Worth noting among this graduating class:

• Roughly 30% of the undergraduate students receiving their degrees are the first in their families to earn their diploma.
• More than 25% of this term’s degrees are tied to STEM majors.
• About 30% of the undergraduate graduating class are Pell Grant recipients.

�鶹ӳ����ý is the leading producer of talent among Florida’s universities, awarding roughly 19,000 degrees annually to Knights who go on to work in high-demand industries. About 85% of our alumni stay in Florida because of the ample opportunity to thrive as part of our state’s workforce.

Graduates will hear from��three��esteemed speakers��— all �鶹ӳ����ý graduates —��whose leadership and impact��have��benefited��our region:

• Psychology alum��Allen Johnson��’81,��chief��venue��officer for��City��for��Orlando Venues
• Journalism alum Tanya (Easterling) Hill ’97, market president for Central Florida for Florida Blue
• ����������Բ�������ܲ��پ������������ܳ���Fred Kittinger ’80, �鶹ӳ����ý’s former��senior associate vice president for government and community relations

Commencement Festivities

Held in the Addition Financial Arena, summer commencement will take place over three ceremonies spanning Friday, July 31, and Saturday, Aug. 1.

All guests, including children and infants, need a ticket for admission. All graduates who have filed an intent to graduate will receive five commencement ceremony tickets when they pick up their regalia packet.

Guests who do not have tickets may watch the live ceremony via a simulcast viewing in the FAIRWINDS Alumni Center and the Student Union. Ceremonies will also be .

Commencement Photo-ops Across �鶹ӳ����ý

Graduating Knights are unable to take photos at the Acrisure Bounce House football stadium this semester due to ongoing construction.

Grad Walk

On Thursday,��July��30,��4:30-7 p.m. (doors close at 6 p.m.),��summer��graduates are invited to a photo-op — Grad Walk — within the Addition Financial Arena. This will be a first-come, first-served occasion for graduates and up to 10 of their well-wishers to take photos and videos on the ceremony stage. Graduates��are required to��register at��.

Commencement Schedule

Graduates and guests can review the below commencement ceremony schedule, listing colleges, ceremony��dates��and streaming links:

������岹��,�����ܱ�����31

6����.��.

College of Arts and Humanities

College of Community Innovation and Education

College of Graduate Studies

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

Saturday,��Aug. 1

9 a.m.

Barry S. Miller��College of Business

College of Health Professions and Sciences

College of Medicine

College of Nursing

2:30����.��.

College of Engineering and Computer Science

College of Optics and Photonics

College of Sciences

For more details and FAQs about��Summer��2026 commencement celebrations, visit��ucf.edu/graduation.

Commencement Speakers

Allen Johnson ’81

Chief Venues Officer, City of Orlando Venues

Allen Johnson ’81 has served as chief venues officer of Orlando Venues since 2004, overseeing the City of Orlando’s diverse portfolio of Kia Center, Camping World Stadium, Tinker Field, Leu Gardens and the Mennello Museum of American Art.

Johnson brings decades of venue management experience from leadership roles across Florida. Under Johnson’s leadership, Orlando Venues has evolved into a premier, globally recognized destination for sports, entertainment and culture, welcoming millions of guests each year while strengthening Central Florida’s reputation as a world-class destination.

A proud �鶹ӳ����ý graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, he has earned numerous honors, including the 2025 International Association of Venue Managers Foundation Legacy Award, the SPORTYS Executive of the Year Award and the Downtowner of the Year Award.

He remains active in the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), serving as past chairman and trustee of the foundation board, while also contributing to organizations that include the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, Florida Citrus Sports, Victim Service Center and the .

Tanya (Easterling) Hill ’97

Market President for Central Florida, Florida Blue

Tanya Hill ’97��is Florida Blue’s market president for Central Florida,��responsible for��regional business and community engagement in a 9-county region.

Throughout her more than 25-year career, she has worked with reputable brands including Chick-fil-A, Target and Walt Disney World to drive business results through strategic partnerships.

Hill is passionate about investing time in the community and has been involved with��numerous��community and civic organizations. She currently serves on the board of directors for the��African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, 4Roots Foundation, Orlando Economic��Partnership��and the Winter Park Health Foundation.

Hill holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from �鶹ӳ����ý.

Fred Kittinger ’80

Former Senior Associate Vice President for Government and Community Relations, �鶹ӳ����ý

A native of central Florida, Fred Kittinger ’80 recently retired as senior associate vice president for government and community relations at �鶹ӳ����ý, where he served for more than 22 years.

He worked alongside local and state leaders to help foster some of �鶹ӳ����ý’s most transformative achievements, including the approval of �鶹ӳ����ý’s College of Medicine, the creation of the world-class Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy, the development of �鶹ӳ����ý Downtown, the expansion of the �鶹ӳ����ý Business Incubation Program and investments that enhanced the student experience and advanced regional impact.

