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July 2022

Saying farewell to our interim president
Board of Governors approves Dr. Limayem
UNF Arena upgrades underway
UNF women's soccer alum makes pro debut
Nursing students to gain expertise with new simulation center
Summer learning in full swing
Get to Know: Melissa Blankenship
Osprey Profile: Jalen Echenique
Swooping Into UNF's Past: The 2020s
Five free things to do in July at UNF
Inside News Roundup
Faculty and Staff
Dateline
Swoop Summary
Spread the Word

Saying farewell to our interim president

In a career that has spanned nearly 30 years at the University of North Florida, Dr. Pamela Chally has touched the lives of hundreds of students. During that time she has served as a dedicated professor and mentor, helping nursing students excel and prepare for careers in healthcare.

Chally has also contributed to the success of the University through her administrative roles as the dean of the Brooks College of Health, interim provost and interim president. In these positions, Chally raised millions of dollars in funding, worked to improve performance-based funding metrics, oversaw increases in enrollment and Pell Grant recipients, and reduced costs by integrating Students Affairs into Academic Affairs.

Her successes as a professor and leader have not gone unnoticed. Chally has been the recipient of numerous University awards and honors including being named UNF’s Distinguished Professor; receiving the Transformational Leadership Award, the Susan B. Anthony Award, and the Desmond Tutu Peace and Reconciliation Award to name a few; as well as earning exceptional ratings as a teacher and administrator. She has impacted the lives of so many, and there are too many stories to share. Here a just a few recollections from campus friends:

"Dr. Pam Chally is an authentic leader. Health professionals face life and death challenges in their careers and are trained to work tirelessly to provide the best outcomes for their patients, clients and colleagues. Dr. Chally’s legacy is her tireless commitment to making UNF the best it can be. She is genuinely concerned about doing all she can to ensure our students, employees and faculty have the very best possible experience at UNF." — Dr. Catherine Christie, associate dean, Brooks College of Health

"Pam and I traveled to Senegal to work on a health-related project. Our luggage did not arrive with us, so we spent two days in stinky, sticky clothes. But of course she was upbeat and a great travel buddy. Neither of us was very good at bartering in the open market, but we had lots of fun nevertheless." — Dr. Judy Rodriguez, past chair and professor, nutrition and dietetics

"President Chally is an instrumental leader who always leads by example and demonstrates great passion and love for our students and community." — Dr. Mei Zhao, chair, health administration

"President Chally is the real deal. Her life inside UNF is impressive but her reputation and service outside of campus is equally compelling — a beloved neighbor, woman of faith, beloved mother, wife, daughter and friend. I laugh with Pam until my sides hurt and cherish our time together. I'm lucky to have her in my life." — Dr. Julie Merten, associate professor of public health

July 31 will mark the end of Chally’s interim presidential role. We asked her to share some of her memories at UNF and what’s next for her.

Why did you originally choose to come to UNF?
We came to Jacksonville for my husband Rod's position in human resources. The move also gave me the opportunity to teach nursing at UNF in my specialty, maternal child nursing.

Describe the impact UNF has had on your life over the last 30 years.
My work at UNF introduced me to some important mentors, including Dr. Brooks Brown and John Delaney. My experiences here also reinforced that higher education should be all about the students. There are so many ways I’ve been touched by my work at this University. Where do I and UNF start and stop? Sometimes, I am not sure I know the answer. Ha ha!

What are your favorite memories?
There have been so many wonderful memories, such as the naming of the Brooks College of Health. And graduations were always the best! And I can’t ever forget the stories about chickens in Brooks. (Because this will take much too long to explain here, I will just say that I loved the many pieces of chicken glassware given to the College by a generous donor, so we put them all on display shelves. They added some humor to our daily work!) And, most importantly, I will cherish the memories of so many friendships.

Why did you continue teaching for several years after retiring from administrative roles?
I love students and teaching. I started as a nursing faculty member, and my plan was to retire as one. It was a wonderful two years near the end of my career. The course I taught allowed me to teach students about the joys and challenges of nursing.

What will you miss the most about UNF?
The people at this University. I will always feel a part of this campus community, and I will miss the opportunity to make a difference in higher education.

What’s next for you?
Travel. Relaxation. Spending time with my family. Exercising more!

Save the date for an appreciation reception to recognize Interim President Pam Chally, the afternoon of July 28 at the Boathouse. The time is tentatively set for 3 - 5 p.m. Check upcoming Osprey Updates for details!

Board of Governors approves Dr. Limayem

The Florida Board of Governors confirmed Dr. Moez Limayem as the University of North Florida’s seventh president at its regular board meeting June 30. He will begin his presidency on August 1.

Dr. Limayem most recently served as the Lynn Pippenger Dean of the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida (USF) where he provided administrative, strategic planning and fiscal management oversight for the college that serves business students on three campuses. He was instrumental in raising more than $126 million in gifts for the college to bolster student success, entrepreneurship and career readiness.

During his tenure as dean, graduation and freshman retention rates rose significantly as well as job placement rates. Since 2021, Limayem has also led USF’s career readiness efforts to increase career preparation and placement, internships and talent development.

“I am honored to join the University of North Florida and eager to listen, learn and work with all members of the community to grow opportunities to help students succeed,” Limayem said. “UNF is a top provider of talent in Florida, and I am committed to building on the University’s many strengths to effectively serve the region and state.”

Limayem was heavily involved in the Tampa community while at USF, including service on the Board of Directors of the Greater Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce. He was named among the Power 100: Tampa Bay’s Most Influential Business Leaders of 2022 by the Tampa Bay Business Journal. Limayem also serves on the board of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International.

Limayem was selected as the president-elect by the UNF Board of Trustees in May. The confirmation on June 30 concludes an extensive national search that began in Fall 2021.

UNF Arena upgrades underway

By Byron E. Jones

Thanks to a seven-year, $2.1 million partnership agreement with Jacksonville-based CSI Companies and the generosity of various donors, several campus athletic facilities will get upgrades and the UNF Arena will undergo a major facelift.

The first of these upgrades from the partnership is underway in the UNF Arena with the installation of a new floor, which will be named CSI Companies Court. Another major Arena project happening this summer is the construction of the Bank of England Hospitality Suite. Both projects are scheduled for completion in fall 2022. In total, the UNF Arena is undergoing $3.4 million worth of renovations this summer.

Since announcing the renovations at a June 7 news conference, UNF Athletics Director Nick Morrow says the feedback he’s received has been overwhelmingly positive. “The fans, donors and campus community have all been extremely supportive of the announced renovations,” said Morrow. “I cannot wait to share the new features with the student-athletes and fans this fall.” Morrow believes the upgrades, combined with success on the court, will energize the fanbase and create a new level of excitement yet to be seen.

