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Inside UNF — March 28, 2024

UNF Giving Day is only days away
UNF names Andrea Jones Vice President of Marketing and Communications
Former Mexico President scheduled to speak at UNF
UNF invites community to Eclipse Watch Party
UNF's go-to solution for Generative AI
Faculty Feature: Dr. Suzanne Ehrlich
Faculty and Staff Mixer
Staff Spotlight: Rebeca Mata
MOCA celebrates 100th anniversary with Centennial Gala
Osprey Profile: Amar Kosovac
Inside News Roundup
Faculty and Staff News
Dateline
Free Things to Do
Swoop Summary

UNF Giving Day is only days away

Guess what Ospreys? UNF Giving Day is almost here! UNF Giving Day 2024 kicks off at noon on April 2 through noon on April 3, 2024. Join the Race to 4,200 donors early, before Tuesday, April 2 with a gift to an area that you are passionate about. Gifts of $5 or more will receive exclusive UNF shoelaces. 

Every gift goes a long way in helping our students succeed. Join the movement to #SwoopAndSupport the various programs and causes that are near to your heart at UNF, such as scholarships, academic initiatives, clubs, athletics and more. There is no better time to make a difference and show your Osprey pride.

Learn how you can participate in UNF Giving Day.

UNF names Andrea Jones Vice President of Marketing and Communications

The University of North Florida has named Andrea Jones vice president of marketing and communications.

Jones, who currently serves as the vice president of public relations and marketing communications at Georgia State University (GSU), has more than 15 years of experience in higher education. In her new role, Jones will lead marketing and communications strategies at UNF to build brand awareness and elevate the University’s reputation regionally and nationally among prospective students and other key stakeholders.

"Andrea has an impressive background as a leader in higher education marketing, and we are excited to bring her expertise to UNF,” said UNF President Moez Limayem. “She has a proven record implementing strategies to drive enrollment and student success outcomes, and we look forward to her leadership as we continue to share the UNF story.

Jones has worked in public relations and marketing at GSU since 2008, serving in a number of positions including director of media relations and associate vice president, before being named vice president in December 2021.

Former Mexico President scheduled to speak at UNF

Ernesto Zedillo, former Mexico president (1994-2000)

Former Mexico President, Dr. Ernesto Zedillo, will present "A Presidential Look at Latin America and Mexico’s Perspective on Hemispheric and Bilateral Relations," on Tuesday, April 9 at 7 p.m. at the Adam W. Herbert University Center (Bldg. 43). Zedillo is the director of the Study of Globalization Program at the Yale Jackson School of Global Affairs, a professor in international economics and politics and an adjunct professor at the Yale School of the Environment. He currently teaches undergraduate seminars on "Debating Globalization" and "The Economic Evolution and Challenges of the Latin American and Caribbean Countries."

Zedillo served as president of Mexico from 1994 to 2000 and visits UNF on behalf of the Distinguished Voices Lecture Series, a partnership between UNF and the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville to bring distinguished speakers to our campus.

Learn more about Zedillo and register to attend this FREE event.

UNF invites community to Eclipse Watch Party

The University of North Florida Department of Physics and Astronomy Club invite the campus community and public to celebrate the upcoming solar eclipse. The UNF Eclipse Watch Party will take place Monday, April 8, at the J.B. Coxwell Amphitheater from 2 to 4 p.m.

Action News Jax will hand out free ISO-approved solar eclipse glasses at the event. Physics students and faculty will have solar telescopes for viewing and fun activities for kids and families. Please bring your own chairs or blankets.

The event is free but parking at UNF in Lot 18 costs $2. A parking permit can be purchased at a Pay-by-Plate kiosk or the smartphone Flowbird app.

For event questions, contact the UNF Physics Department at (904) 620-2729.

Information provided by UNF Department of Physics and Astronomy Club

UNF's go-to solution for Generative AI

Welcome to Microsoft Copilot at UNF!

UNF has adopted Microsoft Copilot as its approved AI solution to enable the UNF community to safely use generative AI in their work. Using nonapproved AI services can expose UNF’s data; however, Copilot keeps the University’s data safe with built-in commercial data protection from Microsoft. Always use Copilot for AI chats involving UNF data as it is the only approved Generative AI platform for use with UNF Data.

Learn more about Microsoft Copilot and why is it the go-to for Generative AI at UNF.

Information provided by UNF Division of Information Technology Services

Faculty Feature: Dr. Suzanne Ehrlich

Dr. Suzanne Ehrlich, associate professor of educational technology, training and development, was recently named among 32 global educational leaders to the 2024 cohort of EDSAFE Women in AI Fellows. The Women in AI Fellowship is a program that aims to support outstanding individuals with a passion for artificial intelligence in education.

