August 2021

It was with great sadness that the University of North Florida announced the passing of former UNF President Anne H. Hopkins in early July. Dr. Hopkins served as the fourth president of the University from 1999 to 2002 and as a political science professor for many additional years.

As president, Hopkins placed strong emphasis on increasing opportunities for students to engage in transformational learning experiences, faculty-mentored research projects and study abroad programs. She focused on developing new academic offerings, expanding the honors program and enhancing professional development for faculty members.

Hopkins initiated the University's first capital campaign “Access to Excellence.” At the time, the campaign was the largest philanthropic effort in Jacksonville’s history, raising more than $100 million.

“Dr. Hopkins will be remembered for elevating student engagement opportunities, faculty research projects and the overall prominence of the University as well as spearheading a capital campaign that greatly contributed to the University’s ongoing growth and development,” said UNF President David Szymanski. “Years after her retirement, she frequently attended UNF functions to engage with students and faculty and continued to give back to the University. She will be greatly missed.”

Since the pandemic began in early 2020, Dr. Doreen Perez has led UNF’s COVID-19 healthcare efforts on the University’s COVID Response Team. While Dr. Perez has recently stepped out of this role, her leadership and experience has had an enormous positive impact on the health and safety of our campus throughout the pandemic. The entire Osprey community is truly grateful for all that Dr. Perez has done on our behalf.

Going forward, the campus community is asked to direct all COVID-19 healthcare communications to UNF Student Health Services at (904) 620-2900 or studenthealth@unf.edu.

Kelly Harrison, director of UNF’s Professional Development and Training, believes that being an Osprey can be a magical experience.

That’s one reason he and his forum planning committee chose the world of Harry Potter for this year’s Annual Professional Development Forum. Another reason is the popularity of the theme. “It’s something people have been asking us to do for several years,” Harrison said. “The requests began after the Star Wars event in 2016, which to date has been our best attended.”

This year marks UNF’s 17th yearly employee training day, though, as fans know, the event name — “16 ¾ Annual Professional Development Forum” — alludes to the magically hidden 9 ¾ train platform in the novels. The event tagline — “My Patronus is an Osprey” — refers to the Patronus Charm, introduced in “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” which conjured up protective guardians.

“We looked at the theme this year from the perspective that we are all Ospreys, the fact that we have a shared kind of familiarity,” Harrison said. “It’s how we can gather together and share the positive energy to protect us and allow us to be successful.”

Harrison said that he and the committee use themes to incorporate the fun factor into professional training based on studies that indicate that people learn better when they’re relaxed and enjoying themselves. The use of themes also mimics professional conferences, which are planned to engage employees and create a comfortable learning environment. This event was initially planned for 2020 but was canceled due to the pandemic. The training is free and open to all faculty and staff including OPS, and participants may attend the full-time or half-day program with supervisor approval. Sessions are repeated morning to afternoon for employees who are only able to attend a half day.

After 31 years in training and development, Harrison said he knows that he can’t please everyone. Some employees want a more formal or serious presentation, while others want something more whimsical. To strike a balance, Harrison said he alternates between those two styles from year to year to provide something for everyone.

Whether or not employees are Harry Potter fans, Harrison hopes all will attend to gain the chance to learn something new, get reacquainted with employees they haven’t seen over the past year and meet new people. “This day is a chance to take some classes and work on your professional and personal development,” Harrison said. “Sometimes we get caught up in our tasks, and we forget about ourselves. Take this day to reflect on where we’ve been, what we’ve overcome and to get excited about what’s ahead.”

For more information on the sessions and schedule, visit the Center for Professional Development and Training Forum site.

Here is a quick look back at some other themes from past professional development forums:

2013 — ServiceUNF: Unleash Your Inner Hero

2014 — E=MCOsprey The Spirit of Innovation

2016 — Episode 12: May the Swoop Be with You

2018 — Navigating the Winds of Change

Hoping to swim in the new UNF pool? You don’t have long to wait. Construction on the pool facility is nearing completion, and though the North Florida swim team will be the first to use the pool when their athletic season begins in late August, employees may get their chance in September.

Heather Kite, associate director for Recreation and Wellness operations, expects to open recreational swim with lifeguards for students and employees sometime in mid-September, though a firm date has not been set.  “We are definitely happy to have a pool again on campus," said Kite, commenting that final planning is under way. "It will be exciting to see it being used by the campus community.”

The long-awaited new facility for the swim team measures 25 yards by 50 meters with a shallow end ranging from 4 feet, 2 inches to 5 feet and a maximum depth of 8 feet. Though the competitive swimmers will get top priority to use the pool, employees and students will have their own schedule and access through an entryway in the Student Wellness Complex. As Kite explained, if you are permitted to use the Student Wellness Complex, then you will be allowed to use the pool. The pool will not be available to the public; however, employees may purchase passes for guests who are at least 18 years old.

Kite expects open swim hours will be set at about 20 hours per week, at least for the first year of operation. Hours are subject to weather restrictions and may change based on UNF Swim Team meets. Here is the anticipated schedule:

Learn more about the pool features, guest passes, lockers and rules.

