oneColumn handbook

March 2022

MOCA exhibition "FIFTY" to celebrate 50 alumni artists
Dr. Richmond Wynn appointed Chief Diversity Officer
Swooping Into UNF's past: The '80s
UNF aims to further reduce textbook costs
UNF 50-Hour Giving Challenge
Homecoming week photo recap
Women's History Month theme Includes healing and hope
Exhibition celebrates the Sawmill Slough Preserve
Inside News Roundup
Free things to do in March
Meet Jess Harris, Women’s Center Specialist
Osprey Profile
Faculty and Staff
Dateline
Swoop Summary
Spread the Word

MOCA exhibition "FIFTY" to celebrate 50 alumni artists

By Marsha Blasco

There’s no doubt that UNF graduates in all disciplines have made their mark around the country and the world. Just as a pebble tossed into water sends out ripples, what began as a small university in Jacksonville in 1972 has been generating waves of influence over the past 50 years.

Marsh Menagerie by Thomas Hager To capture that impact in the art world, MOCA Jacksonville will present “FIFTY,” an exhibit of 50 practicing artists who graduated from UNF’s Department of Art, Art History and Design between 1985 and 2021. Scheduled to open March 25, the exhibition is the brainchild of Caitlín Doherty, executive director of MOCA, which became a cultural institute of UNF in 2009. Doherty sees UNF’s 50th anniversary as an opportunity to shine a light on the University’s recruitment of good students, retention through quality coursework and preparation that leads to career opportunities.

“When you think about the metrics we use to talk about UNF and other universities, they sometimes seem to fit more easily with the work of other departments rather than fine arts,” Doherty said. “And so, the amazing stories of art and design students and graduates is often harder to tell. There has never been a major UNF alumni show, for example, so the university’s 50th anniversary provided a really great opportunity to change that."

Test the Water by Derek Des Islets Doherty also is delighted that "FIFTY" provides an opportunity to celebrate the mutually beneficial relationship between MOCA and UNF, and the transformative learning opportunities that the museum affords the campus community.

To select the featured artists, Doherty enlisted the assistance of Louise Freshman Brown, Distinguished Professor Emerita of Art, who taught fine art students during her 38-year career teaching painting, drawing and printmaking at UNF. As co-curators, Doherty and Freshman Brown focused on presenting graduates throughout the years as well as imagery from a wide range of media — photography to painting, film to ceramics, and sculpture to printmaking. They also represented the diversity of the student population.

Types of Thought by artist Lauren Hussey Both agreed there were far more artists than they could accommodate in 50 spots, which Doherty believes shows the strength of the UNF program. “It’s really been a great story to tell because people are working in all different fields in far-flung places, and all these career paths led from studies in art and design at UNF,” Doherty said. "Alongside professional fine artists and designers, other alumni have forged careers in other areas too — and will be highlighted through exciting programs planned to accompany the exhibition — including Art Education, Arts in Medicine, Art Therapy, Tattoo Artists, Architecture, Art Restoration and Horticulture to name a few."

For Freshman Brown, who currently teaches workshops and continues to create art in her studio, curating alumni art also had a personal impact. “This project has been particularly important to me because it is also my history,” she said. “UNF was only there for nine years before I began teaching in 1981. I am proud of my former students and what they have accomplished. This is an opportunity for UNF to recognize their success. Visitors will be impressed with the exhibition's range of expertise and how much talent in the professional art world comes from UNF.

“Everyone who attends, especially current and potential art students will see the relevance of art making in their world to the relationships of the museum world," she said.

Artwork in order of appearance in the article: (all courtesy of the artists)
© Thomas Hager, Marsh Menagerie, 2021. Archival pigments on paper, 40 x 40 inches.
© Derek Des Islets, Test the Water, 2021. Acrylic and colored pencil on canvas, 16 x 20 inches.
© Lauren Anaïs Hussey, Types of Thought, 2021. 72 x 84 inches.

Dr. Richmond Wynn appointed Chief Diversity Officer

By Byron Jones

headshot of Dr. Richmond Wynn Dr. Richmond Wynn is UNF's newly appointed Vice President, Chief Diversity Officer. A recent recipient of the Diamond Award by JASMYN for exemplary service, Wynn has also won UNF's inaugural Presidential Diversity and Inclusion Research Award. In his new role, Wynn will provide leadership for the University's coordinated model for diversity, equity and inclusion.

After serving as interim vice president and chief diversity officer since November 2021, do you have a sense of what your responsibilities will be going forward?
To be a part of the decision making for UNF with an open eye and ear for opportunities to further integrate and reinforce principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. My responsibilities also include being part of the leadership of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, which includes all our culture-focused centers. My job in that space is to help evolve those various departments and programs.

What aspect of the job is most appealing to you or what do you see as most enjoyable?
My interaction with people. I like being in touch with people and hearing their stories.

What do you hope to accomplish in this role?
To create a UNF where difference is celebrated. When we see people who are different from us, I hope we are more curious than fearful. I want to see a UNF that reflects our local community in terms of demographics. We can do better by creating a university that attracts more diverse students, faculty and staff who have UNF at the top of their list as a place to learn and a place to work.

You have been working in various roles at UNF since 2000. What has changed most at the University since then?
The physical space has been transformed, and I’ve appreciated watching that. This is such a beautiful campus. I think the attitude about UNF being a traditional university has changed. When I originally came here as a graduate student in 1994, it was still considered an upper division college in the minds of many even though we began admitting freshmen a decade earlier — as we were established in 1972 as an upper-division college for juniors and seniors.

What do you see as the greatest opportunities for the University?
We are well-positioned to deepen our commitment to diversity and inclusion by further developing our culture to attract more students, faculty, and staff from underrepresented groups and by enhancing the resources that bolster retention. We can also expand our engagement in the community. Overall, it is important to have pride in who we are now and in our evolution toward inclusive excellence.

For what previous awards or accomplishments are you most proud?
All these awards are nice. It’s nice to be acknowledged and receive accolades. As a first-generation college student, I feel that my degrees stand out more than the awards.

