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Connection Fall 2026 | Alumni & Friends Magazine

Advancing the Future of Research at UWF

THE SYNAPSE p.13 SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES: 50 YEARS OF SBDC

HERE FOR GOOD: A LEGACY CREATED TOGETHER

ARGO ATHLETICS: BUILT FOR WHAT’S NEXT

Connection

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LETTER FROM THE THE PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT Manny Diaz Jr.

VICE PRESIDENT, UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Tori Bennett ’12, ’16

LETTER FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT

NEWS & NOTES

ALZHEIMER’S PATENT

SBDC 50TH ANNIVERSARY

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: DR. ANDI NELSON

PRODUCTION MANAGER Zachary Farrington ’14

THE SYNAPSE

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jennifer Peck ’08, ’25

HERE FOR GOOD CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

ATHLETICS: BUILT FOR WHAT’S NEXT

ALUMNI EVENTS

ALUMNI PROFILE: CHRIS RONEY

ALUMNI PROFILE: JEBBYE LEMONS

SNAPSHOTS

CLASS NOTES

CONNECTION MAGAZINE Fall 2026

ADVANCEMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS Catrina Burks Katie Schutts Robin Zimmern ’17

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Brittany Sherwood ’14, ’25

DESIGN Hannah Bledsoe ’21 Gabe Blethen Carly Richards ‘25 PHOTOGRAPHY Brian Butler Conlan Taylor ’23 WRITERS AND EDITORS Catrina Burks Savannah Guilford Micayla Yates

CONTACT US Web uwf.edu/alumni Email alumni@uwf.edu Phone 800.226.1893 Mail UWF Alumni Association, 11000 University Pkwy., Building 12, Pensacola, FL 32514 TO GIVE Online uwf.edu/give UWF Connection is published semi-annually by Alumni Relations and University Marketing and Communications. The purpose of Connection is to communicate and engage with UWF alumni, donors, friends and others interested in the activities of UWF.

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15 UWF IS CONTINUING TO BUILD FOR WHAT’S NEXT with the groundbreaking of The Synapse, a brand new research facility that will house specialized labs and state-of-the-art equipment and technology like this Unitree Go2 Robot Dog that is used as a research platform for autonomous navigation.

Letter from the President Dear Argos, As I reflect on my first year as president of the University of West Florida, I’m filled with gratitude for all we’ve accomplished together. We broke ground on the Darrell Gooden Stadium and The Synapse research building, announced a much anticipated transition to NCAA Division I athletics and launched a refreshed brand. I experienced my first Homecoming, Founders Week and so many other traditions that make UWF such a special place. Most importantly, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with inspiring students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members whose passion for UWF continues to impress me every day. In this issue of Connection Magazine, you’ll read about groundbreaking research in early Alzheimer’s detection, celebrate 50 years of the Florida Small Business Development Center, discover what’s in store for our new STEM research facility, see how the Here for Good capital campaign is already transforming students’ lives, and learn more about all the excitement around Argo Athletics. I look forward to continuing this great momentum together for years to come. Go Argos!

Manny Diaz Jr. President University of West Florida

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NEWS & NOTE S

News & Notes Recent news from the University of West Florida

Letter from the

Vice President ALUMNI AND FRIENDS,

This issue of Connection Magazine arrives at a particularly meaningful season for UWF. Before stepping into the role of Vice President for University Advancement, I spent much of my career working alongside donors, alumni and friends to help advance UWF’s largest-ever capital campaign: Here for Good. Today, I am proud to celebrate its successful conclusion. Together, we exceeded our $90 million goal and raised more than $100 million to support scholarships, academic programs, research initiatives and transformational projects across the University. While the achievement itself is remarkable, what inspires me most is what it represents: thousands of people choosing to invest in UWF’s students and future. As a two-time graduate, I know firsthand the opportunities this University creates. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the momentum generated by this campaign is already helping shape the next chapter of UWF’s story — from groundbreaking research and innovative facilities to new opportunities for students and our community. The campaign may be complete, but the impact is just beginning. Thank you for helping build what comes next. Sincerely,

Tori Bennett ’12, ’16 Vice President, University Advancement

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BY SAVANNAH GUILFORD

Record-breaking annual Day of Giving During its eighth annual Day of Giving, UWF raised $278,554 from 1,078 donors, exceeding its fundraising goal by more than $100,000. National engagement was at an all-time high with contributions received from all 50 states for the first time ever, conveying the growing reach of UWF across the nation. Gifts made during the campaign directly support scholarships, academic programs, student experiences and strategic initiatives that enhance the University’s impact.

UWF students collaborate with MIT Five undergraduate students from UWF’s Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business collaborated with Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s MBA program on a comprehensive feasibility study focused on unmanned autonomous systems, or UAS. Mike Arnett, Bella Kendall, Alana Camp, Josh Simon and Joel Havercroft worked as a cohesive team with their MIT counterparts to evaluate Northwest Florida’s potential as a manufacturing base for a future UAS ecosystem. Over a span of six weeks, students examined site selection, workforce availability, logistics connectivity, manufacturing infrastructure, incentive opportunities and broader regional capabilities.

NEWS N E WS & & NOTES N OT ES

UWF student becomes University’s first Boren Scholar Younge Dogbe, a senior supply chain logistics management major, was awarded a Boren Scholarship to study at the University of Ghana from August 2026 through February 2027. This scholarship is one of the most competitive international programs in the nation and provides up to $25,000 to support immersive language and cultural study abroad experiences in regions critical to U.S. national security interests. Dogbe, a U.S. Army veteran who served as a transition coach at the Military & Veterans Transition Assistance Center, is the first UWF student to receive the scholarship.

UWF recognized as Gold-level Military Friendly University

Center for Cybersecurity expands and excels UWF announced the official expansion of its nationally recognized Center for Cybersecurity to the Center for Cybersecurity and AI, signifying the center’s expanded mission to become a global leader in advancing secure, responsible and trustworthy digital and intelligent systems. Alongside this expansion, UWF placed third in the 2025 CAECD Community Outreach Award Competition, which is given by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Community to a CAE-Cyber Defense designated institution. Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, associate vice president for the Center, also received an award for Outstanding Contributions to the CAE Cyber AI Community and Nation.

UWF was recognized as a goldlevel University in the large public school category in the annual Military Friendly® Schools list for 2026-2027. This is UWF’s eighth time earning the gold distinction for success in helping veterans make the transition from the military to school and, ultimately, rewarding civilian careers. The University was also designated as a Military Spouse Friendly® School.

Archaeology Institute uncovers pre-Columbian Native American artifacts Faculty researchers and archaeology students from the UWF Archaeology Institution uncovered artifacts linked to multiple pre-Columbian Native American cultures during an archaeological survey on UWF’s Pensacola campus. Through systematic shovel test excavations, faculty and students recovered ceramics associated with at least two pre-Columbian Native American cultures. The oldest artifacts appear to be linked to the Weeden Island culture of the Woodland period, likely dating between A.D. 600 and 900. Additional ceramics date to the middle-to-late Mississippian period, approximately A.D. 1250 to 1600. Fall 2026 4

UWF receives multiple new grants In Spring 2026, the University of West Florida secured several competitive grants to strengthen research, academic programs and student success. UWF received a $260,000 grant from the Florida Department of Health to provide evaluation services for Florida’s Colorectal Cancer Control Program. Over the next four years, the University will deliver ongoing evaluation services for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Florida Department of Health and partner health systems. The University also earned a $555,000 National Institutes of Health R25 Research Education grant to establish the NeuroNauts Scholars Program, providing cohorts of local high school juniors and seniors with an intensive eight-week summer neuroscience research experience. A joint UWF and Institute for Human & Machine Cognition team received a $775,360 Office of Naval Research grant to expand research in multi-robot autonomy and human-machine learning through advanced robotic platforms and immersive technology. Additionally, UWF was awarded a $2 million National Science Foundation S-STEM grant to provide scholarships for 38 Pell-eligible STEM students while expanding mental health resources within the STEM Living Learning Community.

