The CIRCLE at UNF
What is The CIRCLE?
CIRCLE stands for Community for Innovation, Research, Collaboration, Learning and Engagement.
The CIRCLE serves as a collaborative hub connecting students, faculty, staff, campus programs, and community partners to create opportunities for students with disabilities to learn, connect, participate, lead, and thrive at UNF.
The CIRCLE's Six Pillars
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Community
Building meaningful relationships and creating a sense of belonging across UNF. -
Innovation
Developing new ideas, programs, and opportunities that promote inclusion. -
Research
Connecting students, faculty, and community partners through research and discovery. -
Collaboration
Bringing together students, programs, departments, and community organizations. -
Learning
Creating opportunities for academic, professional, and personal growth. -
Engagement
Encouraging students to participate, lead, connect, and contribute to their campus and community.
Programs & Communities
The CIRCLE provides opportunities for communities to connect through shared events, programming, partnerships, leadership opportunities, and campus experiences. The CIRCLE connects and supports several programs and student communities at UNF, including:
USoar
A postsecondary education and employment focused program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
THRIVE
A program supporting matriculating students with autism through opportunities focused on academics, social connection, independence, career development, and campus engagement.
On-Campus Transition (OCT)
A program providing inclusive college experiences and opportunities for young adults with intellectual disabilities and differences.
Project SEARCH
A career development and workplace learning program focused on helping students gain employment skills and real world experience.
CIRCLE Advisory Board
The CIRCLE Advisory Board provides an opportunity for students across majors/colleges to help shape the future of The CIRCLE.
The board focuses on:
- Incorporating student perspectives
- Recommending programs and events
- Identifying barriers and opportunities
- Strengthening connections across campus
- Helping shape The CIRCLE student experience
Community Partnerships
The CIRCLE works to build relationships with businesses, nonprofits, organizations, and community leaders throughout Jacksonville and beyond.
Partnerships can create opportunities for students through:
- Employment and career development
- Internships
- Volunteer opportunities
- Experiential learning
- Community engagement
- Mentorship
- Events and programming
Student Engagement & Opportunities
The CIRCLE creates opportunities for students to:
- Participate in social and community building events
- Develop leadership skills
- Connect with peers
- Explore employment and career opportunities
- Engage in research and learning opportunities
- Get involved with campus organizations
- Participate in community service and engagement
- Serve on The CIRCLE Advisory Board
Get Involved
The CIRCLE is open to involvement from:
- Students – Participate in events, programs, leadership opportunities, and The CIRCLE community.
- Faculty & Staff – Collaborate with The CIRCLE to create inclusive learning and campus experiences.
- Community Partners – Connect with students through employment, internships, experiential learning, and community opportunities.
- Campus Organizations – Partner with The CIRCLE on events, programming, and initiatives.
Contact Us
Program Coordinator: Sydney McNeill
Email Address: s.mcneill@unf.edu
Location: Building 57 (Petway Hall), Room 1000
Social Media: @unfsilverfield