How did you become interested in mental health counseling as a career?
It was divine intervention because I never set out to become a counselor. I didn’t choose the counseling profession; it chose me. In high school, I took every math class, and some computer programming courses. My programming teacher suggested I go to UF and become an engineer. My first declared major at UF was computer engineering, but the cards just didn’t fall in that direction. I wound up getting a degree in Sociology. My roommate’s girlfriend suggested I apply for a counseling position at a nonprofit in Jacksonville working with individuals who had substance-use disorders. The counseling position was OK, but I initially desired to be a trainer in human resources. It seemed as if every time I tried to leave the counseling profession, something good would happen — like a promotion. I finally decided that I’m supposed to be a counselor, and from there I settled into my identity as a mental health counselor.

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Central Florida in Cocoa and spent a lot of time at the beach.

Best advice you’ve ever received?
My mother would say all the time to get to know God (higher power) for yourself. That served me so well because nobody can tell me how to be me. Getting to know a higher power for myself meant I needed to find comfort in my own skin, and that’s where I am in life because I embraced that advice.

What do you do to relax?
I enjoy reading, wine and connecting with friends. The biggest thing I do to relax is to not have an agenda. One of my favorite things to do is nothing. I enjoy the freedom in deciding what I want to do, including nothing.

What is your favorite location on campus and why?
I am a water person, and I love these small bodies of water that we have on campus like Candy Cane Lake, the Boathouse lake, the reflecting pool outside of the Brooks College of Health, and the bamboo garden — those are my favorite spots.

And there’s more ...
Wynn received a doctorate in counselor education and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Florida. He earned a Master of Science in Health from UNF specializing in addiction and mental health counseling.

Swooping Into UNF's past: The '80s

By Byron E. Jones

As we mentioned last month, we are highlighting four UNF milestones from each decade in celebration of the 50th anniversary. Here are our picks from the 1980s with events also happening in Jacksonville, the United States and the World.

1980s

At UNF
NEW LIBRARY OPENS, Oct. 1, 1980
The new library officially opens. In a dedication on Aug. 15, 1981, after President Thomas G. Carpenter resigned, UNF names the library in his honor.

In Jacksonville
The population in Jacksonville reaches 540,920 people as reported by the Census Bureau. (As of 2020, Jacksonville's population was 949,611.)

In the United States
The Pittsburgh Steelers win their fourth NFL championship in six seasons, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 31–19 in Super Bowl XIV at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. (Jan. 20, 1980)

In the World
English musician and former Beatle John Lennon dies after being shot outside his NYC residence. (Dec. 8, 1980)

At UNF
FRESHMAN & SOPHOMORE PROGRAMS ARE AUTHORIZED, Sept. 1, 1984
Freshman and sophomore programs are authorized.

In Jacksonville
Michael Jackson and The Jacksons perform three shows in Jacksonville on their Victory Tour at the Gator Bowl Stadium (now TIAA Bank Field). (July 21-23, 1984)

In the United States
The original Apple Macintosh personal computer went on sale as the first mass-produced Apple computer that was mouse-driven with a built-in graphical user interface. (Jan. 24, 1984)

In the World
On Dec. 19, 1984, after years of negotiations, leaders in China and the United Kingdom sign a formal pact approving the 1997 transfer of power in Hong Kong from the UK to China. Per the agreement, Hong Kong was handed over to China at midnight on July 1, 1997.

At UNF
FIRST STUDENT GRADUATES WITH PERFECT 4.0 GPA, June 1, 1988
Monique French becomes the first four-year student to graduate with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

In Jacksonville
Tolls at the Mathews Bridge, Fuller Warren Bridge, Hart Bridge, Trout River Bridge and J. Turner Butler Boulevard are removed. (March 8, 1988 voter referendum)

In the United States
The Yellowstone fires of 1988 collectively formed the largest wildfire in the recorded history of Yellowstone National Park in the United States. (June 14– Nov. 18, 1988)

In the World
The XV Olympic Winter Games were held in Calgary, Canada. (Feb. 13-28th, 1988)

At UNF
UNF APPOINTS THIRD PRESIDENT, Jan. 16, 1989
Adam W. Herbert becomes UNF's third president.

In Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Skyway begins operating with three stations in Downtown Jacksonville. (June 5, 1989)

In the United States
George H. W. Bush is sworn in as the 41st President of the United States. (Jan. 20, 1989)

In the World
Tim Berners-Lee, a British scientist, invented the World Wide Web (WWW) in 1989 while working at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). He then published the first website on Dec. 20, 1990.

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

Read more about UNF's 50th anniversary.

UNF aims to further reduce textbook costs

By Byron Jones

More than $1 million saved by students as of fall 2021 It’s no secret that a college education is expensive, and students are always looking to minimize costs whenever possible. A major expense students face while earning their education is the high cost of textbooks and other learning materials.

To offset those costs, many UNF faculty members have begun to use open educational resources (OER), which are defined as teaching, learning and research materials that are either in the public domain or licensed in a manner that provides everyone with free and perpetual permission to use. To date, the UNF initiative has already passed the million-dollar mark in savings for students with participation from every college on campus.

OE Week
To expand the use of OER, UNF is participating March 7-11 in the Open Education or OE Week, an annual global celebration of the Open Education Movement. The event includes webinars hosted by other organizations and panels with UNF faculty who use OER. Instructors interested in integrating open access materials in their courses are encouraged to register online to participate in OE Week starting with the virtual kickoff event on Monday, March 7.

Faculty member Tia Kimball, an instructor in the Department of Teaching, Learning & Curriculum, and a presenter at this month’s OE Week, champions the use of OER. “You can tailor what you want your students to leave your class knowing if you have the ability to choose the readings,” said Kimball, adding that she believes students sense a connection with instructors whom they feel are choosing ways to minimize their financial strain.

The UNF OER Initiative
As of Spring 2022, 70 courses at UNF have transitioned from using traditional textbooks to using OER, and 19 courses are currently in the process of converting, according to the Center for Instruction and Research Technology (CIRT) staff who work with the online learning librarians to grow these numbers by partnering with more faculty.

Established in 2018, the initiative is a partnership between the CIRT and the Thomas G. Carpenter Library. As part of the initiative, instructors are partnered with an instructional designer from the CIRT and an online learning librarian who assist with identifying and integrating open educational resources in place place of costly textbooks.

