Crime analysts are an essential backbone of the criminal justice system, solving and preventing crime through data analysis and mapping. It’s a role that requires substantial qualifications — something that UCF, in partnership with the state of Florida, has now embedded into its criminal justice coursework to ensure a seamless transition from classroom to crime analysis work.

Completing the Florida Core Analytical Training (FCAT) and Florida Law Enforcement Analyst Training (FLEAT) and Florida Core Analyst Training (FCAT) typically requires a 16-hour and 40-hour course, respectively, at a location designated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), as well as hundreds of hours of field experience. Now, students pursuing a career in crime analysis can complete the newly developed FCAT/FLEAT Academic Certificate as part of their studies at UCF while gaining the field experience they need.

The UCF Department of Criminal Justice’s new pathway sends future investigative and intelligence analysts straight into the field. It also builds on decades of partnership with the organization, including the strategic relocation of FDLE toxicology lab to UCF’s Academic Health Sciences Campus in Lake Nona earlier this year.

Embedding the FLEAT and FCAT Academic Certificate curriculum into two criminal justice courses is another result of the years of partnership between FDLE and Associate Professor . This makes UCF one of three institutions in Florida authorized to deliver the certificate through academic coursework — and fully online.

With many agencies embracing data driven policing to guide decision-making in safety, crime prevention and more, this partnership positions UCF as a statewide leader in preparing analysts who will support law enforcement, guide resource allocation and strengthen public safety across Florida communities.

“There is a growing population that … want to work in the crime intelligence division or a real time crime center — the ones grinding the numbers and turning those numbers into intelligence,” Watkins says. “The analysts are fundamental workhorses behind the scenes providing information for different levels of management and practitioners to be able to make decisions.”

The curriculum for the FCAT/FLEAT Academic Certificate is embedded into Crime Intelligence and Investigative Support (CCJ 4076) at the undergraduate level, and Data Management Systems and Crime Analysis (CCJ 6073) at the graduate level. Taking either course and earning at least an 80% will grant students the academic certificate, rendering them eligible to combine these credentials with crime analysis experience to move straight into the state’s final analyst course within FDLE’s Florida Law Enforcement Analyst Training Program – the Florida Law Enforcement Analyst Academy. credentialing program in Tallahassee, Florida.

For students, the pathway offers an expedited route into a growing field — especially coupled with internships to gain the 300 necessary hours of field experience needed to become an analyst. The graduate course is also open to non-degree seeking students, meaning that working analysts across Florida can enroll to earn the FCAT/FLEAT Academic Certificate through UCF without leaving their home.

“My interest has always been helping the different criminal justice agencies get some of the best talent that they can get their hands on by creating a curriculum that makes our graduates very sought-after candidates for employment.” —  Cory Watkin, associate professor

Watkins says he always designs his course curriculum with the intention of ensuring students are the most prepared they can possibly be to enter the field.

“Many of our students are looking to go right to work: Criminal justice is a book-to-pavement program,” he says. “My interest has always been helping the different criminal justice agencies get some of the best talent that they can get their hands on by creating a curriculum that makes our graduates very sought-after candidates for employment.”

This initiative follows suit with the department’s continuing dedication to getting students into the field and working at an accelerated rate. In 2024, the department launched the professional track in the criminal justice bachelor’s program to streamline students’ pathway from college to a career in law enforcement or correctional leadership by allowing them to graduate with state certification in law enforcement or corrections.

Looking ahead, Watkins says he believes the long-term implications of such partnerships will be transformative.

“We’re going to get the best of the best, and it’s going to have an impact,” he says. “Down the road, you could look at reduced crime, better trained officers, and better analysis leading to less use of force, greater citizen satisfaction and improved public safety.”

“This important collaboration between UCF, JPMorganChase and the Parramore community is a significant step toward expanding economic opportunity and building Central Florida’s next-generation workforce.” — Betsheell “Billie” Udofia, vice president and program officer for global philanthropy at JPMorganChase

An initiative driven by the UCF College of Community Innovation and Education (CCIE), the newly funded Parramore Launch Pad initiative aims to reach K–12 students in Orlando’s Parramore community earlier, helping prepare them for STEM-related higher education tracks and careers, while creating clearer pathways into these in-demand fields and improving long-term opportunity for students and their families.

Over the next three years, this funding will allow CCIE and UCF Downtown, which borders the Parramore community, to implement a holistic educational approach that integrates academic enrichment with community-based support. This approach is intended to support student success in STEM in and out of the classroom while also addressing broader community needs that contribute to sustained achievement.

“This important collaboration between UCF, JPMorganChase and the Parramore community is a significant step toward expanding economic opportunity and building Central Florida’s next-generation workforce,” says Betsheell “Billie” Udofia, vice president and program officer for global philanthropy at JPMorganChase. “Efforts like this help ensure students at every level have the skills, tools and support they need to succeed and build futures they’re proud of. We’re committed to supporting strong STEM pathways and the resources students need to reach them.”

Bolstering STEM Education

Expanding on an established relationship between UCF and Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), CCIE’s School of Teacher Education (STE) and UCF’s College of Engineering and Computer Science will work with leaders and educators at the OCPS Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) and another school, a pre-K through eighth-grade community school located in the heart of Parramore, to engage students in innovative STEM instruction during the school year, as well as throughout the summer.

ECLIPSE Summer Camp launched in Summer 2026, offering a free week of STEM activities for third- through fifth-graders. Delivered through a partnership between UCF STE, OCPS ACE, and the Boys and Girls Club Levy-Hughes branch, the program is open to all students in the Parramore community and includes a complimentary Boys and Girls Club membership to the Levy-Hughes branch for the academic year.

Going Beyond ɫ����, Prioritizing Well-Being

While academic rigor is important, well-being also influences success. Stressors outside of school can interfere with a student’s capacity for learning. Creating a safe space for them to work through life’s hurdles is key to improving student outcomes.