New Arena Floor

In preparation for the new floor installation, the dismantling of the original Arena floor began June 8 as work crews used saws to cut the floor into sections. They cut concrete to serve as the foundation of the new floor. Electrical, data and fiber upgrades will also be installed under the new floor.

Once finished, the new floor will feature the CSI Companies’ logo with UNF’s navy along the baselines and sidelines. Featured in the middle will be the North Florida banner logo and a cutout of the state of Florida with a star symbolizing Jacksonville's location.

Bank of England Hospitality Suite

In conjunction with the new floor, construction of the Bank of England Hospitality Suite within the UNF Arena has also begun. Crews have disassembled the bleachers within sections 17-20 in preparation for building out the Suite, which will feature a bar and lounge along with premium balcony seating. The space where the Suite will reside was previously used as office space for Athletic department personnel.

The Hospitality Suite will also serve as a meeting space for the Athletics department, and it will be available to use for University events and other gatherings. The construction of the Hospitality suite is possible thanks to the generous contributions from the Bank of England Mortgage in Jacksonville, John Hayt and various donors.

Additional Arena and Athletic Facility Upgrades

In addition to the new floor installation and suite construction, other Arena upgrades launching this summer include a new weight room facility, new office space, updated seating, a new sound system and enhanced lighting. According to Morrow, there will also be upgrades to other athletic facilities on campus in the future thanks to the contribution from CSI Companies.

Learn more about the upgrades in the UNF Arena.

UNF women's soccer alum makes pro debut

By Byron E. Jones

Thais Reiss, one of UNF's most decorated student-athletes, began playing soccer at age five in her home country of Brazil. She quickly developed a love of the game and grew up dreaming of someday becoming a professional soccer player.

That day arrived June 11 when the former Osprey signed with the National Women’s Soccer League Orlando Pride, becoming the latest North Florida alum to ascend to the professional ranks. The midfielder then made her professional debut the next day against the Chicago Red Stars.

After receiving an invite to try out for the team at the beginning of 2022, Reiss was selected to the Pride’s preseason roster in February. She shared the exciting news with her mom and coach Eric Faulconer, head coach of UNF Women’s Soccer. After the conclusion of the preseason, she continued her tenure with the team as a training player before being promoted to the active regular season roster in June.

She credits her time at UNF for helping her grow as a person and an athlete. Now a member of the Orlando Pride, Reiss is living out her dream, though her road to success has not been without its challenges. “It was not easy to be a practice player without a contract, but I knew my time was going to come,” Reiss said. “These past four months were good for me to get better and learn.” While she admits the level of competition is tougher at the professional level due to the intensity and speed of play, she is confident in her ability to adjust.

The road to the pros

Her journey began in Curitiba, Brazil. Reiss said that in her youth she often played with boys, which she credits as a great learning experience, as it allowed her to acclimate to the physical demands of the sport. During her high school years at Marista Santa Maria in Curitiba, Reiss proved her soccer ability by earning player of the year honors three times and her leadership ability by serving as team captain all four years. She has played for the Brazilian National Team and was also a member of five championship teams while playing for the Curitiba Foot Ball Club.

Reiss was recruited to join UNF Women’s Soccer in 2016 when former assistant coach Josh Shirmer noticed her playing during a visit to Brazil. Reiss jumped at the opportunity to bring her talents to the U.S. and play for the Ospreys. During her tenure at North Florida from 2017 to 2021, Reiss took charge on the field earning multiple honors including ASUN Freshman of the Year (2017), ASUN Player of the Year (2020) and UNF Female Athlete of the Year (2019-21). She finished her career at UNF second all-time in goals (42).

Today, Reiss says she’s focused on earning more playing time while also finishing her graduate degree at UNF. Though she’s excited for every game on the upcoming schedule, Reiss admits she can’t wait until August when her mom gets to watch her play for the first time with her new team.

Now in the pros, not only is Reiss doing what she loves, but she’s doing it as a teammate of Marta Vieira da Silva — one of her all-time favorite players. “I grew up watching her on TV,” said Reiss. “Having her as a teammate now, I would have never imagined myself here.”

Learn more about Reiss’s new journey with the Orlando Pride.

Nursing students to gain expertise with new simulation center

By Marsha Blasco

Simulation Center with human dummy on medical table Hands-on simulation training for UNF nursing students just took a giant leap forward. Through a partnership with HCA Florida Healthcare and the addition of a new facility opening this fall, the University has expanded from two simulation rooms to 10.

With this additional space, an increased number of sophisticated manikins, and improved computerized systems, the new simulation center will allow Brooks College of Health to include more training time in the curriculum and better prepare students to be future nurses, according to Dr. Michelle Edmonds, director of the School of Nursing.

And though each student is required to complete more than 800 hours of work in a clinical facility before graduation, Edmonds said it is invaluable to also provide high-quality training in a realistic yet simulated environment that is safe and controlled. “What nursing students experience when they eventually go to a clinical setting is not always predictable,” Edmonds said. “We can’t order a real-life severe trauma for them to handle. In a simulated activity, we can create that environment and every student then has the chance to participate in it, so when they do see it one day, they will know how to react.”

Though students have been training in the simulation rooms in Brooks Hall, Edmonds said the spacing only allows a limited number of participants at a time. The new center, located in the UNF MedNexus facility on the Florida State College at Jacksonville – Deerwood campus, will have eight individual simulation rooms, each with its own adjoining full-size control room equipped with state-of-the-art technology to allow real and authentic healthcare training experiences.

The simulation center will be managed by Conrad Dove, who joined UNF in May after 27 years of experience running the Mayo Clinic simulation center. The center’s eight rooms will include two home care apartment set-up rooms, one OR/ER flex room, a skills lab and regular rooms for trauma, birthing and pediatrics. Manikins capable of replicating multiple health experiences will be used to provide real-life scenarios for students. The center also has a complete learning system space for recording and video monitoring, as well as counseling and debriefing rooms. The college anticipates that many of its other programs (e.g., physical therapy, nutrition & dietetics, clinical mental health counseling and athletic training) will use the center as well.

“We’ve really outgrown our space, and as we make plans to grow – we are anticipating starting a new group of at least 36 students in January 2023 – this new facility will help tremendously to be able to get those students through the simulation, where we would have really struggled before in the space that we have,” Edmonds said.

In addition to funding through the partnership, the School of Nursing received funds from the state legislature to help construct the lab and purchase the needed equipment. Edmonds said that on a recurring basis, the School also will receive additional funding based on enrollment that the state has earmarked to help grow the nursing workforce. The School of Nursing hopes to hire 12 new full-time faculty and about 20 adjunct instructors. With added faculty and simulation facilities, Edmonds said they hope to add another 150 students to the program in the next 1 – 1½ years, which will help meet the high demand in healthcare. The School of Nursing now graduates about 190 undergrads each year.