Jann Sutton, senior instructional designer for CIRT, believes that instructors who choose to use OER can pull many resources from other places and essentially create their own textbook. “We provide a lot of support with the OER initiative including a stipend for faculty, which gives them some initiative to explore OER materials,” Sutton said.

Faculty members who successfully complete the OER initiative receive the following perks:

A $1,000 stipend
Recognition on the OER Initiative website and CIRT Facebook page
Course qualifies for the statewide Affordability Counts Initiative

The Benefits of OER

Studies conducted by the Open Education Group as recently as 2019 show that 93% of students using OER perform just as well or better than those using traditional textbooks and materials.

Unlike traditional textbooks that become outdated, OERs are shared digitally, which allows them to be updated to fit the needs of a course — ensuring relevant information is always shared with students. Sutton and colleague Jamie Chaires, senior instructional designer for CIRT, also explained that while traditional course models rely on content outlined in a single textbook, instructors using OER can allow for diverse perspectives on course material that align better with student interests and course goals.

“OER gives instructors many options for pulling together information as opposed to using one author,” Sutton said.

To learn more information about OER, visit the OER Initiative webpage.

UNF 50-Hour Giving Challenge

The UNF 50-Hour Giving Challenge is quickly approaching March 7-9! Join fellow faculty, staff, students, alumni, parents and friends in coming together to #SwoopAndSupport! All gifts make an impact, no matter the size. Be sure to visit givingday.unf.edu to make your impact on a project that you’re passionate about and help spread the word. Stay updated by attending the virtual UNF 50-Hour Giving Challenge Facebook event.

Submitted by Kristy Herrington, UNF’s director of Annual Giving

Homecoming week photo recap

Women's History Month theme Includes healing and hope

By Marsha Blasco

Each March, the UNF community and the nation celebrate Women’s History Month to honor the extraordinary achievements of American women. The origin of this tradition dates to 1911, when March 8 was celebrated in several European countries as International Women’s Day. By 1978, various communities in the United States were celebrating the week of March 8 as Women’s History Week. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as an official celebration of women’s history.

Several groups then promoted the idea of designating the entire month of March as Women’s History Month, a movement that finally received congressional support in 1987. Spearheading those grassroots efforts over the years was the National Women’s History Alliance, which according to the organization’s website, has spent the past 38 years “Writing Women Back into History.” Today, the National Women’s History Alliance selects an annual theme for Women’s History Month. For 2022, the theme is “Women: Providing Healing, Promoting Hope,” chosen in part to recognize “women of all cultures have provided both healing and hope throughout history.”

At UNF, Women's History Month events, including a sold-out kickoff luncheon, are planned throughout March. Here are just a few other ways to celebrate this special month on campus:

Poetry Slam Workshop
Friday, March 25, 2 - 4 p.m.
John A. Delaney Student Union Ballrooms
Join the Women's Center and the Intercultural Center for an interactive workshop on slam poetry. Learn some writing techniques and performance pointers, and participate in our very own poetry slam. This event can also be attended virtually via Zoom.

Women’s Voices: Five Women, Five Decades
Tuesday, March 29, 2 – 3 p.m.
Thomas G. Carpenter Library, Classrooms 2102 A and B

This 50th Anniversary Speaker Series will feature a panel of five women who will share their personal experiences at UNF throughout the past 50 years. Moderated by Sheila Spivey, associate vice president of Diversity and Inclusion, this event will be presented online and in person, but registration is required for both.

Women Makers Market
Thursday, March 31, noon – 4 p.m.
Osprey Plaza
Celebrate the closing of Women’s History Month by supporting local women makers. Artists and makers will have booths where you can see their products and learn about their services.

Read more about the origins of Women’s History Month on the Alliance website.

Exhibition celebrates the Sawmill Slough Preserve

By Marsha Blasco

Now in its fifth year, the Pre[serve] Exhibition once again has brought artists together to showcase the wonders of the UNF Sawmill Slough Preserve. Student and alumni artists strolled through the Preserve to find their inspiration and created artworks that have been photographed to become a permanent part of the Digital Archives at the Thomas G. Carpenter Library.

Diana Cappadorro, one of a team of four who won first-place Diana Cappadorro, one of the first-place student winners, worked with three others to create a photograph that portrayed books being brought back to their roots. “Because man processes trees that are made into paper and then they make books out of the paper, we wanted to return books to their source,” Cappadorro said. “That’s why we pinned the pages, being careful not to harm the tree, to show the book pages trickling back into the tree.”

That winning photo is one of 25 art works created by 22 artists on display through April 8 in the Lufrano Intercultural Gallery. James Taylor, assistant director of the Institute of Environmental Research and Education, and one of the founders of the program, said that 39 works were submitted for consideration and reviewed by a committee of faculty from the Department of Art, Art History and Design.

“The Institute of Environmental Research and Education is an interdisciplinary unit on campus that focuses on environmental topics and works with all colleges and many different departments,” Taylor said. “This show really speaks to that and is dedicated to preserving the environment, particularly our environment, the Sawmill Slough Preserve. It’s a part of UNF history; it’s a part of who we are as Ospreys.”

Lizzie Scott, alumni winner The alumni winner was Lizzie Scott, who created a ceramic piece portraying mushrooms. A 2020 graduate, Scott majored in painting, drawing and printmaking, but has since followed her interest in ceramics. She said she finds inspiration in the many colors and shapes of mushrooms, which she said are also good for the environment. “People are becoming more aware that mushrooms are self-healing for the world because they absorb oil and pollution and toxic waste and can be used to create a type of leather, so we don’t have to kill animals anymore,” Scott said.

Jim Draper exhibition now at the UNF Gallery
Draper, local artist and former UNF Gallery director, who now has his own art on exhibition at the UNF Gallery of Art, juried the Pre[serve] exhibition. The selected winning artists received $650 in cash awards. The event was supported by IERE, the Department of Art, Art History and Design and the UNF galleries.

