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2023-24 Alumni Association Board Members

Executive Committee

President: Patrice Abner, BS '08

Patrice is a proud alumna of the University of North Florida (2008) and Nova Southeastern University (2012). She graduated from UNF with a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a focus in Public Relations. During her time at UNF, she served as a Senator with the Student Government Association, worked in the Career Center and became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is currently the Director of Girl Experience for Girl Scouts of Gateway Council after dedicating a decade to serving students in higher education. In her free time she enjoys exploring Jacksonville with friends & family, traveling and serving as a Big with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida.

Dean Medley is Vice President of HR Operations at iMethods, a Healthcare IT Staffing and Consulting company headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. Dean is responsible for the overall day-to-day operations at iMethods, including human resources, recruiting procedures, and professional development. He has an extraordinary passion for helping the iMethods family develop their skills and knowledge of themselves and the industry. After graduating from the University of North Florida in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management, Dean quickly fell in love with recruiting, hiring, and the staffing industry working for several companies in Jacksonville, Orlando, and Mobile, AL. In 2004, Dean reconnected with his fraternity brother from UNF Chad Perce, and his business partner Clint Drawdy, founders of Medical Methods and iMethods. Dean joined the organization as the first employee. Dean is also President & Owner of Medley Employment Consulting, LLC, an organization that can handle all your employment needs, including resume writing, interview preparation, LinkedIn makeovers, strength assessments, and career coaching. Dean is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC). The CPRW is the global industry standard for professional resume writers. Dean has had great success with helping job seekers make career changes and find new roles that are a great fit. With over 20 years of overall business management experience in the staffing industry, Dean specializes in career services, resume writing services, cover letters, personality assessments, interviewing skills, LinkedIn profile makeovers, and more. Dean is a visionary leader who thrives in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment where he leverages the team’s strengths. With over 20 years of overall business management experience in the staffing industry, Dean specializes in recruiting, career coaching, employee relations, onboarding, performance management, personality assessments, and much more. Dean is a Board Member of the Hire Purpose Foundation, a faith-based non-profit founded by iMethods in 2019 after 15 years of supporting communities through their Mercy Ministry program. The company is based on the core values of serving its employees, clients, consultants, and communities. Dean is also a Board Member and Vice President of the University of North Florida Alumni Association, Board President of The Giving Closet Project, alumnus of Lifework Leadership First Coast Class of 2017-2018, and a current member. Dean has established himself as a presence and influencer in his community. He is happiest with his wife Jennifer and spending time with her and their two daughters Caroline and Anna, who attend both the University of Florida and Florida State University.

Secretary: Taj Johnson, BA '20

To Be Added
Chair of Governance: Ray Holley, MPA '97

THE HONORABLE WILLIAM RAY HOLLEY was appointed a Judge of Compensation Claims in Jacksonville, Florida in 2010 and has been reappointed in 2014, 2019 and 2023. He previously was employed as an attorney with the Law Office of Amy Warpinski, Staff Legal Office for Liberty Mutual, where he specialized in Florida and Georgia Workers’ Compensation. Judge Holley currently serves as President of the Florida Conference of Judges of Compensation Claims, Vice President of Scholarship Selection and state board member for the Friends of 440 Scholarship Fund, Inc., board member of the Stetson University College of Arts and Sciences Advisory Board, and is a board member and Chair of the Governance Committee of the UNF Alumni Association. He is also a member of the Rotary Club of Jacksonville, National Association of Workers’ Compensation Judiciary, Jacksonville Bar Association (Appellate Section, Professionalism Committee) and an honorary member and past president of the E. Robert Williams Inn of Court He has previously held several other leadership roles including: President of the E. Robert Williams Inn of Court; President of the Stetson University Alumni Association, Board Member of the Stetson University Board of Trustees, President of the Rotary Club of Southpoint; President of the Northeast Florida District Friends of 440 Scholarship Fund; Board Member of The Florida Bar Workers Compensation Executive Committee (Elected two terms); and Member of the Florida Bar Workers’ Compensation Rules Advisory Committee (2009-2015). Judge Holley received his law degree cum laude from Stetson College of Law in 1997, a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of North Florida (Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society) in 1997 and his undergraduate degree in political science, from Stetson University in 1991.
Chair of Strategic Planning: Robert Raesemann, Jr., BS '92