By integrating both the Healing Oasis for Peace and Empowerment (H.O.P.E.) Circle, a positive youth development afterschool program with the Central Florida Boys & Girls Clubs, and the complementary in-school H.O.P.E. Huddles program for Parramore youth at OCPS ACE, Jones High School, and Evans High School, UCF hopes to help students build positive, emotionally safe bonds with their peers, as well as reliable relationships with caring adults and mentors outside of their families. Programming focuses on helping students build critical skills around research, leadership, conflict resolution, teamwork and more.

“Central to the youth development programs is a reciprocal approach that redistributes traditional power dynamics between adults, researchers and youth in the community. While this model is less conventional, it is this shared ownership and co-creation that will ultimately drive meaningful, sustainable impact in the lives of youth, their families, and the broader Parramore community,” says L. Trenton S. Marsh, associate professor of urban education in the Department of Learning Sciences and Educational Research and founder of the H.O.P.E. Lab at UCF.

Growing Social and Civic Prosperity

Launch Pad will also provide support to the Parramore Community Engagement Council (PCEC). University researchers and community leaders will work together on research-informed solutions for PCEC’s pillars of education, affordable housing, employment and holistic health. Further, there is a collaborative partnership with UCF and PCEC through a new university-community fellowship program. This summer an asynchronous open-source training with nine sequential modules was developed to support the fellowship.

Over the next two years, the program will award two fellowships per year to university-based researchers and two per year to community leaders active within the council. The program is intended to serve as a model that can be replicated in communities across the country.

“We’ve already seen such positive impacts from UCF Downtown and its proximity to our community. I’m thrilled for this evolution in our work with UCF,” says the Rev. Robert M. Spooney, outgoing chair of the Parramore Community Engagement Council and pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. “What makes this next phase so meaningful is the university’s commitment to not only being present, but to ensuring our community is resourced, supported and positioned to benefit from this work.”

A Shared Vision for a Thriving Parramore

In 2019, JPMorganChase, the Helios Education Foundation and the Kresge Foundation funded the Parramore Education and Innovation District, through which UCF aimed to ensure residents of the Parramore community benefited from incoming economic growth and development and had access to the UCF Downtown and Valencia College Downtown campuses. This latest support from JPMorganChase represents an evolution in this work, and a shared alignment in growing opportunity within the Parramore community.

“ɫ����, we are building a future the world has only begun to imagine. A robust talent pipeline of STEM professionals is critical to that vision,” says Rod Grabowski, senior vice president for UCF Advancement and Partnerships, and CEO of the UCF Foundation Inc. “These skillsets are already sought-after, but they’ll be increasingly important with the evolution of AI, space, themed experience and more. By investing in students early and surrounding them with the support they need to succeed, we’re helping create pathways to higher education, meaningful careers and lifelong impact for our region. That commitment is at the heart of Go For Launch.”

The next national defense breakthrough could begin in a combustion lab, a line of code or a digital investigation. Seven UCF students are preparing to help make it happen.

Through the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)’s Science, Mathematics and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program, they’ll use their technical talents to serve their country as civilians. The prestigious scholarship provides full tuition, summer internships and civilian employment upon graduation — connecting their education to challenges with national impact.

As the department’s largest STEM education and workforce development initiative, the SMART Scholarship prepares future leaders through hands-on experience at more than 150 DOD facilities advancing artificial intelligence, biotechnology, autonomy, space, 5G and other technology areas.

The recipients are aerospace engineering majors Bright Katey and Annie Driskell; computer science doctoral student Nathan Couch ’25; electrical engineering major Hunter Glass; industrial engineering doctoral student Johanna Matias ’12; computer engineering master’s student Jonathan Meyers ’26; and digital forensics master’s student Jean Bernard Pierre.

For the four scholars featured below, the award opens a path to advance their education, launch their careers and empower them to shape the future.

Annie Driskell: Taking Flight Beyond Earth

For Driskell, a fascination with flight began at home.

“Since childhood, aviation has been part of my everyday life,” Driskell says. “I grew up in a military family with my dad serving as a Navy pilot, and being surrounded by aircraft naturally sparked a lasting curiosity about how things fly and how the universe works.”

She chose UCF for its strong aerospace engineering program, proximity to Florida’s Space Coast and connections to the space industry. Her military upbringing also gave her an early appreciation for the dedication, sacrifice and sense of purpose of those who serve.

“As new advancements emerge in the aerospace industry, from major space discoveries to revolutionary technologies, I believe increased global competition can also create new national security challenges,” Driskell says. “I want to be part of advancing aerospace technology while helping ensure the United States is prepared to address those challenges.”

As a SMART Scholar, Driskell will work for the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Technical Center, taking a step toward her ambition of developing technologies that expand humanity’s reach beyond Earth.

“Whether I am one member on a large engineering team or helping refine a single component, the chance to support revolutionary technology that expands our understanding of space is exactly the kind of work I hope to do.”

Bright Katey: Fueling a Future in Propulsion

Katey wants to push propulsion research forward while serving his country. The SMART Scholarship brings those ambitions together.

“My background in aerospace and mechanical engineering, with a focus on combustion, propulsion, shock tube experiments, laser diagnostics and chemical kinetic modeling, closely aligns with the program’s mission,” Katey says. “This alignment positions me to contribute meaningfully to defense-related research and technology development.”

In the , directed by UCF Trustee Chair Professor , Katey studies combustion conditions for energetics and propellants. The opportunity to work on real-world engineering problems drew him to UCF and provided valuable preparation for the SMART Scholarship.

“My time in the lab has provided valuable hands-on experience with shock tube experiments, kinetic modeling, data analysis and scientific communication, Katey says.”

He views the program as a launchpad toward a dream career as a research engineer in defense and propulsion.

“This opportunity inspires me to continue advancing combustion and propulsion research while contributing to cleaner, more efficient and more reliable energy and defense technologies,” Katey says.

Jonathan Meyers ’26: Engineering Smarter Solutions

After earning his bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, Meyers returned to UCF to pursue his master’s and become a two-time Knight. Through SMART, he’ll continue his work with the Naval Enterprise Research Data Science Lab at the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD).

Coworkers who became SMART Scholars early in their careers encouraged him to apply. Their experiences showed him how the program could help expand his skills and opportunities.

Meyers will work with Nelson Lerma, a senior data science/ product manager at NAWCTSD, whose mentorship has helped him grow.