Speaking at the Pre[serve] opening, Draper said the idea for the program came from a conversation with Draper, James Taylor and the late Dave Lambert, former associate professor of Geographic Information Systems in the Coggin College of Business and director of the Institute, then named the Environmental Center.

“We were trying to come up with a program that would mainly preserve the preserve,” Draper said. “We had the idea that the more involved the curriculum and the academic community would be with the preserved lands, there would be more of a reason to keep them preserved. Just because it’s called preserve, doesn’t mean it will be preserved. As we are learning with our national parks, don’t always think that things that are preserved will always be preserved.”

Here are all the winners:
First place: Diana Cappadorro, Dallas Hartman, Lexi Atchley, Dan Parker; Untitled
Second place: Jordan Boutelle, “Homeforaged”
Third place: Gage Perna, “Give In”
Alumni: Lizzie Scott, “Bisporella citrina”
Photo Club award: Gabe Melson, Untitled

Learn more about the exhibition.

Inside News Roundup

Dr. Lauri Wright named Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics president-elect
Dr. Lauri Wright, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics chair, has been named the 2022-23 president-elect of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy represents more than 112,000 credentialed practitioners and is committed to improving health and advancing the profession of nutrition and dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Learn more about the distinction.

UNF’s logistics and supply chain management program ranked No. 15 in the nation
The University of North Florida is ranked No. 15 in the nation according to the 2022 Best Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management list. One of only two programs in Florida, UNF’s Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (MSLSCM) program provides students with the tools necessary to be competitive in the rapidly advancing field. Learn more about the MSLSCM and other Coggin College of Business master’s degree programs.

UNF Alumni Association proudly recognizes alumni for outstanding service
The University of North Florida Alumni Association honored several notable graduates for their exemplary service and contributions to UNF during its annual Alumni Recognition Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 17, at the University Center. Honorees included Ed Jones, president & CEO of Houston Methodist Research Institute, chief business officer of Houston Methodist Academic Institute and senior vice president of Houston Methodist; Vanessa Fluery, development manager at Genspace and founder/director of Carl’s Village; Sichao Ni, commercial diplomat for the U.S. Department of Commerce; and Tony Marinatos, director of Chartwell Capital. Learn more about the alumni recognition.

UNF hosts 50th anniversary Emeriti and Friends Luncheon
UNF's Alumni Association hosted the 50th anniversary 1972 Emeriti and Friends Luncheon as part of Homecoming Week festivities. UNF welcomed 116 esteemed emeriti and friends back to campus to enjoy a special luncheon event. Interim President Pamela Chally spoke on the past and future of the University, the UNF Chamber Singers led by Dr. Cara Tasher gave a moving performance, and Dr. Charles E. Closmann presented his UNF oral history project. Learn more about the event.

UNF research study will help predict seizures in women through wearable devices
Dr. Mona Nasseri, assistant professor of electrical engineering, has been awarded a $199K National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to research wearable devices for women with seizure disorders to better predict the onset of a seizure event. The study will focus on improving the quality of life for women with epilepsy by creating forecasting algorithms that can help manage the doses of anti-seizure medication based on the predicted seizure risk. The research will also provide training opportunities for a diverse group of UNF undergraduate and graduate students. Learn more about the study.

UNF research permit extended for local dolphin study
UNF’s Dolphin Research Program permit to study Jacksonville’s urban dolphins has been renewed for an additional five years by the National Marine Fisheries Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The research will continue a 10-year photo-identification study of bottlenose dolphins, focusing on biology, ecology, behavior, social structure and health. Learn more about the renewed permit.

UNF’s school counseling SOAR program receives $1.6M GEAR UP grant
UNF’s counseling “SOAR” program has been awarded a $1.6 million U.S. Department of Education grant. Named GEAR UP, or Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, the grant will allow the University to partner with Duval County Public Schools to help students from low-income backgrounds better prepare for postsecondary education. Learn more about the grant.

Free things to do in March

Lufrano Intercultural Gallery: Pre[serve] Exhibition
Hours: Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., John A. Delaney Student Union, Bldg. 58E, Suite 2401
This juried exhibition features UNF students and alumni responding to the UNF Preserve on campus. The exhibition is open now through April 8 and presented through a partnership between Art, Art History and Design and the Institute of Environmental Research and Education.

International Women's Day Violin Recital
Tuesday, March 8, 7:30 p.m., Recital Hall in the Fine Arts Center
Presented by Dr. Simon Shiao and UNF violin students. Music by Amy Beach, Julia Wolfe, Jennifer Higdon and Reena Esmail. Please register to confirm your attendance.

Ogiers Garden: ‘Honey Bees and Beekeeping’
Wednesday, March 9, 3 – 4 p.m., Frederick and Ophelia Tate Ogier Gardens
Bees are critical for our food supply, yet more than 25% of the managed honey bee population has disappeared since 1990. Learn beekeeping from local expert Greg Harris.

Jazz Combo Night
Thursday, March 10, 7:30 p.m., Recital Hall in the Fine Arts Center
Lynne Arriale, director
Please register to confirm your attendance.

Distinguished Voices Lecture Series
Speaker Tom Orlik: "China: The Bubble that Never Pops"
Tuesday, March 22, 7 p.m. at the Adam W. Herbert University Center
Tom Orlik is Bloomberg’s Chief Economist, based in Washington D.C. Previously, Tom was the Chief Asia economist for Bloomberg and China economics correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, based in Beijing. Prior to a decade in China, he worked at the British Treasury, European Commission, and International Monetary Fund. He is the author of Understanding China’s Economic Indicators (FT Press) and China: The Bubble that Never Pops (OUP).
Free e-tickets available online.

UNF Percussion Presents Quey Percussion Duo Residency
Thursday, March 24, 7:30 p.m., Recital Hall in the Fine Arts Center
Dr. Andrea Venet, coordinator

50th Anniversary Speaker Series Event: Women's Voices
Tuesday, March 29, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Thomas G. Carpenter Library
The Carpenter Library will host a UNF 50th Anniversary Speaker Series event titled, “Women's voices: Five women, five decades.” A panel of five women will share their personal experiences at UNF throughout the past 50 years. Moderated by Sheila Spivey, associate vice president of Diversity and Inclusion. Registration is required to attend in person or online.