To Be Added
Chair of YASE: Sitou Byll-Cataria, BS '11

Sitou Byll-Cataria is a Togolese entrepreneur and IT expert who graduated from the University of North Florida in 2011 with a degree in Information Technology and a minor in Mathematics, specializing in Computer Security. During his time at UNF, he was the President of the International Students Association and the Student Body. Today, Sitou is the CEO and Owner of Chic Booth, a global photographic experience company with offices in multiple cities. He's also a proud husband and father of two, reflecting his commitment to making a positive impact in both his professional and personal life.

Full Board

Andrew Austin, BA '13

Andrew is a passionate advocate for justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of North Florida in 2013, Andrew proudly began working at Mayo Clinic in an entry-level position and quickly excelled through the organization while also earning a Master of Health Administration from Colorado State University in 2016 and academic rank as an Instructor in Health Care Administration from Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science. Andrew has demonstrated a unique blend of confidence, strength, ambition, and humility in his professional endeavors, eventually bringing him to his current role where he is serving as a Program Manager at Mayo Clinic in Florida’s Office of Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity and helping lead related strategic priorities and initiatives. Over the past decade, Andrew has remained committed to seeing his alma mater flourish and giving back to help create positive change in both the workplace and the community. Andrew is a firm believer in leading by example and earning the respect of his peers through hard work, dedication, and unwavering values. His success is not only a testament to his individual achievements but also to his commitment to the widely embraced principle, "If you are the smartest person in the room, then you are in the wrong room." When not applying energy towards those important causes, Andrew enjoys traveling, going to the movies, and playing card games with friends and family.

Jessica Cummings, BSH '02, MBA '05

Jessica Cummings serves as the Vice President of Community Engagement at Brooks Rehabilitation where she works with the low or no cost community programs to provide continuous rehabilitative services for all individuals with a differing ability. As a certified athletic trainer she understands the importance of rehabilitative services and is pleased to be able to work with the community programs and services that Brooks provides to the communities surrounding Jacksonville, Daytona, Orlando, Gainesville, Ocala, and Tampa. Jessica’s responsibilities also include leading the Brooks Health Foundation and conducting the Community Health Needs Assessment. Prior to joining Brooks, Jessica was the Senior Director of Development for UF Health Jacksonville and the University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville. During her tenure with UF Health she realized her love of working with vulnerable populations and non-profit organizations. She currently serves: as the immediate Past-President of the UNF Alumni Association Board of Directors, Executive Cabinet Member for the Go Red For Women Campaign benefiting the American Heart Association, Tony’s Turkey Trot to Benefit UF Health TraumaOne, Co-Chair of the Night for Heroes Gala to benefit UF Health TraumaOne committee, Community Leadership Committee for the American Diabetes Association, board member of WeCare Jacksonville and is a proud member of Leadership Florida Connect 10 class and “The Most Inquisitive Class” of Leadership Jacksonville, 2018. Jessica holds dual degrees from the University of North Florida – a Master’s of Business Administration in International Business and a Bachelor’s of Science in Sports Medicine. She is passionate about ensuring water safety for all and continues to coach middle school swimmers at The Bolles School. As a fun fact, Jessica worked in professional sports for 10 years. She had the pleasure of working with professional golf tournaments, creating tracking technology for marathons, and masterminding the scoring system for the CrossFit Games. She loves spending time with her family and little man, Kade.