Prior to his career at �鶹ӳ����ý, Kittinger served as chief of staff to Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood and previously as vice president of government relations for the Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce. He began his career as a legislative aide to state Senator George Stuart of Orlando.

Reflecting his commitment to the community, Kittinger currently serves on the board of directors for Junior Achievement of Central Florida (past chair), Central Florida Council for Scouting America and Legacy Pointe at �鶹ӳ����ý.

Kittinger graduated from �鶹ӳ����ý’s criminal justice program and earned his master’s degree in public administration from Florida State University.

The week-long festival is organized by the Campus Activities Board — a registered student organization focused on fostering student engagement on campus with marquee events including Pegasus Palooza.

The following events are free for �鶹ӳ����ý students with valid �鶹ӳ����ý ID.

Monday, April 6

Movie Knight

Pegasus Ballroom (Student Union) | 7:30 p.m.

Please note: due to the expected inclement weather, the location of this event has changed from Memory Mall to the Pegasus Ballroom in the Student Union.

Students can enjoy carnival games, free popcorn and beverages (while supplies last) and a special showing of Disney’s Zootopia 2 with their friends.

Wednesday, April 8

Comedy Knight

Addition Financial Arena | Doors open 7 p.m., event starts at 8 p.m.

Comedian, actress, and celebrity interviewer Ziwe brings her signature humor, fearless questions, and unforgettable stage presence to Comedy Knight! Two students will be selected to be interviewed by Ziwe live on stage during her Hot Seat segment.

Thursday, April 9

KNIGHT-CHELLA

Memory Mall | 6:30–11:30 p.m.��

A music festival inspired by the iconic Coachella, KNIGHT-CHELLA features: five student bands and six DJs across two stages, food trucks, giveaways, live art from students, large-scale attractions including roller skating, mechanical bull, bungee jumping and more.

Monday, April 13

Speaker Knight

Pegasus Ballroom (Student Union) | Doors open at 7 p.m., panel starts at 8 p.m.

Chloé Lukasiak, former dancer on the reality TV show Dance Moms, will share her personal story and take part in a Q&A.

Thanks to ’s dedicated support for STEM students, he had access to resources so he would not have to navigate that journey alone.

“Engineering is hands-down our most active liaison area,” says Taylor Sandifer ’23MA, assistant director of employer relations in Career Services who supports all STEM majors, including the College of Engineering and Computer Science. “CECS students show up to everything. They’re really engaged, and they take advantage of every opportunity.”

For Knights like Nguyen, that means access to employers through engineering-focused employer-led workshops, resume reviews, mock interviews, and the highly attended , which occurs annually in the fall at the Addition Financial Arena, where as many as 300 employers fill the venue.

Big Companies Recruit Knights

Before Expo, students can��participate��in the Career Readiness Program, a two-week series including industry-specific, employer-led sessions where recruiters host one-on-one resume reviews and mock interviews to help students prepare.

�鶹ӳ����ý’s employer-relations model attracts major companies such as Google, Meta, Amazon, Siemens Energy, Lockheed Martin, L3Harris and Walmart directly to campus for tabling, information sessions,��and networking events.

“Employers coming in to recruit STEM talent will work with us to get connected,” Sandifer says. “We help them get into the engineering atrium, set up information sessions, reach students through Handshake, and collaborate with CECS to spread the word.

“We want students to see a clear path from �鶹ӳ����ý to a career.”— Taylor Sandifer ’23MA, assistant director of employer relations in Career Services

“We want students to see a clear path from �鶹ӳ����ý to a career. When they put in the effort, and we can help make those connections, it all comes together.”

Sandifer has seen firsthand how transformative this can be.

“One computer science student (Nguyen) showed up on the wrong day — in a suit —��but stayed anyway,”��she recalls. “He came back the next day, met with recruiters, and we��connected him with Deloitte & Touche. He ended up getting the job. His hard work and willingness to show up made the difference.”

Real World Ready

Nguyen credits the Dixon Career Development Center in helping him shape his career path.

“I��wasn’t��very prepared initially and had no idea where��to even��start. It was overwhelming just thinking about it,” he says. “I attended an event I found off Handshake and it turned into me getting resume reviews, mock interviews, and attending events that got me to meet employers I was passionate about joining.”

He took advantage of summer appointments, interview strategies,��and also��printed business cards to hand out to the company representatives at the��Internship and��Career Expo. Those efforts paid off with an opportunity at Deloitte — a place he was drawn to for its culture and its constant flow of new challenges.

His biggest takeaway from his experience with the Career Center is to be persistent and open to every opportunity.

“You never know what conversation you have with someone that could turn into a huge career opportunity,” he says.

The�� will take place on Tuesday, March 10.