The Cummer Family Foundation Chamber Music Series
Thursday, March 31, 7:30 p.m., Recital Hall of the Fine Arts Center
Enjoy the performance of Richard Cox, tenor, with Denise Wright, piano, and Dr. James Hall, artistic director. Please register to confirm your attendance.

Meet Jess Harris, Women’s Center Specialist

Meet Jess Harris, Women’s Center Specialist

What do you do at UNF? I am the Women’s Center Specialist and I facilitate the center’s programs, events and outreach. I also work closely with students to build a welcoming community here at UNF. I oversee the Women’s Center Student Committee, which is dedicated to the Center’s work and helps to create events.

What do you enjoy about working here? I cherish the connections I’ve made with the incredible students here. Their passion is contagious, and they inspire me.

How long have you lived in Jacksonville? Where else have you lived? I am originally from New England, and I moved from Massachusetts to Jacksonville two and a half years ago.

What one memory do you most treasure? My partner Andy and I got married in March of 2020, right as the pandemic was starting. We had already planned our small ceremony before anyone knew about COVID. Looking back, I really treasure our “reception,” alone in our living room with Pub Subs, and toasting to each other over grocery store cake since that was all that was available at the time. It created this beautiful space of love and comfort in a very scary time.

If you could have a dinner party and invite any four people, from the past or present, who would be on your guest list? Since this is a dinner party, why not invite foodies? I would invite Sohla and Ham El-Waylly, and Claire Saffitz who would make all the food and desserts for me and my last guest, my partner. We would have a blast cooking and chatting all night.

If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be and why? I would, without a doubt, work as a professional pastry chef.

What superpower would you like to have? How would you use it? I would love to have teleportation so that I could always be able to see loved ones whenever I wanted.

If you ruled the world, what would you change on Day 1? This is a huge question! I would make sure everyone had access to their basic needs for free — healthcare, childcare, food, housing, education, therapy, etc.

What’s at the top of your bucket list? Living a full and fun life daily is my goal. We are never guaranteed tomorrow, so I try to make the most of the here and now. This means I try to get together with friends and family as much as possible and say yes to adventures and things outside my comfort zone.

What one food do you wish had zero calories? I am grateful food has calories so they can nourish my body! If I had to pick a favorite food, it would be freshly baked bread with salted butter.

Tell us something that might surprise us about you. I once beat a poker champ the first night I learned how to play the game. It was certainly beginner’s luck.

Where would you like to go on a dream vacation? I’ve always wanted to go to Switzerland because it looks gorgeous. If that couldn’t work out, I’d settle for Mediterranean cruise with as many stops as possible!

Tell us a few of your favorite things.
Board games: Rummikub, Cribbage, Jackbox games
Ice cream flavor: Anything from Jeni’s Ice Cream, but especially the Sweet Cream Biscuits and Peach Jam flavor
Magazine: Cook’s Illustrated
Physical activity: Strength training
Season: Fall in New England

Osprey Profile

Meet Lydia Lee

What is your major and why did you choose it? I am an Early Childhood Education Major and a sociology minor. I chose this major because my goal in life is to impact the lives of youth. I believe the best way for me to do this is through teaching and encouraging, engaging and impacting the children I interact with daily.

Why did you decide to attend the University of North Florida?
I decided to come to UNF because I saw the amazing programs the University provided that catered to my education and career goals. I also really appreciated the class size the University had to offer.

Where are you from? I am from Gainesville, Florida.

What do you like most about UNF? What I like most about UNF is the profound sense of community. While I’ve been here, there have been countless opportunities for me to foster relationships that allow me to feel as though my school is a home away from home.

What has been your coolest UNF experience so far? My coolest UNF experience would have to be studying abroad summer of 2021. I studied in Greece for about six weeks, and I learned so much about diverse cultures and traveled the farthest I have ever been.

Who is your favorite professor? My favorite professor is Professor Dilek. She taught one of my first education classes my freshman year.

What’s your favorite UNF tradition? Homecoming

When you’re looking to de-stress and relax a bit, where do you go on campus? When I want to destress on campus, I’ll either go to my room, or I’ll visit the meditation/reflection room located in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion in Building 2.

If you could meet one historical figure for coffee, who would it be? I would like to meet Mae Jemison because she was the first black woman to travel into space. I would like to talk to her about the challenges she encountered as a black astronaut as well as what it was like to be in space.

If you could witness any historical event, what would you want to see? I would want to see Rosa Parks boycotting the bus.

Do you have any advice for high school students? My advice for high school students is to never quit and practice persistence even after you accomplish your goal.

When will you graduate? What do you want to do after graduation? I am graduating in Spring 23, and I plan to teach and travel after I graduate.

Faculty and Staff

Brooks College of Health
Dr. Lindsay Toth, assistant professor of exercise science, worked with six colleagues from other universities around the country and the world, to investigate the changes in levels of physical activity measured with wearable activity monitors over the past 20 years, in several developed countries around the world. Toth and the group published the peer-reviewed article “Time Trends in Physical Activity Using Wearable Devices: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Studies from 1995 to 2017.” Read the paper online.

Coggin College of Business
Dr. Nathan Kunz, associate professor of operations management, with A. Anjomshoae, R. Banomyong, and F. Mohammed, published “A systematic review of humanitarian supply chains performance measurement literature from 2007 to 2021” in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction.

College of Arts and Sciences
Art, Art History and Design
Sheila Goloborotko, associate professor of printmaking, presented her solo exhibition titled “Many Small Gestures” as part of a residency program developed by curator Shawana Brooks, Moving the Margins. The program matches artists with nonprofits and grassroots organizations, current tenants of the Jessie Ball DuPont Center. Together, artist and nonprofit organizations become a Cohort of Change-makers hosting community conversations to address intersectional themes and shared interests. Climate Injustice and Healthcare Disparities are the proposed themes for Goloborotko’s residency. The multidisciplinary works presented in this exhibition include juxtaposition and adaptivity, conveyed through unusual media yet pointing towards universal concerns, to address climate change and our rickety healthcare system. The exhibition opened on Feb. 12 and will be on view until May 4.