Brittney Cunningham, BA '21

Brittney graduated in the Fall of 2021 with dual degrees in a Bachelor of Marketing and a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. During her time on campus, she was involved in Greek life as a sister of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority and a member of the Honors in Marketing program and the Order of Omega Greek Honors Society. After graduation, Brittney began working for Stetson University as their Student Philanthropy Coordinator and since has been promoted to the Assistant Director of Young Alumni and Student Engagement. In her role, she oversees their young alumni programming and student philanthropy initiatives. From her work with Stetston's student philanthropy organization, Green, White & YOU, Brittney was a recipient of a 2023 Circle of Excellence CASE Award in the Student Philanthropy division.
Reid Hartsfield, MBA '09

Reid is a proud Alumni of UNF's MBA program in 2009. Reid received a bachelor of science in psychology from Excelsior college . As a Wealth Strategist with TD Bank, Reid collaborates with Relationship Managers to serve TD Wealth clients throughout Florida. Prior to working in the financial world, Reid served 10 years in the US Navy on submarines in Virginia and Hawaii.
Brandon Jacobs, BS '08

Brandon Kolby Jacobs is a multifaceted individual with a knack for balancing diverse roles and passions. With a Bachelor of Science in Communication (Advertising Concentration) from the University of North Florida (2008) and an MBA in Business Administration and Management from the University of Phoenix (2012), Brandon brings a blend of strategic communication and business acumen to his endeavors. For the past five years, he has been steering the success of Snooks Eatery, LLC, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. Simultaneously, his two-year tenure at Jacobs Logistical Consulting has honed his expertise in the logistics realm. Beyond his corporate prowess, Brandon wears various hats as a music and entertainment professional, a community activist, and a motivational speaker for youth. He's currently on the hunt for a managerial or supervisory position, ideally within transportation and logistics, while channeling his creativity into completing his debut novel. Known for his self-drive and reliability, Brandon is a force in both business and community engagement.
Roderica Johnson, BA '15

TBA

Lisa Kemph, BAA '92, MHRM '96

Lisa Kemph currently serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer for Brooks Rehabilitation headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. In this role, Lisa is responsible for directing and leading all of the human resources strategies and initiatives for over 2,500 Brooks employees across the system, including talent acquisition and development, compensation & benefits, employee relations and engagement, health & wellbeing, performance management and employee services. Mrs. Kemph is an accomplished HR executive with almost 30 years broad-based HR Generalist experience in industries ranging from transportation, health insurance, financial services, banking, and education. A strategic thinker who is passionate about creating people-centered workplaces, building quality programming, and ensuring employee development, Lisa earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a concentration in Management and Marketing and a Master’s in Human Resources Management, both from The University of North Florida. Lisa holds her Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification from the HR Certification Institute and a Senior Certified Professional designation from the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM-SCP). Lisa currently serves on the HR.com Advisory Board, the Brooks College of Health Dean’s Council, and is a certified Emotional Intelligence facilitator. Lisa was recently recognized as one of the Top 100 HR Professionals in the world. In her free time, Lisa enjoys traveling, reading, going to the beach, and spending time with her husband Chris and their three children, Madisen, Mason and Mia.

Jessica Kress, BS '13

Jessica L. Kress is a highly skilled and versatile professional with a diverse educational background and work experience. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Communication, Public Relations, from the University of North Florida, where she also minored in Photography and excelled in athletics as a member of the track team, participating in the 100m and 400m hurdles and the 4x400m relay. Jessica is furthering her education at UNF, as she is currently enrolled in classes to obtain her master’s in science in management, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Currently, Jessica serves as the Director of Marketing & Physician Relations at Borland Groover. In this role, she oversees marketing communications and public affairs initiatives for a prominent GI specialty practice with over 100 providers, demonstrating her expertise in strategic planning, brand management, social media, public relations, and digital marketing. Her efforts have led to significant increases in patient volume and the development of effective healthcare initiatives for the Borland Groover Foundation. Jessica has also been an International Flight Attendant with United Airlines. Her aviation skills are further highlighted by her achievement of a Private Pilot License with VFR and IFR ratings. Her experience in event planning and marketing management is evident in her previous roles. She worked closely with clients to organize weddings and events, developing her skill set in client relations, marketing, and project management. With her love for travel, commitment to excellence, and knack for embracing new challenges, Jessica's story is one of continuous growth and exploration, both personally and professionally. Additionally, Jessica is actively involved in her community, serving on the UNF Alumni Association Board and the Horizons Board for Dreams Come True since 2023. Her proficiency in Microsoft and Windows software, Microsoft applications, WordPress, and Adobe Creative Suite, including Lightroom, Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, adds to her diverse skill set.
John Lumpkin, BM '07