UWF students excel in national competitions

UWF’s Road to Revolution with America250

UWF students have continued achieving success across the nation in their respective competitions. Finance students placed fourth in the Bond Fund category at the 2026 QGAME Global StudentManaged Funds Portfolio Competition for their excellence in communicating fund history and investment strategy. From the School of Education, two teams of Instructional Design and Technology students earned top honors in the 2026 International Society for Performance Improvement Case Study Student Competition, placing first and third. This is the second year in a row that a UWF team has won the competition.

The UWF Historic Trust’s Pensacola Museum of History opened “Road to Revolution: Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the American War for Independence.” Developed in partnership with America250, the exhibit explores how Pensacola, a distant Gulf Coast port, played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. Through original letters, artifacts and paintings, “Road to Revolution” showcases daily life under British rule, the power of international alliances and Spain’s strategic campaign along the Gulf Coast, with firsthand accounts and historic objects that bring the global conflict to life at the local level. The exhibit will remain on display through May 2027.

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NEWS & NOTES

UWF celebrates 20 years of Explore Camps UWF celebrated 20 years of its Explore Camps, K-12 summer programs that provide an opportunity for youth to explore their creativity, challenge their minds and build new friendships. Offering quality summer programs to the University and surrounding community since 2006, Explore Camps have since expanded to offer more than 50 unique programs each year, partnering with University academic departments and local educators to offer a variety of science, technology, engineering, math, art, musical theater, history, archaeology and other types of academic enrichment opportunities.

UWF expands community impact with graduate internship

UWF Archaeology team receives Mark E. Mack Community Engagement award A multi-organizational research team led by the UWF Archaeology Institute’s assistant director, Nicole Grinnan, was awarded the 2026 Mark E. Mack Community Engagement award from the Society for Historical Archaeology. This prestigious international award recognized the Archaeology Institute’s research in Apalachicola, Florida, for exhibiting “outstanding best practices in community collaboration, engagement and outreach in their historical archaeology and heritage preservation work.” Grinnan’s research, entitled “People of the Apalachicola System: Exploring Cultural Heritage as a Vector for Ecosystem Planning, Management and Adaptation,” not only emphasized traditional archaeological research, but also actively integrated the local community at each phase of the research process.

UWF’s Behavior Lab launched a new hands-on learning opportunity for graduate students through an internship partnership with Escambia Westgate School, a local public school serving pre-K through high school students up to age 22 with varying exceptionalities. In addition to vocational classrooms, Westgate is also home to the Lacey A. Collier Snoezelen Complex, one of the largest multi-sensory therapeutic environments in the United States. The complex serves as a collaborative hub where multiple therapeutic disciplines work together to meet students’ individualized needs. This internship opportunity allows behavioral analysis graduate students to translate classroom learning into practice.

Global Learning Academy Visits UWF Labs UWF opened its chemistry laboratories to host elementary students from the Global Learning Academy. During the visit, students were immersed in laboratory rotations including the “Slime Station,” where students explored the properties of polymers, and advanced chemistry experiments, where students practiced the scientific method alongside faculty. Each lab centered around physical science related to states of matter, chemical changes and the nature of science.

UWFPD reaccredited through 2029 The UWF Police Department achieved reaccreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation through 2029. Accreditation increases the department’s ability to prevent and control crime through effective and efficient delivery of law enforcement services. To earn accreditation, the UWFPD achieved the highest standards critical to life, health, safety issues and best practices. Fall 2026 6

ALZHEIMER’S PATENT

Finding the Future Today: INNOVATIVE ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE DETECTION BY SAVANNAH GUILFORD

or many people who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, diagnosis often comes too late, after symptoms have already begun to affect daily life. With the recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of the first disease-modifying therapies for early Alzheimer’s disease, identifying the disease earlier has become more important than ever. This challenge inspired Dr. James Arruda, professor of psychology in the University of West Florida Usha Kundu, MD College of Health, to begin researching and innovating techniques for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. In his research, Dr. Arruda observed that the speed at which the brain responds to brief flashes of light is selectively delayed in patients with the mild cognitive impairment that often precedes Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using this information, Arruda developed and refined the Flashed Visual Evoked Potential-P2, or FVEP-P2, platform, an electroencephalographic, or EEG, technology that measures the speed at which the brain responds to brief flashes of light. The FVEP-P2 platform includes specialized strobe-light goggles with a proprietary methodology and statistical analysis framework. During testing, the goggles repeatedly present flashes of light while the EEG records the brain’s electrical responses in the visual cortex. By analyzing how the brain processes this visual information, researchers

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can measure neural activity linked to neurotransmitters that are often depleted in the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease, allowing them to distinguish between healthy individuals and those showing signs of AD-related cognitive impairment. This neurophysiological marker may allow clinicians to detect and stage abnormalities years before cognitive symptoms appear. Unlike diagnostic approaches such as positron emission tomography, or PET, imaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, the EEG-based platform uses widely available clinical equipment and offers a lower-cost alternative for identifying patients who may be at risk. Dr. Jerry Lin, associate vice president of Research Administration and Engagement at UWF, notes the significance of Arruda’s non-intrusive innovation.

“This is a unique technical advancement with commercialization potential that will benefit many patients in need and substantially reduce the medical costs associated with treating cognitive impairments,” he said. In April 2026, after decades of research and four years of waiting, Arruda finally received a Notice of Allowance from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for his EEG system and method, bringing the accessible early-detection tool one step closer to clinical use. “If we can identify the biological changes associated with Alzheimer’s before significant cognitive decline occurs, we have a much greater opportunity to help patients,” Arruda explained. “This Notice of Allowance brings us closer to giving clinicians a tool that is less expensive, more accessible and less invasive than the current standard for early Alzheimer’s detection.” In 2022, UWF entered a licensing agreement with BIOPAC Systems Inc., a California-based biomedical research company, to support continued development of the FVEP-P2 platform and potential commercialization of the technology to be used in primary care practices, memory clinics, neurology offices and more. The agreement marked UWF’s third licensing agreement and a significant milestone in the University’s efforts to translate faculty research into real-world solutions. “BIOPAC is proud to continue working alongside Arruda and the University of West Florida to advance this promising technology toward clinical use,” said Frazer Findlay, CEO of BIOPAC Systems, Inc. “The patent allowance marks an

m A eh RE

important milestone in the commercialization process, and as we move into the next phase of development and engage with the FDA, we remain focused on bringing this innovative diagnostic tool to clinicians and, ultimately, to the patients who could benefit from earlier intervention.” Initial clinical trials conducted at Brown University produced results supporting continued development. With the patent now allowed and clinical work continuing, Arruda and BIOPAC are preparing for pre-submission with the FDA on the regulatory pathway toward clinical deployment, a process that may be expedited by the fact that the underlying EEG hardware is already an established, FDA-cleared medical device. For Arruda, the patent represents the culmination of decades of research, clinical investigation and collaboration aimed at developing a more accessible approach to detecting Alzheimer’s disease in its earliest stages. As the technology advances toward regulatory review and potential clinical deployment, the milestone marks both a significant professional achievement and a promising step toward bringing the platform from the research lab to the patients and clinicians it was designed to serve. “I have been studying this particular brain response for the past 29 years,” Arruda shared. “It is gratifying to know that my work has contributed to the scientific and medical community’s understanding of information processing in general, and that it may also prove clinically useful in helping identify Alzheimer’s earlier, giving patients and their families more time and more options.”

