Name: Christopher Emrich
�ʴDz����پ��Dz�(��):��Boardman Endowed Professor of Environmental Science and Public Administration and founding member of �鶹ӳ����ý’s National Center for Integrated Coastal Research

Why are you interested in this research?
A main reason stems from my childhood in Florida — constantly being exposed to a variety of hazards and seeing how communities were impacted in different ways. Being able to study geography at a state university, the  University of South Florida, and then completing my Ph.D. at the University of South Carolina under the tutelage of leading experts in the field really helped solidify that I wanted to become an expert in both the hazards themselves and what we can do to prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and rebound from them.

My time with FEMA supporting long-term recovery in Florida pushed me further to understand what is keeping people from recovering as quickly as some might expect. Tying all of these strings together really helped me pinpoint that one of the problems is that people are thirsty for knowledge. Learning how to turn data into information in order to extract meaningful knowledge has positioned me into a place that has meaning and impact for those attempting to make real-time decisions about hazards and disasters — from before the storm through the recovery period.

Who inspires you to conduct your research?
Seeing the suffering that takes place following disaster — suffering that could be avoided if society (people, governments and organizations) took the right steps to prepare for disasters — is what really drives what I do. I think that we can make simple changes to the way we do business that could lead to really impactful positive outcomes for disaster survivors.

How does �鶹ӳ����ý empower you to do your research?
�鶹ӳ����ý has given me space and opportunity to explore the different aspects of hazard threat identification and vulnerability assessment.  Partnering with experts at DIST, and partners at FDOH, and the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council (among others)  we have been able to create open access websites like hazardaware.org, vulnerabilitymap.org, hazardrisk.org, and the Florida Public Health Risk Assessment tool (flphrat.com).  Each of these share the common goal of translating data into knowledge to support better emergency management decision making and preparedness planning.

What major grants and honors have you earned to support your research?
Since arriving at �鶹ӳ����ý, I have been awarded $10.8 million across 34 different extramurally supported grants and contracts. This includes grants of over $300K from funders including the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine’s Gulf Research Program, the State of Florida, The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Along the way, I have been awarded �鶹ӳ����ý’s Research Incentive Award twice (2021 and 2026) and �鶹ӳ����ý’s Luminary Award.

Why is this research important?
American political philosopher John Rawl’s once said, “The natural distribution is neither just nor unjust; nor is it unjust that persons are born into society at some particular position.”

I think it is a responsibility of each person, each organization, each governmental entity  — and society as a whole —  to support those who need the most help among us. If we do not, how can we ever hope to move our society into a better position? My research supports making decisions that help those in most need, including those most at risk and with the least resources, to be better positioned for the next disaster.

This year’s tournament will be the first FIFA World Cup to be hosted by three nations — United States, Canada and Mexico — and the first to include an expanded field of 48 teams from across the globe. Eleven U.S. cities will host 78 matches June 11 – July 19, including the championship match in New York and third place playoff in Miami.

This historic event coincides with the United States’ 250th anniversary and marks the first time since 1994 the country has hosted the men’s World Cup.

Here’s a look at some of the Knights bringing this event to life.

Izzy Angel ’23

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FIFA location: Atlanta

I will be supporting media logistics, guiding photographers and press to designated areas, and facilitating press conferences and interviews. One of the biggest ways �鶹ӳ����ý prepared me for this opportunity was through its emphasis on networking, collaboration and real-world experience. That mindset opened doors to internships, jobs and experiences that helped me gain confidence in putting myself out there and connecting with people.

It’s been really fulfilling to meet people with completely different backgrounds and life experiences who are all coming together over a shared passion. Being part of something on such a global scale and feeling that sense of community has been incredibly special.

Brendon Boseja ’25

Bachelor’s in integrated business

Role: Senior coordinator, Client Group Management Accreditation
FIFA site: Miami

At �鶹ӳ����ý, I learned to network and make many connections in the industry and to continue these relationships. This has especially helped me throughout FIFA, especially since my main job is to communicate with every stadium involved in the tournament. Working for a sports organization as big as FIFA has been a dream of mine, and to be involved with an event like the World Cup is surreal to think about.

Taylor Culver ’23 ’26MSBM ’26MBA

Bachelor’s in kinesiology
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Master’s in business administration

Role: Event executive, FIFA Fan Festival
FIFA site: Houston

“Because of the connections, mentorship and opportunities I gained through �鶹ӳ����ý, these experiences expanded my confidence and showed me that I truly belong in this industry.”

My role is to help create and execute large-scale fan experiences that bring the energy of the World Cup to life outside of the stadium. Being able to contribute to an event of this magnitude is both humbling and motivating, and I know it will be one of the most impactful experiences of my career. �鶹ӳ����ý prepared me for this opportunity by putting me in real-world sports environments early and constantly challenging me to grow as a leader. Through the program and my experience as a recruiting assistant for �鶹ӳ����ý Athletics with the football team, I learned how to operate in fast-paced environments where organization, communication and adaptability are critical. Because of the connections, mentorship and opportunities I gained through �鶹ӳ����ý, these experiences expanded my confidence and showed me that I truly belong in this industry.

Daniel Garzon ’23 ’24MSBM ’24MBA

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Master’s in business administration

Role: Workforce integration senior coordinator, Tournament Operation Center Services
FIFA site: Miami

I started my journey at FIFA as an intern with the volunteer management team shortly after graduating from the DeVos Sport Business Management program in 2024. As a recruitment coordinator, I spearheaded communications and recruitment strategy while sourcing and scheduling thousands of candidates. Now in my new role, I will be in the heartbeat of the headquarters of the tournament, fulfilling operational needs for all departments while manipulating data to make informed decisions for all the venues during the World Cup.

William Mendez ’26MSBM ’26MBA

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Master’s in business administration

Role: Team protocol liaison officer
FIFA site: Miami

I will provide operational support as a main point of contact for the teams’ protocol representatives, managing VIP/VVIP seating, ticket distribution and logistics. I’m truly excited to be part of an event of this magnitude because FIFA ’26 goes beyond sports by bringing people together across cultures from all over the world. The DeVos Sport Business Management program at �鶹ӳ����ý has played a major role in preparing me for this moment, giving me the hands-on experience and confidence I need to contribute to an event of this scale.

Colin O’Toole ’26MSBM ’26MBA

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Master’s in business administration

Role: Accreditation center coordinator
FIFA site: Boston

I grew up watching the World Cup and always dreamed of being part of the most watched sporting event in the world. My experience in the soccer industry through both professional and volunteer roles gave me a strong foundation, and the DeVos program broadened my perspective. It exposed me to the business side of the industry, while simultaneously connecting me with incredible mentors and peers, ultimately giving me the confidence and network to land this opportunity with FIFA.

