Getting involved on campus and in the community isn’t just something UNF graduate student Gary Monahan enjoys. It’s also a philosophy that he believes is vital to one’s success.
“My on-campus involvement began with the intention to serve and build meaningful relationships with members of the University community,” said Monahan, who found many ways to make that happen. His affiliations included becoming a COEHS Ambassador, Presidential Envoy, a member of the Taylor Leadership Institute, a student Employee at the John A. Delaney Student Union and an intern with the Athletics Development team. Since 2017, Monahan has been serving as a COEHS ambassador ―an experience that has been extremely rewarding. As an ambassador he is given the opportunity to assist prospective students and families in the college selection process by trying to make the process as stress-free as possible.
“No matter what event, or program we are involved in, our mission is to enrich the lives of those we serve through exposing them to the quality education offered at our outstanding institution,” Monahan said.
His service doesn’t stop there. He is also involved with the Taylor Leadership Institute where he has had the opportunity to positively impact the lives of people in the community by practicing positive leadership. His favorite experience was being able to interact with children and families of the Ronald McDonald House of Jacksonville.
Monahan has served with many different organizations during his time as an Osprey. He has been involved with the UNF Sport Management Alliance Club, Duval County Special Olympics, HabiJax and Feeding North East Florida. Getting involved is something Monahan recommends to any student who wants to be successful.
“Do your best to get involved as early in your academic career as you can. Talk to your professors, advisor, or anyone else on campus who`s advice you respect, and trust,” Monahan said. “Ask them to share resources, and contacts they have both on campus and in the community to help you learn more about a particular career, or job you might like to have.”
Upon graduation, Monahan hopes to work in development, or sponsorship for a colligate or professional sport organization. Before he completes that goal, he will graduate in the fall of 2021 with his master’s degree in educational leadership: athletic administration.
This soon to be two-time Osprey has many things he loves about the University, but he most enjoys the people. “My favorite thing about UNF is the people that comprise the UNF family,” Monahan said. “Everyone on the UNF campus seeks to serve students and is truly invested in our success.”