Edmonds, who earned two degrees at UNF, returned to campus in May to head the School of Nursing, after 19 years teaching at Jacksonville University and years before working as a nurse and nurse practitioner. She certainly understands the need to train more nurses. “Unless they choose to go on to graduate school immediately, all the graduates find employment,” she said. “They have their pick of jobs out there. Hospitals are competing for them. And most of our students have jobs offered to them before they graduate.”

Summer learning in full swing

Faculty and students participated in study abroad trips, new types of learning activities and much more. Here are just a few of the learning experiences we've heard about this summer.

Languages, Literatures and Cultures study abroad trip to France
Seven students, French majors and minors, participated in the Languages, Literatures and Cultures study abroad trip to France this summer, with faculty leaders Dr. Pat Geesey and Dr. George Rainbolt. The trip was for French language study at the Touraine Institute, located in the city of Tours, in the Loire River valley region of France. In addition to a three-week, intensive French course, students studied French culture, history and gastronomy through excursions to castles, museums and a medieval abbey. Students also spent three days in Paris at the end of their study abroad experience. (Here the group is pictured in front of the Château de Cheverny.)

Music for Wind Band by Women Composers featuring Women Soloists
Earlier this summer, Dr. Erin Bodnar, director of Bands and assistant professor of music, and students in the UNF Wind Symphony have completed the first recording of a major project. The ensemble of 50 students recorded five pieces over three days resulting in 400 takes of music. The recording will be released on the Mark Custom Record label and will be available on Naxos, Spotify, Apple music and as a CD in December. The recording project, Music for Wind Band by Women Composers featuring Women Soloists, was funded by the UNF Foundation Board Initiative Grant. See the complete documentary video that goes behind the scenes of the project.

Art, Design and Culture in Brazil
Sheila Goloborotko, printmaking, and Claudia Scaff, graphic design and digital media, accompanied 15 UNF students to Salvador, Bahia, for a three-week immersion in Brazilian art, culture and nature — from contemporary art, design, and history to social and environmental projects. Students visited numerous art galleries and museums, experienced music and dance performances, and participated in popular culture festivities and events. They had the opportunity to work at the printmaking studio of the Universidade Federal da Bahia, hosted by Dr. Evandro Professor talking to students Sybine, developing numerous individual and collective printmaking projects. Such works served as building blocks for a significant graphic design project for the nonprofit organization Projeto Axé — an organization responsible for offering art education — music, visual arts, performance and fashion to homeless children. In the final week, students visited the Chapada Diamantina, a national park of great historical interest, ecological relevance and scenic beauty. The artistic and graphic design materials created during this experience will be showcased in an exhibition at the Lufrano Intercultural Gallery in January 2023.

UNF Trumpet Ensemble travels to Texas
Dr. Randy Tinnin, professor of trumpet and area coordinator, directed the UNF Trumpet Ensemble at the International Trumpet Guild Conference in San Antonio, Texas, June 3. The ensemble was invited to play at the annual event after submitting a video for consideration. Not only did the student musicians perform in concert — opening for the Navy Commodores — but they also had the opportunity to participate in jam sessions every evening and listen to trumpet ensembles from around the country and the world.

Primitive Pottery Techniques and the Fremont Aesthetic class
Stephen Heywood, professor of ceramics, traveled to Utah with nine UNF students taking his Primitive Pottery Techniques and the Fremont Aesthetic course, which he teaches each summer. The focus of the trip was to explore primitive pottery techniques as they relate to the Fremont people who inhabited the land. Students from another university joined them in Utah, and as a class, the group visited museums, met with archaeologists, gathered and processed wild clay, learned and practiced primitive pottery making techniques, and explored the beautiful landscape. (Pictured here are seven of the nine UNF students.)

Get to Know: Melissa Blankenship

Meet Melissa Blankenship, director, Enrollment Services Communications

What does your job involve? I help create and support outbound messaging for Enrollment Services through channels such as email, web, social media, text messaging, phone calls, printed materials and more, with a goal to help students apply, enroll, retain and graduate.

How long have you worked at UNF? 15 years (as of June 18!)

What do you enjoy most about working here? There is a lot that I enjoy about working at UNF. I have had the opportunity to meet and work with so many wonderful people throughout the years. But I think what I enjoy most about working here is being able to have a positive impact on students. Whether it is helping a prospective student with an admissions application or helping a current Osprey take that first step into their future by hiring them as an intern, knowing that I may have made a difference in someone’s life will always be the best part of working here.

How do you like to spend your time when you aren’t working? I live a pretty quiet life. When I’m not working, I’m typically either spending time with my husband, reading or running.

Where did you grow up? I am from a small town, Henryetta, Oklahoma. Our only claim to fame is that Henryetta is the hometown of Troy Aikman.

Where did you go to school? I am proud to be a UNF Osprey!

What’s the greatest bit of advice you’ve ever been given? Nothing bad comes from being kind to others. This wasn’t exactly advice that was given, but it was behavior that was modeled every day in our family.

Who inspires you and why? I am very fortunate to come from a long line of strong women. So, as cliché as it may sound, my mom is my biggest inspiration. She is a trailblazer. In the 1960s she was one of the first five girls in the nation to race in the soapbox derby (driving a purple car she built herself), she was on the first girls’ basketball team in high school, and she was one of the first female sports reporters for our hometown newspaper. She has always set a hard-working example for me, doing whatever was necessary to make ends meet (even when that meant mowing lawns or pouring concrete in addition to her full-time job selling insurance). And, on top of all that amazingness, she is also one of the most compassionate and selfless people I have ever met. She has and always will inspire me in all aspects of my life.

What is a fun fact about you many people may not know? Every year for Christmas, I create official “Naughty/Nice” reports from Santa for my nieces and nephews. The reports include very specific good and bad behavior for each child and a naughty/nice meter to show how close they are to each list. It has been a fun tradition.

Osprey Profile: Jalen Echenique

Meet Jalen Echenique

Jalen Echenique is a UNF sophomore. He is pursuing degrees in political science and sociology, and his post-undergraduate plans include attending law school and working in public health law/policy.

What brought you to UNF? The Hicks Honors College brought me to UNF because of its excellent faculty and opportunities to develop critical thinking skills, acquire global awareness, and cultivate a supportive community. Furthermore, after visiting the University, I fell in love with the beautiful campus that UNF provides.

What have you enjoyed most about the University? Something I enjoy about UNF is the abundance of possibilities and resources available to students. More specifically, research, study abroad, and overall going outside the classroom and receiving that hands-on experience in different career fields.

