Mail UWF Alumni Association, 11000 University Pkwy., Building 12, Pensacola, FL 32514
Q&A
with President Saunders
UWF’s 1,600-acre campus welcomes us every day to immerse ourselves in Florida’s natural beauty. President Martha D. Saunders discusses how the UWF Conservation Program, UWF Community Garden and Argos’ Edible Campus provide learning opportunities and help the University combat food insecurity.
How is the University using its pretty campus to benefit others? The UWF Community Garden and Argos’ Edible Campus allow us to build a community at UWF around growing food sustainably, locally and organically. The programs encourage healthy eating by increasing access to fruits and vegetables.
How is UWF preserving its natural landscape while utilizing its resources to expand research and activities?
University has implemented the UWF Conservation Program and launched the UWF Living Lab, bringing the Argo Community together with a mission to understand and manage UWF conservation areas. You will learn more about this on page 9.
Are there any new pretty areas of campus to check out? Our Community Garden has expanded in size and includes a new native plant terrace garden. Argos’ Edible Campus has been busy growing and is close to meeting its goal number of fruiting trees and bushes on campus, providing many new
Letter from the Vice President
ALUMNI AND FRIENDS,
If you have visited campus lately, you may have noticed some new and remarkable additions.
Our new front entrance provides a welcoming and dynamic first-look of the University of West Florida campus.
The University’s commitment to fostering excellence in athletics is evident in the recently opened Sandy Sansing Sports Medicine Center. This cutting-edge facility provides our studentathletes with state-of-the-art resources to optimize their performance and well-being.
In the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health, we are proud to announce the establishment of the Wright Family Institute for Global and Population Health. This groundbreaking program will work to address pressing health challenges through innovative research, education and community partnerships.
These advancements reflect our dedication to providing our students with an exceptional education and preparing them to make a positive impact on the world. As alumni and committed supporters, you are an integral part of our growth. I invite you to stay connected and witness firsthand the exciting developments happening throughout the University.
As our physical landscape evolves, the Argo Spirit that binds us continues to strengthen. We are grateful for the important role you play.
Sincerely,
Howard Reddy Vice President, University Advancement
News & Notes
Recent news from the University of West Florida
BY PAIGE HENNESSY ’24
UWF continues to climb in the rankings
Honor Roll 2024
Andrews Institute and Baptist Health Care Master of Science in Athletic Training
The Andrews Institute and Baptist Health Care gifted $320,000 to the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health to name the Andrews Institute and Baptist Health Care Master of Science in Athletic Training program. The gift will provide funding support for MSAT students and Intercollegiate Athletics and strengthen the daily operations of the program, ensuring students are receiving a top-notch education, setting them up for success.
Preparing cyber students for security clearance
The Florida Defense Support Task Force awarded UWF $320,210 for the efforts to create a new pilot program. UWF proposed the name of the program to be, “Security Clearance and Cyber Security Readiness.” This program will support 50 students at UWF in their preparation for security clearance, achieving CompTIA Security+ certification, and prepare them for all future career endeavors across the state.
Wright Family Institute for Global and Population Health
Alumni Stephen ’81 and Mona ’79 Wright, community advocates and co-founders of the nonprofit Coastal Connection, have invested $500,000 in UWF’s Usha Kundu, MD College of Health for the creation of the Wright Family Institute for Global and Population Health. This gift will also provide funding opportunities for students engaging in high-impact global and regional public health studies to ensure a stronger understanding of policy and better public health knowledge.
THE UWF CAMELLIA GARDEN is a collaboration between the University, the Pensacola Camellia Club and the UWF Retired Employee Association, designed to showcase Pensacola registered varieties, along with 138 distinct camellias from around the world.
UWF student team finalists at Supply Chain Case Competition
A team of four undergraduate students earned the finalist position by placing fourth at the second National Association of State Procurement Officials, also known as NASPO, Supply Chain Case Competition held in Raleigh, North Carolina. The team had only 24 hours to present and create an entire strategic plan from scratch to evaluate and monitor a supplier diversity program. The UWF team successfully demonstrated new ideas and different perspectives to the case competition judges.