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“If we can identify the biological changes associated with Alzheimer’s before significant cognitive decline occurs, we have a much greater opportunity to help patients.” — Dr. James Arruda, professor of psychology in the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health

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SBDC 50TH

SUPPORTING

SMALL BUSINESSES 50 YEARS OF GROWTH

BY SAVANNAH GUILFORD

n 1972, Allan Cowart, a professor of management at the University of West Florida, recognized a growing need for entrepreneurial guidance and support in Northwest Florida. To help meet that need, he established UWF’s Resource Center for Small Business Services, which was designated by the U.S. Small Business Administration as one of just 36 pilot Small Business Institutes nationwide. Beginning as a one-man operation serving entrepreneurs and small business owners across 10 Panhandle counties, the center provided practical business assistance, resources, and expertise at a time when few such services existed. The success of that early initiative helped position Florida as a national leader in small business assistance.

Top The SBDC Network gathers for an event in Tampa. Bottom President Diaz speaks at Florida Small Business Day at the Capitol.

By 1976, Cowart’s program had laid the foundation for the University of West Florida to become designated by the U.S. Small Business Administration as a pilot University Development Center program, one of only eight in the nation at the time. Today, this program is known as the Small Business Development Centers, or SBDC. This designation linked federal, state and local government resources with Florida’s higher education institutions and private sector partners, creating a statewide framework that could better serve entrepreneurs. “What began as a single center dedicated to supporting small businesses has evolved into a statewide network of 40 offices serving entrepreneurs across Florida,” said Greg Britton, state director for the Florida SBDC Network State Office. “While the Florida SBDC Network has expanded significantly over the past 50 years, its core mission has remained unchanged: providing no-cost consulting and expert guidance to help small businesses start, grow and succeed.”

Far Left The original UWF SBDC sign Left Governor Reubin O’Donovan Askew and SBA Administrator A. Vernon Weaver

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“What began as a single center dedicated to supporting small businesses has evolved into a statewide network of 40 offices serving entrepreneurs across Florida.” — Greg Britton, state director for the Florida SBDC Network State Office

More than 50 years later, the ideas created by Cowart are deeply rooted in UWF, shaping how the University supports small businesses across Florida and throughout the nation. “As the host institution of the Florida SBDC Network, UWF has played a central role in advancing entrepreneurship and economic development across Florida, strengthening its reputation as a leader in business assistance and community engagement,” Britton said. “In just the last ten years, the Florida SBDC Network has helped increase clients’ revenues by more than $3.9 billion, supported nearly 77,200 jobs and helped launch more than 6,500 new businesses across Florida. UWF serves as the statewide host for the Florida SBDC Network, which includes more than 40 offices and 225 expert consultants dedicated to helping entrepreneurs launch, grow and thrive in their communities. Demand for these services continue to rise with more than 112,000 hours of consulting to over 15,400 small business clients statewide in 2025. These services continue to accumulate into real dollar value with $534 million in capital, $711 million in government contracts, $3.4 billion in increased sales, and 1,111 new businesses launched. Overall, 18,334 jobs have been impacted across the state of Florida as of 2025. For TechFarms CEO Steve Millaway, the SBDC has been an invaluable partner. Located in Panama City Beach, the technology-focused business incubator and innovation center and the many entrepreneurs, startups and emerging technology companies that operate within the facility have been greatly impacted by the resources of the SBDC. “The ability to connect entrepreneurs with experienced business consultants,

Left Dave and Mary Hoxeng Right An old SBDC billboard

training programs, market research, capital access assistance and strategic planning resources made the SBDC a natural partner for our innovation ecosystem,” Millaway said. Today, Millaway states that the partnership has strengthened the overall entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Panama City Beach region. By combining the incubation services of TechFarms with the consulting expertise of the SBDC, startups have been able to move more quickly from concept to commercialization. “The SBDC has reinforced my belief that collaboration is one of the most powerful tools for economic development,” Millaway said. “The partnership with the SBDC has allowed us to provide a higher level of support to the companies we serve and has amplified the impact we can have on our regional economy.” For Dave and Mary Hoxeng, the SBDC allowed them to reach their dreams of owning ADX Communications, a prominent radio station in Pensacola that runs popular stations CatCountry 98.7, NewsRadio 92.3, ESPN Radio 99.1 and Pensacola’s Playlist 94.5. “We both had deep experiences of working in broadcasting but had not previously

owned a business,” said the Hoxengs. “The SBDC consultant met with us several times and coached us on business planning. Thanks to the SBDC’s help, our first station, CatCountry 98.7, started broadcasting in 2004.” Now, with more than 20 years of experience as business owners, the Hoxengs reflect on the importance the SBDC played in those early years. “We are grateful to have prospered for so many years,” they shared. “The people of SBDC were very supportive and helped us with the business plan that enabled us to reach our life goals.” As the Florida SBDC Network celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, its success reflects the University of West Florida’s longstanding commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and community partnerships that deliver measurable economic impacts to small businesses across the region, state and nation. “Reaching 50 years of service is a significant milestone for the Florida SBDC Network and a testament to the lasting impact the program has had on Florida’s small business community,” Britton said. “There is great pride in what has been accomplished, and we look forward to driving innovation, expanding opportunities and ensuring that Florida’s small businesses have the resources and expertise they need to thrive for the next 50 years and beyond.”

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FACULTY SP OTLIGHT

Dr. Andi Nelson

The Ripple Effect: The Quiet Impact of Dr. Andi Nelson

BY CATRINA BURKS

ost of the people who benefit from Dr. Andi Nelson’s work will never be enrolled in one of her classes. Still, her passion for educating future health care professionals continues to touch countless lives through the students, faculty and patients she serves. To her students, she is a beloved and approachable professor. To her colleagues, she is a trusted source of guidance and the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health’s Educational Innovator. To regional health care leaders, she is co-coordinator of the Center for Interprofessional Education and Practice. To her patients, she has brought hope, a listening ear and a path toward healing. Across every role she holds, there is one constant: Nelson’s impact reaches far beyond those she works with directly, creating ripples that extend well past her immediate sphere of influence. Before joining the University of West Florida, Nelson spent more than two decades in physical therapy practice, working closely with the Andrews Institute, a longtime UWF partner. That experience shaped not only her clinical expertise but also her approach to teaching, mentoring and collaborating. “If I wanted patients to follow their home exercise program, I had to know they understood it,” Nelson said. “Same with our students and our faculty. They can nod their heads in agreement, but confirming comprehension is critical to progress.” For Nelson, two skills sit at the center of everything she does: listening and empowerment. Whether working with patients, students or colleagues, she focuses on understanding individual needs and meeting people where they are. “I’m not going to make a 90-year-old ready to go on the football field,” she said, “but I’m also not going to give an athlete geriatric exercises. You have to know where people are coming from.” That philosophy carries into her work with faculty across the University. As an educator, mentor and