Do you have a favorite place on campus? My favorite spot on campus is the Green, because many students congregate there, and you can see how wonderful the student life is on campus.

Where did you grow up? I am originally from Tampa, Florida.

What’s the greatest bit of advice you’ve ever been given? The best advice I've received is to live in the present moment. This advice is especially crucial throughout one's undergraduate years because there's a common misconception that students entering college need to know their major and have everything planned out, but this is not the reality. College is about self-exploration and discovering your passions, and I believe you can do so by living in the moment.

Who inspires you? My mother and father both inspire me to be the best person I can be by encouraging me to pursue my aspirations and to be unapologetically myself.

What is a fun fact about you many people may not know? A fun fact that many people do not know about me is that I am a twin.

Swooping Into UNF's Past: The 2020s

By Byron E. Jones

We have been highlighting four UNF milestones from each decade in celebration of the 50th anniversary. Here are our final picks from the 2020s with events also happening in Jacksonville, the United States and the world.

2020s

At UNF
UNF TRANSITIONS TO REMOTE INSTRUCTION DUE TO PANDEMIC, March 11, 2020
UNF transitions to remote instruction in order to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote instruction starts for two weeks and continues until the end of the semester. Summer classes would also be offered remotely.

In Jacksonville
Jacksonville officials implement a mask mandate in the battle against Covid-19. (June 29, 2020)

In the United States
The first patient in the United States is diagnosed with coronavirus. (Jan. 21, 2020)

In the World
Chinese professor, Zhang Yongzhen, publishes the first SARS-CoV-2 genome map online, allowing health professionals worldwide to identify COVID-19. (Jan. 5, 2020)

At UNF
UNF ANNOUNCES MEDNEXUS, July 2, 2020
UNF announces the creation of the UNF MedNexus — a comprehensive, university-based medical and healthcare nexus.

In Jacksonville
The U.S. Census estimated Jacksonville’s population at 949,611, making it the 12th most populous city in the U.S. at that time.

In the United States
Joe Biden was elected the 46th president of the United States. (November 2020)

In the World
COVID-19 pandemic: The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 passes one million worldwide. (April 2, 2020)

At UNF
CAMPUS REOPENS, Aug. 5, 2020
The UNF campus reopens to faculty, students and staff for in-person attendance.

In Jacksonville
A very rare event of hail of two inches in diameter occurs on the west side of Jacksonville making this only the third time on record (1955-2020) the state of Florida has a hail report of this size. (Aug. 4. 2020)

In the United States
The first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine shots are administered. (Dec. 14, 2020)

In the World
The U.S. and the Taliban signed the Agreement for Bringing Peace to Afghanistan — allowing the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan. (Feb. 29, 2020)

At UNF
UNF 50TH ANNIVERSARY KICKOFF EVENT, Jan. 13, 2022
UNF hosts a campuswide kickoff event to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the school.

In Jacksonville
Jacksonville mayor proclaims January 2022 as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. (Jan. 20, 2022)

In the United States
Microsoft announces its intent to purchase Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion. The deal is the largest acquisition of a tech company in history. (Jan. 18, 2022)

In the World
COVID-19 pandemic: The number of COVID-19 cases exceeds 300 million worldwide. (Jan. 7, 2022)

Additional timeline information available online from the Thomas G. Carpenter Library.

Read more about UNF's 50th anniversary.

Five free things to do in July at UNF

‘Forms of Knowing: Cultural Documents Considering Alzheimer’s Research’
Lufrano Intercultural Gallery
Now through Nov. 12
A two-part exhibition highlighting artwork concerning research and interpersonal connections between Alzheimer’s studies and human impact, featuring artists Ellie Brown and Rosemarie Oakman. “Forms of Knowing” is co-curated by UNF Gallery Director and Instructor Jessica Borusky and AAHD Sculpture Professor Jenny Hager, inspired by the PACT project at UNF, led by Psychology Associate Professor Jody Nicholson-Bell. (Image by 2022 exhibiting artist Ellie Brown)

MOCA Movie Night: 'Porgy and Bess' (1993)
MOCA Jacksonville, Thursday, July 7, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
In coordination with “Kara Walker: Cut to the Quick,” MOCA Movie Night presents, "Porgy and Bess." This production is an adaptation of the 1935 opera by George and Ira Gershwin, based on the novel and play by DuBose Heyward and depicting the lives of the black inhabitants of the fictional Catfish Row in 1920s South Carolina. Free, but registration required.

First Line Literary Contest
Just in time for Summer Reading, the University of North Florida's Carpenter Library invites Ospreys to compose their best opening line to an imaginary novel. Any topic or genre is acceptable, as long as your first sentence is original and draws us in, leaving us craving more. All UNF students, faculty and staff are welcome to participate, but don’t wait too long! Entries must be submitted online before July 8.

Three lucky wordsmiths will be chosen to receive gift cards:

1st place will receive $20 (Publix)
2nd place will receive $15 (Publix)
3rd place will receive $10 (Publix)

Winners will be announced Monday, July 11 on social media (@unflibrary) and on the Library website.

Project Atrium: Maud Cotter – ‘what was never ours to keep’
MOCA Jacksonville, July 9 – Nov. 13
An acclaimed artist, both in her homeland Ireland and internationally, Cotter is best known for her sculptural installations. For her new commissioned project for MOCA's Project Atrium Series, “what was never ours to keep,” Cotter will respond to the spectacular 40-foot-tall Atrium space with an installation that continues her probe into our relationship with matter, and the forces that govern this relationship; in this case, gravity.
Co-curated by Caitlín Doherty, executive director MOCA Jacksonville, and Ylva Rouse, senior curator, MOCA Jacksonville. Admission is free for a UNF employee and one guest. Learn more about the exhibition.

UNF Gallery of Art: ‘Selections from the 70s’
Work is underway this month to renovate the UNF Gallery of Art before the upcoming exhibition “Selections from the 70s,” which opens July 28. It is curated from the UNF Teaching Collection by our 2022 intern Jordyn Bowen and made possible through support from the Insetta family and UNF Physical Facilities.

Inside News Roundup

UNF professor awarded a McNight Junior Faculty Fellowship award
Dr. Felicia Bevel, assistant professor of history, was recently awarded a Junior Faculty Fellowship by the Florida Education Fund (FEF). The Junior Faculty Fellowship Program promotes excellence in teaching and research by underrepresented minorities and women. Bevel, an interdisciplinary cultural historian with a focus on African American history and American culture abroad, is awarded a one-year sabbatical beginning this August with full salary and benefits that will allow her to engage in research and training projects that will advance her education and skillset. Read more about the award.