UNF’s Environmental Center never rented kayaks. Nor did the staff bring elementary school children to campus for environmental education. Yet, that’s what many people in the community thought.

Dr. Erin Largo-Wight, Center director and professor of Public Health, said there were many misconceptions. “What we actually were doing was raising money for research grants, managing the Environmental Leadership Program and working on academic curriculum,” she said. “So, the name was not representative of what we did, and it was limiting us from getting support from the community.”

To move perception closer to reality, she and the staff explored the option of a name change. After a lengthy process of talking with stakeholders — from faculty to students to community partners to donors — and creating a lengthy list of possible names, one name emerged as the overwhelming choice: Institute of Environmental Research and Education.

Assistant Director James Taylor believes the new name more accurately reflects what they do now and what they plan to do in the future. “We really want to be the place the campus community can come to for environmental research and collaboration, environmental academic offerings and student internships,” Taylor said. “We’ll be trying to attract more resources and provide more support to faculty and students from all six colleges in the areas of research and education.”

The Environmental Center was founded 17 years ago by Dr. Raymond Bowman, professor emeritus of chemistry. It originated as an outbranch of the College of Arts and Sciences and reported to the dean. In 2014, with the selection of a new faculty director from the Department of Building and Construction, Dr. Dave Lambert, the Center was moved to Academic Affairs, where it remains today and reports to the AVP of Research.

The new name also reflects a recent shift in focus over the past few years. It has transitioned to more academic initiatives and began offering an environmental minor in 2020. In addition, Largo-Wight said that James Taylor has been developing a mini course or self-run module called Sustainability 101 that they will offer to faculty this fall. “It will be available to any faculty member who wants to increase their students’ activity and learning in environmental education,” she said.

The newly named Institute also has become an important resource for internships and environmental projects with community partners. It continues to offer the Environmental Leadership Program, which has grown significantly over the years and provides leadership training and real-world project learning for students of all majors. The Institute also works to tie programming to one of two metrics: retention and engagement as well as professional development and graduate school readiness.

“So, these programs have sort of refined and grown in terms of their focus and strategic outcomes,” Largo-Wight said. “We’re trying to support students and provide opportunities for curriculum and serve as a support unit for faculty and research on the environment.”

Learn more about the Institute’s initiatives.

The University of North Florida is one of six research-focused universities across the U.S. chosen to participate in the Preventing Alzheimer’s with Cognitive Training (PACT) study.

The overall $44.4 million grant from the NIH’s National Institute on Aging will be distributed among the participating universities. UNF’s portion of the grant, $5 million expected over five years, represents the largest competitive grant in the University’s history and was awarded to Dr. Jody Nicholson, associate professor of psychology, who will lead the UNF-PACT study.

Nicholson is seeking volunteers from the community who would like to improve their cognitive abilities while being part of important scientific research with the potential to prevent dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. The UNF recruitment goal is 1001 participants from the Jacksonville area.

 

“Almost everyone knows someone who has been touched by this disease and people want to be part of the solution because they understand how serious this problem is,” said Nicholson. “That’s why we want community members to know they are vital to this effort. This is a significant project of the Jacksonville community, and we’ll be working through the region to connect with communities and convey the importance of people signing up to participant in the PACT study. If people will encourage their neighbors, friends, and family members to participate then we will be successful in getting one step closer to preventing dementia.”

To qualify, volunteers must be 65 and older with no signs of cognitive impairment or dementia. There is an emphasis on the need for African-American and Hispanic study volunteers. These populations are at the highest risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Participants will receive initial instruction on how to utilize computerized training exercises during two in-person study visits. The remainder of the computerized training will be conducted in the comfort of the participant’s home or office for a total of 25 hours over six weeks. At the one-year mark, participants will return to the study site for two “booster” sessions, and again after two years. In the third year, evaluations will be performed. Learn more about the PACT study.

Justin Begle is the associate director of User Services in Information Technology Services. He currently leads the team of Academic C-Techs, who coordinate and provide the direct technology support to each of the University’s colleges. Begle is also responsible for the annual technology refresh program Currency and has been serving as the Zoom administrator for UNF. He recently was named a Fall 2020 Presidential SPOT Award Winner and will be recognized at the Presidential Awards Ceremony Luncheon during the 2021 Professional Development Forum in August.

What do you enjoy about working at UNF? I have worked at UNF for 14 years now. In that time, I have had the pleasure of working with, and for, some of the most amazing people. It continues to be the reason I’ve stayed with the University for so long.

How long have you lived in Jacksonville? Where else have you lived? I moved to Jacksonville with my wife, Dena, in 2007 and started working at UNF the same year; so 14 years. Prior to that, I was born in Northern Virginia, but spent the majority of my days in Central Florida; primarily Melbourne, Orlando, and Titusville.

What one memory do you most treasure? That’s like asking which kid I like better. Honestly, being a Dad is the greatest privilege I’ve been fortunate enough to have in this life. So in true/trite fashion, I’d have to say the day my kids were born (which is technically two memories).