“Dr. Nelson Lerma … constantly pushes me to grow my technical skills and diversify my experience while also staying grounded and making the right decisions,” Meyers says.

Meyers values computer engineering’s range of applications and wants to use that versatility to address emerging challenges through machine learning.

“My goal is to continue research into machine learning topics and develop cutting-edge solutions to new and emerging problems,” Meyers says. “By furthering my knowledge and building connections to both professors and my fellow students, I believe I have a better chance of achieving this goal while also making great friends along the way.”

Jean Bernard Pierre: Returning to Service, Equipped for Digital Threats

For Pierre, the SMART Scholarship connects his next chapter to the mission that started his career.

Before pursuing his master’s in digital forensics, Pierre served as a U.S. Navy information systems specialist and worked at the FBI Computer Forensics Laboratory.

“My interest in computing grew from a desire to see how intelligent systems can automate complex tasks while remaining secure,” Pierre says. “During my time in the Navy and supporting the forensics lab, I saw firsthand how essential digital evidence and secure networks are to both public safety and national defense.”

Pierre sees the scholarship as a bridge between that operational background and his future in digital forensics and threat mitigation.

“It allows me to transition back seamlessly into the Department of Defense workforce, where I can apply digital forensics and threat mitigation to safeguard critical national security systems.”

He chose UCF for its strong cybersecurity programs and integration with the National Center for Forensic Science.

“UCF integrates high-level technical rigor with practical, real-world application,” Pierre says. “It gives me access to advanced forensic tools and testing platforms that both challenge and prepare me for the complex demands of the defense sector.”

After earning his master’s degree, Pierre hopes to help detect, analyze and neutralize digital threats, building on his military service with new expertise.

“The SMART Scholarship is far more than funding; it is a truly transformational career engine, a direct pipeline back to the mission [that] began years ago in the U.S. Navy — back to where it all started.”

Rocket sightings are commonplace from UCF’s campus and Acrisure Bounce House, whose 50-yard-line is on the same latitude as NASA’s historical Launch Complex 39A. But for a crowd of dozens gathered on Monday on the concourse of the football stadium, this wasn’t a typical “launch.”

Five toddlers from Greater Orlando and the I4-Corridor were on site to receive space-themed motorized cars built especially for them by UCF student-athletes, physical therapy doctoral candidates from , and healthcare professionals from Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute.

A national, community-based research, design and outreach program, Go Baby Go! provides accessible and inexpensive solutions for kids and adults with limited mobility at no cost to their families.

Nicholas Antoine ’25, a senior defensive back on the football team from Daytona Beach, Florida, who graduated last December with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, jokes his construction skills need some improvement, but he was thrilled nonetheless to be an active part of the collaboration that made an impact for the families.

“Being able to bring joy to somebody else, there’s no greater joy than that,” Antoine says.

A total of 10 cars were built ahead of the 10^th anniversary of the UCF football team’s Space Game, an annual event that celebrates UCF’s reputation as America’s Space University.

The Space Game presented by Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute is now one of the signature events of a larger Space Week held at the university, which launches Oct. 25. The football team will take on Baylor University on Friday, Oct. 30, at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN.

Monday’s build is yet another example of how the beloved tradition’s impact has spread beyond an annual football game. It continues to illustrate UCF’s integral role as a driver of impact for Central Florida, whether in the space industry, health sector or beyond.

“When we look at the Space Game, we’re excited to be in that same space to walk alongside these athletes and create an opportunity that celebrates all the things that we do here at UCF,” says UCF Clinical Associate Professor of Physical Therapy Jennifer Tucker ’23PhD.

The Magic of Go Baby Go!

Tucker started UCF’s chapter of Go Baby Go! in 2015 and has led an average of 10 to 15 workshops annually — just like the one held Monday in Athletics Village — to benefit children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years old with mobility issues stemming from Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy and osteogenesis, among others.

Over the last decade, UCF’s Go Baby Go! has built up such a reputation that prospective students talk about it in their interviews as they look to gain acceptance into the doctoral physical therapy program.

It’s gone international, too, with partnerships in Belgium and Wales. It has welcomed students from the College of Engineering and Computer Science, College of Sciences and College of Medicine all interested in contributing their talents.

UCF’s students are a key component that keeps the engine running. Philanthropy is another.

Orlando Health, a UCF Pegasus Partner and a premier sponsor for UCF Athletics, has been one of Go Baby Go!’s biggest supporters since its inception as part of its mission to advance education, research, workforce development and community impact across Central Florida. It’s often personal for the clinical teams at Orlando Health who participate in these builds, since many of the recipients are longtime patients.

“It’s exciting to work alongside our partners UCF Athletics and UCF Go Baby Go! to help create this special event for these families,” says Sara Osborne ’14 ’17MHA, Orlando Health senior director of community benefit. “Go Baby Go’s mission aligns with Orlando Health as we look for ways to support our communities beyond the clinical care we provide every day. We’re proud to help play a part in making increased mobility and independence possible for these kids.”

Kid-Sized Astronauts Ready for Warp Speed

Sean Calamigan ’23 kneels next to 2-year-old Griffin Bordner, who had just plopped happily into his custom-fitted “space ship” and was already testing the sound level on his “go for launch” horn.

The third-year physical therapy doctoral candidate playfully warns the toddler of speed limits inside the Wayne Densch Center for Student-Athlete Leadership.

Griffin’s parents look on with mile-wide smiles. His father hails from a family of Knights who have been football season ticket holders since the 1990s. His mother, Jennifer Bordner ’15MEd, graduated with a master’s in exceptional student education.

They were referred by their son’s care team to apply to UCF’s Go Baby Go program! and underwent their first consultation in May. As Griffin test drove along the concourse of Acrisure Bounce House on Monday, Jennifer was already envisioning her son in their neighborhood’s cul-de-sac, spinning his wheels alongside his older sister.

“Griffin is a happy, joyous little boy. There is nothing that slows him down — he just goes, goes, goes, but he’s normally in a stroller while his sister is on her bike or scooter. This opportunity is so exciting for him to be included in that fun,” she says. “It just gives me chills knowing that there are that many people in the community and organizations who donate the cars to allow kids with mobility issues the opportunity to be included in their communities, just to get out and play and have fun.”