Connor Pank ’17

Bachelor’s in management

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FIFA site: Tampa, Florida

The sport business management minor at �鶹ӳ����ý offered plenty of opportunities to gain practical experience in the industry. My junior year, I was fortunate enough to land a season-long internship at Orlando City Soccer Club in the game day operations department, which then turned into a full-time position with seven amazing seasons of constant growth and experiences that I am forever grateful for.

Being involved in a FIFA World Cup has been a personal goal of mine since my early days with Orlando City SC, when we hosted a U.S. Soccer vs. Panama World Cup Qualifier ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Every team participating in the World Cup chooses a designated home base, which includes the team hotel, training site and other operational support facilities as needed. My role is centered around acting as FIFA’s primary operational lead on-site for Cabo Verde’s home base in Tampa to ensure a seamless, world-class experience.

Annie Quaile ’06

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Role: Venue manager, FIFA Fan Festival
FIFA site: Atlanta

I act as the bridge between FIFA, Atlanta and the commercial and operational partners delivering the Fan Festival experience. My role focuses on coordinating event logistics, operations, guest experience, VIP and talent management, and partner integration while ensuring FIFA brand standards are upheld throughout the event.

One of the biggest takeaways from my experience at �鶹ӳ����ý was learning how to balance creativity, leadership and problem-solving under pressure, which is essentially the foundation of live event and operational management. The FIFA World Cup is one of the few truly global experiences that brings together people from every background, culture and country around a shared passion. All of the planning, coordination and operational work happens behind the scenes for months, so finally seeing people from around the world gathering together, celebrating and creating memories is incredibly rewarding.

Andres Sifontes ’24

Bachelor’s in communication

Role: Coordinator, Accreditation Documentation and Training Operations
FIFA site: Houston

I joined the FIFA team in September 2024, supporting preparations for both Club World Cup 2025 and FIFA World Cup 2026. In my role now, I oversee Accreditation Center operations in Houston, assist volunteers, and ensure that key stakeholders — including partners like Coca-Cola, Adidas and Visa — receive proper credentials. �鶹ӳ����ý’s communication program, and especially my Communication Research Methods���ʰ��Ǵڱ�����ǰ� , equipped me with the tools I continue to apply every day in my role at FIFA by teaching me how to communicate effectively, carry myself professionally, and think strategically.

Since graduating, my goal has been to contribute to the growth of soccer in the United States. This passion has always been part of who I am, and �鶹ӳ����ý helped me build the foundation to pursue it professionally. After graduation, I worked with Inter Miami CF, and now with FIFA, I’ve been fortunate to play a role in supporting the continued development of the sport. I truly believe we are about to witness unprecedented growth for the game in this country. I hope that at the end of my career, I can look back and say I contributed to that growth — and that it all started at �鶹ӳ����ý.

Dennis Sprenkle ’01

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Role: Director of workforce and human resources
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My team oversees the employee journey from recruitment to offboarding across the three host countries (Canada, Mexico and the U.S.) and 16 host cities. We are responsible for everything from workforce planning, training, visa management, benefits, payroll, employee uniforms and just about every other aspect of human resources.

I have always had a keen interest in global political and business affairs, which is why I studied political science with an emphasis on international relations at �鶹ӳ����ý. Working for a governing body like FIFA in many respects is akin to working for the United Nations. … In order to be a successful leader in a global organization like FIFA, it is critical to have an open mind to effectively collaborate, plan and execute the largest sporting event in human history. My education and experience at �鶹ӳ����ý as a leader in Student Government certainly laid the foundation and has helped prepare me for this opportunity.

Ryan Taheri ’24

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FIFA site: Dallas

I grew up watching the World Cup with my family. Now, I occasionally stop for a second and realize how special it all is to be working behind the scenes on the operational side of the tournament. A big part of what I do in my role is coordinate with different functional areas like transportation, catering, accommodations, uniforms and venue operations to ensure the workforce is supported and operations run smoothly.

“�鶹ӳ����ý pushed me into leadership opportunities early and taught me how to work in fast-paced environments with a lot of moving parts.”

A lot of the role comes down to staying organized, communicating clearly and solving problems quickly. �鶹ӳ����ý pushed me into leadership opportunities early and taught me how to work in fast-paced environments with a lot of moving parts. Looking back now, I don’t think I realized at the time how much of my experience at �鶹ӳ����ý directly prepared me for working on something as large and complex as a FIFA ’26.

Alejandro Tarazona ’22

Bachelor’s in integrated business

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FIFA site: Miami

I oversee transportation operations and logistics at all 75 training sites across U.S., Canada and Mexico — including shuttles, loading zones, team busses and their fleets, and parking lots for media, volunteers and guests. I grew up in Lake Nona and had an opportunity to play collegiate soccer at a Division II school in Florida, but financially, it just didn’t make sense for my family and me. Instead I enrolled at Valencia College and earned my degree through the .

�鶹ӳ����ý gave me the technical skills I needed for my managerial position now, like creating financial analysis for labor rates across 16 stadiums that we’ll be using in U.S., Canada and Mexico. As a former soccer player and as someone who is obsessed with the sport, working for one of the biggest and best sports organization in the world has been a lifelong goal. This experience has taught me to consider redefining what’s possible and keep setting goals.

Tomas Upegui ’22

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FIFA site: Miami

Growing up playing soccer, being involved with FIFA in any capacity is something I never imagined would become reality, especially this early in my career. I am supporting transportation and depot operations across all 16 host cities, contributing to transportation operations involving VIPs and trophy movements. Studying business taught me how to work efficiently in fast-paced environments and quickly adapt while balancing multiple responsibilities at once, which directly translates to my role.

One of the most exciting parts of this experience has been realizing the true scale of the FIFA World Cup and seeing firsthand how much coordination happens behind the scenes to make an event of this magnitude successful.

There’s something undeniably powerful about becoming the person your younger self once needed.

For nonprofit management alum Britt Johnson ’23 ’25MNM, that transformation came full circle.

Johnson, who experienced homelessness and a lack of resources growing up, was recently named executive director of Christian HELP, a local nonprofit dedicated to preventing homelessness by supporting at-risk households.

“I see myself in some of the children who come to us fighting hunger. … Now I lead an organization that [supports] and protects them.”

The organization primarily serves the ALICE population — Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed — working families who may be one car breakdown or missed paycheck away from crisis.

