Skip to Main Content
A-Z Index
Marketing and Communications
oneColumn handbook

Inside UNF — February 19, 2026

UNF welcomes interim president Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti

UNF interim president Dr. Angela Falconetti HeadshotDr. Angela Garcia Falconetti has been named interim president of the University of North Florida by the UNF Board of Trustees. 
 
Falconetti, a double UNF alumna and Jacksonville native, previously served as the president of Polk State College starting in 2017.
 
Falconetti will serve as interim president while the UNF Board of Trustees launches a national search to replace outgoing President Moez Limayem, who has been named president of the University of South Florida.
 
"The University of North Florida is on an upward trajectory, and Angela Garcia Falconetti will continue building on that momentum during the transition process," said BOT Chair Steve Moore. "As a UNF graduate who grew up in Jacksonville, Angela knows the University, has strong ties to business and civic leaders and will ensure continued focus on ensuring student success, investing in research and innovation, accelerating the success of faculty and staff and expanding and strengthening community partnerships."
 

UNF bids farewell to seventh president

Former UNF president Dr. Moez LimayemThe University of North Florida recently celebrated Dr. Moez Limayem’s three-and-a-half-year tenure as the institution’s seventh president. 
 
Limayem will now assume his new role as president of the University of South Florida, as appointed by the Florida Board of Governors in December 2025. 
 
Hundreds of colleagues, alumni and community partners showed up at the John A. Delaney Student Union to thank Limayem for his passionate leadership and offer well wishes on his next endeavor. 
 
UNF Board of Trustees Chair Steve Moore presented Limayem with a framed resolution expressing appreciation for his service and contributions to UNF, noting Limayem was a great leader who strengthened the University.
 

UNF continues its preservation efforts of the Timucuan Preserve

UNF students and faculty who presented at the symposium standing togetherUniversity of North Florida student and faculty researchers continue to play a central role in the ongoing research and preservation of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. UNF has been uncovering and preserving history at the local state and national parks since 1998.
 
Some of that work was represented recently when UNF students, faculty and staff presented some of those findings and more during the Timucuan Science and History Symposium held on January 23, at the Ribault Club in Jacksonville. 
 
The symposium provided a vital platform for UNF faculty and students to network with National Park Service and State Park rangers and local preservation companies, while also contributing eight papers and three posters.
 

Discover the latest upgrades at Harmon Stadium

Turf field at Harmon StadiumNorth Florida Athletics and North Florida Baseball has announced the completion of Phase I of its comprehensive renovation plan of Harmon Stadium. 
 
The initial phase of renovations reflects the commitment to enhance the student-athlete experience and delivers key upgrades designed to modernize the facility's operational efficiency and versatility to host different events, elevate the program's competitive foundation and create a more dynamic game day environment for fans. 
 
Phase I of the renovations includes a brand-new artificial turf field by AstroTurf, delivering a state-of-the-art playing surface, and a newly padded outfield wall courtesy of Bragan Better Baseball Foundation which features new characteristics including a 14' right field wall and unique corner in the left field, labeled "Cook Corner" in honor of the Cook Family.
 
Enhancements extend beyond the playing surface with the addition of an alumni lounge and newly renovated bathrooms, renovated by Scorpio and presented by Andy and Roxanne Rodgers.
 
 
Information provided by UNF Athletics

Phase one of campus tree planting initiative complete

By Amanda Ennis
 
President Moez Limayem standing beside a family holding plantsThe University of North Florida (UNF), in partnership with the City of Jacksonville (COJ), Public Trust for Conservation, COJ Tree Commission and Greenscape of Jacksonville celebrated Florida Arbor Day in January with a ribbon cutting ceremony to honor a substantial tree planting at the University of North Florida and UNF’s designation as a Tree Campus for Higher Education.
 
The event marked the culmination of phase one of a planned multi-year, multi-phase tree planting initiative at UNF aimed at expanding Jacksonville’s urban tree canopy. Phase One, valued at $300,000, began installation in November 2025 and represents the first step in a larger effort that plans to plant nearly $1 million worth of trees at UNF over three to four phases.
 
The costs for the trees planted at UNF were provided through the City of Jacksonville’s Tree Mitigation Trust Fund and include one year of maintenance, reinforcing a shared commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship and long-term community impact.
 

Attend the staff and faculty appreciation picnic

J.B. Coxwell Ampitheater at UNFMark your calendars Ospreys!
 
Join us for the 2026 Staff and Faculty Appreciation Picnic — a special event designed to honor your hard work and remind everyone how essential they are to UNF's success. Come enjoy great food, music and a chance to connect with colleagues in a fun, uplifting atmosphere.
 