Goloborotko’s work is also included in the juried exhibition titled “Unfinished” at the International Print Center of New York (IPCNY), juried by Queer.Archive.Work (QAW.) This exhibition showcases works that stepped away from traditions of polish and perfection and instead expressed incompleteness, illegibility, risk, and queerness, among other themes. The resulting exhibition presents 49 works by 36 artists from the U.S. and abroad. Goloborotko’s work is also in the two group exhibitions: “Re-Vision,” showcasing works that encompass time for reflection to create a new vision for the future at Jill Kutrick Fine Art Gallery in Mamaroneck, New York; and “Protest Signs,” juried by Travis Williams, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Sociology at Virginia Commonwealth University at the Cultural Arts Building Gallery at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington.

Jenny K. Hager, professor of sculpture, presented her work at the Reclamation exhibition, a multi-disciplinary juried exhibition at the Florida School of the Arts in Palatka, Florida, February. Her work included: “Stain: Hate is a Virus” (video collaboration with D. Lance Vickery); “My Daily Swim [Routine Maintenance]” (video piece); and “Pandemic Dining Miniatures” (sculptural works). Hager also participated in the National Juried Art Exhibition “Positive/Negative 37” at the East Tennessee State University Slocumb Galleries, with juror Kevin W. Tucker, chief curator at the High Museum, Atlanta, February.

Stephen Heywood, professor of ceramics, participated in the International Cup − National Juried Exhibition in the Clay Studio of Montana, in Missoula, February. Heywood also had a solo exhibition at the Baltimore Clayworks, Space Gallery, Baltimore, Maryland, February.

Jason John, associate professor of painting and drawing, presented a solo exhibition titled “Concealment and Discovery,” at the 33 Contemporary Gallery, Chicago, January. The exhibition was featured in the January edition of the American Art Collector Magazine. John’s work was also featured in the Creative Quarterly Magazine, New York.

Andrew Kozlowski, assistant professor, presented two solo exhibitions. The first was "Tempo" at the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts in Valdosta, Georgia, Jan. 10 – Feb. 23. The exhibition features three recent series of prints totaling 31 works on paper, and "Routine Maintenance," a portfolio of 24 printmakers curated by Kozlowski. He also gave a gallery talk on Feb. 7 in conjunction with the exhibition. The second exhibition was "Things Will Get Better, But They Won't Be The Same" at the University of West Georgia. The solo exhibition features eight short stories and additional drawings cut from brightly colored vinyl and applied to the gallery windows standing 8 feet tall and over 40 feet in total length. Kozlowski traveled to UWG for an artist visit and bookmaking workshop Feb. 23-25.

D. Lance Vickery, assistant professor of sculpture, presented his collaborative work “Stain: Hate is a Virus” with Jenny K. Hager at the Reclamation exhibition, a multi-disciplinary juried exhibition at the Florida School of the Arts in Palatka, Florida, February. Vickery also had a permanent sculpture installation, “Flow," at Advanced Environmental Laboratories, February.

Chemistry
Dr. Medhat S. Farahat Khedr, visiting laboratory lecturer in chemistry, published a paper titled “New UV-Curable Acrylated Urethane-Oligoesters Derived from Poly (Ethylene Terephthalate) PET Waste” in the journal Systematic Review Pharmacy, September.

Dr. Arthur Omran, visiting assistant professor in chemistry, published a paper titled "Iron Silicides in Fulgurites" in the journal Minerals, December. Omran also published a paper titled "Phosphorus Oxidation Perturbed by Minerals" in the journal Life, January.

Communications
Dr. Christa Arnold, associate professor in communication studies, was awarded the COAS Mid-Career Faculty Research Release Award for the fall semester 2022. In addition, Arnold and Dr. Margaret Stewart, associate professor in communication studies, were awarded a Research Enhancement Plan Grant through the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs and College of Arts and Sciences at UNF.

English
Mark Ari, assistant professor of creative writing, published “Getting Through the Darkness: A Conversation with Michael J. Seidlinger” in The Adroit Journal, January.

Dr. Chris Gabbard, professor of English, organized and chaired the session, “Care Studies: Discourses of Care / Ethics of Care,” at the Modern Language Association annual conference, January.

Will Pewitt, English instructor, was the featured translator and published original translations of five Arabic poets in The American Journal of Poetry, January.

Philosophy/Religion Studies
Dr. Andrew Buchwalter, Presidential Professor, presented 'Philosophy is its Own Time Comprehended in Thought': On the Normativity of Hegel's Practical Philosophy" at the international conference L’Héritage de Hegel, Université du Québec à Montréal, January.

Dr. Jonathan Matheson, professor of philosophy, presented the posters “Why Think for Yourself?” and “The Philosophy of Epistemic Autonomy,” at the Eastern Division American Philosophical Association, January. Matheson also published the following articles: “Measuring Virtuous Responses to Peer Disagreement: The Intellectual Humility and Actively Open-Minded Thinking of Conciliationists,” (with James Beebe) in the Journal of the American Philosophical Association; and “Why Think for Yourself?” in Episteme: A Journal of Individual and Social Epistemology.

Physics
Dr. Maitri Warusawithana, assistant professor, in collaboration with Dr. Dan Santavicca, professor, published an article “50 Ohm Transmission Lines with Extreme Wavelength Compression Based on Superconducting Nanowires on High-Permittivity Substrates," D. F. Santavicca, M. Colangelo, C. R. Eagle, M. P. Warusawithana and K. K. Berggren. Appl. Phys. Lett. 119, 252601 (2021). In addition, Warusawithana, in collaboration with Dr. Tom Pekarek, professor, published an article “Doping dependent electronic and magnetic ordering in mixed-valent La1-xSrxMnO3 thin films” J. A. Payne, C. T. Bryant, R. M. Tavera, T. M. Pekarek, and M. P. Warusawithana. Mater. Res. Express 9, 016101 (2022).

Political Science and Public Administration
Dr. Izabela A. Majewska, visiting instructor, published an article “Teaching Global Competence: Challenges and Opportunities,” a discussion of global competence as a competency-based education, the challenges to global competence instruction and acquisition, and opportunities for improvement in this area of learning, Journal of College Teaching, January.