“I see myself in some of the children who come to us fighting hunger and [lacking] resources because I was once that child,” Johnson says. “In my own personal life, I experienced homelessness. I experienced a lack of basic necessities. Now I lead an organization that [supports] and protects them.”

Establishing an Educational Foundation

Johnson’s path to leadership wasn’t linear.

After dropping out of high school to help support his family, he spent 17 years away from the classroom. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, he enrolled at Orange Technical College and earned his GED.

He later attended Seminole State College before transferring to �鶹ӳ����ý through the program. At �鶹ӳ����ý, he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science before enrolling in the ’s program.

That education changed more than his career trajectory — it introduced him to nonprofit Christian HELP. Its mission focuses on preventing homelessness by helping people find work, access resources and build stability.

In 2021, Johnson began volunteering there to fulfill a Seminole State honors program service requirement. But the moment he started working with clients, he recognized himself in them.

“It looked like my lived experience,” he says. “I got really connected to the mission.”

Rising Through the Ranks

What began as 20 volunteer hours turned into years of service and leadership. Johnson rose through the organization as volunteer coordinator, resource manager, food distribution lead and care manager before being named executive director in November 2025 — just before graduating with his master’s degree.

Today, he leads with a philosophy grounded in listening first and meeting people where they are to best provide the help they need.

“When I walk into a neighborhood or a church or a city council meeting, I’m there to co-create with the community, not prescribe it,” he says. “We have to listen first before acting.”

Christian HELP provides everything from one-on-one career coaching, resume clinics, financial literacy workshops and skill-building sessions. Through its Central Florida Employment Connections division, the nonprofit hosts six regional job fairs each year at the Central Florida Fairgrounds, connecting employers directly with job seekers. Its food pantry distributes more than 1 million pounds of food annually across Orange and Seminole counties.

“Our services help provide stability in times of uncertainty.”

For clients actively working toward employment, the organization also provides targeted financial assistance, helping cover expenses like gas, an oil change or a utility bill.

“Our services help provide stability in times of uncertainty,” Johnson says. “If you’re not working, you’re going to tip over into a spiraling cycle of issues, and we want to prevent that.”

Under Johnson’s leadership, Christian HELP is continuing to expand. This spring, the organization opened a second Orange County location through a partnership with Peace United Methodist Church, bringing employment services, grocery support and financial literacy programs directly into neighborhoods.

The Heart of the Mission

In 2025, Johnson was named an Emerging Leader Impact Award recipient by Heart of Florida United Way and recognized as an Alumni Excellence Honoree by Seminole State College. He was also recently accepted into Nova Southeastern University, where he’ll pursue a Doctor of Education degree in human service administration.

Still, Johnson says many of the opportunities that made these recognitions and opportunities possible began at �鶹ӳ����ý. Coursework in volunteer management and cross-sector collaboration gave him practical tools he now uses every day. Just as important were the mentorship, networking and alumni community connections that helped open doors beyond graduation.

“The biggest lesson I carry from �鶹ӳ����ý to Christian HELP every day is very simple: Access is dignity,” he says. “When you build systems that are welcoming, data-informed and relentlessly human, lives are transformed.”

Some of the nation’s most promising scientists can be found in Will Furiosi ’13 ’14MAT’s Oviedo High School classroom.

Spend five minutes talking to Ankan Das, Angela Calvo-Chumbimuni and Moitri Santra about their research innovations in robotics, mental health and agriculture, and one truth becomes quite clear: These teens are the real deal.

Backed by �鶹ӳ����ý associate professors Ellen Kang (physics and NanoScience Technology Center) and Candice Bridge ’07�ʳ�� (chemistry) and researcher Max Kuehn ’22 (Exolith Lab), the Oviedo High trio recently earned recognition as the top three projects at Seminole County’s regional science fair.

With Oviedo’s proximity to main campus, the collaboration highlights �鶹ӳ����ý’s steadfast commitment to supporting STEM education across Central Florida.

They went on to represent the county admirably at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, where they took home several prizes against more than 1,700 high schoolers from around the globe.

Most notably, Santra took home first place and $6,000 in the Plant Sciences category and received the EU Contest for Young Scientists Award. She will represent Regeneron ISEF at the EU Contest for Young Scientists to be held this September in Kiel, Germany.

“Working in Dr. Kang’s lab played pretty big role in choosing materials science and engineering as my major for college because I was exposed to just how many different things someone can do in the area I work with, nanotechnology,” says Santra, a senior bound for Stanford who has worked with Kang since she was a freshman. “The lab provided a lot of resources — not just the instruments, but also mentorship, advice and support.”

A Will to Succeed

The hallway leading to Furiosi’s classroom is decorated with rows of blue, red, white, green, yellow and pink paper accomplishment ribbons. More ribbons, pennants and certificates adorn his walls, along with eight Science and Engineering Fair of Florida best-in-fair grand award senior division trophies — more than any other high school in the state.

During his own primary education, Furiosi attended eight schools over 12 years. As a seventh-grader at Stone Magnet Middle School in Brevard County, he was initially prohibited from participating in science fair because officials couldn’t verify Furiosi was capable of the coursework from his transfer transcripts. He would later go on to earn Order of Pegasus as a Burnett Honors Scholar majoring in biomedical sciences before earning his master’s degree in teacher education.

Every day, he saw a wall of ribbons, much like the ones in his classroom now. And every day he would tell himself, “I want to be one of those kids.”

That experience fundamentally shaped how the �鶹ӳ����ý grad runs his program today.

“What keeps me motivated is knowing that I have the opportunity to get people to be really prepared, informed citizens who are good thinkers, and who, when faced with a problem, smile and tackle it instead of running away,” Furosi says.

Infusing Life into Science

Furiosi began teaching at Oviedo High School in 2013 as he pursued his accelerated master’s degree, made possible by the College of Community Innovation and Education’s Resident Teacher Professional Preparation Program. The program, funded by a U.S. Department of Education grant, was created in response to the growing need for skilled workers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Four years later, he took over the school’s science fair program and was determined to breathe new life into it, which at the time involved just four kids.

He cold called students in his AP Biology and Honors Chemistry courses, begging anyone who had shown a glimmer of interest during class to sign up so they wouldn’t have to fold the program.

Today, he’s at 46 students, with some, like Calvo-Chumbimuni, interested in joining the program as soon as they arrive at Oviedo High.

“My seventh grade science fair teacher knew Mr. Furiosi and spoke highly of him,” says Calvo-Chumbimuni, who earned fourth place ISEF’s biochemistry category this year. “When I came to Oviedo High and met him, I immediately understood why. The research program stood out to me as a valuable opportunity.”