UCF faculty and physical therapy students took meticulous steps ahead of the build day to ensure the vehicles would have everything they needed to launch smoothly. Each child was individually assessed to determine communication, seating and positioning needs for his or her set of wheels, and a team of volunteers assisted with a workshop to pre-wire the cars and pack kits with the necessary tools and supplies.

Faculty from the made the experience extra special for the recipients by innovating a switch-activated plush toy rocket that lights up they could take home as a memento along with their car.

Calamigan, who spent his entire morning working at the event despite a final exam on his calendar at 1 p.m., says nothing compares to the practical, hands-on experience and witnessing the families’ reactions and delight to cars they worked on so diligently.

“I think the UCF DPT program really prepares us for a lot of things, but one of the main things they do for us is make sure we’re ready to face the real world, and this is the real world,” Calamigan says.

And it’s a real world that, at the end of the day, Tucker aims to make feel a little more connected.

“We’re providing an opportunity for play, and play is a universal shared rite of passage of childhood. But we’re also building community,” Tucker says. “My hope is that the impact of today extends far outside of this moment in time, and it helps us build a better community and a better tomorrow for Central Florida.”

Students, alumni, faculty and staff are in store once again for a full lineup of unforgettable events and activities across the main and UCF Downtown campuses from Oct. 18–25.

A Quick History Lesson

UCF’s first homecoming was held in 1971, three years after the first classes were held at Florida Technological University.

Since football didn’t start at UCF until 1979, Homecoming originally coincided with basketball season, which was the university’s first varsity sport. The year 1980 saw two homecomings for the first time: one during basketball season and the first for football.

Student and Community Events

Oct. 18 – UCF Volleyball vs. West Virginia | The Venue | 1 p.m.
The Knights welcome the Mountaineers in Big 12 Conference play for “Kids Day.” Tickets are free for students. The general public can purchase tickets on . For more information, visit .

Oct 19–23 – Who’s Your Ducky?���� John C. Hitt Library | Open to Close
After the Design Your Own Duck event during Welcome Week, choose your favorite student-designed duck. Check out the Gallery Wall on the second floor of the John C. Hitt Library for the top 50 ducks and cast your vote during Homecoming Week. Scan the QR code on the wall to make your voice heard.

Oct. 19 – Homecoming Kickoff | Reflecting Pond | Noon–2 p.m.
Students can claim their exclusive 2026 Homecoming T-shirt and last-minute free tickets for Comedy and Concert nights.

Oct. 19 – Knights Got Talent | Knights Plaza | 7 p.m.
Bring a blanket or chair to support your fellow Knights as they showcase their special talents. This event is free for both the community and UCF students. Alongside the annual show, an art show will feature work from UCF students and Knight Thon’s Miracle Children.

Oct. 20 – Movie Knight | Memory Mall | 7 p.m.
Catch 2026 Academy Award Best Picture nominee F1. Secure your spot on Memory Mall as early as 6 p.m. and score an exclusive popcorn cup (while supplies last).

Oct. 21 – Game Night | UCF Downtown’s Learning Support Center | 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Challenge friends and members of the Downtown Learning Support team to some friendly competition. Prizes are up for grabs for a costume contest, Super Smash Brothers tournament and more. for more information.

Oct. 21 – Comedy Knight | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.
Get ready for an unforgettable night of comedy with Jay Pharoah, with special guest AJ Foster. Best known for his standout run on Saturday Night Live, Pharoah has made a name for himself with his hilarious celebrity impressions, energetic personality, and impressive musical talent. Admission is free for all UCF students, but tickets are required. . The general public can .

Oct. 22 – Foam Splash | Communication and Media Building Plaza, UCF Downtown | Noon-2 p.m.
Dive into the biggest foam party of the semester. Splash into a giant foam pit and bubbly pool, enjoy tacos and ice cream, play water games and more. The first 200 attendees will get free rubber ducks and exclusive Foam Splash T-shirts.

Oct. 22 – UCF Women’s Soccer vs. Cincinnati | UCF Soccer Complex | 7 p.m.
The Knights welcome the Bearcats in Big 12 Conference play on “Fright Knight.” Tickets are free for students. The general public can purchase tickets on the . For more information, visit .

Oct. 22 – Concert Knight | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.
This high-energy show features rappers Soulja Boy and Waka Flocka Flame. Admission is free for all UCF students, but tickets are required. . The general public can .

Oct. 23 – Spirit Splash | Reflecting Pond | Noon–2 p.m.
Recognized as the best university tradition in the state by the National Association for Campus Activities, Spirit Splash is not to be missed. Thousands of students will run into the Reflecting Pond and attempt to catch this year’s custom homecoming rubber duck. There will be special guest speakers, as well as performances from the spirit team and Marching Knights. The event is free and open to UCF students and the community.

Oct. 24 – UCF Football vs. BYU | Acrisure Bounce House | TBA
UCF students can attend the game for free. A complete guide to student ticket information can be found at . The general public can purchase tickets through the or UCF Athletics Ticket Office at 407-823-1000. For more information, review the .

Oct. 25 – UCF Women’s Soccer vs. Houston | UCF Soccer Complex | 1 p.m.
The Knights welcome the Cougars in Big 12 Conference play on “Alumni Weekend.” Tickets are free for students. The general public can purchase tickets on the . For more information, visit .

Oct. 25 – UCF Men’s Soccer vs. South Carolina | UCF Soccer Complex | 5 p.m.
The UCF men’s soccer team hosts the nationally ranked Gamecocks in Sun Belt Conference play. Tickets are free for students. The general public can purchase tickets on the

Alumni Events

Oct. 22 – Shining Knights Alumni Awards Reception | Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts, Downtown Orlando | 6-9 p.m.
The Shining Knights Alumni Awards honor UCF’s outstanding alumni and community leaders who have significantly contributed to the university and the community. The UCF Alumni family will celebrate six honorees at this year’s reception.  and include a pre-reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and dinner.

Oct. 23 – Ignite the Knight | Memory Mall | 6-8:30 p.m.
This family-friendly UCF festival features live music, food, beverages, carnival games and special appearances before the grand finale: fireworks. .