Let’s celebrate you and everything you bring to our organization. Don’t miss it — your presence makes the day complete.
 
📅 Date: Thursday, March 12
🕚 Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
📍 Location: J.B. Coxwell Amphitheater
👔 Attire: Wear whatever you’re comfortable in – casual or your usual work clothes.
 
Kindly confirm your attendance by completing the RSVP form.

Swoop the Loop 2026 takes over The Nest

The 2026 UNF Swoop the Loop 5K brought students, alumni and community members together on Saturday, Feb. 7 at the J.B. Coxwell Amphitheater for a morning of fun, fitness and Osprey spirit. This year’s event saw 815 registrations and 594 participants on event day, a 73% increase in attendance from 2025. More than 300 students registered for the event.
 
FIT as FIRE kicked off the morning with a free pre‑run mat Pilates class for all fitness levels. Participants were also treated to bananas, water, Starbucks Refreshers and other race‑day snacks to keep them fueled.
 
 
Information provided by UNF Alumni Engagement
 
Three people standing together at Swoop the Loop 2026 event Runners at the Swoop the Loop 2026 event Runner cheering at the Swoop the Loop 2026 event
Swoop the Loop participant crossing the finish line Ozzie mascot posing with Swoop the Loop 2026 participants Runner receiving a ribbon at a race

Inside News Roundup

Female speaker addressing an audienceMarketing and Communications Summit TOMORROW

The UNF Marketing and Communications 2026 Summit is a half-day summit tomorrow, Friday, Feb. 20 at 9 a.m. in the Coggin College of Business Stein Auditorium. The Summit will feature presentations from UNF Marketing and Communications and internal UNF departments, a Q&A session, giveaways and a complimentary lunch. Please complete the RSVP form to help plan accordingly.

CPR/AED/First-Aid Training

This course provides American Red Cross Adult First Aid and CPR/AED training for currently enrolled UNF students, faculty and staff on Friday, Feb. 27 at 10 a.m. in the Student Wellness Complex, Mindbody Studio. The certification for CPR, First Aid and AED is valid for two years from the date of completion. Participants must sign up online in advance and complete an online training portion before attending the in-person class. Click the link, scroll down to "CPR/First-Aid Training" and click register. Cost: $66.95.

UNF students seated at a table with a Hicks Honors College coverHicks Honors AI and Innovation Fellows

Applications for the Hicks Honors AI and Innovation Fellows program are open until Sunday, March 1. This fellowship supports faculty exploring AI and innovative teaching methods in their undergraduate courses for Fall 2026. Fellows receive a $2,000 honorarium, with potential additional funds for student experiential costs. For more information or to submit a proposal, contact Dr. Scott Brown at psbrown@unf.edu.

Changes to Amazon Business

Beginning in early March, P-card users will be able to order from Amazon Business directly through Workday. This streamlined process uses single sign-on, automatically encumbers funds and centralizes approvals for sensitive items, making purchasing faster and easier. Learn more about this project on UNF Central.

MedNexus Research Innovation Fund: Call for Proposals

The MedNexus Research Innovation Fund supports faculty research that integrates emerging technologies to improve health outcomes and care delivery, offering grants of up to $20,000. Applications are open until Monday, March 6. For details or to apply, visit the MedNexus Research Innovation Fund webpage or contact Dr. Julie Merten at JMerten@unf.edu.

Senior Service Award and Graduate Student Service Award

The Senior Service Award is a prestigious award presented to a graduating senior that made significant contributions through volunteerism while maintaining an outstanding academic record. The winner receives a physical award, a paver in the Student Union and recognition during graduation. The new Graduate Student Service Award is also open to any Spring graduate from The Graduate School. The application deadline is Friday, April 10. Learn more by visiting the Student Awards, Scholarships and Grants webpage.

ADA Compliance Deadline Approaching

In Spring 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a final rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, requiring public universities to ensure their digital content meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA. At UNF, the compliance deadline is Friday, April 24, covering university websites, mobile apps and platforms like Canvas. Faculty must ensure their materials are accessible. To learn more, attend an upcoming workshop or visit during office hours. For questions, contact CIRT Accessibility at cirt.accessibility@unf.edu.

Emails from Maxient

Students, faculty and staff may receive emails titled "Official University Correspondence" from Maxient. These are legitimate communications from the University, not spam. Maxient is used by UNF for managing reports from the Dean of Students, Housing and Residence Life and the Office of Title IX and Civil Rights. If you receive an email, click the "Open Letter" button to enter your UNF N-number and read your communication.