If you could have a dinner party and invite any four people, from the past or present, who would be on your guest list? Assuming my wife and kids are already there, this is a tough one. First and foremost would be my Dad. I lost him at a young age, and there are so many questions I never got to ask and conversations I never got to have. And I’d love for him to meet his grandkids. Along with that, my Dad loved John Wayne, and it would be amazing to see them together in the same room. From there, I’d have to go with Ed Sheeran because that would make my wife super happy. And then for my kids, I’d pick whichever YouTuber they are into that week.

If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? Growing up, I always wanted to be an astronaut. There was always something so fascinating to me about space. But given that I can barely go on a fair ride without getting sick, flying into space wasn’t exactly in the cards for me. So, assuming I could somehow overcome all my terrible motion sickness, I’d pick astronaut.

What superpower would you like to have? I would have to go with flying. Hopefully, I’d be able to accomplish some of that astronaut business. But being able to see the world and, most importantly, avoiding traffic would be amazing.

If you ruled the world, what would you change on Day 1? I think I will take the path of least resistance here and simply make a change we can all agree upon … make calories nonexistent.

What would be the title for the movie version of your life? I had no idea how to answer this, so I’ll go with what my wife said … “Legendary Dad.”

What one food do you wish had zero calories? Hands down, BBQ Brisket.

Tell us something that might surprise us about you. I used to perform in a lot of plays and musicals at my high school and local community theater. Now, the thought of singing in front of people terrifies me.

Where would you like to go on a dream vacation? Ireland. I have heavy Irish roots (spoilers) and would love to visit my native land.

Color: Purple (I was constantly sick as a kid and loved Dimetapp®)

Food: BBQ Brisket

Ice cream flavor: Mocha

Season: Fall

Sport to watch: Football

Osprey Asia Bell, '21, is a recent public health graduate and former senior airman with the U.S. Air Force. She was selected for the 2021 Student Veteran Leadership Awards issue of G.I. Jobs magazine published this month. Bell plans to earn a master’s in public health abroad in order to pursue a career in healthcare. Bell aspires to create a positive impact on the lives of others through helping them to cultivate healthier lives while continuing to serve the community.

Why did you decide to attend the University of North Florida? I decided to attend UNF because it is nestled in nature, and it thrives off of the community around it. I did a solo visit here once before attending. Simply put, it felt like me in college form.

Where are you from? I am from a small town right outside of Albany, Georgia.

What do you like most about UNF? I like that the campus has a lot to offer while somehow keeping a small community feel. Aside from that, I love how my professors are super passionate about what they teach. It really enhances my whole learning experience.

What has been your coolest UNF experience so far? I would say my coolest experience here at UNF has to be getting to be an AmeriCorps service member for the UNF On-Campus Transition Program, which seeks to offer a one of a kind college experience for young adults with intellectual and developmental differences.

Who is your favorite professor? Do you have a favorite class? I am not big on choosing favorites. I feel that all of my professors have aided in my academic journey in some way or another, so I appreciate them all. I will say that there are a few who have left an everlasting mark: Professor Deborah Owen, Dr. Elissa Barr, Dr. Sericea Stallings-Smith and Professor Kristine Amatuli.

What does being an Osprey mean to you? It means having a nest, but also being equipped with the tools needed to soar beyond the sky.

What’s your favorite UNF tradition? I would say it is a clash between Market Days and Osprey Fest.

When you’re looking to de-stress and relax a bit, where do you go on campus? The UNF nature trails are my calm in the midst of the chaotic storm that college can sometimes be. In nature, I always find peace. Walking the trails reminds me that as long as I stay the course and keep moving forward, I’ll reach my destination eventually.

If you could meet one historical figure for coffee, who would it be? If I could meet one historical figure, it would have to be Maya Angelou. I grew up being enchanted by her poems and living in her books. Her words are timeless. The spirit that she embodied and the passion that she shared continues to inspire me. Though I have met her through her art, it would have been nice to be in her presence.

If you could witness any historical event, what would you want to see? I would have liked to witness Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman” speech at the women’s rights conference.

What three traits define you? Three traits that define me are driven, compassionate and committed to service.

Do you have any advice for high school students? Give yourself patience to discover who you truly are and not what you feel will satisfy society. Do not let the pressures of the world disrupt your path. Always stay true to what feels right to you while also allowing yourself to be open to change. The beauty of life is in the experiences we have and the people we choose to share them with. No one has ALL of the answers. That’s the blessing of being human. Cherish the time that you have because it’s one of the few things we can’t get back.

Brian Verkamp to serve as UNF's Vice President and Chief Information Officer
UNF has named Brian Verkamp as the University’s new vice president and chief information officer. He will serve as a key member on President David Szymanski’s leadership team and will begin in his role on Aug. 23. As vice president and chief information officer, Verkamp will be responsible for leading and managing all aspects of the University’s information technology services and providing executive leadership and strategic vision for the institution’s technology infrastructure, assets, security and compliance programs and information services. Learn more about the new VP and CIO.