Bonus – volunteer to support Trick or Treat on Greek Street by bringing sealed, individually packaged Halloween candy, small toys or crafts.

Oct. 23 – UCF Athletics Hall of Fame 2026 Class Induction Banquet | Celeste Hotel | 6 p.m.
The 2026 class includes women’s soccer’s Marissa Diggs ’15, track and field’s Octavious Freeman, former football head coach Mike Kruczek, football’s McKenzie Milton ’19 ’22MA, volleyball’s Emily Mottola ’96 and men’s basketball’s BJ Taylor ’18.

The evening begins with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and the induction program at 7 p.m. Individual tickets are $200, and Hall of Fame tables (seating 10) are available for $2,000. , or email varsityknights@ucfathletics.org for additional information.

Oct. 24 – UCF Alumni Tailgate | UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | Three hours before kickoff
Enjoy a live DJ, free beverages, delicious BBQ for purchase, family-friendly games and more at this indoor and outdoor tailgate. Admission to this family-friendly zone is complimentary for all UCF alumni and guests.

Oct. 24 – UCF Black Alumni Community Family Reunion and Tailgate | UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | Three hours before kickoff
Head to the ultimate tailgating experience, hosted by the UCF Black Alumni Community, three hours before the Knights take on BYU. Enjoy a DJ, giant yard games, guest appearances and more. while they last. This event is open to all alumni and guests.

Oct. 24 –  UCF Regional Community Watch Parties | Locations vary | Time varies
Not able to come to campus? Regional Knights communities will host local watch parties before the homecoming game — and everyone is invited. .

Oct. 25 – Trick or Treat on Greek Street | Greek Park Drive | 2-5 p.m.
The UCF Greek Community is hosting its annual Trick or Treat on Greek Street. This family-friendly event brings Halloween fun to the Central Florida community — and everyone’s invited.

in your group. All registered Greek alumni will be entered for a chance to win.

We are America’s Space University. And we celebrate UCF Space Week to honor our origin as we dare to build what’s next.

Where Global Leaders Unite to Forge the Future of Space

What will astronauts eat on Mars? How have books and movies fueled our fascination with space? And how much space pride can we pack into Acrisure Bounce House?

There’s a whole week to explore the answers.

Beginning Oct. 25, the second annual UCF Space Week puts the university’s founding mission in the spotlight: advancing the United States’ space program and preparing the people who’ll take it further. Today, that work spans labs, classrooms and industries, driving discovery and supporting Florida’s growing space economy. UCF Space Week brings that industry connection to campus, welcoming global space leaders, researchers, students, partners and fans for a celebration of ideas and discovery.

Explore ideas for life beyond Earth, revisit the curiosity and bold determination behind historic achievements and join traditions that bring UCF’s space legacy to life, culminating in the UCF football team’s 10th annual Space Game.

Cue up the curated by UCF Libraries faculty, staff and students, then make room on your calendar to experience UCF Space Week 2026.

Space Industry Events

Sunday, Oct. 25

National Space Society Space Settlement Summit
Running through Monday, Oct. 26, this two-day summit explores the challenges and innovations shaping lunar settlement and exploration. Hosted in partnership with the National Space Society, it features technical panels, visionary talks and networking opportunities centered on the moon and cislunar space.

Monday, Oct. 26

UCF Innovate Day
The inaugural UCF Innovate Day showcases how UCF transforms research into real-world impact through entrepreneurship, technology commercialization and strategic partnerships. Explore breakthrough ideas, hear pitches from emerging innovators and connect with industry leaders helping shape the future of innovation in Central Florida and beyond.

Tuesday, Oct. 27

SpaceU Symposium
Leaders, researchers and students from across Florida will discuss the latest innovations and research driving the future of space science.

UCF SpaceU Awards Dinner
The university’s second annual SpaceU Awards Dinner will recognize excellence and innovation within the UCF space ecosystem, including key partners, industry leaders, and outstanding faculty and students.

The Economist’s 4th Annual Space Economy Summit
The fourth annual Space Economy Summit brings the space sector together with the industries it’s beginning to reshape. Over two days, senior leaders from business, government, and investment will examine how space-enabled tools can solve problems on Earth, what customers need before they adopt them, and how partnerships can move promising technologies from impressive pilots to everyday use.

Community Events

Monday, Oct. 26

Space in the Popular Imagination
John C. Hitt Library | 1–3 p.m.

Explore how literature and film have imagined the cosmos — and our place in it — during a panel spanning literature and film from the early 20th century to today.

Moderated by UCF Associate Librarian Michael Furlong ’22EdD, the discussion features Michael Taylor, writer and emeritus faculty member in UCF’s School of Data, Mathematical and Statistical Sciences; Barry Sandler, screenwriter, filmmaker and associate professor in UCF’s Nicholson School of Communication and Media; and Adrienne Dove, planetary scientist, professor and chair ɫ����’s Department of Physics and co-host of the Walkabout the Galaxy podcast. Visit the for more information.

Knights Under the Stars: Full Moon Observation
Robinson Observatory | 7:30–9 p.m.

Whether you’re a space enthusiast or simply curious, join an evening of and share in the excitement of a fully illuminated moon.

Tuesday, Oct. 27

Movie Night: Starman (2025)
John C. Hitt Library | 5–7 p.m.

Are we alone in the universe? NASA robotics engineer and best-selling science fiction author Gentry Lee has spent a lifetime wondering. This documentary follows his search for answers and the conclusion he reaches at age 82. Learn more about the film and watch its trailer on the .

Wednesday, Oct. 28

Mars to Table: Feeding the Future of Human Space Exploration
John C. Hitt Library | 1:30–3 p.m.

Join UCF Associate Professor Amy Gregory ’11PhD and Chef Cesar Rivera-Cruzado from as they showcase the university’s Closed-Loop Culinary Ecosystem, a Mars food system that brings together food production, culinary experience, behavioral health and crew performance. Learn more on the .

Thursday, Oct. 29

Movie Night: Hidden Figures (2016)
John C. Hitt Library | 5–7 p.m.