Furiosi fosters a safe space to fail, learn and grow from the research. There are no barriers to entry; no project deemed too insignificant. And he stresses the merits of high-quality mentorship, like the ones Das, Santra, and Calvo-Chumbimuni formed with �鶹ӳ����ý faculty and STEM labs.

Some of his students have earned thousands of dollars in prizes — one alone pulled in $70,000 and is now studying at the University of Glasgow — at prestigious competitions sponsored by some of the tech industry’s biggest names, including Regeneron and Lockheed Martin, a �鶹ӳ����ý Pegasus Partner.

His alums have gone on to top research institutions including Harvard, MIT, Columbia, Stanford, and of course, �鶹ӳ����ý. One of those Knights is aerospace engineering grad Daniel Dyson ’21 ’22MS ’25PhD, who studied in Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Subith Vasu’s lab and now works for Relativity Space at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, America’s largest rocket propulsion test site.

“Mr. Furiosi really pushes you toward excellence,” says Das, a sophomore building a tensegrity robot with shape memory alloys that he tested at �鶹ӳ����ý’s Exolith Lab.

Supporting Excellence

An award-winning researcher who has been supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation, Kang is not easily impressed. Still, Santra made an immediate impression as an eighth grader when she first popped up Kang’s inbox, asking if she could present her idea on a nanoparticle treatment for citrus greening disease in Florida.

“I could clearly see that she had a firm understanding of the material and just thought, ‘Wow, she is really a force.’ I actually wanted to have my undergrad students see her presentation because of how professional she was, even at that young age,” Kang says. “She has this creativity, passion, persistence and resilience — all the key elements that you need as a successful STEM field researcher.”

Similarly, Bridge immediately noticed Calvo-Chumbimuni’s persistence and go-getter attitude when she initially connected with her two years ago. Driven by her interest in the intersection of neuroscience, psychology and analytical chemistry, Calvo-Chumbimuni pitched her idea to develop an electrochemical sensor and biosensor to improve diagnostic methods for mental health disorders.

“I’ve always appreciated her sense of humanity,” Bridge says. “I thought, ‘If you can foster someone who has this sort of compassion already, there are infinite possibilities for what they can do to benefit the community.’ ”

The two have been dedicated, active participants in their labs, regularly conducting research multiple days per week during the school year and, at times, daily over the summer.

The faculty and their doctoral students have mentored the high schoolers through instrumentation methods, analyzing data, the literature review process and their presentations.

Both presented continuations of their projects at ISEF — Calvo-Chumbimuni for her second-straight year, Santra for her third — while Das made his first time at the competition memorable with his fourth-place finish in the engineering technology: statics and dynamics category.

Kuehn, who is an engineer at , is accustomed to working with a variety of researchers and scientists who test their experiments and equipment at the Highland Regolith Test Bin. He says he was quickly intrigued by Das’ project, a lightweight and nimble robot that can expand, contract and move through electric current.

Das wanted to test the robot in lunar regolith — simulated moon dirt — because he envisions the tech behind his robot one day being utilized in lunar missions or search and rescue efforts in unstable environments.

“Max noticed that sometimes the motion was a little slow, so he gave some suggestions,” Das says. “Working in the lunar regolith chamber was a very insightful and eye-opening experience. I know I’m still in high school, but I’ve learned I want to do research for as long as I can because I really find this interesting.”

Which, at the end of the day, has been Furiosi’s mission all along.

“Research is not just in science. It is in all disciplines. There’s a lot of cool things that need to be discovered in all fields,” he says. “�鶹ӳ����ý’s expertise has been so invaluable in preparing my students for the future. A lot of these kids have wonderful ideas, and I really hope we can continue growing more professional support for them in any capacity.”

They’re already renowned researchers and experts in emergency management. Now, professors and are expanding their impact to the federal level after being hand-selected for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Vanguard Executive Crisis Leaders Fellowship.

The fellowship, housed within FEMA’s National Disaster and Emergency Management University (NDEMU), brings together top crisis leaders from across the nation to strengthen the future of emergency and crisis management. Emrich was selected for the 11th cohort in New Orleans (May 11-15) and Washington D.C. (June 22-26), and Knox will join the 12th in Washington D.C. (July 20-24) and Houston (Aug. 17-21).

Researchers Sought Out by FEMA

Prior to joining the s Emergency Management and Homeland Security program, Emrich and Knox each worked with FEMA in separate capacities.

Emrich spent years working in the organization, from mapping hurricane impacts in Florida in 2004 to helping rebuild trust in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Knox has worked with FEMA through its Higher Education Program, which she has participated in since 2011, lead focus group initiatives, established an annual award, and aided in training curriculum development.

When assembling these new cohorts, FEMA sought out and hand-selected each of them. Typically, it is rare to include multiple academics in these groups, let alone two from one university in consecutive cohorts.

“The fact that there’s two of us from �鶹ӳ����ý is a really big deal,” Knox says.

“By bringing together these multidisciplinary, cross-sectoral leaders, it will help us better prepare for uncertainty in future disasters.” — Chris Emrich

FEMA formed the program’s cohort model knowing that the future of disaster response depends not on any single agency or sector but on the strength of connections between them. Each cohort brings together crisis leaders from government, academia, nonprofits and the private sector to build the kind of cross-sectoral networks that are nearly impossible to forge during an actual disaster.

“This program is part of a more recent attempt to try to engage across sectors more efficiently,” Emrich says. “By bringing together these multidisciplinary, cross-sectoral leaders, it will help us better prepare for uncertainty in future disasters.”

Strengthening the Field, Benefiting Students

Emrich and Knox will participate in roundtable seminars, site visits and discussions with fellow experts to examine emerging risks and shifts in the emergency management landscape, explore leadership frameworks for navigating crises, and brainstorm strategies to strengthen the field, all while building this trusted, cross-sector network.

Knox sees the fellowship as a chance to build new partnerships and bring national insights back to �鶹ӳ����ý, ultimately benefiting students.

“Emergency management changes constantly,” she says. “We don’t have the luxury of rinse and repeat. This gives us another avenue to bring the latest thinking directly into our courses. I’m looking forward to exploring these issues through both the lens of researcher and the lens of program director.”

Emrich also sees opportunities for expanding research and collaboration by learning where those in the field are currently struggling.

“I’d love to be a fly on the wall to hear what people’s troubles are,” he says. “In academia, we’re fortunate to have the time to think about these things and reflect on how to better support them. Those insights turn into grant proposals, student support and expanding the knowledge base.”

Enhancing �鶹ӳ����ý’s Cutting-Edge Research

The fellowship also aligns with emerging research areas that �鶹ӳ����ý is already exploring when it comes to cutting-edge innovations in crisis management.