Promotion Panel for Instructors and Lecturers

Join OFE for a discussion on the non-tenure track faculty promotion process for instructors and lecturers. The presentation will review key CBA and department guidelines, required dossier materials, effective annual preparation practices and University committee expectations. This session is helpful for all NTT faculty, from those in their first year to those preparing for promotion. Register for a session on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., or Tuesday, March 3, from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Professional Development Leave for NTT Faculty

Join OFE for a discussion about Professional Development Leave (PDL) for non-tenure track (NTT) faculty. Full-time NTT faculty with six or more years of service are eligible for PDL. This session will focus on what makes an effective application, an overview of the application process, best practices and timelines. If you plan to apply next year, or want more information for a future year, please register for a session on Wednesday, March 11, 2 to 3 p.m., or Thursday, March 26, 2 to 3 p.m.

Commencement Volunteers Needed

Volunteers are needed for Spring Commencement on Friday, May 1, in the UNF Arena. Faculty can sign up to reserve their spot in the faculty processional or serve as a marshal. Staff can sign up until Monday, March 30, to volunteer for any of the commencement ceremonies.

Active Training Volunteers Needed

UNF, in partnership with UPD, JSO and JFRD, will hold an Active Assailant Training Exercise on Tuesday, May 5, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. One hundred-fifty (150) UNF employees and students are needed to volunteer as actors. Water and lunch will be provided. If interested, please complete the volunteer form. Building Emergency Coordinators will receive a separate email with a specific volunteer form.

Faculty and Staff News

Osprey Fountain on UNF campusCollege of Arts and Sciences

Art, Art History and Design

Tuyen Bui-Lally, instructor, is exhibiting a new mixed-media portrait of civil rights activist Mary Church Terrell as part of 50 Voices of Change: Continuing the MLK Legacy, presented during Bentley University’s MLK Day 2026 events, January. In addition, Bui-Lally is also presenting a food, design, and storytelling-based installation under her creative practice Juste Tutu in the University of North Florida Faculty Exhibition, on view until March 4 at the UNF Gallery.

English

Katie Humphries, visiting instructor, was awarded a Bronze award for her short story, "Heads Up" at the Royal Palms Literary Award Competition (sponsored by Florida Writers Association) in Oct. 2025.

History

Dr. Alison J. Bruey, professor, presented "The Economy of Terror: State Power and Austerity in Chile, 1973-1984," at the American Historical Association annual meeting in Chicago, IL, on Jan. 9.
 
Dr. Jillian E. McClure, instructor, presented on the “Mississippi Crossroads: New Histories of Place, People, and Movements” roundtable at American Historical Association in January.

School of Music

Gia Sastre, adjunct flute professor, presented at the Florida Flute Association's 50th convention on Jan. 31. Her presentation was entitled Breakthrough-Overcoming Musician's Performance Anxiety. Additionally, Sastre directed the UNF Flute Ensemble as they performed at this same convention, and the UNF flute studio welcomed 50+ flutists to campus for the UNF Flute Day on Jan. 26 for an all-day community event of masterclasses and performances.

Silverfield College of Education and Human Services

Dean, Dr. Stephen Dittmore, was quoted in an article, “A Small University Bet Big on Enrolling Athletes,” in The Chronicle of Higher Education.
 
Dr. Laura Boilini, clinical associate professor, and Dr. Marjorie Ringler, professor in residence, hosted a family art session, “Happy,” at Ronald McDonald House. Families came together to create joyful artwork, sharing moments of creativity, connection and encouragement. In addition, they presented Ronald McDonald House with a monetary donation, along with can tabs generously collected by the Silverfield College faculty and staff. Dr. Boilini also donated an original painting as a lasting expression of support.
 
Dr. Suzanne Ehrlich, associate professor, joined the AI in Education at the University of Oxford (AIEOU) collaboration hub.
 
Dr. Jennifer Renée Kilpatrick, associate professor, and colleagues published an article in Behavioral Sciences titled “Replication of Strategic and Interactive Writing Instruction in a Nationwide Randomized Controlled Trial.”
 
Dr. Jason Lee, professor, was featured on CNN to discuss the strategy and storytelling behind this year’s Super Bowl commercials, sharing his perspective on creativity, cultural relevance and brand impact.
 
Dr. Kristi Sweeney, associate professor, along with Dr. Sean Davis, assistant professor and Dr. Michael Binder, professor, who make up the Sport Impact Jax Team, released the second media brief: “NF Poll: Super Bowl the Latest Political Football.”

Free Things to Do

Hand art piece on display at an exhibitionUNF Faculty Exhibition

Exhibition on view now through March 4, UNF Gallery of Art
Come view the creativity and research of the University of North Florida’s talented faculty at the Faculty Annual Exhibition, showcasing works in painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, photography, sculpture and design.