Taylor Leadership Institute partners with First Tee
The University of North Florida’s Taylor Leadership Institute is partnering with First Tee to serve as leadership mentors for the First Tee Scholars as part of a Pre-College Retreat. First Tee strives to make golf affordable and accessible for all kids and offers life skills curriculum that supports the development of core values that can be learned through the game of golf. Learn more about the partnership.

UNF and partners host ‘ConnectFest’ to link Florida tech start-ups to talent
The University of North Florida, in partnership with Google Cloud, Mastercard StartPath and Vystar, will host an entrepreneur “ConnectFest” event to connect Florida technology start-ups with UNF students and alumni to help fill needed positions for early-stage growing companies. ConnectFest will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 13 at UNF’s Adam W. Herbert University Center. The event is designed to bring together tech startups in need of quality talent with UNF students looking for engaging experiences and career opportunities. Learn more about the 'ConnectFest' event.

UNF’s LGBTQ Center wins Rainbow Award for Best Equality Organization
The University of North Florida’s LGBTQ Center has won a Rainbow Award for Best Equality Organization in Jacksonville. Sarah Locke, representing UNF, also won for Best LGBTQ Clergy. The Rainbow Awards JAX are designed to recognize different LGBTQ organizations and individuals on a yearly basis, to help bring awareness to social issues within the Jacksonville community, by hosting events, one-on-one conversations, joint ventures with other non-profits, and being a voice for those that cannot speak themselves through advocacy. Learn more about the Rainbow Award.

UNF Marine Mammal Research Team keeping local urban dolphins safe
The University of North Florida Marine Mammal Research Team regularly surveys local urban dolphins in the St. Johns River, as dolphins can be seriously harmed or die from being entangled in objects. During a recent survey, the team spotted an entangled dolphin calf with a strap or line wrapped around its body. The UNF team has been working with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to monitor the dolphin and develop a response plan. Learn more about the team’s work.

UNF’s new Department of Physical Therapy to meet growing demand for skilled therapists
The University of North Florida’s Brooks College of Health has elevated its physical therapy doctoral program to a new Department of Physical Therapy (PT) and announced Dr. Sherry Pinkstaff, physical therapy associate professor, will lead as chair. The new PT department, formerly part of the Department of Clinical and Applied Movement Sciences, will focus on expanding and enhancing its academic programs, faculty-led research and local partnerships. Learn more about the program.

UNF COEHS unveils digital UNITE Design Lab for inclusive workplace training
The University of North Florida’s College of Education and Human Services has unveiled a new virtual lab focused on Universal Design for Learning. The Universal Design for Inclusion in Training and Education (UNITE) Design Lab will serve as a virtual space for corporations, companies, and organizations to engage in research, collaboration, training and development for today’s workforce aimed at promoting innovation and inclusivity. Learn more about the UNITE lab.

UNF’s Hope and History Mural Project voted ‘Jacksonville’s best public art’
The University of North Florida’s Hope and History Mural Project was recently voted “Jacksonville’s best public art” in the JaxBest list, a guide compiled by News4Jax WJXT Ch.4 viewer votes that showcases the local things that make Jacksonville unique. The Hope and History Mural, located on the Eastside Brotherhood building at 915 A. Philip Randolph Blvd., was created in 2018 as a result of a year-long youth leadership development program by the UNF Center for Urban Education and Policy. Learn more about the mural.

Brooks College of Health
Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof, assistant professor in nutrition and dietetics, with J. Xu, A.K. Fultz, and K. Yoder Latortue, published “Beyond the Clinical Walls: Registered Dietitian Nutritionists Providing Medical Nutrition Therapy in the Home Setting” in Nutrition Research and Practice. (Ahead of print, 2021); 15: e48. In addition, Hicks-Roof discussed power packed nutrition when eating plant-based with Florida Newsline. Read Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof's article online.

Dr. Amber N. Barnes, assistant professor in the public health, published a study in Plos NTD on some of her work conducted in Mongolia. Read Dr. Amber N. Barnes' study online.

Dr. Lauri Wright, assistant professor, chair of the department of nutrition and dietetics and co-director of the Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition program, has been named to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ 2021-22 Board of Directors. Representing more than 112,000 credentialed practitioners, the Academy is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. Learn more about the appointment.

Coggin College of Business
Dr. Mark Dawkins, accounting professor, is highlighted as the first Black CPA and Ph.D. president-elect of the American Accounting Association by Accounting Today. Read the article online.

Dr. Gregory Gundlach, professor of marketing, with Diana Moss and Riley Krotz, authored “Market Power and Competition in Digital Business Ecosystems: A Multidisciplinary Approach,” Omidyar Network. Funded research report. American Antitrust Institute. Read Dr. Gregory Gundlach's report online. 

Dr. Natalie Mitchell, marketing professor, discussed her research study that indicates that Black teenage girls seek inclusive body types in anti-obesity advertising on WJCT. Listen to the discussion online.

Dr. Madeline Zavody, economics professor, shared insight for an article for Forbes titled "House Immigration Chair Warns U.S. is Losing Talent to Canada." Read the Forbes article online.