innovator, Nelson helps instructors explore new teaching strategies, improve accessibility and strengthen student engagement. Her influence often spreads quietly — through conversations, shared tools and ideas that take root far beyond her own work. “She wears many hats, and amazingly well,” said colleague Katie Cavnar, senior instructor in the Department of Medical Lab Sciences. “She gives her all to her different roles and always works to learn more and impart that knowledge.” For Nelson, the most meaningful outcomes are often the ones that can’t be easily measured. She recalls students who have used lessons from her courses not only in professional settings, but in their personal lives, helping family members better understand medical care and advocate for themselves in health care settings. “I’ve had students tell me they were able to go to a doctor’s appointment with a family member and actually understand what was being said,” she said. “That means a lot.” Her impact also shows up in the growth of colleagues and graduate assistants she has mentored, some now working in instructional design and other academic settings. The lasting impact of mentorship is evident in the accomplishments of former graduate assistants working in a variety of professional settings and in the connections made between faculty and students through practices encouraged by Nelson’s work as Educational Innovator. Ultimately, she measures success not in accolades but in people. “To know that I made a difference in the lives of faculty members and students,” she said simply, “that is how I know I’ve succeeded.” It’s a reflection of both her humility and her philosophy. Across classrooms, clinics and collaborations, she doesn’t just shape what students learn; she shapes how educators teach, how colleagues grow and how learning extends far beyond a single room.

“[Dr. Nelson] wears many hats, and amazingly well. She gives her all to her different roles and always works to learn more and impart that knowledge.” — Katie Cavnar, senior instructor in the Department of Medical Lab Sciences 11 Fall 2026

“To know that I made a difference... that is how I know I’ve succeeded.”

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ast year, the University of West Florida achieved a Research 2: High Spending and Doctorate Production, or R2, designation from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching for the first time in its history, joining the ranks of some of the most prestigious research institutions in the country. This recognition was followed by a record-breaking year in research funding, securing more than $64.3 million in new grant awards during the Fall 2025 semester alone. As its research enterprise continues to grow, UWF is continuing to build for what’s next, creating new spaces and opportunities to support advanced research, foster innovation and prepare students for the industries of the future. In April, University leaders, faculty, students and community partners gathered to break ground on The Synapse, a new state-of-the-art research facility that will expand UWF’s capacity for discovery, innovation and collaboration for decades to come. Funded through a portion of a $32.5 million award from Triumph Gulf Coast and more than $21 million in state funding, the 55,000-square-foot facility represents one of the most significant investments in research infrastructure in University history.

A daytime rendering of The Synapse developed by Caldwell Architects and Perkins&Will

THE SYNAPSE

Advancing the Future of Research at UWF BY MICAYLA YATES

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A nighttime rendering of The Synapse developed by Caldwell Architects and Perkins&Will

Designed for Connection

The Synapse, a research facility that will house specialized labs and state-of-theart equipment and technology to support advanced computational, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and engineering research across the University, will be unlike any other facility on UWF’s campus. Designed by Caldwell Architects in collaboration with Perkins&Will, the building is intentionally shaped like a Y to reflect its core design inspiration: the way neurons connect within the human brain. UWF Provost Dr. Jaromy Kuhl explained that just as synapses connect individual neurons into a powerful network, The Synapse is intentionally designed to bring

researchers and students together in ways that spark innovation. “By connecting disciplines and creating shared spaces for discovery, this facility will accelerate research and expand opportunities for experiential learning,” he said. Inspired by neuromorphic architecture – a strategy that mimics how the brain processes and stores information – The Synapse is designed to function as a connected ecosystem for research and discovery. A central multi-story atrium, interconnected corridors and flexible lab and collaboration spaces will support both planned and spontaneous interactions, allowing faculty, students and industry partners to move seamlessly between disciplines and projects. By bringing research labs, offices and

gathering spaces together under one roof, the building is intended to break down traditional academic silos and create opportunities for collaboration that can lead to new discoveries. The design also reflects a broader shift in modern research, adding data-driven, computational research environments to traditional laboratories centered on physical experimentation. To support that evolution, the facility is organized around flexible laboratory modules that can adapt as technologies and research priorities change. The building will include advanced computational research spaces alongside specialized engineering laboratories, creating an environment capable of supporting both digital and physical innovation.

University leadership break ground on The Synapse with a humanoid robot.

This Unitree bipedal G1 Humanoid Robot serves as a research platform for adaptive and flexible grasping, helping researchers explore how robots can safely and effectively manipulate and interact with diverse objects and environments.

Advancing Computational Intelligence

Among the facility’s anchor tenants will be the newly established Center for Computational Intelligence, housed within UWF’s Institute for Analytics and Industry Advancement. The Center serves as a hub for advanced computational research, uniting faculty, researchers, students and industry partners to develop nextgeneration technologies that address complex realworld challenges. According to Dr. Karen Molek, associate vice president of Computational Intelligence and Student Scholars Programs, with a new home in The Synapse, the Center for Computational Intelligence will be able to expand its ability to design and apply sophisticated computational models and intelligent systems, accelerating innovation across disciplines including health care, applied and basic sciences, engineering, energy, environmental monitoring, personalized education and defense. “This dynamic new research hub will position UWF to expand its cutting-edge computational research, creating opportunities to tackle complex, real-world challenges across diverse fields through collaborations on campus and with external partners,” she said. “By leveraging advanced computing and emerging technologies, we can accelerate discoveries that improve lives, strengthen industries and address some of society’s most pressing challenges.” The Center’s work will also complement initiatives across campus, including the Wright Family Institute for Health and Technology, where emerging technologies are increasingly shaping the future of health care and medical innovation.

“THE SYNAPSE REPRESENTS THE FUTURE OF INNOVATION, WHERE AI, CYBERSECURITY AND ADVANCED COMPUTING COME TOGETHER TO SOLVE COMPLEX CHALLENGES.” — Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, associate vice president for the UWF Center for Cybersecurity and AI

UWF faculty teach students in the current UWF Center for Cybersecurity and AI using AI models and a working server room.

Expanding Cybersecurity and AI

The Synapse will also become the future home of the UWF Center for Cybersecurity and AI. Already recognized as a global leader in cybersecurity education, research and workforce development, the Center recently expanded its mission to formally integrate artificial intelligence into its research, academic programs and industry partnerships. This evolution reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of cybersecurity and AI in today’s digital world. With this expanded focus, the Center is addressing some of today’s most important challenges ranging from the protection of critical infrastructure and national security systems to the advancement of responsible AI technologies. Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, associate vice president for the UWF Center of Cybersecurity

and AI, said that relocating to The Synapse will provide expanded space and resources for faculty, students and industry partners working to develop secure, intelligent systems and prepare the next generation of AI and cybersecurity professionals. “The Synapse represents the future of innovation, where AI, cybersecurity and advanced computing come together to solve complex challenges,” she said. “This state-of-the-art environment will accelerate research, strengthen collaboration and position UWF as a leader in securing and advancing intelligent systems.” The new facility will provide the infrastructure necessary to support future growth while positioning the University to lead emerging conversations around responsible AI development, digital security and workforce readiness.