Whitney Oldenburg: Left Behind

Exhibition on view now through April 19, MOCA Jacksonville
This exhibit features recent sculptures Jacksonville native Whitney Oldenburg (b. 1987), accompanied by a special presentation of the artist’s drawings. Learn more about this one-of-a-kind exhibition. Image attribution: "Feeding Frenzy," 2022 tickets, rock, wood, aluminum, resin, string, staples, helmets, ear plugs, cloth, zipper pulls, red yeast rice, glue mixture.

Austin Lightholder: UNF Student Artist-in-Residence

Exhibition on view now through May 17, MOCA Jacksonville
Austin Lightholder is a senior at the University of North Florida working toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. During his residency at MOCA, he will create a body of work under the theme Alchemy of Perception — an exploration of transformation as both an inward experience and an outward gesture. Learn more about this one-of-a-kind student artist-in-residence exhibition.

Male and female UNF alumni members at a campus eventThird Thursday: Alumni Networks Edition

Thursday, Feb. 19, 6 - 8 p.m., John A. Delaney Student Union, Boathouse
Reconnect with fellow Ospreys and discover new ways to stay engaged during Third Thursday: Alumni Network Edition, an evening dedicated to celebrating UNF’s alumni networks.. Learn more about this upcoming alumni event.

Florida Weed Wrangle

Saturday, Feb. 21, 9 a.m. to Noon, Parking Lot 100 (Next to Parking Services, Building 52)
Join the UNF Botanical Garden on campus to help remove invasive plant species from our Sawmill Slough. Learn more about this invasive plant removal initiative.

Movies on the House presents: No Sleep Till (2024)

Wednesday, Feb. 25, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m., Andrew A. Robinson Jr. Theater, Room 1314
In a coastal Florida town threatened by an impending hurricane, locals prepare for a mandatory evacuation. Learn more about this free film screening.

Talks with Tacos: Public Art

Thursday, Feb. 26, 6 - 8 p.m., Andrew A. Robinson Jr. Theater, Room 1312
Join the Department of Art, Art History and Design for this insightful event bringing together artists and arts leaders for an engaging conversation about careers in public art — plus tacos.  Learn more about this free event.

The Circle X Lilly Stumph: Lunch and Learn

Friday, Feb. 27, Noon, Tom and Betty Petway Hall, Room 1070
The Circle welcomes alumni artist Lilly Stumph as she shares her artwork and personal journey with dyslexia. Learn more and register to attend this free event.

Lawson Ensemble at UNFLawson Ensemble with pianist William Ransom

Sunday, March 1, 3 p.m., Recital Hall of the UNF Fine Arts Center
Join the Lawson Ensemble for an evening of chamber music featuring guest artist William Ransom, hosted by Dr. Nick Curry. Learn more about this free musical performance. 

Women's History Month Lecture with Dr. Debra Murphy

Wednesday, March 4, 2 - 3 p.m., Story & Song Center for Arts & Culture
Join Dr. Debra Murphy, UNF Professor emerita, in celebrating Women's History Month with lectures on three outstanding artist. Learn more about this upcoming free lecture event.

38th Annual GAJS in Collaboration with Beaches Fine Arts Series presents: New York Voices - The Grand Finale with UNF JE1

Thursday, March 5, 7:30 p.m., Lazzara Performance Hall
The 38th Annual Great American Jazz Series, in collaboration with the Beaches Fine Arts Series, presents New York Voices featuring UNF Jazz Ensemble 1. Learn more about this upcoming jazz series performance.

Astronomy Night

Friday, March 6, 8 - 9:30 p.m., Science and Engineering Building
Astronomy Nights are public stargazing events held monthly featuring a public talk about an astronomy-related topic, followed by an hour of stargazing. This evening's topic is "Origins of Life in the Universe," presented by Dr. Art Omran, faculty member in the UNF Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Learn more about free stargazing event.

Dateline

UNF balloons for dateline

Milestones

Congratulations to the following employees with a milestone anniversary in February 2026:

25 Years

Bruce Turner, Director Brooks College of Health Academic Advising, Student Success Initiatives

20 Years

Heather Monroe-Ossi, Faculty Administrator / Associate Director Program Development and Administration, Florida Institute of Education

10 Years

Mikayla Beaudrie, Associate Instructor, Department of English
Dawn Button, Associate Director Hicks Honors College Operations, Hicks Honors College
Kyle Hale, Processing Specialist, Admissions Processing
Jodi Henson, Associate Director Consulting, Small Business Development Center
Maria Ribeiro, Office Manager, International Center
Katherine Tavuzhnyanskiy, Associate Dean of Students (Care Services), Office of the Dean of Students