College of Arts and Sciences
Biology
Dr. James Gelsleichter, UNF Shark Biology Lab program director, and Dr. Laura Habegger, biology assistant professor, were featured in the recently aired “When Sharks Attack” show in Season 7, Episode 6, titled “North Florida Frenzy.” In 2015 and 2016, Jacksonville’s beaches were ground zero for 12 perplexing shark attacks. UNF’s Drs. Gelsleichter and Habegger join shark experts around the state to attempt to find answers about the attacks.  In addition, Gelsleichter discussed new shark attack deterrent devices with Action News Jax.

English
Dr. Clark Lunberry, professor of English, published “PostCardPoems,” a series of visual poems, in 3:AM Magazine, June.

Dr. Maureen McCluskey, English/theater instructor, performed music and songs for the Kravits Children's Hospital, Minneapolis Children's Hospital, Mt. Sinai Children Hospital, New York City, and the Ronald McDonald House, New York City, in June.

History
Dr. David Bennett, visiting assistant professor, has been awarded the Margaret A. Blanchard Dissertation Prize from the American Journalism Historians Association for his dissertation, “Framing Atlanta: Local Newspapers’ Search for a Nationally Appealing Racial Image” (1920-1960).

Dr. David Courtwright, Professor Emeritus of history, testified as the plaintiffs' first witness in the July 2021 trial, In Re Opioid Litigation, for New York State and Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Micah Fisher, a recent UNF History M.A. graduate, worked as a research assistant for Courtwright, as he has prepared expert testimony.

Mathematics and Statistics
Dr. Fei Heng, UNF assistant professor of mathematics and statistics, received a grant from the Salem Veteran Affairs Medical Center to develop statistical models to improve the care of veterans with chronic kidney disease. The grant is an Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) agreement, a contract between the University of North Florida and a federal sponsor. Learn more about the grant.

Psychology
Dr. Tracy Alloway, psychology professor, researcher and author, has recently published a new book "Think Like a Girl: 10 Unique Strengths of a Woman's Brain and How to Make Them Work for You." In the book, Alloway presents myth-busting research that can help women lean into their differences, discover their natural strengths and leverage their greatest resource … their powerful brains. Learn more about the book. In addition, Alloway discussed the impact of social anxiety on "River City Live.”

Philosophy and Religion Studies
Dr. Julie Ingersoll, professor of religious studies, was interviewed about her research on evangelicalism and Purity Culture for a BBC World Service documentary “Heart and Soul: Sex, Christianity and Purity.” It aired on July 2. Listen to the documentary online.

Dr. Sarah Mattice, associate professor of Philosophy, published the article "He Yin Zhen's Critical Ruism: Feminist Reclamation and Chinese Philosophy" in Philosophy East and West, early online release July 2021. Listen to the philosophy program online. 

Physics
Dr. Devki N. Talwar, physics visiting professor, has published a peer-reviewed research paper titled: “Optical and surface properties of 3C–SiC thin epitaxial films grown at different temperatures on 4H–SiC substrates” in the Journal of Superlattices and Microstructures, 156, 106960 (2021).

Political Science and Public Administration
Dr. Sean Freeder, assistant professor of political science, with his co-author, won the award of the American Political Science Association for the best article published in the journal Political Behavior in 2020.

Dr. Joshua C. Gellers, associate professor of political science, gave a talk titled “Rights for Nonhumans in the Anthropocene” at the GNHRE-UNEP Summer/Winter School on Critical Perspectives in Human Rights and the Environment. He also delivered a presentation of the same title at a virtual workshop on “Rabbits and Robots: Debating the Rights of Animals and Artificial Intelligences,” hosted by the Cambridge Centre for Animal Rights Law in Cambridge, United Kingdom (June).

Sociology/Anthropology and Social Work
Dr. Mandi N. Barringer, assistant professor of sociology, with Dr. Michael Binder, associate professor of political science, and another colleague, published “A Second Chance in the Sunshine State: Religious Identity and Voter Support for Re-Enfranchisement in Florida” in Sociological Inquiry, June. In addition, Barringer, with Dr. Robert J. Zeglin, assistant professor of clinical mental health counseling, and Rosalyn Zacarias, a recent sociology graduate, published “I Cannot Wait to Build that One Day: Lesbian and Bisexual College-Age Women's Views on Marriage and Family” in the Journal of Family Issues, June.

Dr. Jenny Stuber, associate professor of sociology, presented the findings from her book “Aspen and the American Dream” (University of California Press) in a lunch-and-learn to the City of Aspen's planning department.

College of Computing, Engineering and Construction
Dr. Steve Stagon, mechanical engineering associate professor, has received a U.S. patent for a tool that will revolutionize manufacturing, a 3D printing injection mold tool with improved heat transfer and mechanical strength. This coating technology can save manufacturing businesses time, money and reduce plastic waste. Learn more about the printing mold tool.