Behind a milestone in American spaceflight were brilliant mathematicians. Hidden Figures tells the story of three Black women at NASA whose work played a pivotal role in sending astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Learn more about the film on the .

SpaceU Drone Show
Memory Mall | 7 p.m.

Gather on Memory Mall as synchronized drones illuminate the night in a display celebrating UCF’s space legacy and spirit of discovery. Presented by Pegasus Partner BNY, the show brings the campus community together for an evening of wonder and SpaceU pride.

Friday, Oct. 30

UCF Space Hospitality Student Challenge
UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management – Disney Dining Room | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

What will dinner, sleep and an unforgettable guest experience look like in orbit? Discover how UCF students envision the answers at the ’s Final Pitch Day.

The event caps Rosen College’s inaugural eight-week competition challenging students across disciplines to make life in space more habitable. Hear a keynote address and industry panel, watch the top three teams pitch their concepts to industry judges and explore more student ideas at a poster showcase.

UCF Space Game: Knights vs. Baylor
Acrisure Bounce House | 7:30–11 p.m.

UCF Football takes on Baylor in the 10th annual Space Game, concluding Space Week with a tradition that turns our space legacy into a stadium-wide celebration. Since its debut in 2017, . Building the anticipation is the reveal of the 2026 UCF Space Game uniform, which honors NASA’s earliest missions and brings SpaceU’s legacy to life on the field. Cheer on our football team in the stadium or tune in on ESPN. For the latest updates, visit .

Explore All Week

These weeklong exhibits and activities offer more ways to connect with UCF’s space story.

From Orbit to Archives Exhibit
John C. Hitt Library | Fourth-Floor gallery

Visit the Special Collections & University Archives exhibit for a look at UCF’s space heritage and history behind the SpaceU identity we celebrate today.

SpaceU: A Universe of Possibilities Exhibit
John C. Hitt Library | Second-Floor Gallery Wall

Check out the curiosity driving UCF forward. This exhibit highlights some of the many projects UCF faculty and students are working on, offering a glimpse of the ideas taking shape across America’s Space University.

Space Out in the Digital Exploration Center
John C. Hitt Library | Digital Exploration Center, Immersion Studio

Step into the Immersion Studio for space-themed meditative experiences designed to help students relax and recharge.

Space Movies Social Media Bracket Challenge
Which space movie deserves the top spot? Put your favorite films in the running in an interactive social media bracket challenge. Follow along as contenders compete for the title of best space movie and find out if your pick goes the distance.

Find the Hidden Citronaut
John C. Hitt Library

Set out on a self-paced scavenger hunt to find the hidden Citronaut as you explore library spaces and uncover fun SpaceU facts along the way.

Every time a UCF student accepts a hug from Kelly Haskins ’91, the radio-TV grad pulls them in and asks the same question:

“When was the last time you saw your mom?”

When she first started Mom Hugs Day in 2022 as a tribute to her late son/former UCF student, Hunter, she was stunned by some of the answers.

“There were a few international kids who had not seen their moms in two years,” she recalls. “Those hugs meant a lot.”

Four years in, the fifth annual Mom Hugs Day — which will be held Thursday, Sept. 24, from noon until 2 p.m. at Ferrell Commons — has grown from two moms to 50. Some bring pre-packaged snacks and water to hand out. Some sense a student is really struggling and personally connect them to (CAPS) or to get the support they need. Chipper, the therapy dog, makes appearances.

Haskins looks forward to organizing the event every year on behalf of her nonprofit organization, Do It for Hunter, in partnership with .

“We get more out of it than we give. We walk away just filled with love, and we all say, we wish we could do this every day,” Haskins says. “We just want to do a little something to try to help especially some of the young people in our area because after losing Hunter, we didn’t want this to happen to another family.”

Remembering Hunter

Haskins, who has called Merritt Island, Florida, home since she moved from Michigan in the ninth grade, is from a family of Knights. Her husband, Andrew Haskins ’97, graduated with an electrical engineering degree. They sent their daughters Haley ’16 (psychology) and Hannah ’18 (nursing) here.

By the time her son Hunter enrolled in 2021, she was practiced at the college kid send-off.

“I think he seemed to be more prepared and more mature than kids his age because he grew up with two older sisters. He knew how to do his laundry. He knew how to cook for himself,” she says.

Five weeks into the semester, on Sept. 29, 2021, Hunter took his life. When he was found, his laptop was still open. He’d just failed a math test.

“He was just the most normal kid, and the last one you would think of for this to happen to. But Hunter wasn’t much of a talker. He wouldn’t talk about his feelings, and we will never know exactly why,” she says. “I think he had a panic attack, and he didn’t know how to handle it.”

Now she purposefully has conversations with teenagers about the inevitable ups and downs of life. She tells them it’s OK to fail a test because you’ll get another chance to take it again, just like she did in college algebra. She hosts an annual You Matter Day at Hunter’s high school and works to install suicide awareness benches in parks, schools and other community areas.

“I know I’m a different person now. There’s the ‘before’ me and the ‘now’ me,” she says. “It does give me a lot of purpose. When I get feedback from and hearing that somebody was helped, then it makes it all worth it.”

Simple Idea Leads to Meaningful Impact

Haskins got the idea for Mom Hugs Day when she saw an older, retired couple publicized for bringing lawn chairs to a now-forgotten campus to offer hugs to college students. She immediately got the wheels in motion.

Although she is now retired, she started the event while she was vice president of marketing at Launch Credit Union. She cashed in a PTO day every year for the couple of hours she spent on campus giving out hugs.

“Best PTO day ever — so worth it,” she says. “It’s my favorite day of the year.”

WHPS Director Stephanie Spies has helped coordinate the event since its inception, and she has witnessed first-hand the magic that happens from the simple act of connection.

“To see that many students who were so excited just to be able to get a hug from a mom, or [who] ended up calling their moms or grandmas afterward because they missed them or connecting with students who had been impacted by suicide — it’s just been an overwhelmingly positive experience,” Spies says.

It expanded to Florida Atlantic University this year, and Haskins continues to get requests from non-UCF moms to bring it to other Florida campuses. She always replies with if someone can make a connection with the university on her behalf, she’s up for a road trip.