Dr. Sean Freeder, assistant professor of political science (American Politics), in collaboration with Neil O’Brian, has had the manuscript “Political Accountability and Selective Perception in the Time of COVID” accepted for publication in the Public Opinion Quarterly. Also, in collaboration with Dr. Enrijeta Shino, assistant professor, Freeder presented: “Fraud or Suppression?: Determinants of Distrust in American Elections,” at the Southern Political Science Association. In addition, Freeder served as a conference session chair/panelist for the “Assessing Opinions in an Experimental Setting,” Southern Political Science Association.

Sociology/Anthropology and Social Work
Dr. Jelena Brezjanović-Shogren, visiting instructor of anthropology, secured the High Impact Practices Grant, Office of Faculty Excellence – $5,000, January.

Dr. Jonathan Grant, assistant professor of sociology and Africana studies, published an article "Keys to the City: Race, Place and Class in America's Black mecca" in the International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Education, January.

College of Education and Human Services
Dr. Stacy Boote, associate professor, was named the 2022 COEHS Research Article Award winner by the Research Advisory Board.

Dr. Luke Cornelius, associate professor, hosted Interim President Pamela Chally in his Higher Education Organization and Leadership class last week where she discussed her multiple experiences as a transitional leader, as well as leadership from the female perspective.

Dr. Terrie Galanti, associate professor, along with colleagues from George Mason University recently published an article in Investigations in Mathematics Learning titled “Researchers as coaches: Developing mathematics teaching capacity via integrated STEM.” Read the full article here.

Dr. Jennifer Kane, professor and associate dean, and Jason Lee, professor, presented “Valuing Clinical Instruction through Appropriate Instructor Evaluation” at the 2022 COSMA Conference. Kane also presented “Leadership vs. Management – What’s the Difference?” with other administrative colleagues across the country and was recognized for her six years of dedicated service and commitment to Excellence in Sport Management Education for her service on the Board of Directors from 2016-22. She served as Chair of the BOD from 2020-22.

Dr. Megan E. Lynch, postdoctoral fellow, was selected to receive the Outstanding Dissertation Award. The prestigious award was presented to Megan during the 2022 National Association of Professional Development Schools Conference Feb. 10-12 in Chicago. Read more about the distinction.

Dr. Amanda Pascale, associate professor and chair, along with a colleague from UNC Wilmington recently published an article in the American Journal of College Health titled: "Transgender college students’ mental health: Comparing transgender students to their cisgender peers." Read the full article here.

Dr. Tara Rowe, associate director of THRIVE, was nominated for the UNF Women’s Center 2022 Gender Equity Award (formerly the Susan B. Anthony Award). The award will be presented at the Women's History Month Celebration at noon on Friday, March 4.

Dr. Nile Stanley, associate professor, hosted Englewood’s first Poetry Night, along with Hope at Hand and UNF student volunteers. Stanley chaired and performed at the open-mic poetry event where 25 students and five teachers read aloud original poems.

Michael Stultz, associate instructor, Jonathan Antal, associate instructor, and Maryrose Bass, instructor, presented the opening workshop titled, "Curtain Up and ASL Storytelling" during the FASLTA Conference.

Dr. Christine L. Weber, professor, has published a chapter with co-author, Angela M. Novak, titled “Professional Learning: A New Look” in the Introduction to Gifted Education forthcoming in June 2022.

Dr. Hope Wilson, associate professor, was selected to take part in the Ronald Reagan Institute Summit on Education to discuss STEAM education with legislators, national nonprofits and a diverse group of experts in education and research. Wilson also published an article “Resolving the Conflict in Gifted Education: The Missing Piece in Discussions of Inequity of Identification, Service, and Achievement for Advanced Learners” in Volume 66, Issue 2 of Gifted Child Quarterly.

Dr. Matthew Ohlson, Easter Brown, Lauren J. Gibbs, Shelley Lester, Justin Faulkner, Stephanie Jackson, and Clayton Anderson had a book chapter published in the book "Preparing Quality Teachers: Advances in Clinical Practice," titled “Partnership Between School and University Leaders for Teacher Preparation.” Learn more about the book here.

Fifty-four participants represented UNF at the National Association of Professional Development Schools Conference Feb. 10-12. In all, the participants presented 19 different sessions highlighting innovative teaching practices in our PDS and partnership schools; reports and findings on initiatives for professional learning for all stakeholders; teacher candidates’ learning through practices like peer coaching, inquiry, and finding their teacher voice; and discussions on capacity-building for strong mentoring and supervising partnerships. Also, some of our doctoral candidates shared portions of their dissertations.

THRIVE Artwork at MOSH beginning March 25 - May 19
Several THRIVE students' original artwork will be on display as a part of the 2022 Arts Infusion Program. For our THRIVE students, the theme is ImagiNclusion, a focus on works of art inspired by or reflecting the concepts of inclusion, acceptance and diversity.

Thomas G. Carpenter Library
Systems and Digital Technologies Librarian Adam Chalmers and Virtual Learning Librarian Kelly Hovinga presented a session titled “Supporting Innovation: Staffing, Training, and Outreach for a Virtual Reality Space” at the “Florida Online Innovation Summit” hosted by the University of Central Florida, March 23.

Dateline

Milestones
Congratulations to the following employees with a milestone anniversary in March. (Names with an asterisk* had January anniversaries that were omitted in the December/January listing.)