Over the next year, Ehrlich will be provided with a platform to learn and work with experts in AI safety, ethics and policy. She and the other fellows will be exposed to a range of topics and encouraged to discuss the potential impacts of AI on society.

“I’m thrilled to serve alongside these brilliant women in shaping the future of AI in education,” Ehrlich said. “Our collective work is crucial to ensuring responsible AI development and advancing innovative futures for all.”

Faculty and Staff Mixer

Join your colleagues and meet new friends at the next Faculty and Staff Mixer Thursday, April 4, from 4-6 p.m. in the Talon Room, Osprey Commons (Building 16).

Unwind and enjoy drinks and light refreshments as you visit with fellow UNF employees.

Staff Spotlight: Rebeca Mata

Rebeca Mata ('21) is a project design assistant for the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) — handling a variety of web and digital projects. Her role affords her enjoyable opportunities to interact with students, faculty and staff. The Jacksonville native and UNF alum holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design and digital media. While majoring in graphic design, she served as an officer in the CMD+N Graphic Design Club. Her hobbies include illustration, typesetting and coding. In addition, she is currently learning 3D modeling and printing in her spare time.

In your current role, what are your specific duties?

I design most of the marketing materials for the different events OUR hosts, manage the website and photograph our different events. I also work on PANDION, our undergraduate research journal.

What do you enjoy most about working at UNF?

What I enjoy most is the interactions with the students during our poster symposiums. It is amazing seeing so many people passionate about their research and chatting about it. Also, everyone I work with is very kind and understanding, which makes it a great working environment.

What influenced your decision to study graphic design?

I actually entered college undetermined what major to choose. I had only taken one graphic design class in high school. I took a few introduction classes at UNF and I really started to find my passion for it. The teachers and fellow students were influential to my decision to continue.

What were your career aspirations growing up?

I wanted to be a veterinarian because of all the animals I grew up around.

Do you have a favorite spot on campus? If so, where is it and why is it your favorite?

My favorite spot on campus is the second floor of the Fine Arts building where the windows are. I love enjoying being able to see down to The Green and enjoy the sun.

What is one memory you treasure?

One memory I treasure is Christmases as a kid. We used to spend them visiting family in Texas and then returning home to continue our own traditions. It was a lot of fun when all my siblings were still close and did not branch out so far.

Who/what inspires you to be your best?

My best inspiration comes from my culture. I love the art and landscapes of Mexico, which always gives me ideas for personal projects. Also, my siblings/family since they are all hard workers who decide to walk their own path and inspire me to do the same.

What is a fun fact about you many people may not know?

I am the youngest of six and my closest sibling is 10 years older than me. I was very much a surprise child.

MOCA celebrates 100th anniversary with Centennial Gala

To commemorate its 100th anniversary, MOCA Jacksonville is celebrating with a Centennial Gala on Saturday, April 6 — a New York in the ‘70s-themed bash inspired by the exhibition, "A Walk on the Wild Side."

Founded in 1924 as the Jacksonville Fine Arts Society, MOCA Jacksonville is the oldest art museum in the region and the second contemporary art museum to be established in the United States.

Celebrate MOCA Jacksonville's legacy and reserve your gala tickets today.

Save on Centennial Gala tickets on UNF Giving Day
In honor of MOCA's 100th anniversary, every donation made to the museum during UNF Giving Day will support its centennial celebrations. As a special perk, UNF students, staff, faculty and alumni can save $20 on tickets to MOCA's Centennial Gala on Saturday, April 6. This discount is only available during UNF Giving Day! Celebrating a century of creativity and community, funds raised at MOCA's Centennial Gala will enable the museum to present groundbreaking exhibitions, public programs and educational initiatives that engage the community and elevate UNF and Jacksonville as a regional destination for arts and culture. Learn more about this special promotion and reserve your ticket.

Osprey Profile: Amar Kosovac

Amar Kosovac is a graduate student pursuing a master's degree in biology. The Jacksonville native keeps himself busy with various interesting research projects. During last year's U-Glide Symposium, he presented his research topic "Investigating the Role of Calcium Salts on Crystal Formation During Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation," detailing how microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) is a developmental solution to combating erosion in areas such as the Gulf Stream using Sporosarcina pasteurii. Last December, he participated in the newly formed Across the Nest Research Seminar Series on the topic “Can bacteria help prevent beach erosion?” with Dr. Raphael Crowley (Civil Engineering and Taylor Engineering Research Institute) and Dr. Terri Ellis (Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program). When he's not conducting research, you can find him tutoring other students as a supplemental instruction leader for Student Academic Success Services. Following graduate school, Kosovac hopes to pursue a Ph.D.