Hosted by the twice a year in the fall and spring semesters, the largest job fair on campus features 250+ companies across a variety of industries from diverse fields including technology, finance, healthcare, engineering and more.

This career fair is open to all �鶹ӳ����ý students and alumni. It is your gateway to explore a wide range of career options, gain insider advice from industry experts, and stay ahead of the curve in today’s evolving job market.

It’s also a great opportunity to practice your networking skills and leave a lasting impression on potential employers.

This guide shares logistical information about the Internship and Career Expo itself, as well as tips and resources ahead of the event so you can make your best impression.

Internship and Career Expo

Date: Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Time: 12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

• Fast Pass Entry at 12:30 p.m. (more below on ways to score a fast pass)
• General Entrance begins at 1 p.m.
• Doors close at 4 p.m.

Location: Addition Financial Arena (12777 Gemini Blvd N, Orlando, FL 32816)

Attire: Business casual attire encouraged; Pants or skirts paired with a dress shirt or blouse and dress shoes with socks or appropriate hosiery. Please avoid bringing large bags.

Security Check: The Addition Financial Arena is implementing enhanced security measures. Security procedures include, but are not limited to, performing body wand and bag checks at all arena entrances. before arriving. Guest should allow additional time to enter the gate, as these measures may delay entrance into the event.

Register: This career fair is open to all �鶹ӳ����ý students and alumni. Reserve your spot on Handshake.

Ways and Resources to Prepare

• Virtual Career Guidance

�鶹ӳ����ý partners with VMock SMART Career Platform, a 24/7 virtual career assistant, to help students create a powerful resume and practice their interview skills. VMock leverages technologies like data science, machine learning and natural language processing to provide instant personalized feedback on resumes, cover letters, elevator pitches and interview responses based on criteria gathered from employers and global best practices.

• Where to Print Your Resume

Students seeking to print copies of their resume or cover letter can do so for a small charge on main campus at the or in the John T. Washington Center (adjacent to the library).

If you are printing your resume or cover letter for a job or career fair, we recommend having at least one copy for each job/employer you are interested in, plus additional copies for unexpected opportunities or to replace damaged or lost copies.

• Professional Clothing Glow Up

JCPenney Suit-Up Event – In Person at the Florida Mall
Feb. 21, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

An exclusive in store shopping event for career apparel with exclusive discounts not available to the public. Students and alumni will be required to swipe their ID cards or provide their PID and check in via Handshake at the JCPenney Florida Mall location in order to receive their coupon.

This event is eligible for an EXPO Fast Pass which will grant early entry to the Spring 2026 Internship & Career EXPO. Pick up your Fast Pass Voucher at the check-in table.

Dress to Impress with Style Encore – In Person at Waterford Lakes
Feb. 28, noon – 2 p.m.

Students and alumni can enjoy a 30% discount on business and business casual attire during the shopping event. Students will be required to swipe their ID cards or provide their �鶹ӳ����ý ID and check in via Handshake at Style Encore Waterford Lakes location the day of the event.

This event is eligible for an EXPO Fast Pass which will grant early entry to the Spring 2026 Internship & Career EXPO. Pick up your Fast Pass Voucher at the check-in table.

Knights Helping Knights Pantry – Main Campus
Drop in, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

A limited professional clothing section is available to all �鶹ӳ����ý students, with valid �鶹ӳ����ý ID, on a first-come, first-serve basis.

• Career Prep Events (Virtual and In-Person)

Critiques and Career Express — In Person at the Kenneth G. Dixon Career Development Center
Tuesdays, 2 – 4 p.m. and Wednesdays, noon – 2 p.m.

Need fast feedback on your resume, cover letter or LinkedIn profile? Just drop-in to Career Services — no appointment required. If you’re unable to meet at these times, you can schedule an appointment on Handshake.

Critiques and Career Express – Virtual
Fridays, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Join Career Services virtually without appointment for career questions and support. Simply go to go.ucf.edu/CSpopin for the zoom registration. We will accept you into the Zoom once we have an available Career Counselor to assist you with your resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, or quick career questions.

Kennedy Space Center – Annual Career & Networking Event – In Person at KSC Visitor Complex
Feb. 21, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Registration closes Feb. 20. Attendees will have opportunities to network one-on-one with employees of major aerospace and tech companies. They will be able to discover internships, apprenticeships, and professional roles, and gain insights from professionals working at the forefront of science, manufacturing, and innovation. Attendees will also have the opportunity to attend professional development workshops on networking mastery and becoming the ideal job candidate.

Prepare for Expo Presentation – In Person
Feb. 24, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Take this time to learn about what to expect and ease your nerves by preparing your Elevator Pitch, Get ready to talk with Employers, and learn some tips to make your time at the event a success. Preference to attendees that register in advance as the room can only fit up to 60 people.

This event is eligible for an EXPO Fast Pass, which will grant early entry to the Spring 2026 Internship and Career EXPO. Limited quantities available. You must check in on time and attend the entire presentation.