College of Education and Human Services
Dr. Jennifer Kane, associate dean and professor, was appointed as a member of the NCAA Committee on Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct. Her term of service on the committee will begin immediately and continue through Aug. 31, 2022.

The staff from NEFSTEM, the Northeast Florida Center for STEM Education, announced they are now part of the Scratch Education Collaborative, an international network of organizations focused on supporting learners from historically marginalized communities in developing their confidence with creative computing using the Scratch computer programming platform. This platform allows students to program their own interactive stories, games, and animations while allowing the sharing of these creations with others in the online community. Scratch helps young people develop 21st Century skills like learning to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively. Learn more about NEFSTEM online.

Department of Exceptional, Deaf and Interpreter Education
Dr. Jennifer Renée Kilpatrick, assistant professor of deaf education, recently presented her research, “Written Language Inventory for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students: Identification and expansion of students' writing repertoires,” at the 23rd International Congress on the Education of the Deaf. Her presentation summarized the work she and her colleagues have done to develop a Written Language Inventory (WLI) and supplemental materials for teachers of the deaf throughout the past eight years. Learn more about Kilpatrick's research.

Dr. Sherry Shaw, professor, and Dr. Mark Halley, assistant professor, published the article “Service Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Model of Temporal, Spatial, and Cultural Adaptability” in the Journal of Interpretation. Learn more about this topic online.

Department of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum
Dr. Kim Cheek, associate professor, science education, facilitated two mini-workshops, “Examining Student Work and Thinking” and “Geoscience is Elementary” at the Earth Educators’ Rendezvous Virtual Conference held July 12-16.

Dr. Terrie Galanti, assistant professor, secondary mathematics and computational thinking/STEM Integration, with C. Baker, T. Kraft and K. Morrow-Leong, authored the book chapter “Using Mathematics Digital Interactive Notebooks as Authentic Integrated Online Assessments” in the book “Transforming Teachers’ Online Pedagogical Reasoning for Teaching K-12 Students in Virtual Learning Environments,” M. Niess and H. Gillow-Wiles (Eds.) pp. 470-493. IGI Global.

Dr. Nile Stanley, associate professor of literacy education, and Jasmine Butler, mentor teacher, Tiger Academy, a UNF professional development school, taught a summer camp for fourth and fifth graders focused on poetry theater for improving reading fluency. The artist in residency program is funded by generous gifts from the Cummer Family Foundation of Boston.

Thomas G. Carpenter Library
Maria Atilano, student outreach librarian, published a program model dedicated to the Carpenter Library’s “Library Literary Contests” on Programming Librarian, a website hosted by the American Library Association Public Programs Office, on July 21.

Milestones
Congratulations to the following employees with a milestone anniversary in July:

35 Years
Bruce Fortado, Professor, Management
Cheryl Frohlich, Professor, Accounting and Finance

25 Years
Louanne Harris-Bryant, Financial Aid Specialist, Financial Aid Office
Anne Hoover, Director, Academic Affairs
David Jaeger, Associate Professor, Accounting and Finance
Lillia Loriz, Professor, Nursing
Judith Sherburne, Manager, Student Systems, Enterprise Systems

20 Years
Catherine Christie, Professor, Brooks College of Health
Matthew Clere, Custodial Worker, Custodial Services
Charles Coughlin, Associate Lecturer, Biology
Dwight Gabbard, Professor, English
Christine Holland, Associate Instructor, Communication
Lori Lange, Associate Professor, Psychology
Maged Malek, Professor, Construction Management
John Parmelee, Professor, Director, School of Communication
Nirmalkumar Patel, Associate Lecturer, Physics
Francis Richard, Associate Professor, Center for Community-Based Learning
Claudia Scaff, Associate Professor, Art, Art History and Design
Cassandra Stillson, Assistant Director, Academic Support Services, Student Enrollment Communication Center

15 Years
Barry Albright, Associate Lecturer, Physics
Lynne Arriale, Professor, Music
Julie Baker-Townsend, Clinical Assistant Professor, Nursing
Elena Buzaianu, Associate Professor, Mathematics and Statistics
John Chapman, Associate Instructor, English
Alexander Diaz, Associate Professor, Art, Art History and Design
Paul Eason, Professor, MSERF Director, Associate Dean CCEC
Alan Harris, Associate Professor, Electrical Engineering
Stephen Heywood, Professor, Art, Art History and Design
Jason Lee, Professor, Leadership SC and SM
Peter Magyari, Associate Professor, Clinical and Applied Movement Science
Diane Matuschka, Instructor, Communication
Nakinya Robinson, Coordinator, Accounting, Controller
Jenny Stuber, Associate Professor, Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work
Cara Tasher, Professor, Music
Kening Wang, Associate Professor, Mathematics and Statistics
Burr Watters, Assistant Director, Enterprise Systems