The UWF Center for Cybersecurity and AI’s new logo includes minor updates to the name, color scheme, typography and a slight alteration to the icon, all in an effort to better reflect the mission of the Center and align with UWF’s visual brand updates. Fall 2026 16

Accelerating Discovery through Interdisciplinary Collaboration

While computational intelligence and cybersecurity will serve as cornerstone programs, The Synapse is designed to support a much broader research ecosystem that houses collaborative projects in robotics, power systems, material science and civil engineering. The building’s design acknowledges that many of today’s most pressing challenges cannot be addressed neatly within a single academic department. Increasingly, breakthroughs emerge when engineering, computer science, analytics and applied sciences converge to develop integrated solutions. To support this approach, the facility will include specialized laboratories designed for both computational and physical research. Dedicated engineering spaces will support low-hazard chemical use and testing, while flexible research spaces can adapt alongside evolving technologies and research priorities. Dr. Mohamed Khabou, dean of the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering, believes the facility will reshape how

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interdisciplinary research is conducted across the University. “By fostering intentional opportunities for collaboration across STEM disciplines, The Synapse will enhance UWF’s capacity for high-impact research,” he said. “It will accelerate discovery while strengthening the University’s competitiveness for major research funding and strategic partnerships.”

Building for Global Impact

“BY FOSTERING INTENTIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR COLLABORATION ACROSS STEM DISCIPLINES, THE SYNAPSE WILL ENHANCE UWF’S CAPACITY FOR HIGH-IMPACT RESEARCH.” — Dr. Mohamed Khabou, dean of the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering

When The Synapse opens to faculty and students in Spring 2028, it will mark a new era in UWF’s research enterprise, extending its impact well beyond the University of West Florida campus to communities around the globe. For students, the facility will provide hands-on access to cutting-edge technologies and opportunities to work alongside faculty and industry partners on meaningful research projects.

For faculty, it creates expanded capacity to pursue innovative research, secure competitive funding and attract top talent. For Northwest Florida and beyond, it strengthens a growing pipeline of highly skilled graduates ready to contribute to industries critical to economic growth, technological advancement, national security and more. By connecting students, faculty and community partners, The Synapse will accelerate research, fuel innovation and prepare UWF graduates not only for today’s workforce, but for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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HERE FOR GOOD A LEGACY CREATED TOGETHER BY MICAYLA YATES AND CATRINA BURKS

YOU BELIEVED in what the University of West Florida could become.

You believed that a university has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities and create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. You believed that when students are supported, faculty are empowered and communities come together, the impact can last for generations. That belief became the foundation of the Here for Good Campaign. Today, because of you, that vision has become reality. Together, over 30,000 alumni, donors, students, faculty, staff, parents, foundations, corporations and friends invested more than $100 million in the future of UWF, making Here for Good the largest comprehensive fundraising campaign in University history. But this campaign was never simply about a dollar amount. It was about believing in students before they ever stepped onto campus. It was about creating opportunities for discovery and innovation. It was about preserving

history, strengthening our community, expanding athletic excellence and preparing graduates to lead in an everchanging world. Most importantly, it was about people who believed in the power of UWF and the power of education. Whether you established a transformational gift, made your first annual donation, volunteered your time, attended a campus event or simply shared the University’s story with others, you became part of something far greater than yourself. Together, you helped advance the four pillars that guided every aspect of the campaign: People, Programs, Places and Community. You invested in students who dreamed of earning a college degree. You invested in faculty whose research is helping solve real-world challenges. You invested in facilities and learning environments that inspire collaboration, creativity and discovery. You invested in a university that continues to serve Northwest Florida while making an impact around the globe. And the impact of that investment can already be seen in the experiences of students across campus.

UWF STAFF MEMBERS get excited about UWF’s most impactful Day of Giving yet.

HERE FOR GOOD

For UWF sophomore Tag Gilbride, receiving the Valerie & Herman W. Rolfs Memorial Music Scholarship has allowed him to pursue both his passions for technology and the arts by dual majoring in management information systems and music. “My scholarship has allowed me to focus on my studies without constantly worrying about financial stress,” Gilbride said. “It has given me peace of mind about my future and the ability to enjoy my college experience to the fullest.” For senior management information systems major Giovanna Hespanha, scholarship support helped ensure that a financial challenge would not prevent her from completing the degree she had worked so hard to achieve. After moving to the United States from Brazil, Hespanha carried with her a belief instilled by her family that education can transform lives. The Warren Averett College of Business Scholarship she received provided encouragement, stability and the opportunity to continue pursuing her dreams. “This scholarship has truly changed my life and the future of my family,” Hespanha said. “Receiving this scholarship is more than just financial support; it is a profound incentive and the crowning achievement of everything I have fought for since I arrived here.” Gilbride and Hespanha represent just two of the thousands of students whose educational journeys have been strengthened through the generosity of the UWF community. Their stories demonstrate what happens when people come together to invest in potential. Because of you, scholarships are opening doors. Because of you, students are gaining access to experiences that prepare them for meaningful careers. Because of you, faculty members have opportunities to pursue innovative research and create new knowledge. Because of you, UWF continues to expand opportunities that strengthen our campus and our community. The impact of your generosity was also reflected in the continued growth of traditions like UWF’s annual Day of Giving. Each year, alumni, students, faculty, staff, parents and friends joined together to celebrate the University and support initiatives that make a difference. In 2026, Day of Giving reached a record-breaking milestone, receiving gifts from all 50 states for the first time in University history – a powerful reminder that the Argo community extends far beyond the Pensacola campus. Perhaps the greatest measure of the Here for Good Campaign’s success is not the amount raised. It is the lives changed. It is the first-generation student who earns a degree because financial barriers were reduced. The future nurse, engineer, educator, entrepreneur, scientist, artist or public servant who has opportunities that may not have existed otherwise. The faculty member whose research will improve lives. The family who will one day celebrate a student’s graduation because someone they may never meet chose to believe in their future. That is the legacy of Here for Good. Although the campaign has officially come to a close, its impact is only beginning. The momentum created through your generosity has positioned UWF for an exciting future – one defined by academic excellence, innovation, Division I athletics, community partnerships and student success. Because you believed in what UWF could become, you helped build a foundation that will support generations of Argonauts to come.

Provost Dr. Jaromy Kuhl, Drs. Muhammad and Fatema Rashid, and Dr. Mohamed Khabou stand in front of the Dr. Muhammad Harunur Rashid Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

UWF student-athletes at the Argie Awards are thankful for scholarship support to live out their dreams.

Because you were here, UWF is HERE FOR GOOD. UWF President Manny Diaz Jr. and Unisun Sports CEO Jeff Bacon pose at UWF’s Division I announcement press conference.

Fall 2026 20

RGO ATU ATHLETICS NEX S ’ T A H W R O B U I LT F 2026 HAS BEEN A BIG YEAR FOR ARGO ATHLETICS. From the groundbreaking of a new football stadium that will reshape the campus experience to making the historic leap to Division I and capturing championships across multiple programs, the Argos continue to prove that they’re ready to compete at the next level.

