miller College of Business.

Barry ’95 and Rosie Miller ’95 with their two daughters.

First-Generation Student

Miller is president and co-founder of both Voloridge Investment Management and Voloridge Health. He also founded and sold another successful business in his entrepreneurial career.

But back when Miller was attending UCF, he was paving the way as the first in his family to go to college. His dad, a self-taught contractor and developer and a single father, saw the value of higher education for his son.

“My father had a deeply ingrained work ethic that he passed on to me,” Miller says. “In the summer, he would get me out of bed early and have me carrying lumber and working on roofs. I learned to work hard, but I also learned that [it] was a tough job to do for 50 years. I wanted to try a different path.”

Once he started on that path, there was no stopping him.

Building Foundations

ɫ��, Miller became a star student. He excelled in accounting, learned numerical analysis and had a knack for understanding financial markets. He graduated magna cum laude with a degree in finance.

“I learned how to really study and apply myself academically at UCF. Essentially, I was learning strategy and project management as I made my way through school,” Miller says. “I didn’t know how impactful those habits would be until later in life. I realize now that everything I learned at UCF has been foundational to my success.”

“I realize now that everything I learned at UCF has been foundational to my success.”

Outside of class, Miller became a student-athlete, playing football when he initially came to UCF. That’s where he met then-quarterback Darin Hinshaw ’90 ’94MBA, who encouraged him to join his fraternity, Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE), and became his big brother.

“Initially, I wasn’t interested in joining a fraternity. I had this idea that fraternities weren’t serious about school or life, and I was,” Miller says. “But my experience in PIKE ended up being formative. It’s where I learned about being a gentleman, dressing for success, networking and more.”

“To this day, so many of my friends are former fraternity brothers, including one of my best friends, Sean Hayes ’95, who has also been my business partner for nearly 30 years,” Miller continues. “As I look back, everything in my life has a connection to UCF — my friends, my business partners, my career and even my wife Rosie ’95, since we met in college.”

Leaving a Legacy

As he built his career and found success in the business and financial world, Miller wanted to give back to UCF. Over time, he has invested in first-generation and STEM student scholarships, UCF Athletics’ Knights Leadership Academy, the John T. Washington Center mural and more.

Each gift has been based on a personal connection or conviction.

“Being a first-generation student myself, having that opportunity to support students who are the first in their families to go to college is personal to me,” Miller says.

Barry ’95 and Rosie ’95 Miller at the Go For Launch campaign kickoff event. (Photo courtesy of Barry Miller ’95)

As his capacity to give grew, Miller wanted to make a transformative gift that would have an impact today and for generations to come. That led to conversations with university leaders about the opportunity to establish as a global leader in fintech, AI and business innovation.

To help bring that vision to life — and to build early momentum for , UCF’s comprehensive campaign to fuel bold ideas and build its future — Miller has committed to a $50 million gift, establishing the Barry S. Miller College of Business.

The investment will accelerate an innovative new model of business education designed for a world where technology, data and decision-making are inseparable, and it will prepare students with the skills the marketplace demands.

“We are at a seminal moment in business, and AI and new technologies are creating fundamental shifts at a dramatically faster speed than ever before,” says Miller, who was inducted into the UCF College of Business Hall of Fame in 2022. “I want UCF to become the leader in business education, paving the way for everyone else.”

Inspiring Others

“Finding a way to have an impact is one of the most gratifying things you can do with your time and money.”

Until recently, Miller has made most of his gifts to UCF anonymously. But as UCF unveiled Go For Launch, he saw a powerful opportunity to step forward and encourage others to do the same. By sharing his commitment more openly, Miller hopes to help build momentum and invite broader participation in UCF’s vision.

“I hope this gift inspires people to be part ɫ��’s mission to create a bold new future and give at whatever level they can. Maybe it’s $10, $100 or $1,000 — it all makes a difference,” Miller says.

“I want to tell people this: If it’s not your time to make a gift today, maybe it will be a year from now, or five years from now,” he continues. “Finding a way to have an impact is one of the most gratifying things you can do with your time and money.”

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