Arts, Sciences and Human Services Industry Day – In Person
Feb. 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Registration via handshake is required to attend this event. Employer representatives will be on site to assist with one-on-one resume reviews and interview preparation sessions. Please bring an updated copy of your resume for recruiters to review. The session will be conducted on a first-come, first-served drop-in basis. As employer representatives become available, students will be paired one-to-one to conduct a 15-20-minute session of their choice and may leave after the session is complete.

This event is eligible for an EXPO Fast Pass, which will grant early entry to the Spring 2026 Internship and Career EXPO. Pick up your voucher on the way out of the session. Limited quantities available.

Navigating Difficult Career Conversations – In Person & Virtual
Feb. 25, 2–3 p.m.

Explore strategies for communicating your goals, setting boundaries and handling pressure or disagreements in healthy ways. Learn more at bit.ly/�鶹ӳ����ýhandshake.

Downtown Industry Day – In Person
Feb. 26, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Registration via handshake is required to attend this event. Employer representatives will be on site to assist with one-on-one resume reviews and interview preparation sessions. Please bring an updated copy of your resume for recruiters to review. The session will be conducted on a first-come, first-served drop-in basis. As employer representatives become available, students will be paired one-to-one to conduct a 15-20-minute session of their choice and may leave after the session is complete.

This event is eligible for an EXPO Fast Pass, which will grant early entry to the Spring 2026 Internship and Career EXPO. Pick up your voucher on the way out of the session. Limited quantities available.

Business Industry Day – In Person
March 3, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Registration via handshake is required to attend this event. Employer representatives will be on site to assist with one-on-one resume reviews and interview preparation sessions. Please bring an updated copy of your resume for recruiters to review. The session will be conducted on a first-come, first-served drop-in basis. As employer representatives become available, students will be paired one-to-one to conduct a 15-20-minute session of their choice and may leave after the session is complete.

This event is eligible for an EXPO Fast Pass, which will grant early entry to the Spring 2026 Internship and Career EXPO. Pick up your voucher on the way out of the session. Limited quantities available.

Engineering and Technical Industry Day – In Person
March 4, 9 a.m. – noon and 1 – 4 p.m.

Registration via handshake is required to attend this event. Employer representatives will be on site to assist with one-on-one resume reviews and interview preparation sessions. Please bring an updated copy of your resume for recruiters to review. The session will be conducted on a first-come, first-served drop-in basis. As employer representatives become available, students will be paired one-to-one to conduct a 15-20-minute session of their choice and may leave after the session is complete.

This event is eligible for an EXPO Fast Pass, which will grant early entry to the Spring 2026 Internship and Career EXPO. Pick up your voucher on the way out of the session. Limited quantities available.

Rosen Hotels & Resorts Day– In Person
March 4, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

This event is for Rosen College of Hospitality Management students only. A leadership workshop will be held from 10:30-11:45 a.m. in the Darden Auditorium, followed by opportunities to meet with recruiters from noon – 1:30 p.m. in the Rosen Courtyard. Registration for the leadership workshop is required.

All Majors Virtual Industry Day – Virtual
March 5, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Registration via handshake is required to attend this event. Employer representatives will be available to assist with one-on-one resume reviews and interview preparation sessions. Please bring an updated copy of your resume for recruiters to review. The session will be conducted on a first-come, first-served drop-in basis. As employer representatives become available, students will be paired one-to-one to conduct a 15-20-minute session of their choice and may leave after the session is complete.

This event is eligible for an EXPO Fast Pass, which will grant early entry to the Spring 2026 Internship and Career EXPO. Information regarding pick-up will be sent to attendees at the conclusion of the virtual session. Limited quantities available.

With its 12th class in 11 years, the 30 Under 30 program recognizes alumni under the age of 30 whose professional achievements, leadership and service reflect the bold spirit, values and impact of the �鶹ӳ����ý. The program also underscores �鶹ӳ����ý’s role in developing highly skilled graduates who fuel innovation, service and economic impact in Florida and beyond.

“These alumni embody the spirit of �鶹ӳ����ý in every sense,” says��Heather Junod ’98, associate vice president of alumni engagement and annual giving. “Each year, my pride grows as we recognize a new class of 30 Under 30 honorees who are leading with integrity,��creativity��and courage. Their achievements are extraordinary, but what inspires me most is their commitment to service — to their communities, their��professions��and their alma mater. They remind��us��all of��the power of a �鶹ӳ����ý education and the impact Knights can make when they dare to lead.”