21 Fall 2026

BY MICAYLA YATES

A STADIUM BUILT FOR A NEW ERA On Feb. 11, 2026, the University of West Florida broke ground on Darrell Gooden Stadium, a multi-use football and events facility that will expand capacity to 7,500 seats and introduce premium seating, club areas, suites and modern amenities intended to enhance the game-day experience and support events beyond football. University leaders, student-athletes, donors, elected officials and community partners gathered to mark the beginning

of construction on a project designed to elevate both athletics and campus life. Athletic Director Dave Scott emphasized the impact on student-athletes and the broader community. “This groundbreaking marks a transformative era for Argonaut Athletics, providing our student-athletes with a championship-caliber home that matches their dedication on the field and builds champions for life,” he said. “By bringing football and major events directly to the heart of our campus, we are creating an unmatched game-day environment that will strengthen the bond between our Uni-

ATHLETICS

“[THIS MILESTONE] REPRESENTS EXPANDED OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR STUDENTS, GREATER NATIONAL VISIBILITY, AND A CONTINUED COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING AN OUTSTANDING EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE.” — Manny Diaz Jr., UWF President versity and the entire Pensacola community for generations to come.” For President Emerita Dr. Judy Bense, who first brought football to the University in 2016, the stadium groundbreaking was a full circle moment. “Well, who ever thought, 10 years from the time we flipped that first coin down at Ave Maria [University] in South Florida, that we would be building a stadium?” Bense asked, recalling UWF football’s inaugural game. “It is an incredible thing. I am proud of every one of you that helped. I’m proud of you, the fans. I’m proud of you, the students. And I’m proud because this will live on. This is one of those moments. It will live on because we set our minds to do it, and we did it, and it’s going to be great.” Funded through institutional investment and donor support, including a lead gift

exceeding $10 million and a $2 million contribution from Escambia County’s Tourist Development Council, the stadium is expected to serve as both a competitive home for the Argos and a regional hub for the broader community.

A LEAP TO DIVISION I That momentum carried into one of the most significant announcements in University history: a transition to NCAA Division I athletics. On April 2, 2026, UWF announced in a press conference that the Argonauts would compete in the United Athletic Conference for football and the Atlantic Sun Conference for all other sports beginning in the fall. The move positions UWF among the

most ambitious athletic programs in the Southeast and reflects a broader institutional rise. “This milestone is about more than athletics,” said UWF President Manny Diaz Jr. “It represents expanded opportunities for our students, greater national visibility, and a continued commitment to providing an outstanding educational experience.” UWF enters Division I with a strong foundation. The program captured 10 national championships and 141 conference titles at the Division II level. Scott said the move is the natural next step for a program continuously achieving such impressive results. “For our student-athletes, Division I provides new opportunities: greater exposure, strong regional rivalries, and the chance to help establish the next era of

Left Football Head Coach Kaleb Nobles, Argie, President Diaz, the late Darrell Gooden, and Debbie Gooden break ground on Darrell Gooden Stadium. Right President Diaz and Unisun Sports CEO Jeff Bacon make UWF’s Division I transition official. Fall 2026 22

2026

SIGNATURE BASKETBALL GAMES Save the date for two signature games this winter.

UWF vs. FSU “BATTLE AT THE BAY” November 29 2 p.m. Pensacola Bay Center

UWF vs. NAV Y “ARGIE vs. NAVY” December 13 Noon PenAir Field House

23 Fall 2026

President Diaz gifts a jersey to new men’s basketball head coach Tanner Smith at a press conference announcing his hire.

Argonaut athletics. Every championship, every milestone and every athlete who helped build this program remains a permanent part of UWF’s history. Division I is the next chapter of that story.”

LEADERSHIP FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER As UWF redefines its athletic future, leadership hires are helping shape its competitive identity. The hiring of Tanner Smith as men’s basketball head coach brought a new energy to the program. Smith arrived from Appalachian State, where he helped guide one of the most successful runs in program history. In his speech at his welcoming press conference, he outlined a vision for a team-first program built on honesty, hard work and relationships, hoping to unite players, alumni and fans together in pursuit of success.

“When we climb the ladder and cut down the nets, it won’t just belong to the players and coaches,” Smith said. “It will belong to the entire community. I’m excited to lead this program, to hang banners, to cut down nets, and to build a brand of basketball at West Florida that is recognized not just regionally, but nationally.” Smith’s arrival underscores a broader theme across UWF Athletics: building not just for today, but for sustained success at a higher level.

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE With the Division I announcement shining a new spotlight on the program, the Argos still had to close out their Spring 2026 seasons. Showing why they are ready to move up, UWF closed out its Gulf South Conference era with a bang, bringing home championships across multiple sports.

ATHLETICS

Men’s golf captured its fourth straight Gulf South Conference title and 22nd in program history, closing out its GSC era at the top of the leaderboard. Women’s golf finished runner-up at the GSC Championship, narrowly falling by a single stroke, with UWF golfer Millie Thompson securing the Gulf South Conference individual title. Men’s basketball delivered one of its most successful seasons in years, defeating topseeded West Alabama to claim the GSC title. Women’s tennis followed with a 4-3 victory over Mississippi College to secure its first GSC championship since 2019, while men’s tennis added another conference trophy to the case with a 4-1 win over Lee and finished their season as NCAA DII semifinalists. Baseball also added to the championship haul, securing its fifth GSC title in program history with a postseason victory over Delta State. In the pool, women’s swimming and diving delivered a historic NCAA National Championship performance, highlighted by a national championship in the 400 medley relay and a fourth-place overall finish – the best in program history. These results reflect a program that is ready to take on the next level of competition.

DRIVING REGIONAL IMPACT As construction continues on Darrell Gooden Stadium, Division I competition gets underway and new leadership takes shape, UWF Athletics finds itself in a period of unprecedented momentum – one that extends beyond campus and into communities across Northwest Florida. A recent economic impact analysis by the UWF Haas Center projects that Argo Athletics will generate nearly $42 million in regional economic output and support approximately 280 jobs by fiscal year 2027-28, fueled by increased attendance, expanded operations and the University’s transition to Division I competition. Over the next five years, UWF Athletics is projected to contribute more than $200 million in economic activity across Northwest Florida, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and attracting visitors to the burgeoning region. This momentum is about more than athletics. It reflects a University elevating opportunity, visibility and economic growth across an entire region as it enters its Division I era.

The Argonaut Football team celebrates their first Division I win of the season.