“Some of the most meaningful things that we can do don’t have to cost a lot of money,” she says.

Resources for UCF Students, Faculty and Staff

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988. Free, confidential counseling is available 24/7 for mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or simply available for anyone who needs someone to talk to.

It’s important to prioritize taking care of your mental health. Take advantage of these resources at UCF to help you:

Students

• UCF offers a wide range of free mental health services to currently registered undergraduate and graduate students. Students can access CAPS by visiting their offices by Student Health Services, between the Biology and Physical Sciences buildings, or by or by phone at 407-823-2811. During non-business hours, students can call 407-823-2811 and press 5 to be immediately connected to a licensed therapist.
• provides proactive programming and education for students to practice lifelong skills that improve quality of life on topics that include stress management, nutrition and social wellness.
• assists students facing personal hardships, academic concerns, well-being challenges, or unexpected crises. If you are need of support or are concerned about a UCF Knight, .
• connects students with peers around the world who may be going through similar experiences. It is a safe, judgment-free space to share your thoughts, receive encouragement and find support whenever you need it.

Faculty and Staff

• The offers a 24-hour emergency hotline and in-person, telephonic or video counseling with licensed professional counselors. It is confidential and free to all faculty and staff (excluding OPS student employees) as well as their eligible family members, including spouses, dependent children, parents and parents-in-law.

UCF Homecoming celebrates how far the university has come and where it’s going next.

At the center of that tradition is the , UCF’s premier alumni recognition event. Each year, the awards honor alumni and friends of the university whose accomplishments, leadership and service embody the best ɫ���� while helping Knight Nation .

On Thursday, Oct. 22, the DeVos Family Room at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando will fill with Black & Gold pride as UCF recognizes six extraordinary individuals who are breaking barriers, lifting others and expanding what’s possible for the university and their communities.

“This is the pinnacle of alumni recognition at UCF, an evening when Knight Nation comes together to honor those whose leadership, service and achievements represent the very best of our university,” says Heather Junod ’98, associate vice president for UCF Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. “This year’s honorees exemplify the ambition, innovation and impact that define UCF. Their accomplishments elevate our university, inspire future generations of Knights, and demonstrate the difference UCF graduates make in their communities and around the world.”

Distinguished Alumni Award

The highest honor bestowed annually upon a UCF graduate.

Brandi Bryan ’17MS

A healthcare executive advancing the future of nursing, Brandi Bryan ’17MS has dedicated her career to improving patient care and preparing the next generation of nurse leaders. A proud UCF College of Nursing graduate, she mentors students, serves on the college’s alumni council and champions opportunities that strengthen the nursing profession. Through her leadership and steadfast commitment to service, Bryan is helping build healthier communities and a stronger future for nursing.

Carrie Daanen ’92

A retired finance executive, philanthropist and dedicated UCF volunteer, Carrie Daanen ’92 helps clear the path to graduation for UCF students through her generous support. A first-generation college graduate, she champions scholarships, student stabilization and mentorship for women in business. Guided by gratitude for the opportunities UCF provided, Daanen, a member of , invests her resources, expertise and passion to ensure a financial setback never becomes the reason a degree goes unfinished, helping launch futures and strengthen communities for generations to come.

Ronald C. Thow ’93

A principal of and former UCF student-athlete, Ron C. Thow ’93 has built a career grounded in resilience, teamwork and ambition. As a first-generation college graduate, he credits UCF with opening doors during his time pursuing a degree in interdisciplinary studies, helping shape his professional journey. Today, Thow is a member of and proudly supports many programs in and the through his philanthropy and by encouraging future Knights to dream boldly, embrace challenges and pursue every opportunity with purpose.

John C. and Martha Hitt Honorary Alumni Award

The highest honor for a friend ɫ����.

Jogi Pattisapu, M.D.

An internationally respected pediatric neurosurgeon, educator and mentor, Jogi Pattisapu  has devoted his career to advancing medicine while inspiring future physicians. Through decades of teaching, clinical excellence, philanthropy and service to UCF, including a faculty appointment as a professor of neurosurgery at the , he has challenged generations of students to think critically, lead compassionately and pursue lifelong learning. His enduring legacy is reflected in the countless lives he has helped shape.

Young Alumni Award

The highest annual honor for a recent 30 Under 30 honoree.

Shaina Ruth ’18

A prosecutor and advocate for crime victims, criminal justice graduate Shaina Ruth ’18 has dedicated her career to protecting vulnerable individuals and seeking justice with compassion. Inspired by mentors and meaningful internships at , she remains deeply committed to giving back as a UCF Legal Studies mentor. Ruth embraces the power of unexpected opportunities and encourages future Knights to do the same while making a lasting difference.

Distinguished Student Award

The highest honor for a current UCF student.

Ornella Vintimilla

A Burnett Honors Scholar, future physician-scientist and dedicated student leader, Ornella Vintimilla has transformed her transfer student experience into a mission of mentorship, service and discovery. Through campus leadership roles — including serving as co-founder of a medical student association and as an Academic Advancement Programs ambassador — the biomedical sciences major helps fellow students recognize their potential while preparing for a career in medicine. Vintimilla is committed to expanding opportunities that empower others to strive for bold goals and make a meaningful impact.

Interested in joining Knight Nation as we celebrate Black & Gold excellence at the 2026 Shining Knights Alumni Awards? Learn more about opportunities.

Whether you’re attending a job fair or trying to advance to the interview stage for a position you’re applying for, you can increase your chances of success by following some tried-and-true tips from UCF’s .

How can you make a strong impression on your job interview?

• Know your professional story/prepare your elevator pitch
• Offer a confident greeting, handshake and smile
• Think about two to three key selling points about your professional self. For UCF students, start with your major/expected graduation and talk about related skills/experience including student clubs and class projects
• Research employers and showcase your knowledge in conversation
• Give examples to back up your answers. Storytelling is a big part of the interview experience.

How can you craft an effective elevator pitch?

Your elevator pitch introduces you to recruiters in 30-60 seconds. Follow the present-past-future format:

• Present: What are you currently studying? What’s your major or program?
• Past: Highlight a recent relevant experience (e.g., internship, research project, volunteer work).
• Future: State your career goals and explain why you’re excited to connect with this employer.