40 Years
Beth Clements, Coordinator, Administrative Services, College of Arts and Sciences*

35 Years
Rosalyn Gilbert, Office Manager, ORSP

25 Years
Joel Beam, Professor, Clinical and Applied Movement Science*
Decato Burke, Manager Audio Visual Tech, ITS Academic Technology
Joann Campbell, Associate VP, Chief Compliance Officer, University Compliance*

15 Years
Serra Kekec, Financial Aid Specialist, Financial Aid Office
Deborah Kochanowski, Assistant Director, Academic Advising Services, Brooks Advising
Patricia Launer, Coordinator, Contracts Grants Accounting, ORSP*

10 Years
Michele Clements, Senior Academic Advisor, First-Year Advising
Marla Lewis, Associate Director, Student Financial Aid, Financial Aid Office*

5 Years
Caitlin Doherty, Executive Director MOCA, MOCA Jacksonville
Amy Lehnhoff, Strategic Sourcing Analyst, Procurement Services*
Kate McMillan, Assistant Director, Donor Engagement Steward, Stewardship and Donor Relations*
Jennifer Murray, University Librarian, Library
Jennifer Nabors, Associate Director, Academic Support Services, Academic Affairs*
Mohanad Saoor, Senior Control Systems Technician, Maintenance and Energy Management*
Karine Stukes, Assistant Director, Curricular Engagement, Taylor Leadership Institute
Alexis Waite, Benefits Retirement Specialist, Human Resources*

Welcome
The following employees were either hired by UNF or were promoted from OPS positions recently:
Tyler Aldinger, Student Government Manager, SG Business and Accounting Office
Sarwar Ayubi, Accounting Associate, Advancement Services, UDAE
Emily Bailey, Digital Communications, MOCA Jacksonville
Brishauna Conner, Office Assistant, Quality Control & Work Management
Carla Dancer, IT Help Desk Manager, User Services
Felicia George, Director, Faculty Administration Records Management, Academic Affairs
Tavis Harrison, Senior Library Services Associate, Library
Matthew Lisiewski, Senior Associate AD Development, Athletics
Michael Maes, Accounts Payable Receivable Associate, University Housing
Elisa Martin, Student Affairs Specialist, Student Affairs
Matthew McCloud, Groundskeeper, Apartments
Trina McCowan, Assistant University Librarian, Library
Daniel Osachy, Senior Library Services Associate, Library
Calvin Pyko, Coordinator Budgets, Enrollment Services
Sharon Snow, Academic Advisor, CCEC Advising
Bobby Whitfield, Custodial Worker, Custodial Services

Great Job
The following employees were promoted recently:
Brock Borgeson, Assistant Athletic Director of Communications, Athletics
Erin Byrd, Assistant Director Budget Positions, University Planning & Budget
Karla Calliste-Edgar, Divisional Budget Coordinator, Telephone Services
Brittany Duffy, Specialist Academic Support, Academic Affairs
Ann Fishman, Coordinator, Board of Trustees
Andrea Holcombe, Director, Board of Trustees
Ruth Lopez, Associate Vice President, Student Engagement and International Affairs
Justin Lovins, Assistant Director, Operations, UNF Online
Christine Malek Richard, Associate Vice President, Academic and Student Affairs, Budgets and Operations
Michael McGuire, Assistant Director, Planning Reporting, University Planning and Budget
Gina Motes, Administrative Specialist, Office of the CIO
Susan Perez, Associate Vice President, Student Academic Success and Undergraduate Studies
Austin Sprunger, Library Services Specialist, Library
Brittany Walker, IT Service Management Specialist, User Services

Goodbye
The following employees have left UNF recently:
Madelaine Cosgrove, Associate Director, Florida Institute of Education
William Davis, Student Financial Services Coordinator, Controller
Jose Feliciano, Maintenance Mechanic, Physical Facilities
Chelsea Gentry, Acquisitions Coordinator, Library
Annie Gomez, IT Full Stack Software Engineer, Enterprise Systems
William Harding, IT Security Analyst, ITS
Kevin Inlow, Assistant Athletic Coach, Volleyball
Kenneth Laali, Professor, Chemistry
Thomas Lake, Assistant Director IT Security, ITS
Patrick Moore, Manager Applications Systems, Enterprise Systems, ITS
Becky Raines, Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities
Nakinya Robinson, Coordinator Accounting, Controller
Kevin Roop, Assistant Director, IPTM
Leslie Rosenberg, Registered Nurse Practitioner, Counseling Center
Victoria Shore, Student Government Advisor, SG Business and Accounting Office
Paul Yeoman, Assistant Director, Physical Facilities

Swoop Summary

Women’s Basketball Advances Past Lipscomb
North Florida women's basketball (13-16) never trailed, Jazz Bond set the UNF DI-era points record, Rhetta Moore reeled in 12 boards and the Ospreys put the clamps on Lipscomb (10-20) in a 60-42 ASUN Championship First Round win on the road Wednesday, March 2. Learn more about the win.

Women’s Tennis Rolls by Georgia Southern, 6-1
North Florida women's tennis has rolled by Georgia Southern historically, and Sunday that continued as the Ospreys (4-5) bested the Eagles (3-4), 6-1, February 20. UNF won doubles and five of the six singles positions, with all but one win coming in straight sets. Learn more about women's tennis dominating win.

Softball Sweeps Michigan State in Dramatic Fashion
North Florida softball (8-1) took down Michigan State (5-4) not only once but twice, using a dazzling day from Halle Arends in the circle, late-game small ball and a walk-off in the second game to go 2-0 against the Big Ten foe. Learn more about the victory over Michigan State.

Men’s Basketball Holds Off FGCU in Homecoming Game
On brand with this year's ASUN season, North Florida men's basketball found itself in a barnburner as it battled with FGCU Saturday, Feb. 19. For the third time in as many games, the Ospreys (10-18, 6-8 ASUN) emerged on the other side of the dust with a victory as they held off the Eagles (18-10, 8-6 ASUN), 70-64, from a boisterous UNF Arena. Learn more about the Ospreys homecoming victory.

Men's Golf Trio Places Top 12 at Nexus Collegiate
The North Florida men's golf trio of Robbie Higgins, Nick Gabrelcik and Jason Duff all carded top-12 finishes in the Bahamas, as the Ospreys turn in a top-three finish at the Nexus Collegiate. Learn more about the golf team's top-12 finish.

Spread the Word

UNF Garden Awarded Top Distinction

The University of North Florida’s Climate Change Demonstration Garden, known to many as Pocket Park, has recently been awarded the gold level Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Commercial Certification from the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. To receive this distinction, a garden must exhibit and follow nine “Florida-friendly landscaping principles” using low maintenance, low impact environmentally sustainable practices. The gold award signifies the highest possible excellence standards. Read more about the distinction.

Spread the Word!