John Lumpkin II, a multifaceted figure in music, holds a Bachelor's degree in Jazz Studies from the University of North Florida and a Master's degree from Florida State University. Rooted in the Pentecostal church, he draws inspiration from this foundation, declaring it the perpetual source of his musical passion. With an international presence that spans Japan, and Switzerland, and collaborations with the Jazz at Lincoln Center, including the creation of the Dr. Phillips Jazz Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, John's impact is far-reaching. Beyond his church involvement, he contributes to Beyond Music, an online platform that was co-founded by the late Tina Turner, fostering global artistic collaboration. Having graced stages alongside renowned artists, John's influence extends through educational roles at institutions like the University of North Florida. He is also the visionary behind initiatives such as the Jazz Discovery Series, The John Lumpkin Institute, and The Covenant, shaping musical communities in Jacksonville, FL, and beyond, driven by an optimistic expectancy for the future of his musical gifts.
Bryce McColskey, BS '17

Bryce served on the Swoop Squad, Orientation Staff, Senate, Alpha Tau Omega, OFSL/Greek Ambassador and is an Associate Attorney at Jackson Lewis, P.C.
Anthony Mortimer, EdD '18

Dr. Anthony Mortimer is a retired U.S. Naval Officer and former School Administrator; in his current role at MOSH, Dr. Mortimer combines his Operations Management and Educational Leadership experiences to guide the management and presentation of the MOSH collections, interpretive education and school-connected programs, community and organizational partnerships and engagement, and education programs.

Dr. Mortimer is a member of the American Alliance of Museums and has served as a member of the
Board of Directors for several local and national nonprofit organizations, including TSI Cares Foundation (current), the Florida Council of Administrators of Special Education (former), and GlobalJax (former), and also currently serves on the University of North Florida’s Disability Services Advisory Council. He holds a Master of Arts in Teaching (Reading Instruction) from Jacksonville University and a Doctorate in Education (Educational Leadership) from the University of North Florida.
Joseph Nelson, BA '02

Joe is a seasoned professional in the world of graphic design and web development, backed by a UNF Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts with a focus on Applied Graphic Design from the University of Florida. Currently working for Stitches and Screens, Joe has over 18 years of experience in the decorated apparel/promotional products work space and has helped many Jacksonville-based companies build their outfacing marketing brand identities. Joe's skill set is expansive, revolving around Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, specializing in 4-color process design, pre-press work, and spot color design and separations. His expertise extends to promotions, events, footprinting/displays design for end-user events, and creating branded apparel and swag. He's also adept at crafting brand guidelines and communications marketing strategies With a strong foundation in graphic design, Joe's ability to merge artistic creativity with technical expertise makes him a valuable asset in any design-oriented field. His extensive experience in the promotional products industry, coupled with his proficiency in a variety of design tools and marketing strategies, positions him as a reliable and versatile professional capable of delivering impactful visual solutions.
Austin Nicklas, BS '20