For example, Emrich is currently using AI to build educational games that teach students about social vulnerability. What would once have taken years of programming work can now be produced from existing course materials and exercise content — opening the door to educational tools that weren’t previously feasible.

“What AI has been able to produce from my knowledge is something I could not have produced on my own,” Emrich says. “One of the things emergency managers are grappling with now is how to use AI productively. I look forward to being part of the conversation.”

Knox is interested in real-time digital replicas of communities, called “digital twins,” that can be used to model disaster scenarios, as well as to test recovery and mitigation plans before they’re needed.

“A lot of emergency management boots-on-the-ground work is to help make decisions with the incomplete information in a very timely manner,” Knox says. “We’re looking at how AI can complement critical thinking skills with new capabilities. I’ve seen it take off in engineering and computer sciences disciplines using real-time social media data to understand evacuation patterns.”

Beyond their individual research, both professors see the fellowship as a catalyst for something bigger within �鶹ӳ����ý and beyond. They hope it will help them identify new ways to connect expanded emergency management expertise across disciplines.

“M���Բ� faculty members in different departments are doing research that can actively support emergency management,” Emrich says. “I think it might be incumbent upon us to come back to the university and say, ‘This is where we need to be. This is how we connect all of our different experts, stakeholders and partners to make our program even stronger.”

When Latrell Sam-German graduated high school in 2021, he didn’t have a detailed career plan — just a desire to do something that was bigger than him.

Fortunately for him, the possibilities in the realm of serving others are plentiful. He first thought of enlisting in the military, which would also provide the structure he was seeking. He even considered pursuing medicine, trade work or air traffic control.

It was ultimately that innate sense of purpose, coupled with mentorship, that introduced Sam-German to the world of law enforcement by way of �鶹ӳ����ý. Now on the brink of becoming the inaugural graduate of the bachelor’s in criminal justice program’s professional track, he’s preparing to cross the commencement stage at Addition Financial Arena on Saturday.

But first, he’ll spend today celebrating his graduation from the inaugural class of the Orlando Police Department’s in-house academy.

Boldly Pursuing His Purpose

Sam-German’s foray into criminal justice began with candid discussions with both his uncle and best friend’s brother, both of whom work for a police department in South Florida. The latter became his mentor.

“He took me under his wing and showed me the ins and outs of the career, getting me into the right mindset for the academy and what to expect,” he says.

After completing his associate degree at Broward College, Sam-German transferred to �鶹ӳ����ý in 2024. Although he knew he wanted to pursue a bachelor’s in criminal justice, it was an email about the program’s new professional track from Associate Professor that caught his attention.

Housed in the College of Community Innovation and Education, the professional track allows students to graduate with a degree in criminal justice and a certificate in criminal justice management and leadership — plus state certification in law enforcement or corrections, acquired through internship experiences like officer academies.

“Being able to graduate �鶹ӳ����ý and academy at the same time was definitely the biggest draw for me,” he says. “It’s like knocking out two birds with one stone. The opportunity to complete the academy in my last semester as my internship, get my degree and walk out with a job is huge.”

“The opportunity to complete the academy in my last semester as my internship, get my degree and walk out with a job is huge.” — Latrell Sam-German, student

In the professional track, he had the opportunity to go on ride-alongs with three agencies — Orange and Osceola County Sheriff’s offices, and Orlando Police Department (OPD). He spent the next year and a half juggling his coursework with the various career fairs and networking opportunities that Watkins passed along. All the while, his eyes remained locked on the goal of landing an academy sponsorship for his final semester.

In early Fall 2025, he interviewed with OPD and passed the physical abilities test. He knew his commitment to networking had paid off when his recruiting lieutenant and sergeant remembered him from a spring career summit.

Fast forward a few weeks, and Sam-German got the call he’d been hoping for: OPD had offered him an academy sponsorship.

Training for Impact

Since early December, Sam-German has attended OPD’s in-house academy full-time as his required internship. The rigorous experience consists of intensive training in law enforcement policies and procedures, physical training and defense tactics. That includes five consecutive weeks of high-liability training with firearms, first aid and driving patrol cars.

“It’s very paramilitary,” he says. “Every day we have to shine our boots, iron our clothes, make sure everything is up to par and come ready. It’s essentially changing our point of view from the civilian mindset to an officer mindset. We’ve learned to watch our surroundings, never be complacent, know policy and rules, and know when to apply them.”

“Our job is public service, and we’re there to help. I really wanted to do something that was bigger than me, and I think this is one of the best occupations to fulfill that.” — Latrell Sam-German, student

When all is said and done, he will have completed 772 hours of training that concludes at the culmination of his first week as a sworn officer. In mid-May, he’ll begin field service alongside a field training officer.

Right now, he’s most looking forward to learning about community patrol.

“I have always been interested in getting out there in community, speaking with people, learning a city’s cultural fabric and how I can help,” he says. “My biggest focus right now is to be great in patrol because sometimes people just need somebody to talk to. After all, our job is public service, and we’re there to help. I really wanted to do something that was bigger than me, and I think this is one of the best occupations to fulfill that.”

Persistence That Delivers

The fact that he’s about to cross the finish line won’t hit him until he puts on the cap and gown — and the official OPD officer uniform. But Sam-German is already reflecting on how quickly his time at �鶹ӳ����ý has gone by, and how the decision to pursue the professional track helped launch his career trajectory.

That’s thanks in large part, he says, to the faculty who have helped foster connections and provided opportunities to explore different career paths.

“My professors have been great,” he says. “M���Բ� of them are retired law enforcement who came over to �鶹ӳ����ý and can speak about the career and what to expect. Being able to come straight from college into the academy has given me the upper hand because a lot of what we talked about in class now pertains to my police academy experience.”

“Being able to come straight from college into the academy has given me the upper hand because a lot of what we talked about in class now pertains to my police academy experience.” — Latrell Sam-German, student

Sam-German’s story is exactly what Watkins hopes to see for years to come — more graduates like him who will go on to impact change in the criminal justice system.

“Working with and assisting Latrell along his professional journey is exciting, fulfilling and a testament to the work of many,” he says. “Developing and promoting the professional track has taken many years and considerable work with our police and correctional professionals in and around Central Florida.”

Professor and Chair adds that the program was intentionally designed to be mutually beneficial to students and law enforcement agencies in reinforcing the workforce pipeline.

“The professional track is our department’s way to give back to the surrounding law enforcement and correctional community in the form of producing high-quality, motivated and practitioner-ready students like Latrell,” Paoline says.