UWF aids in early breast cancer screenings
Gov. Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis gifted UWF $895,905.60 to support the innovation of breast cancer screenings in rural areas of Northwest Florida and the Big Bend area. This gift is a part of DeSantis’ project for the Cancer Innovation Research Fund, which allowed for $20 million to be given to researchers spread all over Florida. The Usha Kundu, MD College of Health is ready to help reach at-risk women in the region, provide health and wellness community workshops in rural areas, and assist in the advancement of well-being and health for women statewide.
UWF adds new National Merit Finalists to campus
Last fall, UWF added two new National Merit Finalists for its seventh class, bringing the total to 16 since 2017. Ayla Bergeron and Garrett Smith are among approximately 15,000 students across the county who met the requirements to become Finalists out of the esteemed 1.6 million high school juniors who participated in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship competition.
Making WAVEs
The Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering secured a $3.3 million grant from Triumph Gulf Coast to create a new research program called Water and Vessel Engineering, or WAVE. The new research program will be housed at the Port of Pensacola, and additional space will be held on UWF’s Pensacola campus. This grant will allow for many opportunities and partnerships, including a partnership with the New York Yacht Club American Magic sail racing team, connecting UWF research faculty and students to watercraft industry leaders and creating workforce certifications in areas of boat building and aerospace industries.
UWF students explore the Luna settlement and the Emanuel Point III shipwreck
Thirty-nine undergraduate and graduate students with UWF’s Archaeology Institute spent their summer with either a terrestrial field school or a maritime field school. The two options allowed students to conduct archaeological investigations at locations like the Luna settlement and the Emanuel Park III shipwreck. During their diving expeditions, students found nine Spanish “ladrillo” bricks, ship fasteners, ship timbers, pottery, food and many personal items, all of which hadn’t seen daylight in 465 years. Students will be able to continue studying their findings from the site at the UWF conservation laboratory.
Goggins Train Pavilion
High-impact study abroad in the Galapagos
UWF students were given the chance to spend a portion of their summer participating in a high-impact study abroad class in the Galapagos Islands. More than two dozen students took this opportunity, monitoring tortoises, snorkeling with penguins and sea lions, connecting with the local people, and being immersed in the history and culture of the island.
UWF Historic Trust staff share information on the newly restored locomotive with visitors.
The UWF Historic Trust was gifted $110,000 from the McMillan family and $400,000 from the late Barbara Goggins in efforts to enhance the train exhibition and improve the outdoor space around the Museum of Industry. The new space was named Goggins Train Pavilion after Barbara Goggins, housing a new canopy area with a locomotive and flat car both formerly owned by the T.R. Miller Mill Company, as well as an L&N caboose for visitors to experience.
PANTRY ARGO
CELEBRATES 10 YEARS of fighting food insecurity
FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT FOR UWF STUDENTS
BY PAIGE HENNESSY ‘24
Ten years ago, the Dean of Students Office and Counseling and Psychological Services sat down with counseling staff after noticing an increase in food insecurity among students who visited the UWF Counseling Center. The Dean of Students Office took the news of its students struggling with food insecurities seriously and wanted to help, leading to the creation of the Argo Pantry, a safe place where students could come and receive resources at no cost to them.
STUDENTS, FACULTY AND STAFF PARTICIPATE in food drives multiple times a year to provide funds and food for the Argo Pantry.
“UWF recognizes that when students' basic needs are not being met, their ability to focus on their academic success is negatively impacted,”
— Dr. Mary Anderson, associate vice president & dean of students
“UWF recognizes that when students’ basic needs are not being met, their ability to focus on their academic success is negatively impacted,” said Dr. Mary Anderson, associate vice president & dean of students.
The pantry has since made it their mission to fight any stigma towards food insecurities. They are successfully doing this by providing a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where all students are able to come and feel comfortable asking questions and receiving help. Students who would like to remain anonymous while using the pantry’s services can go to the John C. Pace Library where the “Argo Cantry” is located. This location does not require students to check in but still allows them to utilize the pantry in a discrete way. The pantry also raises awareness about food insecurity by conducting outreach at campus events.
“I was a little embarrassed to come because nobody likes admitting they need help, but everyone in the pantry was so polite and helpful,” said an anonymous student. “I was able to put meals together and recommend my friends to come with me. Because of the Argo Pantry, I was able to continue in school and improve my grades.”