Hundreds of nominations were submitted online between Oct. 3—Nov. 12, 2025. Applications were reviewed and scored by previous award recipients, �鶹ӳ����ý Young Alumni ambassadors and �鶹ӳ����ý staff. Finalists were then confirmed by the �鶹ӳ����ý Alumni Board of Directors based on the following criteria:

• Must be a graduate of �鶹ӳ����ý (undergraduate or graduate degree)

• Must be 29 or younger as of June 1, 2026

• Must��demonstrate��a commitment to��maintaining��a lifelong relationship with �鶹ӳ����ý and upholding �鶹ӳ����ý Young Alumni values

“On behalf of the �鶹ӳ����ý Young Alumni Community, congratulations to the remarkable members of the 2026��Class of 30 Under 30,” says��Austin Wilson��’22, chair of the �鶹ӳ����ý Alumni Community. “These honorees��represent��the future of Knight Nation. Their ambition,��leadership��and dedication to making a difference reflect the values that connect us as alumni. We are proud to celebrate not only what they have already��accomplished, but the incredible impact they will continue to make as leaders,��mentors��and advocates for �鶹ӳ����ý.”

�鶹ӳ����ý Alumni will celebrate the 2026 award recipients at a special event on Saturday, May 16, at the Addition Financial Arena. A complete slate of the honorees, listed alphabetically by last name, appears below. Past recipients can be found on the .

Cassandra Allen ’18
Bachelor’s��in��health sciences

Samantha Archer Stoltz ’24
Bachelor’s��in biology
Burnett Honors College

Chloe Artrip ’19 ’23DPT
Bachelor’s��in health sciences
Doctorate in physical therapy

Coral Barron Patraca ’19
Bachelor’s��in aerospace engineering
Burnett Honors College

Ana Beltran ’19 ’24MFA
Bachelor’s in digital media-game design
Bachelor’s in emerging media-animation
Master’s in emerging media-animation and visual effects��

Mishka Brice ’19
Bachelor’s��in political science
Burnett Honors College

Taya Britten ’20
Bachelor’s��in interdisciplinary studies��

Brenden Brown ’20 ’23MHA
Bachelor’s��in health sciences
Master’s��in health administration

Dominic Davis ’21
Bachelor’s��in human communication

Jalynn Edmon ’25
Bachelor’s��in nursing

Olivia��Feild��’20 ’22MS
Bachelor’s��in forensic science
Master’s��in forensic science
Burnett Honors College

Marshall Fornataro-Minnig ’22MS
Master’s��in interactive entertainment��

Katherine Grand ’23 ’25MHA
Bachelor’s in health services administration
Master’s��in health administration

Michele Guillard ’20
Bachelor’s��in health sciences
Bachelor’s��in interdisciplinary studies
Burnett Honors College

Margaret Hall ’22
Bachelor’s��in legal studies
Burnett Honors College

Neda Hamood ’22 ’24MS
Bachelor’s in biomedical sciences
Master’s in biomedical sciences
Burnett Honors College

Jaquesha Jefferson ’22
Bachelor’s��in health sciences

Derreasha��Jones ’21 ’24MA
Bachelor’s��in psychology
Master’s��in counselor education��

Mailuce��Louidor ’20
Bachelor’s��in nursing

Faith McFarland ’19 ’22MA
Bachelor’s��in psychology
Master’s��in clinical psychology

Hannah Miner ’20
Bachelor’s in forensic science

Lawrence Oks ’21 ’22MS
Bachelor’s��in computer science
Master’s��in computer science
Burnett Honors College

Jillian Pirozzi ’22 ’25MHA
Bachelor’s��in health sciences
Master’s��in health administration

Emily Puia ’22
Bachelor’s��in human communication

Matthew Rall ’19
Bachelor’s in emergency management

Michael Raymond ’19
Bachelor’s��in business economics

Shaina Ruth ’18
Bachelor’s��in criminal justice��

Maximillian Seidel ’18
Bachelor’s in management

Autumn Shackelford ’25PhD
Doctorate in physics

Nicholas Vaughn ’19
Bachelor’s��in biology

Spring, Summer and Fall 2020 grads representing each of �鶹ӳ����ý’s 13 colleges have registered for the ceremony, which will take place Nov. 5 at 9 a.m. at Addition Financial Arena and be livestreamed on .

Darin Edwards ’97 ’10MS ’11PhD — who led the charge to create Moderna’s mRNA COVID-19 vaccine — will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2020 Graduation Celebration.

In 2020, the Florida Board of Governors required all of Florida’s state universities to hold virtual commencement ceremonies due to the COVID-19 pandemic. �鶹ӳ����ý conferred more than 18,000 degrees during its 2020 virtual commencement ceremonies.

During the ceremony, graduates will cross the stage during the traditional Pomp and Circumstance processional as their names are called. Each graduate is allowed up to four guests in attendance. .

The deadline to participate in the Nov. 5 ceremony has passed. Participation in the ceremony is specifically for those graduates who missed in-person commencements experiences in 2020.