What brought you to UNF?
I always felt like UNF was the obvious choice due to location and family.

What are some memorable moments you've experienced as a UNF student?
I've presented my undergrad research here at UNF last semester for U-GLIDE. This semester I was given the opportunity to present my research in Tallahassee to Florida senators and house representatives.

What have you enjoyed most about your experience at UNF?
I've enjoyed the people and the connections that I have made over the years.

Do you have a favorite place on campus? If so, what makes that place special to you?
I love the Biology Building and I also love the Bamboo Garden. Both places are amazing places to learn new things and to communicate with people.

What do you like to do for fun?
I like playing sports, especially pickleball with my friends. Also, spending time with my friends and family is extremely important to me.

Who is your favorite musical artist/music genre to listen to?
The Weeknd

What’s the greatest bit of advice you’ve ever been given?
Intelligence is the product of creativity and knowledge.

Who or what inspires you?
My parents inspire me.

What is a fun fact about you many people may not know?
I produce and sell my own soap.

Inside News Roundup

Visiting Author

The Annual Amy R. Wainright Visiting Author is Virgil Suárez and will take place on Today, March 28, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the UNF Gallery of Art, Building 2, Ste. 1001. Suárez specializes in creative writing and Latino/a literature. He is a published author, poet, essayist, novelist and short story writer. The reading will be followed by a Q & A and book signing. This free event is made possible by the Roberts-Wainright Endowment for Creative Writing.

Temporary Shuttle Reroute - March 27 to April 1

Due to an Athletic Track and Field event, from 8 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, to noon on Monday, April 1, the road between Lot 18 and Hodges Stadium will be blocked off to vehicle traffic. Lot 18 will be accessible from Eco Road, Varsity Lane and the Central Parkway campus entrance. The Lot 18 shuttle stop closest to Hodges Stadium will not be accessible, and there will be a temporary shuttle reroute to continue service at the shuttle stop closest to the Central Parkway campus entrance. For more information, contact Parking and Transportation Services at parking@unf.edu or (904) 620-2815.

Constitutional Convention Open Forum

Once every 10 years, the President of the University convenes the Constitutional Convention to review UNF's Constitution. This year’s review will take place on Monday, April 1 at 11 a.m. in Building 58E, John A. Delaney Student Union, Room 3200, SG Senate Chambers. Headed by Dr. Heather Barnes Truelove, the committee is made up of faculty, staff and student representatives. Over the past several months, the committee discussed recommended changes and voted on whether to accept, reject or modify them. The open forum allows the UNF community to provide comments on the proposed changes. For more information, contact Mary Stumph at mstumph@unf.edu.

Spring 2024 Iron Pour
Join the UNF sculpture program for their semi-annual iron pour event Saturday, April 6 from 4 to 8 p.m. behind the Annex Building (Bldg. 6). Attendees will have an opportunity to participate by purchasing a resin bonded sand scratch block and carving a low relief image or design into the sand. This event is free and open to the public. Small scratch blocks are $12 and large scratch blocks are $17. All money raised goes back into the UNF sculpture program. This event is hosted by COAS, AAHD and UNF Sculpture Guild.

Workday Cutover Timeline Webpage Now Live

The OspreyRising Workday Cutover Timeline webpage is now live. This webpage provides a comprehensive overview of the upcoming cutover process for Workday, which will launch on Monday, July 1, including key dates, milestones and resources. The timeline outlines the critical steps in transitioning to Workday and ensures a smooth and successful implementation for the entire UNF community. It is encouraged to visit the webpage to familiarize yourself with the upcoming cutover schedule.

Art Supplies Drive

UNF and AIGA Jax's Design 4 Good are collecting gently used or unopened art supplies and donating them to Art, Art History and Design students in need and local organizations with an emphasis on the arts and youth. Donation boxes of colored pencils, markers, craft paper, sketchbooks, pastels, paint, or other craft supplies can be placed in the Art, Art History and Design main office (Building 45, Room 2022) until Thursday, May 9.

Faculty and Staff News

Brooks College of Health
Dr. E. Jane McCarthy, professor of nursing, gave a talk “Serving as an Army Nurse in Vietnam” to the American Legion in Bel Air, Maryland on Friday, March 29.