UNF UNITE Lab hosts Universal Design for training workshop for local professionals
The University of North Florida’s Universal Design for Inclusion in Training and Education (UNITE) Design Lab will host a free training workshop to share Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and inclusive design practices with local professionals from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 21, and Friday, July 22. The workshop will explore mindset development in training, empathy and design thinking to embed UDL in learning design, supporting neurodiversity in workplace training and more. The two-day workshop is free and open to the public. Registration is required and limited. Make a required registration. For questions, accommodations or if you can only attend one workshop, email Dr. Suzanne Ehrlich, UNF associate professor of educational technology, training and development, at suzanne.ehrlich@unf.edu.

UNF Archaeology unveils new finds at lost Indigenous town of Sarabay
The University of North Florida Archaeology Lab is unveiling a lost Indigenous town at Big Talbot Island State Park. The students, led by Dr. Keith Ashley, UNF Archaeology Lab director, are excavating a location that is now supported by overwhelming evidence to be the native Mocama village of Sarabay. The UNF team first found artifacts and building posts that confirmed their discovery in 2020. This summer, the team has identified four more building posts to add to the seven uncovered last year, indicating a large Indigenous structure approximately 50-60 feet in diameter, possibly the community council house. Another unique find this summer was a small, shell artifact made by Indigenous people that displays Catholic imagery. Read more about the discoveries.

Detecting Alzheimer’s before symptoms appear may help prevention efforts
The University of North Florida is seeking healthy older adults to volunteer for the Preventing Alzheimer’s with Cognitive Training (PACT) study. This landmark study examines whether computerized brain training exercises can reduce the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease. Additional funding of $3.2 million was awarded to further investigate if Alzheimer’s disease can be detected early through simple blood tests. The grant from the National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health expands UNF’s PACT study. The PACT study will now work with the National Centralized Repository for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias to analyze blood specimens collected from study participants. Learn more about the study.

UNF Coggin College launches Women in Leadership workshop
The University of North Florida Coggin College of Business Executive Program hosted an interactive “Women in Leadership” workshop for women executives who aspire to positions of greater influence and authority as well as those identified as having high-potential talent by their organizations in June in downtown Jacksonville. The workshop will help participants elevate their impact as a leader, energize problem-solving skills, negotiation tactics and leadership style, and enable better navigation of the business landscape by recognizing women leaders' unique perspectives and strengths.

UNF students compete in NASA’s Lunabotics 2022 competition
A team of seven University of North Florida students recently participated in NASA’s Robotic Mining Competition Lunabotics 2022. Affectionately named the “Osprey Miner,” the UNF robot was designed and constructed through the yearlong contributions of over a dozen students from the School of Computing, School of Engineering and the Osprey Robotics Student Club, co-advised by Dr. Ayan Dutta in computing, Dr. Patrick Kreidl in electrical engineering, and Dr. Amir MajidiRad in mechanical engineering. Learn more about the competition.

UNF’s Northeast Florida Center for Community Initiatives seeks public input on local rental housing market
The University of North Florida’s Northeast Florida Center for Community Initiatives (CCI) is looking for community involvement in the Jax Rental Housing Project. This community-based research project will collect and analyze data on the state of the rental housing market and the conditions for renters in Jacksonville/Duval County as well as study and advocate for housing policies that have been successfully implemented in other communities to address critical issues. Learn more about the project.

Faculty and Staff

Brooks College of Health
Jane McCarthy, professor of nursing, was the featured women’s Memorial speaker at the annual Memorial Day ceremony in Washington, D.C. in May. The event is co-hosted yearly by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) and the National Park Service to pay tribute to members of America’s armed forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam and in all conflicts. Learn more about the event and watch the ceremony online.

Dr. Michele J. Moore, Dr. Elissa Barr, Carrigan Hayes, and Dr. Michael Binder, published “Voter Support for Offering Sexual Health Services through School-Based Health Clinics,” in American Journal of Sexuality Education, 2022.

College of Arts and Sciences
Art, Art History, and Design
Vanessa Cruz, professor of graphic design and digital media, has received a Fulbright Specialist Program award to work on a project at GetHub in Mongolia that aims to exchange knowledge and establish partnerships. The program is offered by the U.S. Department of State and benefits participants, institutions and communities both in this country and overseas through a variety of educational and training activities within education.

Sheila Goloborotko, associate professor of printmaking at the Art, Art History and Design Department, is one of the 14 individual artists in Northeast Florida Awarded 2022 Art Ventures Grants as part of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida’s Art Ventures initiative. Artists’ proposals are reviewed by a panel of judges and predominantly evaluated on artistic excellence, with additional consideration for how the artist is influenced by and impacts Northeast Florida. This grant will support the creation of a digital and printed catalog of the exhibition “Many Small Gestures,” recently presented by the Corner Gallery at the Jessie Ball DuPont Center. In addition, Goloborotko’s prints are currently included in the exhibition “Picture Window” on display at Centro Espositivo San Vidal in Venice for two months during the Venice Biennale and at the Fortalezza Orsini, in Sonano, Italy, during the Saturnia Film Festival Activism Biennale “The Dream.”

Stephen Heywood, professor of ceramics, participated in Westmoreland Art National - National Juried Exhibition in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, during the month of May.

Communications
Drs. John Parmelee, professor of communications and director of the UNF School of Communication, Stephynie Perkins, associate professor of Public Relations, and Berrin Beasley, professor of Multimedia Journalism presented “Personalization of politicians on Instagram: What Generation Z wants to see in political posts” to the International Communication Association, May.

English
Dr. James Beasley, associate professor of English, published the chapter "Assembled Trajectories, Perishable Performances, and Teaching from the Harvard Archives," in the book “Teaching Through the Archives: Text, Collaboration, and Activism,” May. Beasley also presented the paper “Linking Lincolnville: Rhetoric, Digital Humanities, and Social Justice in Florida” to the Biannual Conference of the Rhetoric Society of America, May.

Dr. Nicholas de Villiers, professor of English and film, gave an invited virtual talk “Tsai Ming-liang’s Cruisy, Sleepy, Melancholy Queer Metacinema” to The Center for Taiwan Studies / Department of East Asian Languages and Cultural Studies, University of California at Santa Barbara, May.

Dr. Chris Gabbard, professor of English, published a review of Maja Bondestam's “Exceptional Bodies in Early Modern Culture: Concepts of Monstrosity Before the Advent of the Normal” in Social History of Medicine, May.

History
Dr. Felicia Bevel, assistant professor of history, has been awarded a McKnight Junior Faculty Fellowship for the 2022-23 academic year.

Dr. Denise Bossy, associate professor of history, has been invited to become an associate of the St. Augustine Historic Research Institute.