About Keynote Speaker Darin Edwards ’97 ’10MS ’11PhD

Edwards is the director of immunology in the infectious disease group at Moderna, where he led the research and development on their mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, he directs the immunology team in support of vaccine development programs and foundational research efforts, and leads work with external academic and industry collaborators including Moderna’s collaborative research efforts with the National Institute of Health, WHO, and Harvard’s pathogenesis working group.

Prior to joining Moderna in June 2019, Edwards served eight years for Sanofi Pasteur in Orlando, where he worked to develop vaccines against infectious diseases, including RSV, influenza, dengue, and yellow fever.

Edwards is a much-published researcher and academic speaker.��Through his educational background at �鶹ӳ����ý, combined with his years��of experience working on the development of next-generation vaccine��technology, he has had the unique opportunity to make a��direct and positive impact on global health.

He earned a bachelor’s in��biology, a master’s in molecular��biology and microbiology and a doctorate in��biomolecular sciences from �鶹ӳ����ý, where he was also a .

The health and well-being of all �鶹ӳ����ý graduates and their guests are the top priority of the university. Face coverings are expected while indoors for all attendees — whether vaccinated or not, in accordance with��the latest CDC guidelines.

�鶹ӳ����ý Athletics is working with university leadership, the American Athletic Conference, the NCAA and public health officials on a return to competition that prioritizes the health and well-being of all involved. These and other precautions undertaken are consistent with the guidance of Orange County and the State of Florida.

�鶹ӳ����ý Athletics’ A to Z guide has the most up-to-date information regarding the men’s and women’s basketball seasons. Some of the key changes are outlined below regarding what to expect for home games this year.

Yes. Addition Financial Arena will open at 25% capacity to adhere to physical distancing guidelines and face coverings will be required of game attendees at all times while on campus.

Fans who purchase seats will select the section they would like to sit in. All tickets are general admission within your selected section. In order to maintain proper social distancing, not all rows and seats will be available.

Yes. For the 2020 season, student entry will be first-come, first-served to fill the limited capacity of the Knightmare student section in Addition Financial Arena. Currently enrolled �鶹ӳ����ý students will just need to login/create a Ticketmaster account with their Knights email and claim a ticket to the game(s) they are interested in attending this year before the stated deadline. Visit �鶹ӳ����ýKnights.com to learn more about this process.

Students will be required to enter Addition Financial Arena at the Knightmare entrance located on West Plaza Drive. Students will be required to show their mobile ticket and �鶹ӳ����ý student I.D.

Once in the arena, students will be able to select a seat in any of the designated student sections. Each section will be limited to 25% of its capacity.

To offer greater convenience and safety, mobile-only ticketing will provide contactless entry to Addition Financial Arena for all 2020-21 �鶹ӳ����ý basketball games. Tickets for the men’s games and women’s games can be purchased at .

Ticket-holders will access tickets through the �鶹ӳ����ý Knights app (supported on Apple and Android devices) and available for download via the App Store (Apple) and Google Play (Android). Tickets will also be available to download and save on your digital wallets. Tickets are also accessible through your phone’s mobile web browser at��www.�鶹ӳ����ýKnights.com/DigitalTix.

Fans who do not have access to a smartphone or would prefer a physical ticket may still pick-up tickets from the ticket office at Addition Financial Arena on game day. The ticket office will be open one hour prior to game time to help with any issues fans might have.

All fans over the age of 2 will be required to wear a mask over the nose and mouth while in the arena and on-campus. ��Face coverings must be worn at all times except while actively eating or drinking in your seat, and you should be stationary and maintaining appropriate physical distancing. Physical distancing is required in seating and common areas.

Consider Armoring Up with����from Knight-owned business Rock ’Em Socks. Proceeds benefit the �鶹ӳ����ý Student Emergency Fund.

For a complete schedule for men’s basketball, visit:��.

For a complete schedule for women’s basketball, visit: .

What precautions will be implemented at Addition Financial Arena due to COVID-19? The Spectra-managed Addition Financial Arena has installed nearly 400 COVID-19 health and safety measures to prepare for the venue’s reopening Nov. 25.

To prepare for its reopening with limited capacity, Addition Financial Arena has installed numerous sanitizer stations throughout the facility, hundreds of COVID-19 related signs and floor markings to promote physical distancing, protective plexiglass and additional physical barriers at all concession stands, and paperless loge/suite menus on the premium level. The arena has also gone completely mobile with event tickets. To help expedite the guest screening process upon entry, a clear bag policy will be in use.

Increased cleaning and sanitization of high touch surfaces will routinely be taking place during events and the addition of electrostatic sprayers to disinfect high contact areas will be used during event preparations.

Addition Financial Arena will remain vigilant with enforcing all health and safety guidelines put forth. Face coverings will be required upon entry into the facility and must be worn at all times except when actively eating and drinking in one’s own seat. Physical distancing will also be heavily encouraged.