Fall 2026 24

Caring for Our Community

Then, Now & Always

Since 1951, we have cared for families, created jobs and worked to build a healthier community. We’ve cared for generations, growing alongside our community, expanding our reach through hospitals, medical parks, physician offices and more. We’ve also strengthened our impact through partnerships with area organizations — including the University of West Florida — that share our commitment to helping people throughout life’s journey. Baptist Hospital • Gulf Breeze Hospital • Jay Hospital Baptist Medical Parks — Airport / Navarre / Nine Mile / Pace Baptist Medical Group • Andrews Institute • Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute

ebaptisthealthcare.org

ALUMNI EVENTS

ALUMNI EVENTS DEAR ARGOS, There is a lot to look forward to this fall at the University of West Florida, and I hope you will make plans to be part of it. UWF is moving with real momentum. The University continues its transition to Division I athletics across all sports, a new football stadium is under construction, and UWF was ranked No. 2 in the Florida State University System Board of Governors’ performance metrics this year. Homecoming Week, October 12-17, will be one of the highlights of the semester. Whether you have been back recently or it has been years since you stepped on campus, Homecoming is a great opportunity to reconnect, celebrate our traditions, and experience the energy building across the University. Learn more in the Alumni Events section on uwf.edu/alumni. I also encourage you to take a look at the UWF Alumni Travel Program. My family and I traveled on an alumni tour in 2024, and I highly recommend it. Upcoming trips include Japan, New York City and several multi-city European journeys. These trips are a great way to see the world with fellow Argos while building new friendships and staying connected to the UWF community. As president of the UWF Alumni Association, I am proud to represent more than 105,000 alumni around the world. Thank you for staying engaged, supporting our University and carrying Argo pride wherever you go.

Top: The UWF Alumni Association hosted a breakfast and social gathering at Museum Plaza in downtown Pensacola during Homecoming Week 2025. Bottom: Some of the newest UWF alumni who graduated in Spring 2026.

WITH

Go Argos!

Get $20 when you switch to a UWF plate. uwf.edu/licenseplate Greg Threadgill, ’92 President, UWF Alumni Association

Stay Connected with UWF Alumni | Alumni.uwf.edu |

/UWFAlumni Fall 2026 26

ALUMNI

Christopher ’98 Roney Owner and Co-Founder of Ace Unlocks

Christopher Roney has always had a knack for entrepreneurship. While pursuing his bachelor’s degree in business management at UWF, Roney and his men’s golf teammate Charles Stead decided to start a business of their own by placing vending machines on campus. “We had secured the funding to purchase several vending machines to operate at UWF, and just before we purchased them, a friend of ours locked themselves out of their car,” Roney said. “Chuck went out to the car and unlocked it fairly easily.” It was at this moment that Roney realized the potential for a different type of business: one offering locksmith services. “I was amazed, and I looked at him and asked, ‘Why are we opening a vending machine company if we can do this?’ We talked it over, and that’s how Ace Unlocks was born.” Envisioned right on the UWF campus, Ace Unlocks has now been

27 Fall 2026

serving the Pensacola community for more than 20 years. “In entrepreneurship, it is important to know your why, be consistent and be doggedly determined,” Roney said. “If you do those three things, there’s not much that can stop you.” Roney now serves as a member of the UWF Board of Trustees. His entire fleet of company vehicles can be seen sporting UWF license plates. “My wife and I are both very committed to giving back to the community that has given so much to us,” Roney shared. “Lifelong Argos keep a close connection with Pensacola and UWF because the University offers so much to our community.”

“In entrepreneurship, it is important to know your why, be consistent and be doggedly determined. If you do those three things, there’s not much that can stop you.” — Christopher Roney, ’98

ALUMNI

“One of the most inspiring things is to witness people from all backgrounds coming together to support one another on their health journey.” — Jebbye Bonnet Lemons, ’25

’25

Jebbye Bonnet Lemons E-500 Registered Yoga Teacher, Owner of Your Pace Yoga Studio and Navy Veteran

Jebbye Bonnet Lemons is bringing a new meaning to “military friendly” through movement. Through Your Pace Yoga, the retired Navy veteran has made it her mission to bring yoga to everyone in the Pace and Milton community, including veterans, seniors and individuals with mobility limitations. After serving 23 years in the Navy, Lemons retired in 2016 and began building a new path centered on health and wellness.

Today, Lemons applies that knowledge at her studio through specialized chair yoga and adaptive classes that help individuals feel comfortable participating regardless of age, injury or physical limitations. She also offers discounted classes for veterans, helping make wellness resources more accessible to those who have served. “One of the most inspiring things is to witness people from all backgrounds coming together to support one another on their health journey,” said Lemons. Through encouragement, connection and shared experiences, they begin to realize they are stronger, more capable and more resilient than they ever believed.”

Yoga, which she first began in 2014 as a personal outlet, soon evolved into a way to help others, inspiring her to complete her Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher 500-Hour training and open her own studio. As her studio grew, Lemons decided to pursue a master’s degree in health promotion and worksite wellness at UWF to strengthen her understanding of community wellness and health education. The program’s flexible online format allowed her to continue running her business while learning how to develop and promote community wellness initiatives.

Fall 2026 28

SNAPSHOTS

Smile!

Whether we gather at commencement, a banquet, networking event or tailgate, our events provide the perfect opportunity to show our appreciation of your continued support. They are also a wonderful chance for you to socialize with fellow alumni, current students, staff, faculty and friends of the University. Don’t miss out! We continue to add new events to the mix. For a look at upcoming events, visit alumni.uwf.edu.

UWF held one of the campus’ biggest events, the Women in Leadership Conference, hosted by the AWKO Center for Leadership in the University Commons Conference Center.

A reception and check presentation ceremony were held at the Trader Jon’s exhibit at the Pensacola Museum of History on Feb. 4, 2026, to honor John W. Merting and his $500,000 gift to UWF.

Representing the University of West Florida, the UWF national champion men’s golf team, cheerleaders and President Manny Diaz Jr. took part in this year’s Mardi Gras Parade in downtown Pensacola.

Donors gathered with University leadership at the annual Donor Dinner in the UWF Field House, where they were recognized and celebrated while also getting a firsthand look at student projects and achievements across campus. 29 Fall 2026

UWF Athletics hosted an exciting press conference to welcome the new men’s basketball head coach, Tanner Smith.

On Feb. 16, 2026, University Conferencing, Events and Youth Services held a ribbon cutting for the new patio outside the Commons.

SNAPSHOTS

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University of West Florida Athletics hosted the annual student-athlete awards and donor recognition ceremony to celebrate achievements from the past 12 months.

CREDIT UNION OF FLORIDA

The University of West Florida Historic Trust held its annual Bootleg Ball on April 18, 2026. The 70s themed “Studio 1559” brought disco glam to life again.

The University of West Florida reached a historic milestone on Feb. 11, 2026, officially breaking ground on Darrell Gooden Stadium, a multiuse football and events facility that represents UWF’s growth and a significant investment in the community.

Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business faculty and staff celebrated the extraordinary career of Dr. Bob Kimball, who retired after 39 years at the University of West Florida. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Kimball made exceptional contributions in teaching, scholarship and service – contributions that have had a profound and lasting impact on UWF. Fall 2026 30

CLASS NOTES

Class Notes 1970s ’76 Cynthia N. Brooks (Nall), B.S. Medical Technology; Brooks was reappointed to the Holmes County Hospital Corporation by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

1980s ’81 George B. Atchison Jr., B.A. Management; Atchison was appointed to the Pensacola State College District Board of Trustees by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. ’81 & ’25 Dr. Kevin John Callahan, B.A. Special Education & M.A. Historical Archaeology; Callahan published “I’m Alive: A Young Fighter Pilot’s Diary of the US Navy Air War in Vietnam, 1964-1965.” ’84 John D. Green, MBA; Green was appointed as the Director of Omnichannel Marketing and eCommerce for the Defense Commissary Agency in Fort Lee, Virginia. ’84 & ’85 Jill A. Singer (Tummler), B.S. Systems Science & M.S. Systems Analysis; Singer was elected as Chair of the Board for Eutelsat Network Solutions. ’85 David MacDowell Blue, B.A. Theatre; Blue’s three original plays premiered in 2025. “My Leviathan” premiered in the Think & Imagine Festival in Los Angeles; the Post Meridian Radio Players in Boston produced “War of Worlds;” and “Good Questions” was produced by ARTFUL RESISTANCE. ’87 Brett A. Barrow, B.S. Management; Barrow was named Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking Manager of Synovus. 31 Fall 2026