Dr. David Courtwright, Professor Emeritus, gave a paper on mass addiction in the digital era at the Mayo Neuroscience Convergence Conference in Orlando, June. Courtwright also testified as an expert witness for the Florida AG's Office in the Walgreens prescription opioid trial in New Port Richie, April.

Mathematics and Statistics
Dr. Jae-Ho Lee, assistant professor of mathematics, together with Jack Koolen, and Ying-Ying Tan, published “Remarks on pseudo-vertex-transitive graphs with small diameter” in Discrete Mathematics, May.

Music
Dr. Erin Bodnar, director of bands and assistant professor of music, has completed the first recording of a major project with the UNF Wind Symphony. Under her direction, the ensemble of 50 students recorded five pieces over three days resulting in 400 takes of music. The recording will be released on the Mark Custom Record label and will be available on Naxos, Spotify, Apple music and as a CD in December. The recording project, Music for Wind Band by Women Composers featuring Women Soloists, was funded by the UNF Foundation Board Initiative Grant.

Bodnar also traveled to Arroyito, Argentina, for two performances in early June with Casey Maday, adjunct professor of trombone. This was their second performance trip to the small town in the province of Córdoba, with the first trip in August 2019. The first performance on this trip was a trombone recital by Casey Maday, with Dr. Erin Bodnar accompanying on piano. The second was a performance with the Banda Sinfonica Municipal de Arroyito with Dr. Erin Bodnar as guest conductor and Casey Maday as the featured soloist. In addition to their performances on the 10-day trip, the musicians taught private lessons, rehearsed the band and provided instruction for the 35-member ensemble. The relationship fostered between the UNF and Arroyito by Bodnar and Maday will culminate in a study abroad for UNF students in the summer of 2023.

Danny Gottleib, professor, drumset, continues to record classic Jazz songs in Nashville with the rhythm section of pianist Pat Coil and bassist Jake Jezioro. The latest recording features vocalist Jaimee Paul. Listen online.

Professors Danny Gottlieb, JB Scott and Dennis Marks were featured at the 2022 Jacksonville Jazz Festival performing with the Jacksonville Hall of Fame All Stars and the UNF JE1.

Dr. Randy Tinnin, professor of trumpet and area coordinator, directed the UNF Trumpet Ensemble at the International Trumpet Guild Conference in San Antonio, Texas, June 3. The ensemble was invited to play at the annual event after submitting a video for consideration. Not only did the student musicians perform in concert — opening for the Navy Commodores — but they also had the opportunity to participate in jam sessions every evening and listen to trumpet ensembles from around the country and the world.

Dr. Joshua Tomlinson, instructor and area coordinator of Music Technology and Production, was invited to be a guest speaker at the University of Pittsburgh in June. He participated in their “PhDuh – What’s Next?” lecture series that focuses on discussing the academic job market with current doctoral students.

Philosophy and Religion Studies
Dr. Bert Koegler, professor, presented four lectures in May of 2022 in conjunction with an anthology dedicated to his work (Bloomsbury Press). The lectures were given at (1) University College, Dublin: “Reply to Panel on Critical Hermeneutics”; (2) University of Vienna, Austria: “Fremdheit, Andersheit, Plötzlichkeit”; (3) University of Slovakia, Bratislava & Liberal Arts & Sciences Center, Bratislava: “Hermeneutic Ontology, Dialogic Recognition, and Contemporary Challenges”; and (4) University of Presov, Slovakia: “Ontological Articulation or Deflationary Compliment? Rorty versus Hermeneutics on Truth.”

Dr. Sarah LaChance Adams, Florida Blue Distinguished Professor, presented “Abortion Provision as Care,” Response to Ann Ferguson “Feminists Morally Re-framing Abortion: State Gendered Violence and Reproductive Justice Politics,” SOFPHIA conference, MIT Cambridge, MA; May.

Dr. Andrew Buchwalter, Presidential Professor, presented the following three talks in May of 2022: (1) “Habermas, Hegel, and the Relationship of Reason, Religion and Secularity,” Prague Conference on Philosophy and the Social Sciences,” University College Dublin; (2) “Fe y saber. ¿Hegel contra Habermas?,” Circulo de Bellas Artes, Madrid Spain; and (3) “'Philosophy is its own Time Comprehended in Thought’: On the Normativity of Hegel’s Practical Philosophy,” Graduate Program Colloquium Series, Dept of Philosophy, Autonomous University of Madrid.

Physics
Dr. Devki Talwar, research associate, had his paper “Impact of interfacial thickness on Raman intensity profiles and phonon anisotropy in short-period AlSb)_n/(GaSb)_m superlattices,” accepted for publication in the Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology, June.

Political Science & Public Administration
Dr. Joshua C. Gellers, associate professor of political science, presented an invited talk titled “Getting Rights for Non-humans Right” at the Connecticut/Baden-Württemberg Human Rights Research Consortium Conference held at the University of Connecticut, May.

Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work
Dr. Keith Ashley, assistant professor of archaeology, gave an interview to the First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross about archaeological excavation of what is now believed to be lost indigenous village of Sarabay, June.

Dr. Mandi N. Barringer, assistant professor of sociology, with her colleague, published, "Growing Old in the Bible Belt: Resources for Aging LGBT Adults Living in the South" in the Journal of Homosexuality, May. Barringer also presented “The Need is Universal, but the Provision is Gendered: Predictors of Providing and Receiving Informal Caregiving among LGBT Aging Adults” at the 2022 Southern Sociological Society Annual Conference, April.

College of Education and Human Services
Dr. Terrie M. Galanti, assistant professor, secondary mathematics and STEM, Integration/Computational Thinking, in collaboration with Dr. Nancy Holincheck from George Mason University, conducted a study of teachers' perspectives on integrating STEM in their classrooms. They shared their findings in the article "Are you a STEM teacher?: Exploring K-12 teachers’ conceptions of STEM education" in Journal of STEM Education: Innovations and Research.

Dr. Mark Halley, assistant professor of ASL/English interpreting, published “Interpreting in the Deaf President Now Protest: An Organizational Overview” in the Spring 2022 issue of Sign Language Studies. In the article, he applies concepts from social movement studies and contentious politics to examine how activist interpreters organized in an historic protest.

A team of UNF faculty have been chosen as the new editorial team for the NAPDS research journal, School-University Partnerships. They will be serving a four-year term. Dr. David Hoppey and Dr. Katrina Hall will serve as editors. Dr. Megan Lynch will be the lead associate editor. Drs. Shelly Curcio, Jen Kilpatrick, Raven Robinson, and Liz Rozas will all serve as associate editors. Dr. Diane Yendol-Hoppey and Dr. Rebecca West Burns will chair the Editorial Advisory Board.