College of Education and Human Services

Dr. Dione Thomas Webber, clinical assistant professor, presented “Perspectives of Overage Students: Issues that Affected their Schooling and What it Means for Student Success” at the National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Conference on Tuesday, March 5.

Dr. Wendy Baker, Dr. Shaqwana Freeman-Green, Dr. Katrina Hall and Dr. Megan Lynch were selected as selected as participants in the Association of Teacher Educators' inaugural Inquiry Initiative in 2022. The Initiative was the “first of its kind” collaborative exploration of teacher education practices and research, focused on “opportunity gaps” in education.

Dr. Rakesh Maurya, assistant professor, authored a research article "The Story of Compassion: From Ancient Text to Modern Practice" which was published in the Journal of Humanistic Psychology, an APA journal, March 2024.

Dateline

Milestones
Congratulations to the following employees with a milestone anniversary in March 2024:

20 Years
Belinda Griffin, Senior Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities

10 Years
Ada Vaughn, Graduate Admissions Evaluator, Graduate School
Brandi Winfrey, Director Inclusive Excellence

5 Years
Tasha Blair, Housing Assignments Specialist, University Housing
Carolyn Carley-Richart, Senior Buyer, Procurement Services
Shannon Cullen-Brosonski, Assistant Director of Development, MOCA Jacksonville
Timothy Flanagan, Fitness Coordinator, Student Wellness Complex
Tiffany Kershner, Instructor, Hicks Honors College
Morgan Luckie, Assistant Athletic Coach, Women's Soccer
Courtney Medellin, Web Developer II, Enterprise Systems
Sharon Murchison, Associate Director, IPTM
Alex Tran, Office Manager, Controller's Office

Welcome
The following employees were either hired by UNF or were promoted from OPS positions recently:
Ciesielska Alicja, Associate Director, Student Engagement, Career Services
Barrett Barnett, Executive Secretary, Counseling Center
Hannah Boudreaux, Coordinator, MedNexus
James Cunningwood, Benefits Retirement Specialist, Human Resources
Ana Diaz Trochez, Coordinator Academic Support Services, Enrollment Services
CoSundra Fanner, Administrative Specialist, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
Mary Feimi, Administrative Specialist, Academic Advisor
Anthony Granato, Auto Equipment Mechanic, Physical Facilities
Jamay Harris, Custodial Worker, Custodial Services
Zuleyka Hernandez, Career Coach Coordinator, Career Services
Patrisha Hobbie, Program Manager, Florida Institute of Education
Enrik Kapxhillari, Business Specialist, Florida Institute of Education
Joy Marshall, Custodial Worker, Custodial Services
Jerisha McAlister, Custodial Worker, Custodial Services
Christian Merkley, Office Manager, Nutrition and Dietetics
Chandler Miller, Welcome Desk Office Assistant, Housing/Residence Life
Fanny Pavon Molina, Custodial Worker, Housing/Residence Life
Ana Reyes Molina, Custodial Worker, Housing/Residence Life
Trey Morris, Irrigation Technician, Grounds
Victoria Myers, Office Manager, Department of English
Gerlach Natalie, Career Coach Coordinator, Career Services
Thao Nguyen, Custodial Worker, Custodial Services
Maria Rea, Web Manager, Marketing and Communications
Jean Riley, Office Manager, Clinical and Applied Movement Science
Boyle Robert, Maintenance Mechanic, Maintenance and Energy Management
David Robinson, Custodial Worker, Custodial Services
Jay Sprout, Instructional Designer, Professional Development and Training
Jordan Taylor, Coordinator Training, Professional Development and Training
Erica Thomas, Academic Support Services Specialist , Psychology
Camryn Thornton, Career Coach Coordinator, University Housing
Jody Van Gilder, Administrative Secretary, Department of Biology
Alondra-Soledad Vega, Admissions Recruiter, Admissions
Aaron Williamson, Maintenance Mechanic, Student Union-Maintenance and Energy Management
Ivy Wyman, Social and Digital Media Specialist, Enrollment Services

Great Job
The following employees were recently promoted:
Jason Jose Miciano, Integrated Solutions Engineer II, ITS
Elizabeth Riepe-Strickland, Director, Classification and Compensation, Human Resources
Joe Stewart, Senior Coordinator Online Learning Supplementation, Center for Instruction and Research Technology
Candice Veilleux-Mesa, Associate Director, Academic Support Services, Institutional Effectiveness

Free Things to Do

Juried Student Exhibition
Exhibit on view now through April 5, UNF Gallery of Art
The UNF Juried Student Exhibition highlights the exceptional work of UNF's fine arts students. This exhibition provides an opportunity for students to showcase their work and receive critical feedback from guest juror Isaac Duncan II. Learn more about this student exhibition showing at the UNF Gallery of Art.