10 Years
Carolyne Ali-Khan, Associate Professor, Teaching, Learning and Curriculum
Michael Binder, Associate Professor, PORL Director, Political Science and Public Administration
Jane Braglia, Assistant Director, ELP, English Language Program
Luke Cornelius, Associate Professor, Leadership, School Counseling and Sport Management
Sean Davis, Associate Professor, Accounting and Finance
Brandi Denison, Associate Professor, Philosophy and Religious Studies
Daniel Dinsmore, Professor, Education and Human Services
Rachel Dobbs, Senior Library Services Associate, Library
Trevor Dunn, Associate Professor, Art, Art History and Design
Sophie Filibert, Associate Professor, Leadership, School Counseling and Sport Management
Ricardo Garcia, Maintenance Supervisor, Physical Facilities
James Hall, Associate Professor, Music
Laura Heffernan, Associate Professor, English
Chau Kelly, Associate Professor, History
O. Patrick Kreidl, Associate Professor, Electrical Engineering
Chunsik Lee, Associate Professor, Communication
Constanza Lopez, Associate Professor, Languages Literatures and Cultures
Mary Lundy, Associate Professor, Clinical and Applied Movement Science
Sarah Mattice, Associate Professor, Philosophy and Religious Studies
Ross McDonough, Instructor, Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work
Thomas Mullen, Associate Professor, Chemistry
Elizabeth Nabi, Associate Professor, Art, Art History and Design
John Nuszkowski, Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering
Jae Park, Associate Professor, Communication
Amanda Pascale, Assistant Professor, Leadership, School Counseling and Sport Management

5 Years
Courtney Azzari, Assistant Professor, Marketing and Logistics
Brian Bert, Director, Strength Conditioning Coach, Strength and Conditioning
Grant Bevill, Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering
Linda Bravard, Office Manager, Nutrition and Dietetics
James Couch, Parking Services Technician, Parking and Transportation Services
Rachel Fieschko, Accessibility Tech Analyst I, ADA Compliance
Benjamin Freeman, Business Analyst, Florida Institute of Education
Julia Hann, Chief Audit Executive, Internal Auditing
David Hoppey, Associate Professor, Exceptional Deaf and Interpreter Ed
Tobias Huning, Assistant Professor, Management
Rudolph Jamison, Assistant Director, College of Education and Human Services
Jeania Jones, Instructor, Teaching, Learning and Curriculum
Adrienne Lerner, Instructor, Political Science and Public Administration
Xudong Liu, Assistant Professor, School of Computing
Erin McKillip, IT Software Engineer, Enterprise Systems
Jessica Miller, Office Manager, Recreation
Jody Morgan, Academic Advisor, COAS Advising
Jessica Murray, Associate Director, Continuing Education, Contract Training
Raid Nazi, Law Enforcement Sergeant, University Police Department
Kaitlin Parsons, Coordinator, Marketing Publications, Intercollegiate Athletics
Christopher Petrello, Director, IT Service Management, User Services
Erik Rettig, Assistant Director, Data Management, Advancement Services
Jennifer Serotta, Assistant Professor, Nursing
Elizabeth Stotz-Potter, Lecturer, Biology
Kristopher Toops, IT Systems Engineer, Systems Engineering
Andrea Venet, Assistant Professor, Music
Dennis White, Law Enforcement Lieutenant, University Police Department
Dawn Witherspoon, Assistant Professor, Psychology
Jing Xu, Assistant Professor, Health Administration

Welcome
The following employees were either hired by UNF or were promoted from OPS positions recently:
Autumn Bell, Web Specialist, Florida Institute of Education
Kennedy Bommarito, Laboratory Technician, Biology
Richard Buck, Privacy Officer, Administration and Finance
Charlsea Clark, Assistant Athletic Coach, Women's Basketball
Elisabeth Drew, Coordinator, Program Services, OneJax - OneYouth
Bryan Fogle, Preparator, MOCA Jacksonville
Sean Halstead, Police Support Association, University Police Department
Madeline Lee, Academic Support Services Coordinator, One-Stop Center
Kyle Moran, Academic Support Services Coordinator, One-Stop Center
Darius Perkins, Coordinator, Residence Life, Crossings
Kelly Rupinta, Accounts Payable Receivable Associate, IPTM
Willie Stocker, Academic Advisor, COEHS Advising
Allie Wade, Academic Support Services Coordinator, One-Stop Center
Alec Wicker, IT Software Engineer, Enterprise Systems

Great Job
The following employees were promoted recently:
Mitra Asgarinik, Senior Instructional Designer, Distance Learning Fee
Justin Begle, Associate Director, User Services
Lisa Brunson, Client Intake Coordinator, Small Business Development Center
Heather Burk, Manager for Clinical Research, Psychology
Dylan Charles, Director SASS, Undergraduate Studies
Kerry Eldred, Coordinator, PACT Recruit Retention, Psychology
Chung-Ping Loh, Professor/Associate Dean, Coggin College of Business
Nick Morrow, Athletic Director, North Florida Athletics
Hailey Sackett, Senior Academic Advisor, COEHS Advising
Pingying Zhang, Professor/Chair, Management