Hicks Honors College
Dr. Leslie Kaplan, director Hicks Honors College, was admitted to the Leadership Jacksonville 2023 Class. The opening reception was Tuesday, June 7, and the opening dinner will be on July 26 at the Adam W. Herbert University Center. Leadership Jacksonville is a year-long program that brings together over 50 leaders throughout the Jacksonville community, to build relationships with other leaders and to better serve as an ethical community leader.

Thomas G. Carpenter Library
Maria Atilano, student outreach librarian, with Stephanie Race, head of Research and Outreach, co-presented a session titled “Keep Calm and Pivot: Resetting Library Engagement with Remote Outreach” at the 2022 Florida Library Association Annual Conference on May 24 in Ponte Vedra. Atilano also contributed to a chapter titled “Marketing from the Heart” in the book Practical Marketing for the Academic Library published in May 2022.

Thomas Caswell, associate dean, contributed to the latest “2022 Top Trends in Academic Libraries” [Vol 83, No 6 (June 2022): pp. 243-256] published in College & Research Libraries News every two years by the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Research Planning and Review Committee. C&RL News is the official publication of record of ACRL, providing articles on the latest trends and practices affecting academic and research libraries.

Sarah Moukhliss, Stem Online Learning Librarian, published her dissertation to ProQuest Dissertation and Theses Global: Moukhliss, S. H. (2022). "Exploring librarians’ pedagogical methods in teaching library technology to at-risk students" (Order No. 29214797). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (2678499679). Additionally, an article that Moukhliss published with former UWF professor Dr. Fred Baker III was recognized by Wiley as one of the top most downloaded papers (Top 10) in The Review of Education for among work published between Jan. 1, 2019 and Dec. 31 2020. "Concretising Design Thinking: A Content Analysis of Systematic and Extended Literature Reviews on Design Thinking and Human-Centred Design."

Marielle Veve, metadata librarian, is the recipient of the 2022 Outstanding Scholarly Contribution Award from the Florida Library Association for her article “ETDs in ProQuest and the institutional repository: A descriptive study of the current workflows available for dual online submission,” published in the September 2021 issue of The Journal of Academic Librarianship. The award recognizes exceptional research in librarianship, library science, and research into problems, challenges, or issues in libraries published by a Florida librarian during the past two years.

Academic and Student Affairs
Maritza Choisser, manager Academic Support Services (Academic Affairs), was admitted to the Leadership Jacksonville 2023 Class. The opening reception was Tuesday, June 7, and the opening dinner will be on July 26 at the Adam W. Herbert University Center. Leadership Jacksonville is a year-long program that brings together over 50 leaders throughout the Jacksonville community, to build relationships with other leaders and to better serve as an ethical community leader.

LGBTQ Center
Manny Velásquez-Paredes, director of UNF’s LGBTQ Center, has received the “Most Influential Person Award” from the Rainbow Awards JAX by Jax Gay magazine for his work throughout the LGBTQ+ community. The Rainbow Awards JAX are designed to recognize different LGBTQ organizations and individuals on an annual basis who help bring awareness to social issues within the Jacksonville community, by hosting events, one-on-one conversations, joint ventures with other nonprofits, and being a voice for those that cannot speak for themselves through advocacy.

Dateline

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

30 Years

Leshell Hartney, Senior Information Specialist, IPTM

25 Years

Terri Cook, Associate Director, Research Program Services, Florida Institute of Education

15 Years

Angelo Addari, Maintenance Mechanic, Student Union-Maintenance and Energy Management

Justin Begle, Associate Director, User Services, ITS

Melissa Blankenship, Director, Enrollment Services

Jean Leone, Office Manager, COEHS Academic Support Services

Courtenay McLeland, University Librarian, Library

Daniel Nutt, Coordinator RecWell Services, Student Wellness Complex

Salena Tepas, Associate Director, Parking and Transportation Services

10 Years

Kelly Harrison, Director, Professional Development and Training

Scott Kidd, Law Enforcement Officer, University Police Department

James McKoy, Irrigation Supervisor, Grounds

Kacie Smith, Coordinator Student Affairs, Recreation

Dawn Wessling, Associate Instructor, Exceptional Deaf and Interpreter Education

5 Years

Thomas Boss, Assistant Athletic Coach, Baseball

Robert Buehn, Director Military Vets Program Services, Military and Veterans Resource Center

Jeffrey Chamberlain, Dean, Hicks Honors College

Laura Kelp, Senior Accounts Payable Receivable Representative, Controller

Dwan Love-Dinkens, LGBTQ Coordinator, LGBTQ Center

Sarah Moukhliss, Assistant University Librarian, Library

Hailey Sackett, Senior Academic Advisor, COEHS Advising

Corey Ulloa, Assistant Director, Housing and Residence Life

Welcome
The following employees were either hired by UNF or were promoted from OPS positions recently:
Rainier Baltazar, Coordinator Employment, Human Resources
Emma Brinson, Front Desk Office Assistant, President's Office
Christopher Cotter, Coordinator Research Program Services, Mechanical Engineering
Emily Crossett, Academic Advisor, COEHS Advising
Jasmine Graham, Program Assistant, Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Destiny Johnson, Academic Support Services Coordinator, Undergraduate Studies
Lindsey McKnight, Assistant Athletic Coach, Women's Swimming
Gina Meuti, Accounts Payable Receivable Associate, Controller
Joseph Namey, Manager Applications Systems, Training and Services Institute
Kenny Nguyen, Administrative Assistant, BCH Advising
Simisola Olowodola, Web Assistant and ADA Support, ADA Compliance
Ian Sasser, Applications Systems Analyst, IPTM
Ryan Schneader, Coordinator Club Sports Faculty, Recreation
Holly Seaver, Coordinator Instructional Support, Writing Center
Krystle Young, Assistant Director, Student Engagement, Career Services