5 Years

Sierra Rance, Program Interpreter, Department of Leadership, Organization and Community Impact (LOCI)

Welcome

The following employees were either hired by UNF or were promoted from OPS positions recently:
Cheryl Bethune, Accounts Payable Receivable Specialist, Parking and Transportation Services
Vanessa Boyette, Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities
Jace Brown, Admissions Recruiter, Admissions
Joshuah Brown, Maintenance Mechanic, Physical Facilities
Wyatt Bryan, Senior Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities
Adam Butler, Assistant Men's Soccer Coach, Athletics
Brian Carroll, Visiting Instructor of Sport Management and Executive In Residence, Department of Leadership, Organization and Community Impact (LOCI)
Amanda Corey, Assistant Director of Endowment Accounting, Advancement Operations
Andrew Demercado, Grounds Worker, Physical Facilities
Jonathan Deppe, Assistant Volleyball Coach, Athletics
Stacy Dziedzicki, Operations Manager, UNF Online
Angela Falconetti, Interim President, University of North Florida
Gary Giamartino, Dean - Faculty Executive, Provost's Office
ABBY GILLELAND, Head Volleyball Coach, Athletics
Kelly Gilsenan, Research Laboratory Technician, Department of Biology
Aynsley Gittner, Business / Financial Coordinator, Student Union, Guest Services
Robert Hampton, Senior Accounting Coordinator, Controller's Office
Lourdes Hartwell, Executive Secretary, Counseling Center
Venessa Hayes, Simulation Educator, School of Nursing
James Hopkins, Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities
Abby Hunt, Development Associate, University Development and Alumni Engagement
Colin Jones, Assistant Director of Development, College of Arts and Sciences
Oscar Martinez Wittinghan, ERP Applications Engineer II, ITS
Matheo Mateos, Coordinator of Athletic Development, Athletics
Michael Mickler, Senior Business / Financial Coordinator, Small Business Development Center
Katherine Moore, Deputy Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer, University Compliance
Cassandra Rey, Paralegal, General Counsel
Savannah Ryburn, Post Doctoral Associate, Department of Biology
Renard Sanders, Grounds Worker, Physical Facilities
Tom Screech, Esports Program Manager, Campus Technology Services
Matthew Silvernale, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, MOCA Jacksonville
Trent Stukes, Coordinator of Athletics Events and Operations, Athletics
David Torres, Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities

Great Job

The following employees were recently promoted:
Pernell Brown, Employment Coordinator, Human Resources
Vanitti Gilley, Senior Benefits Coordinator, Human Resources
Shea Leary, Office Manager, President's Office
Krista Markwardt, Student Success Systems Manager, Office of the Registrar and Student Success (RSSO) Operations
Topaze Thomas, Accessibility Coordinator, CIRT

Swoop Summary

UNF softball players conversing on the field during a gameSoftball Walks Off Stony Brook For Undefeated UNF-JU Invitational Weekend

North Florida softball walked off Stony Brook in the eighth inning, 4-3, to finish the UNF-JU Invitational weekend with an undefeated 5-0 record to move to an 11-1 overall at home on Sunday, Feb. 15. Learn more about the Ospreys impressive performance.

Walters Earns ASUN Women's Indoor Track and Field Freshman of the Week

North Florida track and field's Nataly Walters was lights out at the Visit Gainesville Indoor Classic to garner ASUN Women's Indoor Freshman of the Week, as announced by the league office on Wednesday, Feb. 11. Learn more about Walters and her field performance.

Here are a few upcoming events:

Men's Basketball vs. Austin Peay
Thursday, Feb. 19, 7 p.m.  |  UNF Arena  |  Purchase Tickets
 
Men's Tennis vs. UNC Wilmington
Friday, Feb. 20, 1 p.m.  |  UNF Tennis Complex  |  Free Admission
 
Women's Basketball vs. Queens
Saturday, Feb. 21, 2 p.m.  |  UNF Arena  |  Purchase Tickets
 
Softball vs. DePaul (Doubleheader)
Saturday, Feb. 28, 1 p.m.  |  UNF Softball Complex |  Purchase Tickets
 
Baseball vs. Presbyterian
Saturday, Feb. 28, 2:05 p.m.  |  Harmon Stadium  |  Purchase Tickets
 
Men's Basketball vs. JU
Saturday, Feb. 28, 6 p.m.  |  UNF Arena  |  Purchase Tickets
 
Women's Tennis vs. Eastern Michigan
Wednesday, March 4, 10 a.m.  |  UNF Tennis Complex |  Free Admission