What are some ways you can make your resume stand out in a pile?

• A resume should be concise, organized marketing document highlighting your education, experiences and achievements; its purpose is to secure an interview and evolve with your professional growth.
• Keep formatting clean and consistent: 1-inch margins, 1 page (up to 2 max), standard 10- to 12-point fonts, professional appearance and easy-to-scan layout.
• Focus content on relevance: tailor to the position, connect transferable skills, emphasize contributions and quantify results whenever possible.
• Use strong writing mechanics: start bullets with action verbs, maintain consistent verb tense (present for current roles, past for previous) and keep statements concise.
• Include core sections as appropriate: Heading, objective (optional but tailored), education (reverse chronological order), summary of qualifications (skills-focused) and experience (employment, internships, research, projects).
• Add optional sections when relevant: Activities, leadership, honors/awards, publications or research.

What software or AI tools can help build your resume?

• is a fantastic tool available to all students by logging in with their NID credentials
• VMock is a 24/7 virtual career assistant that utilizes technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning and sophisticated analytics engine to deliver instant, personalized, and smart career guidance to students and professionals.
• Do not rely only on AI to write content for your resume. Double check wonky spelling/grammar and word choices to make sure it is your voice.
• Be aware that employers are now reviewing resumes and running them through plagiarism detection software to check for AI.
• Utilize AI (VMock can do this) to make sure your resume matches the language in the job description closely enough so that it will pass through applicant tracking systems successfully.

What questions should job candidates ask the interviewer?

Typically, it’s best to focus on two to three questions to have prepared to ask at the end of the interview.

• Ask about the company culture. What is it like to work there?
• Ask about the position or opportunity in a way that helps you learn more than what you have already learned on your own research. In your opinion, what qualities/traits do you look for in an ideal candidate to be successful in the role?
• Ask about what to expect in the interview process. What are next steps?

Are there any best practices for following up after an interview?

Within 24 hours, send personalized thank-you emails to the recruiters you spoke with that include:

• A brief recap of your conversation
• An expression of gratitude
• A question or statement to keep the dialogue going

For Stephen Masyada, civics education has been a lifelong interest. Now, his work in the field will help shape how civics knowledge and skills are assessed for students across the country.

Masyada, director of the , has been selected as one of 20 members of the panel that will help revise the framework for the civics portion of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) for the 2032 assessment.

The appointment recognizes his extensive experience in civics education and provides an opportunity to bring his perspective to a national conversation about what students should know and be able to do as engaged citizens.

“I think it’s a recognition of the work we do here at the Lou Frey Institute and at UCF in civic education and the impact we’ve had on civics in Florida and in some cases nationally,” Masyada says.

Shaping How Civics Education Is Assessed

The NAEP civics assessment provides data used to understand students’ civic knowledge nationally. While only a sample of students take the assessment, the results provide a broader picture of civic education across the country.

Masyada says the framework is particularly important because it can influence how policymakers and educators understand what should be emphasized in civics education.

“The content of the framework will dictate to states what is seen as important and what they’ll be comparing what’s happening in the states to when they release data,” Masyada says.

He also expects the framework to play a role in national evaluations of state standards for civics and government.

As a member of the framework committee, Masyada hopes to help broaden the way civic education is considered and assessed. Rather than focusing solely on students’ ability to recall facts, he believes assessments should also consider how students apply their knowledge.

“I think we really need to think about something beyond just knowledge, but also scenarios,” Masyada says. “What does the knowledge look like in practice, taking it to that next level?”

He also hopes the conversation will consider how civics education can begin earlier, including at the K-5 level.

For Masyada, effective civic education includes foundational knowledge of the nation’s founding principles, rights and liberties and the responsibilities of citizenship. It also includes dispositions that encourage students to participate in their communities, work with others to address problems and seek solutions to public policy issues.

“How do we measure these different dispositions necessary?” Masyada says. “I think that’s part of the conversation for the committee that’s involved with this.”

Bringing a National Perspective to Civics Education

The committee’s work will bring together perspectives from across the country. Masyada says that is important because civic education varies significantly from state to state.

“We have 50 states and 50 different ways to approach civic education in this country,” Masyada says. “I know what’s actually happening and being taught in Florida’s classrooms. I’ve been involved heavily in standards in this state and helping teachers understand what the standards mean and what they look like.”

A U.S. Air Force veteran, Masyada earned his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Florida and a certificate in instructional design and higher education leadership from UCF.

He taught high school in Florida for more than a decade and also worked in North Carolina as a state-level social studies specialist. In 2014, he joined the Lou Frey Institute, where he has continued his work supporting civic education.

His experience working directly with K-16 educators, developing and interpreting standards and supporting assessment initiatives has prepared him to contribute to the national framework process.

He is one of two representatives from the College of Sciences involved in the development of the 2032 civics assessment. In addition to Masyada serving on the 20-member framework committee, Terri Fine, professor emerita from the School of Politics, Security and International Affairs (SPSIA) and former associate director of the Lou Frey Institute, will serve on the 10-member content committee.

“The fact that UCF has two people involved I think it’s a huge feather in the cap for all of us,” he says.

As the committee looks toward the 2032 assessment, Masyada hopes its work will strengthen support for high-quality civic education and help establish a shared understanding of what students need to know and how they can participate in civic life.

He also sees an opportunity to consider how the country’s student population has changed and how civic education can provide common ground.

“We’re a far more diverse student population than we used to be,” Masyada says. “So I think having some commonality, some understanding of what can bring this population together, when it comes to civic education, I think that’s one of my hopes.”

Extending UCF’s Civic Education Work

The Lou Frey Institute at UCF houses the Florida Joint Center for Citizenship and has been a leading provider of civic education instructional and professional development resources in Florida since it was established in 2002.  The institute reaches approximately 300,000 students and 2,000 teachers across every Florida school district.

“We appreciate the opportunity to support and represent the college, the school and the university in these different districts, working with so many different teachers and leaders and representing UCF on the national stage as well when it comes to civic education,” Masyada says.