As he prepares to reap both the academic and professional rewards of his work, Sam-German also finds personal reward in having become someone his classmates turn to for advice as they consider pursuing the professional track. He tells them that if they’re willing to put the work in, good things will happen.

“I don’t think it was luck; it was the result of hard work,” he says of his success. “It’s really about not being afraid to put yourself out there and talk to these agencies, even when it can feel intimidating. That door is going to open. You just have to step through it.”

Johnston, who was born without arms, joined �鶹ӳ����ý’s program in Fall 2024 and is now graduating this May. IES, housed by the in the College of Community Innovation and Education, is a state-recognized, two-year certified transition program that immerses students with disabilities into campus life while helping them develop the independence necessary for long-term employment.

Johnston says she learned about IES online and became interested when she researched the program.

“I feel more outgoing since I started the program. I was homeschooled and used to hang out with only three or four friends, so I was really shy when I first came here.” — Nina Johnston, IES student

“Two months after I graduated high school, my mom saw the application for IES on Facebook and asked if I wanted to apply,” Johnston says. “I wanted a college experience, but I didn’t want to go to college for four or six years. Two years sounded perfect, so I thought it would be a good idea. After looking into the program, I thought, ‘This looks really fun.’ ”

Program Director says Johnston made a strong first impression even before she arrived at �鶹ӳ����ý.

“As part of her application, Nina sent a video of herself cleaning, doing her daily routine and even horseback riding,” Best says. “We were amazed when we watched that video. When she came here, we saw firsthand how independent and determined she is.”

Johnston started IES in August 2024, and it wasn’t long before she jumped right into various campus activities. While pursuing a major in hospitality, she joined Knights Exemplar and Best Buddies, two clubs that provide social and academic support to students with intellectual disabilities. In fact, she’s now a Buddy director with Best Buddies.

Her growing involvement even led to a part-time job at the information desk in the �鶹ӳ����ý Student Union. She says these experiences have greatly improved her confidence and social skills.

“But having all these classes and opportunities made me realize, ‘OK, I can do this. I can talk to people.’ IES helped me come out of my shell.” — Nina Johnston, IES student

“I feel more outgoing since I started the program,” Johnston says. “I was homeschooled and used to hang out with only three or four friends, so I was really shy when I first came here. But having all these classes and opportunities made me realize, ‘OK, I can do this. I can talk to people.’ IES helped me come out of my shell.”

Best says she has blossomed into an inspiring and beloved member of the IES community.

“Nina is a true leader,” Best says. “M���Բ� students in the program go to her for advice even before they come to us. They look up to her because she thrives in her academics while holding down a job. She’s always looking to pick up extra hours, and she never falls behind on her assignments while she’s working. She is a committed and hardworking student.”

In her newfound social circle, Johnston made a connection that developed into something deeper over time. Soon after starting in the program, she met fellow student Zackary Bruns. Their friendship grew into a relationship, and they are now engaged to be married in November 2026.

As she plans for her wedding, Johnston has also been working to prepare other logistical aspects of her future. One of these is a major personal and practical achievement: her driver’s license, which she earned after practicing with IES’s AI-powered driving simulation.

“The driving simulation at IES gave me a good idea of how traffic happens in real time,” Johnston says. “And it worked perfectly: I got my license on the first try.”

Students with disabilities often lack adequate opportunities to practice driving, so many never earn their licenses — something TJEEI Program Director says can be a barrier to employment.

“Our driving simulator helps students get more comfortable behind the wheel, and Nina is a great example of that.” — Christine Parsons, TJEEI Program Director

“If students can’t drive and don’t have a car, they can’t get to work without public transportation,” Parsons says. “That can be a huge issue, especially here in Central Florida. Our driving simulator helps students get more comfortable behind the wheel, and Nina is a great example of that.”

Equipped with her license, Johnston and Bruns are now focusing on two main goals: securing full-time employment and finding an apartment. They have decided to move to Ocala, Florida, where they plan to be close to Johnston’s parents as they begin the next stage of their lives.

Looking ahead, Johnston says she is excited for her next chapter and grateful for all her experiences at �鶹ӳ����ý.

“When I was in my first semester of IES, it felt like it took forever,” Johnston says. “But now that I’m here, it’s like, ‘Where did the time go?’ I’m sad to leave the program, but I’m happy I did it because I’ve met so many wonderful people.”

We could start 33 years ago to when Castro Tapler first visited �鶹ӳ����ý and dreamed of becoming a Knight.

Or jump to when she lost sight of that dream in the whirlwind of life after enlisting in the U.S. Marines, completing an overseas deployment, getting married and raising a family.

Or here, in present day, as the 49-year-old graduates alongside her oldest, each with degree choices influenced by Johnny’s struggle with neurological hearing loss — hers, early childhood development and education and his, communication sciences and disorders. And don’t forget her other son, Michael, an emergency management major, close behind and husband, John, graduating later this year from Valencia College, a partner.

Their story is one of many subplots and selfless acts, and so much love for family — a family that pulled strength from each other on the road to this long-awaited, triumphant moment.

“People doubted us for moving here from Long Island to become Knights,” Castro Tapler says. “We said, ‘Just watch.’ “We’re proving that you can do anything you put your mind to doing by adapting and overcoming.”

A Dream Put on Hold, But Never Forgotten

Castro Tapler’s mind first fixed on �鶹ӳ����ý in 1993 when the family of her friend, David Konits ’01, paid for her to visit them in Orlando to thank her for saving their son’s life after a serious injury. Putting others first had already become ingrained for Castro Tapler, then 16, despite a childhood without means. She lived with her mother in another friend’s basement and had never traveled beyond New York.

“They brought me to the �鶹ӳ����ý campus and I was blown away,” she says. “I’d never seen such nice kids studying together in such a beautiful environment. If I could ever afford college, I wanted it to be here.”

Castro Tapler went back home, finished high school and joined the U.S. Marines. Shortly after 9/11, she was deployed to Kuwait. The idea of college continued to dim as she fulfilled her military duty, returned to Long Island, went to work and raised a family.

“The goal was always out there,” she says, “but I just couldn’t get to it.”

She wanted a more streamlined path for her sons, Johnny and Michael, so she and her husband always included tours of universities during family trips.

“When we came to �鶹ӳ����ý, the boys and John fell in love,” Castro Tapler says, “and to me, that feeling of belonging was still there after so many years.”

On the day of Johnny’s high school graduation, they loaded up the car and moved to Orlando — placing her within reach of the dream she never gave up on.