Goodbye
Heartfelt wishes in their new endeavors for the following employees who left UNF recently:
Akanke Adenrele, Instructor, Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work
Kathryn Ayres, Event Planning Specialist, SG Student Union
Ian Gibson, Basketball Operations Director, Men's Basketball
Kendra Grant, Athletic Academic Advisor, Athletic Academic Support
Christopher Johnson, Professor, Coggin College of Business
Carol Jolly, IPTM Program Specialist, IPTM
Emeline Jones, Admissions Coordinator, Admissions
Nan Kavanaugh, Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications, MOCA
Kaitlin King, Assistant Athletic Coach, Cross Country-General
Sarah Lynch, Senior Library Services Associate, Library
Michael McConville, Program Assistant, University Housing
Lee Moon, Athletic Director, North Florida Athletics
Khoi Nguyen, Custodial Worker, Custodial Services
Hinal Pandya, IT Software Engineer, Enterprise Systems
Donald Resio, Professor, Taylor Engineering Research Institute
Margaret Saunders, Administrative Assistant, President's Office
Amy Saville, Teaching Laboratory Specialist, Art, Art History and Design
Noelia Ysern Sola , Psychologist, Counseling Center
Michael Tellmann, IT Security Analyst, IT Security
Katherine Wagman, Program Assistant, Student Affairs
Tyler Weiss, Academic Support Technician, Center for Instruction and Research Technology

The UNF men's basketball team earned the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Team Academic Excellence Award, while also having a record five student-athletes named to the NABC Honors Court as announced by the national organization July 27. "It's amazing to have the ability to coach and surround ourselves daily with young men that truly understand the term student-athlete," head coach Matthew Driscoll said. Learn more about the academic honors.

UNF women's swimming achieved the high mark of having all 23 student-athletes in the program named to the Coastal Collegiate Sports Association (CCSA) 2020-21 Academic Honor Roll. "I am very proud of our student-athletes," head women's swimming coach Ian Coffey said. "Having the entire team on the CCSA Academic Honor Roll is an accomplishment. It's rewarding to be recognized by the conference for our academic achievements." Learn more about the Academic Honor Roll.

North Florida standout distance runner Nathan Jubran added another honor to his list of awards for this season as he was named to the 2020-21 CoSIDA Academic All-District team for men's track & field/cross country. CoSIDA (College Sports Information Directors of America) honors the top student-athletes in the nation, recognizing their achievements in the field of competition and in the classroom. Learn more about the award.

After another championship season, UNF women's tennis also got it done in the classroom as it was recognized by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) by being named to the ITA Division I All-Academic Team. In addition, all 11 student-athletes on the women's tennis team were honored as ITA Scholar-Athletes. Learn more about the distinction.

The WGCA announced its annual All-American Scholar recipients and the list included five North Florida golfers among the total of 1,432 women's collegiate golfers recognized with this prestigious honor. North Florida was represented on the list by seniors Mindy Herrick and Sara McKevitt, junior Daniela Gonzalez and freshmen Christin Eisenbeiss and Kaitlynn Washburn. Learn more about the honor.

Another week, another award for UNF baseball's Alex Kachler, as the graduate student added CoSIDA Academic All-District First Team honors as announced by the organization July 1. Kachler is the first UNF baseball student-athlete to be selected to a CoSIDA All-District team since 2010. CoSIDA (College Sports Information Directors of America) honors the top student-athletes in the nation, recognizing their achievements in the field of competition and in the classroom. Learn more about the award.

High cholesterol has no symptoms, making it essential to monitor your levels through routine blood work ordered by your physician. Based on these test results, your doctor may recommend making dietary and lifestyle changes.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in animal-based foods that we eat, and in our cells. It is used to make hormones and vitamin D, and also plays a role in digestion.

Cholesterol is carried through your blood attached to proteins. This combination is called a lipoprotein. There are different types of cholesterol, based on what the lipoprotein carries. Two of the most common are high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, often called the good cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol from your body; and low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, or “lousy” cholesterol, that can lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

High cholesterol occurs when the body has too much cholesterol in the blood or there is an imbalance of the lipoproteins, that is too little HDL and too much LDL. When this happens, the body accumulates a waxy buildup called plaque that sticks to the insides of the arteries. As the arteries narrow and clog, it is difficult for the blood to flow through them. The blockage can lead to a blood clot, stroke or heart disease.

 

While it’s not always easy to choose only healthy food, knowledge about your options can help you make better choices more often and increase your health and wellness.

In addition to focusing on nutrition, there a few lifestyle changes that may help.

The University's bachelor’s in healthcare administration in the Brooks College of Health is among the Top 25 programs in the U.S., according to a Bachelor’s Degree Center ranking. Degree programs were ranked according to tuition, student reviews and graduate salary data. In UNF’s BHA program, students gain technical knowledge, interpersonal skills and experience to be successful in entry level positions in Healthcare Administration. Learn more about the ranking.

The University has been named the No. 1 Best Affordable College for Online Master’s in Nutrition Degrees in a new ranking published by Education Reference Desk. In the Brooks College of Health, the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics is a distance learning degree for students seeking to emphasize the application of advanced nutrition knowledge in a clinical or community-based practice. Learn more about the ranking.