Project Atrium: Frank Stella "Jacksonville Stacked Stars"
Exhibit on view now through Aug. 18, MOCA Jacksonville
Frank Stella (b. 1936; Malden, MA) returns to MOCA Jacksonville following his successful print exhibition in 2018, Frank Stella Unbound, this time for an installation in the Atrium to celebrate the museum’s 100th anniversary. Learn more about MOCA's latest exciting exhibition.

UNF Percussion presents: Guest artist, Oliver Xu

Friday, March 29, 7:30 p.m., Recital Hall of the Fine Arts Center

Julliard alumnus Oliver Xu is internationally recognized as a solo performer who advocates for contemporary music. Dr. Andrea Venet, director. Learn more about this upcoming performance.

Cummer Family Foundation Chamber Music Series

Tuesday, April 2, 7:30 p.m., Recital Hall of the Fine Arts Center

Amanda Lynn Bottoms, mezzo-soprano, and Denise Wright, piano. Dr. James Hall, artistic director. Learn more about this concert series.

Philosophy Slam with Dr. Heather Pease

Wednesday, April 3, 6:30 p.m., Sahara Cafe & Bar

Join UNF faculty member Dr. Heather Pease for an insightful discussion titled "Altruism: Mission Impossible?" Each slam has a short 10-15 minute presentation followed by an informal open discussion. Learn more about North Florida Philosphy Slams.

Movies on the House presents: "Ya no estoy aquí / I’m No Longer Here"

Thursday, April 4, 5 p.m., UNF Gallery of Art

“I’m No Longer Here” is a film about finding oneself a thousand miles away from your hometown through cumbia, punk aesthetics, graffiti and migrant communities. Learn more about this creative film from writer and director Fernando Frias.

Science Cafe: "Factors that Impact the Physiological and Psychological Functioning of College Students"

Friday, April 5, Noon - 1 p.m., UNF Library (Room 2102A-B)

Presented by Dr. Lourdes Dale and Audrey Dana from UF Health Department of Psychiatry, this discussion will highlight the impact that multiple risk factors may have on a college student’s ability to effectively manage their day-to-day interactions. Everyone is welcome to attend. Learn more about this upcoming discussion.

UNF Astronomy Night "Astronomy on a Budget"
Friday, April 5, 8 - 9:30 p.m., Science and Engineering Building
Al Bott, of the Northeast Florida Astronomical Society, will present a short public talk about how to pursue astronomy without spending a lot of money. Following the talk will be public observing on the roof. Everyone is invited. Learn more about upcoming Astronomy Nights.

Taylor Leadership Institute Leadership Awards & Taylor Talks
Thursday, April 11, 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Adam W. Herbert University Center
Join TLI for their annual Leadership Awards & Taylor Talks recognizing and celebrating campus and community leaders who make a difference at UNF and beyond. Learn more and register to attend the event.

Swoop Summary

UNF freshman sprinter Rey Hernandez, ASUN Freshman of the Week

Freshman Sprinter Receives Outdoor Track and Field ASUN Freshman of the Week Honor

Just days after making his collegiate outdoor debut at the Bob Hayes Invitational, freshman sprinter Rey Hernandez notched his first career ASUN Freshman Athlete of the Week award. Learn more about Hernandez's record breaking performances.

Here are a few upcoming events:

North Florida Invite Day 1: Beach Volleyball vs. UAB (noon) and New Orleans (4 p.m.)

Friday, March 29 | Cooper Beach Volleyball Complex | Free admission

North Florida Invite Day 2: Beach Volleyball vs. Mercer (10 a.m.) and College of Charleston (4 p.m.)

Saturday, March 30 | Cooper Beach Volleyball Complex | Free admission

Baseball vs. Eastern Kentucky

Friday, April 5, 6 p.m. | Harmon Stadium | Purchase Tickets

Women's Softball vs. Kennesaw State (Double Header)

Saturday, April 6, 2 and 4:30 p.m. | UNF Softball Complex | Purchase Tickets

Men's Soccer vs. Ave Maria University

Sunday, April 7, 4 p.m. | Hodges Stadium | Free Admission

Women's Tennis vs. Eastern Kentucky

Friday, April 12, 10 a.m. | UNF Tennis Complex | Free admission

Men's Tennis vs. Eastern Kentucky

Friday, April 12, 5 p.m. | UNF Tennis Complex | Free admission

Visit unfospreys.com for more events