Great Job
The following employees were promoted recently:
Victoria Armenta, Executive Secretary, Stewardship and Donor Relations
Anisa Bakiu, Coordinator Accounting, Controller
Amy Bishop, Assistant Director, CCB Graduate and Executive Programs
Francesca Brant, Assistant Director Resolution and Engagement, University Housing
Amber-Jul Camaya, Coordinator Operations, Student Union
JR Chambers, Assistant Director Network Engineering, Telephone Services
Trudy Cochrane, Administrative Specialist, Academic Affairs
Natasha Christie, Associate Professor, Arts and Sciences
Julie Dann, Coordinator Budgets, Student Affairs
Yentl Dunbar, Coordinator, Budgets, Music
Emily Gebbia, Coordinator, Budgets, Advancement Services
Lauren Giliberto, Assistant Director, Special Events, University Development/Alumni Engagement
Lena Hernandez, Aquisitions Coordinator, Library
Michael Innacelli, Assistant Director, Digital Marketing, Marketing and Communications
Randall Jones, Telecommunications Manager, Telephone Services
Jennifer Kane, Interim Dean/Professor, Education and Human Services
Mirela Karastoyanova, Benefits Retirement Specialist, Human Resources
Virginia Kemption, Coordinator, Events Planning, Student Union
Jennifer Krechowski, Assistant Director, Student Union
Amanda Kulp, Assistant VP of Institutional Effectiveness, Assessment Activities
Nikki MacPhee, Coordinator, Alumni Services
Tod McVey, Assistant Director, Environmental Health and Safety
Audrey Murray, Media Developer, Center for Instruction and Research Technology
Jocelyn Posos, University Conduct Officer, Office of the Dean of Students
Jessica Russell, Coordinator Budgets, Physical Facilities
Justin Sipes, Director, Center for Community-Based Learning
Anna Tyre, Assistant Director, Advancement Services
Michelle Verkamp, Associate Director, Operations, College of Education and Human Services
Michele Verkerk, Coordinator, Administrative Services, Education and Human Services
Rebecca Weiner, Coordinator, Conduct, Office of the Dean of Students

Goodbye
The following employees have left UNF recently:
Andrea Adams-Manning, Director, Office of the Dean of Students
Joy Bailey, Assistant Professor, Nursing
Jennifer Barth, Assistant Athletic Director, Athletic Academic Support
Garry Bates, Maintenance Supervisor, Maintenance and Energy Management
Jason Brennan, Pest Control Technician, Grounds
Joshua Buckley, Parking Services Associate, Parking and Transportation Services
Raymond Bunch, Coordinator, Student Affairs, Recreation
Adam Chalmers, Coordinator, Library Systems, Library
Brishauna Conner, Office Assistant, Quality Control and Work Management
Cynthia Cummings, Professor, Nursing
Cristhal Escobar, Coordinator, Admissions
James Guppenberger, Laboratory Manager, Chemistry
Ashley Helmick, Assistant Director, Alumni Engagement
Marcie Higgs, Head Athletic Coach, Softball
Kelly Hovinga, Assistant University Librarian, Library
Caroline Howard, Clinical Research Association, Psychology
Rumyana Kalaydzhieva, Associate Director Student Financial Aid, Financial Aid Office
Eliza Kiss, Administrative Assistant, University Development and Alumni Engagement
Abigail Kuhn, Research Program Services Coordinator, Biology
Michelle Kunz, Admissions Processing Specialist, Enrollment Services Processing Office
Marie Larose, Assistant Professor, Languages Literatures and Cultures
Madeline Lee, Academic Support Services Coordinator, One-Stop Student Services
Jordan Leikel, Assistant Athletic Trainer, Trainer
Chaneka Madry, Coordinator, Research Program Services, Florida Institute of Education
Sam Maletta, Applications Systems Analyst, DL - ITS
Rebecca Mantilla, Assistant Director, Financial Aid Budget Audit, Financial Aid Office
Christopher Martinez, Maintenance Mechanic, Maintenance and Energy Management
Micah McKinney, Clinical Research Phleb Association, Psychology
Giannina Medell, Senior Library Services Associate, Library
Colleen Morris, Coordinator Academic Support Services, International Business Curriculum
Ceteria Mosley, Program Assistant, University Housing
Dylan Myers, Coordinator Residence Life, Apartments
Melinda Powers, Coordinator Research Program Services, Small Business Development Center
Elaine Ravenel-Mitchum, Coordinator Data Management, Advancement Services
Sarah Roberts, Development Associate, University Development/Alumni Engagement
Brittany Santos, Coordinator Budgets, Music
Morgan Simmons, Student Affairs Specialist, SG Business and Accounting Office
Jason Simpson, Floor Care Worker, Custodial Services
Eva Skipper, IT Full Stack Software Engineer, Enterprise Systems
Linda Skrla, Professor, Leadership, School Counseling and Sport Management
Kristin Smith, Associate Director, University Housing Operations, University Housing
Emily Strack, Assistant Athletic Coach, Volleyball
Kat Tarbet, Teaching Laboratory Specialist, Art, Art History and Design
Margaret Terrell, Library Systems Specialist, Library
Carly Thomas, Coordinator, Admissions
Nichole Vanderpool, Public Relations Specialist, Marketing and Communications
Diego Velazquez, Assistant Director Graphic Design, Marketing and Communications
Liz Wondell, Director, Academic Advising Services, COAS Advising
Mark Workman, Professor, Hicks Honors College
Barry Wynns, Applications Systems Analyst, University Housing
Lal Zau, Maintenance Mechanic, Maintenance and Energy Management

Swoop Summary

Swimming Makes CSCAA Scholar All-America Team for Another Year
North Florida women's swimming finds itself on the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) All-America Team yet again after earning a 3.55 team grade point average for the spring 2022 semester. The news was announced by the national organization Monday, June 27. Learn more about the swim team's latest accomplishment.

North Florida Athletics Puts Forth Phenomenal Academic Progress Rate Totals
North Florida Athletics is proud to announce impressive totals for its 2020-21 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I Academic Progress Rate (APR) report. All 17 of North Florida's programs exceeded the required multi-year score of 930. Learn more about North Florida's APR.

UNF Athletics Sets Record Broadcast Numbers for 2021-22
The latest athletic year proved to be a milestone one for North Florida Athletics' broadcasts as the department streamed a record 154 events, totaling over an estimated 66,000 hours of viewership. UNF set records for total ESPN+ broadcasts and SWOOPLife Live streams. Learn more about UNF Athletics setting broadcast records.

All-American Lindsey McKnight Hired as Assistant Swimming Coach
Head swimming coach Ian Coffey is excited to announce the hiring of five-time all-american, Lindsey McKnight, as assistant swimming coach. A five-star recruit and top 10 recruit in 2012 per CollegeSwimming.com, McKnight accumulated a staggering 13 state championships and the state record in the 100 metres breaststroke during high school. A native of Coral Springs, Florida, McKnight attended the highly lauded American Heritage High School before earning a chance to swim at the University of Florida. Learn more about Lindsey McKnight.

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UNF honored as a Military Support College of Distinction

UNF’s Military and Veterans Resource Center, which has long earned the University rankings as a top “Military Friendly School” and “Best for Vets,” has now also been honored by Colleges of Distinction for its military support of students and dedication to helping veterans overcome obstacles and achieve success. The Military Support Colleges of Distinction recognizes schools that engage in initiatives directed toward active-duty and veteran students, including educational benefits, a dedicated military and veteran department, flexible educational options, campus activities and community support. Learn more about the honor.

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