For a list of Addition Financial Arena FAQs, please visit .

Yes. A clear bag policy is in effect to enhance existing security measures and expedite venue entry.

All food and beverage will be in closed-top boxes or individual packaging; condiments will be pre-packaged, and cutlery will be distributed with limited contact. Cashless transactions are encouraged, and food and beverages are to be consumed at seats.

For men’s games, parking for East and West Zone Seating will be made available in Garage D. Parking on game day will be $5 per vehicle.��Season parking passes are available by contacting the �鶹ӳ����ý Athletics sales and service team at 407-823-1000. Parking for premium seating (courtside, club, loge and suites) will be available in Garage F with a proper parking pass. Parking garages will open three hours prior to game time.

For women’s games, free parking is available in Garages C, D, F, and H as well as the D1, D2, E6, E8, baseball and softball lots.

�鶹ӳ����ý Athletics, the Jammin’ Knights and the �鶹ӳ����ý spirit squad are taking guidance from health officials about game day participation. At this time the Jammin’ Knights are not permitted to perform inside the arena. Spirit teams will be able to perform in the stands.

All on-court promotional activities and contests are prohibited and will be performed elsewhere in the arena.

The �鶹ӳ����ý Bookstores at both the John T. Washington Center and Knights Plaza locations or online at shop.ucfknights.com.

The��Keep Charging On Fund��is a one-year fundraising effort to provide charitable support for �鶹ӳ����ý Athletics. It will provide funding to maintain the significant momentum built over the past four years, despite the budgetary uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year’s festival offers 45 nights of activities for all ages, including rides such as a Ferris wheel, the Light Up Express kids train and for the first time a carousel.

The holiday light show will feature more than 200,000 pulsing lights throughout the night in synchronization to holiday songs under snowfall. On select nights, the Holiday Film Festival will show movies on a two-story movie screen, including titles such as The Polar Express, The Santa Clause, Elf, Home Alone and others. Also on scheduled nights, Santa will visit the Barnes & Noble next to Addition Financial Arena to hear children’s Christmas wishes. Check LightUp�鶹ӳ����ý.com for times and dates.

The Light Up �鶹ӳ����ý Ice Rink, returns as a centerpiece for the festivities. The ice rink is open for guests to glide along to their favorite Top 40 hits and holiday tunes played by a DJ.

On Dec. 6, the festival’s Holiday Market ‘Under the Stars’! will begin for guests to take a stroll through the market, where they can view the crafts of talented local artisans, all while finalizing their holiday gift shopping. Visit www.LightUp�鶹ӳ����ý.com for more information on merchants that will be at this year’s event. Vendors can apply for booth space at www.ucfholidaymarket.com.

Most of the activities are free. Tickets for ice skating and rides can be purchased at the Addition Financial Arena Box Office. Select tickets are also available for purchase by visiting www.ticketmaster.com. More information for all Light Up �鶹ӳ����ý events can be found at www.LightUp�鶹ӳ����ý.com. The holiday festival is produced by �鶹ӳ����ý Convocation Corp. and Spectra, manager of Addition Financial Arena.

Jan. 1 – ��After �鶹ӳ����ý completed their first perfect football season and a 34-27 defeat over Auburn at the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl, former �鶹ӳ����ý linebacker��Shaquem Griffin ’16��admires the championship trophy. Shaquem made history in April when he became the first one-handed player to be drafted in the NFL, joining his brother��Shaquill Griffin ’16��on the Seattle Seahawks’ team.

Jan. 21 – A student takes some time between classes to stretch out on Memory Mall.

Feb. 23 –��Engineering graduate student Estefania Bohorquez ’17 shows off her aerial acrobatic skills.

March 14 – Studio art major John Currie ’18 works on a special portrait of John C. Hitt to honor his 26 years of service as �鶹ӳ����ý’s fourth president.

April 5 – Singer Jesse McCartney performs at CFE Arena during �鶹ӳ����ýestival’s concert night.

April 7 – This year, �鶹ӳ����ý raised more than $1.5 million for Knight-Thon, an annual dance marathon that benefits Children’s Miracle Network.

April 13 – Director of jazz studies and Pegasus Professor Jeff Rupert conducts a performance during �鶹ӳ����ý Celebrates the Arts.

May 1 – After a six-month closure, a cute pup takes a dip in the newly renovated Reflecting Pond, which now has a new foundation and color-changing LED lights. *Note: Dogs are not allowed in the water, so don’t try this on your own.

May 3 – During his final commencement ceremonies, former �鶹ӳ����ý President John C. Hitt conferred degrees to more than 8,100 students. In October of last year,��Hitt announced he would be stepping down from the presidency on June 30, 2018. Former �鶹ӳ����ý provost Dale Whittaker became the university’s fifth president on July 1.

June 5 – Senior studio art major Jenna Chastain works with clay during an art class in the Visual Arts building.