Planting Roots on Campus

As a U.S. Marine veteran, Castro Tapler has chilling stories about how she calmly put out oil fires in open combat zones. On her first day of classes at �鶹ӳ����ý, she — like a good Marine — arrived 30 minutes early with food and hydration. An emotion consumed her: Fear.

Here she was, surrounded by students half her age using tablets and carrying backpacks while she pulled around a wagon and used a spiral notebook. She would need to relearn how to learn. Three encounters quickly made her feel at ease.

“The sound of a piano in the lobby soothed my nerves. Then a group of girls in my first class invited me to work with them. And I found the ,” she says. “A college campus is a different world from what veterans are used to. The people in that office helped me understand aid, tutoring and the culture. They’re veterans, too, so they know how difficult the transition can be.”

Her fear turned to joy and a genuine belief she belonged. She felt even more connected knowing Johnny and Michael were on the same campus feeling the same pride.

The Start of a New Future

We come to the most surreal moment: mom and son graduating together. She points out this is a goal achieved, but not the goal.

“Our degrees open doors to serve others,” Castro Tapler says.

She’ll teach first grade, knowing each child is unique, perhaps with a challenge that hasn’t yet been identified. Johnny intends to use his communications and sciences disorders degree as the first step toward a medical degree in audiology. He visualizes being the first person parents see when their babies are diagnosed with a complication. He already knows what he’ll say:

“It’s going to be OK. Look at me. I have a hearing disorder, too, and now I’m a doctor,” Johnny says.

Michael will apply his emergency management degree from �鶹ӳ����ý to help communities on a larger scale. And John, after finishing at Valencia College, will consider an online business master’s program at �鶹ӳ����ý, so he can provide financial planning and support for those facing their own challenges.

“He wants so badly to be a Knight like the rest of us,” Castro Tapler says.

It makes sense. Knights are known for their grit. And this family has plenty of it.

“I think back to people saying you’ll never afford college, you’re too old, and Johnny can’t become a doctor with hearing loss,” Castro Tapler says. “Now we’re going to walk to the stage together and hear our names called.”

�鶹ӳ����ý is the leading producer of talent among Florida’s universities, awarding nearly 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 six esteemed speakers whose leadership and impact span some of Central Florida’s most influential industries:

• Barry Miller ’95, president of Voloridge Investment Management
• Brian Adams ’04MBA, president and CEO of AdventHealth Central Florida Division
• Gloria Caulfield, vice president of strategic alliances, Tavistock Development Company
• Barbara Gellman-Danley, president of Higher Learning Commission
• Maj. Gen. James Smith, commander, space training and readiness command at Patrick Space Force Base
• Peter Lee, president of Microsoft Science

Commencement Festivities

Held in the Addition Financial Arena, spring commencement will take place over six ceremonies spanning Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9.

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 livestreamed .

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

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

Grad Walk

On Thursday, May 7, 2:30-7 p.m. (doors close at 6 p.m.), spring 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 .

Commencement Schedule

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

Friday, May 8

9 a.m.

College of Business

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

2 p.m.

College of Health Professions and Sciences

College of Medicine

College of Nursing

7 p.m.

College of Arts and Humanities

Nicholson School of Communication and Media

Saturday, May 9

9 a.m.

College of Community Innovation and Education

2 p.m.

College of Sciences (excluding Nicholson School of Communication and Media)

7 p.m.

College of Engineering and Computer Science

College of Graduate Studies

College of Optics and Photonics

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

Commencement Speakers

Barry Miller ’95

President of Voloridge Investment Management

Barry Miller ’95 serves as president of Voloridge Investment Management, quantitative hedge fund manager, and Voloridge Health, a data science-based health tech company, both Florida based.

Miller, who graduated with honors from �鶹ӳ����ý with a bachelor’s degree in finance, recently made a transformational $50 million gift this spring to establish the Barry S. Miller College of Business at �鶹ӳ����ý. The largest single philanthropic investment in �鶹ӳ����ý history, the gift will accelerate a bold new model of business education designed for a world where technology, data and decision-making are inseparable.

Miller, also a member of the �鶹ӳ����ý College of Business Hall of Fame, brings years of executive experience, having previously served as CEO of LASAS Technologies, a finance and insurance company that he co-founded in 1998. His career experience includes financial analysis, capital raising, financial markets, actuarial experience, software development and in-depth company infrastructure formation.

After gaining valuable experience as an entrepreneur and chief executive officer, Miller’s ambition led him to join and invest in Voloridge Investment Management and then Voloridge Health. For both companies, he is responsible for many facets of leadership, including trading, back-office operations, compliance, sales and marketing, vendor relationships and strategic planning.

Brian Adams ’04MBA

President and CEO of AdventHealth Central Florida Division

Brian Adams is president and CEO of AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division, one of the nation’s largest faith-based health systems, whose 37,000 dedicated team members provide care for more than 3 million patients.

Known for building high-performing teams and ensuring the organization grows to meet the care needs of the community, Adams has led efforts to expand access to care, elevate quality and bring innovative solutions to rapidly growing communities. His leadership has continued to position AdventHealth as a trusted and innovative partner in Central Florida.

As a part of AdventHealth for more than 24 years, Adams has held senior leadership roles across the organization, including CEO positions in Tampa and Polk County, where he oversaw major expansions, facility investments and quality improvements.

He earned his master’s of business administration from the �鶹ӳ����ý and a bachelor’s degree from Union College in Nebraska. Originally from Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, Adams and his wife have two teenage sons.

Gloria Caulfield

Vice president of strategic alliances, Tavistock Development Company

In her multifaceted role as vice president of strategic alliances at Tavistock, Gloria Caulfield manages business development and corporate partnerships, collaborates with national and global stakeholders to advance health innovation, and leads the development of cutting-edge strategies for the Lake Nona community.

She is the chief architect and creative force behind the Lake Nona Impact Forum. The revered global health innovation summit brings together many of the world’s most preeminent thought leaders and serves as a signature event of the Tavistock Group.

Caulfield serves on boards that reflect her passion for advancing the future of human health, including the StartUp Health Impact Board, which focuses on mobilizing entrepreneurs to solve the biggest health challenges of our time, and the LFE Capital Advisory Board, which supports female founders and impactful, wellness-oriented companies.

Prior to joining Tavistock, she had a distinguished career at AdventHealth. As senior executive director for community development, she provided strategic leadership for corporate partnerships and spearheaded critical community initiatives across Central Florida. Caulfield is an alumna of the University of Arizona and brings visionary leadership to every aspect of her work.

Barbara Gellman-Danley

President of Higher Learning Commission

Barbara Gellman-Danley is president of the Higher Learning Commission, which accredits colleges and universities to ensure they meet high-quality standards and continuously improve.