Austin Nicklas grew up in Fernandina Beach with the desire to one day serve his community. He began his professional career working as a legislative aide for State Senator Aaron Bean in June of 2016. After over three years in the Senate, Austin moved to the Florida House of Representatives to serve in his most recent position as legislative aide for State Representative Jason Fischer. After serving the citizens of Northeast Florida for almost six years in the Florida Legislature, Austin was hired as the Director of Government Affairs for the Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA) in March of 2022. NEFBA is now the largest builders association in Florida and the fourth largest in the entire country. Austin attended the University of North Florida (UNF) where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He also served on UNF’s Spinnaker Media Student Advisory Board and currently serves on the UNF Alumni Association Board of Directors. Austin and his wife, Sierra, are recently married and have lived in Jacksonville for almost five years.
Jasmine Roberts, BA '20

Jasmine is a proud Fall 2020 graduate of the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She is a multifaceted Osprey who was and is still known for being immersed in various clubs and organizations such as the Black Student Union, the Black Alumni Association (Director of Community Engagement), the Alumni Association, Community Alliance for Student Success (CASS), Child Psychology Club, Diversity in Business, and the Transfer Student Union. Jasmine is committed to setting an example of focus, inspiration and professionalism that is aspires to leave a mark on everyone she encounters. In her current role as an Academic Career Advisor at Florida State College at Jacksonville, her greatest strength is her devotion for helping others to become the best versions of themselves, whether it be academically, professionally, or personally. As a firm advocate for Mental Health, she is a believer in that counseling is an essential guide to helping individuals understand their pathologies as it relates to their relationships, spirituality, actions and much more. Through her efforts, it is with great hope that she can use her knowledge of mental health to aid those that are lost and need a glimmering sense of hope. She has a passion for serving others through the forms of diversity, equity, and inclusion by creating a harmonious and inclusive environment in any given space.
David Sherman, BBA '17

David is a dedicated Financial Advisor, affiliated with the esteemed Current/Sherman group at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. Hailing from Jacksonville, his commitment to his hometown led him to pursue his Bachelor's Degree at the University of North Florida, where he graduated with a degree in accounting. With six years of experience at Merrill Lynch, David has established himself as a trusted advisor in the financial sector. Holding Series 7 and 66 FINRA registrations, he's well-equipped to guide clients through their financial endeavors, offering valuable insights and strategic advice. Beyond his professional endeavors, David enjoys spending his spare time in the company of his beloved dog, Goose, often found at the park. His passion for classic cars is evident through his restoration work on a 1967 Mustang, showcasing his dedication to detail-oriented and rewarding hobbies. David's commitment to his community, paired with his expertise in financial advisory services, positions him as a reliable and approachable advisor for those seeking comprehensive financial guidance. His local roots, coupled with his professional acumen, make him a valuable asset to clients seeking thoughtful financial planning and wealth management strategies.
Mark Smith, BA '09

Mark graduated in with a B.A. in Political Science and History. He was a part of Student Government and Campus Ministries. He is one of the pastors at Chets Creek Church and is married to another Osprey, Laura, and is a foster parent.
Sheila Sorensen, BA '94

To Be Added
Lorin Thies, BS '03, BS '06

Lorin Thies is a native of Neptune Beach, FL. She graduated from the University of North Florida with a BS in Communications (Journalism track '03) and a Master’s in Public Administration ('06). Lorin has worked in the nonprofit sector for nearly 20 years, including time at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Tree Hill Nature Center, the Florida Theatre, MOSH, UNF, and currently 904WARD. She was recognized by the Jacksonville Business Journal as a “40 Under 40” in 2021. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Community First Cares Foundation and the Searching for Identity Foundation.
Shatara Troy, BBA '10, MBA '13

To Be Added

Ex-Officio Board Members

Fiscal Year 2024

Teresa Nichols, Vice President for University Development & Alumni Engagement

Colin McKinney, BA '13, BA '13, Director of Alumni Engagement

Alex Linton, Black Alumni Association Chair

Debbie Johnson, BBA '85, MBA '89, Johnson Medallion Recipient

Jay Johnson, MBA '90, Johnson Medallion Recipient

Robert Raesemann, Jr., BS '92

Mike Tanner, BBA '91, MACC '94, Johnson Medallion Recipient