June 5 – ��While in a lab, a��student works on a project involving display screens and motorcycle helmets.

June 20 – Two students raced to the top of the Climbing Tower located in the .

June 29 – Construction on the new �鶹ӳ����ý Downtown campus is underway and on schedule to open Fall 2019.

Aug. 2 – After partnering with two other institutions to manage the Arecibo Observatory earlier this year, �鶹ӳ����ý President Dale Whittaker traveled to Puerto Rico for a visit to the facility.

July 27��– An instructor at the demonstrates how to put out a fire during a cooking class.

Aug. 21 – Afternoon Florida storm clouds cover campus as students make their return during the first week of fall classes.

Sept. 5 – The sun rises over the Charging Knight statue outside of��Spectrum Stadium.

Sept. 5 – Campus on a quiet morning.

Sept. 19 –��After more than a year of waiting, popular local taco spot Gringos Locos opened its �鶹ӳ����ý location in Knights Plaza.

Sept. 21��– The get ready to perform on the football field during half-time at the game against Florida Atlantic University.

Sept. 29 – Knightro and the cheer team entertain a packed stadium during �鶹ӳ����ý’s game against Pittsburg, which ended in a 45 – 14 win for the Knights.

Oct. 2 – During the evening, the Pegasus on the lights up the building.

Oct. 3 – After serving as �鶹ӳ����ý’s interim provost since April, Elizabeth A. Dooley has become the university’s provost and vice president for .

Oct. 30 – In August, �鶹ӳ����ý partnered with the Nemours Children Hospital to create PEDS Academy, a program that provides specialized STEM education to children hospitalized at the facility.

Nov. 8 – Students light up CFE Arena during Homecoming 2018‘s Concert Knight, which featured performances from rapper A$AP Ferg and singer Ella Mai.

Nov. 9 – Students show off their excitement as they prepare to take part in �鶹ӳ����ý’s biggest Homecoming tradition – .

Nov. 9 – During this year’s Spirit Splash, �鶹ӳ����ý President Dale Whittaker jumped into the Reflecting Pond alongside students. He promised take part in the tradition if 50,000 students would attend the first five home football games of the 2018 season – more than 55,000 students took on the challenge.

Dec. 1 – ��After joining Knight Nation this football season, makes an appearance at the American Athletic Conference Championship game, during which fans wore leis to show their support for injured quarterback McKenzie Milton. �鶹ӳ����ý Athletics gave out 40,000 leis to fans in the spirit of #10hana, a movement that started in the local community and on social media.

Dec. 1 – During the��American Athletic Conference title game against Memphis,��45,176 fans packed the stands as �鶹ӳ����ý secured a 56 -41 victory, extending their undefeated streak to 25 games and advancing them to the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 1, 2019.

About two hours before each ceremony, road closures will occur on Gemini Boulevard between North Orion Boulevard and West Plaza Drive. The closures will remain along these roads until about three hours after each ceremony’s start time.

Reserved parking spaces for graduation attendees can be found in garages D and H. Students, staff and faculty members may park in garages A, B, C, I and Libra, or in adjacent parking lots designated by parking permits.

Be sure to follow directions displayed on message boards throughout campus to avoid confusion, traffic congestion and delays.

If you’re attending a graduation ceremony at CFE Arena or must be near the surrounding area, please be sure to allow yourself extra time for travel during this time.

The graduations will take place on the following dates:

DATE�������������� CEREMONY TIME���������� HIGH SCHOOL

May 21������������������ 3:00 p.m.���������������������������� Bishop Moore

May 22������������������ 9:00 a.m.���������������������������� Lake Howell

May 22������������������ 2:00 p.m.���������������������������� Winter Springs

May 22������������������ 7:00 p.m.���������������������������� East River

May 23������������������ 9:00 a.m.���������������������������� Timber Creek

May 23������������������ 2:00 p.m.���������������������������� Lake Nona

May 23������������������ 7:00 p.m.���������������������������� University

May 24������������������ 9:00 a.m.���������������������������� Oviedo

May 24������������������ 2:00 p.m.���������������������������� Lake Mary

May 24������������������ 7:00 p.m.���������������������������� Edgewater

May 25������������������ 9:00 a.m.���������������������������� Lyman

May 25������������������ 2:00 p.m.���������� ������������������Seminole

May 25������������������ 7:00 p.m.���������������������������� Apopka

May 29������������������ 9:00 a.m.���������������������������� Winter Park

May 29������������������ 3:00 p.m.���������������������������� Florida Virtual School

May 29������������������ 7:00 p.m.���������������������������� Wekiva

May 30������������������ 9:00 a.m.���������������������������� Boone

May 30������������������ 2:00 p.m.���������������������������� Oak Ridge

May 30������������������ 7:00 p.m.���������������������������� Ocoee