Prior to beginning this role in 2014, she was president of the University of Rio Grande/Rio Grande Community College in Ohio. She previously served as vice chancellor of the Ohio Board of Regents, president of Antioch University McGregor, vice president at Monroe Community College and vice chancellor at the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Gellman-Danley sits on the boards of Credential Engine, which she chairs, and GlobalMindED. Her career includes previous board and commission memberships with the Association of Governing Boards Council of Presidents, the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, the American Council on Education’s Education and Attainment group and the Council on Adult and Experiential Learning.

Gellman-Danley holds degrees from Syracuse University, Simmons University, Oklahoma City University and the University of Oklahoma. She did post-graduate work at New York University, Cornell, Harvard, the University of Chicago and MIT.

An honorary member of Phi Theta Kappa, she is a professional certified coach, certified executive coach and certified life coach. She holds certifications in change management, Agile and Lean Six Sigma, a professional credential validating expertise in data-driven process improvement aimed at reducing waste and defects.

Maj. Gen. James Smith

Commander, space training and readiness command at Patrick Space Force Base

As commander, Maj. Gen. James E. Smith is responsible for preparing the U.S. Space Force and more than 14,000 military and civilian guardians to prevail in competition and conflict through innovative education, training, doctrine and test activities.

Originally from Boise, Idaho, Maj. Gen. Smith commissioned in 1997 as the top graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. His career spans numerous space operations and acquisition positions, including command at the squadron, group, wing, garrison and Field Command levels.

Maj. Gen. Smith has deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and to the U.S. Embassy in Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Prior to his current position, Maj. Gen. Smith served as the vice director, Joint Force Development, J-7, the Joint Staff, Arlington, Virginia.

Peter Lee

President of Microsoft Science

Peter Lee is president of Microsoft Science, where his responsibility is to accelerate the pace of discovery in the physical, biological and medical sciences through the use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

Previously, he led the world laboratories of Microsoft Research. Before joining Microsoft in 2010, he established a new technology office at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency within the U.S. Department of Defense, creating operational capabilities in machine learning, data science and computational social science.

From 1987 to 2010, Lee was a professor and the head of the computer science department at Carnegie Mellon University. He is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and serves on the boards of several institutions in AI and medicine, including the board of trustees of the Mayo Clinic and the board of directors of the Kaiser Permanente School of Medicine. He served on President Obama’s Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity and has testified before both U.S. House and Senate committees.

He is the co-author of the book, The AI Revolution in Medicine: GPT-4 and Beyond. In 2024, Lee was named by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in health and life sciences.

Behind every badge is a commitment to serve — a commitment two new officers now carry forward at �鶹ӳ����ý.

Surrounded by family, friends, colleagues and university leaders, the officers were sworn in during a ceremony that marked not just a personal milestone, but the (�鶹ӳ����ýPD)’s continued growth and commitment to service.

“�鶹ӳ����ý is a special place and working in public safety here takes a special kind of person,” says �鶹ӳ����ý Police Chief Robbin Griffin-Kitzerow. “It takes someone who genuinely cares, who shows up every day with a heart for service, and who is committed to the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff.”

Ross Wolf, interim dean of the College of Community Innovation and Education and associate provost of �鶹ӳ����ý Downtown, reflected on the ceremony’s significance, drawing on his recent retirement from policing after 34 years of service in both full-time and reserve roles.

“My law enforcement career instilled in me a deep respect for this profession and for the camaraderie, commitment and sense of purpose that define it,” Wolf says.

�鶹ӳ����ýPD’s two newest officers will join the patrol division after completing a field-training program, where they’ll work alongside senior officers and gain hands-on experience out in the field before graduating to solo patrol.

Get to Know the New Officers

Brittany Lopez

Having previously served with the Clermont Police Department as both a patrol officer and a detective, Brittany Lopez brings a strong foundation in law enforcement to �鶹ӳ����ý. She was drawn to �鶹ӳ����ýPD for its culture and the unique community it serves. With a master’s degree in cybercrime from the University of South Florida, Lopez is driven by a desire to help students make informed choices that support their future success.

Daira Yulfo-Vargas ’25

Joining �鶹ӳ����ýPD is a full-circle moment for Daira Yulfo-Vargas ’25. After moving to Orlando to attend �鶹ӳ����ý, she began as a police explorer while earning her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. She later served as a �鶹ӳ����ýPD cadet and, through departmental sponsorship, completed the police academy, graduating among the top academic performers in her class. Now she returns to serve her alma mater as a �鶹ӳ����ý police officer, committed to supporting students and advancing the department’s safety mission.

Celebrating Promotions

The ceremony also recognized four individuals taking on new roles within �鶹ӳ����ý Public Safety.

Corporal Melissa Guadagnino

Community Outreach and Crime Prevention Unit

Corporal Melissa Guadagnino has been a vital part of �鶹ӳ����ýPD for more than 12 years, including nine years as a detective. In that role, she worked alongside her therapy dog, Chipper, providing investigative support and comfort to victims during difficult moments. She’s also served on the Emergency Response Team through dozens of deployments and instructed crisis intervention and patrol investigator programs. Now part of the Community Outreach and Crime Prevention Unit, Guadagnino continues to lead with dedication and heart, making an impact.

Jennifer Floyd

University Physical Security Manager

During a time of significant staffing transitions, Jennifer Floyd played a critical role in maintaining operations while supporting major security initiatives. She coordinated hundreds of maintenance requests and led a campuswide security camera upgrade, overseeing the replacement of more than 500 cameras to strengthen �鶹ӳ����ý’s safety infrastructure. Floyd also led nearly 50 training sessions, helping ensure teams have the knowledge and confidence to effectively manage and maintain essential systems.

Benita Harrison

Administrative Operations Manager

Benita Harrison supports departmental leadership with professionalism and exceptional integrity. She manages daily operations, chairs multiple committees and oversees all department-led events, playing a key role in ensuring smooth transitions. Her attention to detail and ability to create meaningful experiences are felt at every level across the organization.

Tiffany Ortiz

Dispatch Supervisor

Tiffany Ortiz brings a deep understanding of communication operations. Known for delivering organized, accurate and dependable work, she’s respected by both her peers and patrol officers for her collaborative, supportive approach. In her new role, she led a full revamp of the dispatch training program, updating the manual, strengthening the curriculum and enhancing skill development to better prepare team members for long-term success.

Together, these new officers and newly promoted leaders represent �鶹ӳ����ý Public Safety — united by a shared commitment to serve, support and safeguard the campus community.