1990s ’91 Dr. Christopher Culbertson, B.S. Chemistry; Culbertson was named the new dean of the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences for the University of South Carolina. ’91 Todd C. Leonard, B.A. Political Science; Leonard was appointed to serve on the Pensacola State College District Board of Trustees by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. ’91 Kevin Mason, B.S. Management; Mason was appointed to serve on the University of West Florida Board of Trustees by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. ’91 Edward E. Rigby Jr., B.A. History; Rigby was hired as head coach and athletic director at Pike County High School in Brundidge, Alabama. ’92 & ’02 Joel Francis Paul Jr., B.S. Vocational Program Development & M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction; Paul was reappointed to the Chipola College District Board of Trustees by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. ’96 Christian M. Wagley, M.S. Biology; Wagley was awarded the Safe Streets and People-Centered Transportation Award by Pensacola nonprofit CivicCon for his efforts advocating for safer biking and walking communities. ’97 Dr. Crystal Bennett, BSN; Bennett was named inaugural Dean of the College of Health Professions at the University of Montevallo, where she launched their BSN program and serves as the Nursing Program Director. ’98 Christopher Roney, BSBA Management; Roney was appointed to serve on the University of West Florida Board of Trustees by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

2000s ’01 Nathan John Busscher, BSBA Marketing; Busscher was appointed Chief Product Officer of ProphetX, America’s #1 sports prediction market. ’01 Dr. Regina Sue Temple (Lewis), MPA; Temple was included in the Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes.

’02 Grace Resendez McCaffery, B.A. Communication Arts; McCaffery was awarded the Transparency and Good Government Award by the Pensacola nonprofit CivicCon for her service to Spanish and Latino communities across Northwest Florida. ’02 The Hon. Jarred Heath Patterson, B.A. Psychology; Patterson was appointed to serve as a judge on the 14th Judicial Circuit Court by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. ’04 & ’08 Erica Felicia “Lanes” Douglas (McLean), B.S. Health Education & MSA Healthcare Administration; Douglas authored the book “My Selfie Needs No Filter” and hosts the annual My Selfie Needs No Filter Leadership Conference at UWF. She is also the Founder and President of G.I.R.L.S. Incorporated, a nonprofit dedicated to developing confident young leaders through mentorship, education and empowerment. ’05 Natasha Sluder (Roberts), B.A. Public Relations; Sluder was hired as Director of Development at LifeView Group in Pensacola.

2010s ’12 & ’14 Dorian Zwierewicz, BSBA Management & MBA; Zwierewicz was appointed to serve as the State Director of the Connecticut Small Business Development Center at the University of Connecticut. ’14 Stacey Lanee Reed, B.A. Social Work; Reed was appointed to serve on the Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. ’14 Mary Grace White, M.Ed. Educational Leadership; White was named the 2025-2026 Principal of the Year by Santa Rosa County District Schools in Destin, Florida. ’15 Mandy Lee Lopez, M.Ed. Educational Leadership; Lopez was named the new principal at Destin Middle School. ’16 & ’19 Anna J. Lochas, B.S. Hospitality, Recreation & Resort Management & MSA Public Administration; Lochas was awarded the Community Volunteer Award by the

CLASS NOTES Pensacola nonprofit CivicCon for her service to her community. ’16 Dr. Julie Kristin Wood, MPH; Wood was appointed the Senior Medical Director, Clinician Engagement for Linus Health in Boston, Massachusetts. ’18 Kishane Jay Patel, B.A. Political Science; Patel was appointed to serve on the University of West Florida Board of Trustees by the Florida Board of Governors.

2020s ’22 Christopher G. Tenney, M.S. Cybersecurity; Tenney joined the Gulf Winds Credit Union senior leadership team as Vice President of Cybersecurity. ’23 Raymond Okechukwu Ejikemeuwa, M.A. History; Ejikemeuwa was honored at Georgia State University with the prestigious George M. Sparks Award and Royal Flame Leadership Award for his willingness to go the extra mile with perseverance and service, and exceptional campus involvement.

’24 Jacob Joel Hullett, MSA Public Administration; Hullett was appointed to serve as the Planning Director for the City of Milton. ’24 Aimee M. Lewis, M.Ed. Educational Leadership; Lewis was appointed as Principal of Northwood Elementary School in Crestview, Florida. ’24 Brooke Elizabeth Proffitt, B.S. Natural Science; Proffitt was promoted to Environmental Specialist II at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. ’24 Damian Castillo Sotelo, M.Ed. Educational Leadership; Sotelo was named the Assistant Principal of Ruckel Middle School in Niceville, Florida. ’26 Sonia Filipczak, B.S. Public Health; Filipczak was presented with the Service Excellence Award by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Association. Visit uwf.edu/classnotes for a complete list of Class Notes.

1960s UWF art student welds metal sculpture.

Our First Division I Voyage Begins A NEW CHAPTER. NEW DESTINATIONS. NEW OPPONENTS. ONE ARGO JOURNEY.

This fall, the Argos set sail on their first season as a Division I program, carrying the pride of the University of West Florida from the Gulf Coast and beyond.

FOLLOW THE JOURNEY. Scan to explore the 2026 Argo Athletics schedule and see where the Argos are headed next.

WHEREVER WE GO, WE GO TOGETHER.

UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA

Fall 2026 32

CLASS NOTES

Darrell Gooden ’73 1951-2026

Darrell Gooden’s love for the University of West Florida was evident in both his generosity and his presence. A Pensacola native, proud UWF alumnus and successful entrepreneur, Darrell believed deeply in the power of education and the importance of giving back to the University that helped shape his success. As one of UWF Football’s original Founders, he and his wife, Debbie, could often be found cheering on the Argos at home and away football games and supporting student-athletes across campus. Darrell’s commitment to UWF will continue to impact the University for generations to come. The largest donor in the history of UWF Athletics, he was a member of the UWF Athletics Sword & Shield Council, helped establish

Fall 2026 33 Fall

UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA

the Darrell Gooden Center, created an endowed football scholarship and supported the expansion of the Darrell Gooden Center and Sandy Sansing Sports Medicine Center. He made the lead gift for the Darrell Gooden Stadium through a transformative commitment of more than $10 million – the largest gift from a living donor in University history. Darrell’s extraordinary leadership and philanthropy earned him induction into both the Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business Hall of Fame and the UWF Athletics Hall of Fame. His legacy will live on through the students whose lives are changed by his generosity and through the Darrell Gooden Center and future Darrell Gooden Stadium, where generations of Argos will gather in the spaces that bear his name.

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Horizons EXPAND HERE

Some study halls have four walls. Ours come with a waterfront view. At the University of West Florida, you'll find more than 110 academic programs, a supportive campus community and endless opportunities to learn, connect and thrive — all just minutes from some of the world's most beautiful beaches. What will you discover?

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