The Argo Pantry has been a successful resource, serving 851 unique students who used the services around 1,450 times during the 2023-2024 academic year, and they are hoping to reach more students in the 2024-2025 academic year. In the last two years, the pantry saw a 115% increase in students
utilizing pantry services. The Argo Pantry held a 10 for 10 campaign with the goal of raising $10,000 for ten years of the pantry being open in an effort to help them grow and be able to offer more for students. The pantry met its fundraising goal, raising $10,300, and community outreach efforts resulted in an increase in food donations. They also partnered with the Louis Maygarden Center for Financial Literacy to create educational programs centered around decreasing food insecurity.
As the Argo Pantry celebrates its 10th anniversary, their main goals for the future are to create additional pantry locations for more student access and to have more staff volunteers to allow for extended pantry hours. In a significant addition to the pantry, they have already been able to provide more perishable goods to students, allowing a stronger balanced and nutritious food supply. The pantry’s staff is excited for what’s to come in the next decade and encourages the community to support its efforts.
“When we think of student support services, we often think of academic tutoring, financial aid or counseling services, but addressing student hunger is a vitally important part of how we support our most vulnerable students,” said Dr. Greg Tomso, vice president for academic engagement and student affairs. “UWF is strongly committed to the Argo Pantry, and we are enormously grateful for the many donors who support the pantry and make this important service available to our students.”
Living Learning Community and Scholars Program provide
STEM students with invaluable support
STEM LLC grows tremendously since its inception
BY ALLISON MORGAN
Kevon Kidd trusted his gut and followed his dreams when he moved from Kingston, Jamaica, a familiar place teeming with family and friends, to Pensacola, Florida, an unfamiliar place where he didn’t know anyone. When he stepped onto UWF’s Pensacola campus, Kidd, a mathematics major, was set up for success in UWF’s STEM Living Learning Community, an intentional infrastructure designed to support STEM students in the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering. In the STEM Living
Learning Community, students pursuing STEM degrees live in the same building, making it easier for students to find a community of new friends.
“I did not know anyone when I came to UWF, but I had a great Resident Assistant who made my first semester so much bet ter,” Kidd said. “He was also a math major, and we could connect over having a lot of the same classes.”
The STEM Living Learning Communi ty, one of four communities at UWF, was established in Fall 2016 with 63 residents to help improve retention and graduation
THE
STEM LLC has grown tremendously since its inception and now fills all five floors of the Presidents
Hall dorm.
rates in STEM at UWF. At its inception, the Living Learning Community took up one floor of Presidents Hall. Eight years later, it has grown tremendously, housing more than 900 students over the years. It now occupies all five floors of Presidents Hall.
Strategic efforts put in place by a team of administrators and faculty, now led by Dr. Karen Molek, professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry and STEM Scholars Program Director, to support STEM stu-
“Our goal was to help students succeed in STEM and, at the same time, boost our [Florida Board of Governors] metrics,” Molek said. “We strategically started with freshmen, keeping 50% of the living learning community for First-Time-In-College freshmen students. We know students are more successful when they are in community with other likeminded, successful students from similar backgrounds. Our mentor scaffolding provides an infrastructure
has successfully provided a support network for students.”
Through peer, faculty and staff mentoring, STEMinars, tutoring and housing programs with RAs who are STEM majors, STEM Living Learning Community residents are supported at every step of their academic journey. In Fall 2024, there were 21 students with peer mentor jobs. According to Molek, to become a mentor, a student must show academic success in their STEM classes, be invested in helping their peers succeed, and offer tutoring hours. After benefitting from
“I did not know anyone when I came to UWF, but I had a great Resident Assistant who made my first semester so much better.”
the mentorship of his RA and peer mentor in his first two years at UWF, Kidd, who is in his senior year, is now an RA and peer mentor himself in the STEM Living Learning Community in Presidents Hall.
“I can attribute a lot of my success to the STEM Living Learning Community,” Kidd said. “Coming into college I had a good idea of what I wanted to do, but I wasn’t sure. The STEM Living Learning Community got me my first research opportunity the Summer of 2022, and my mentor helped me get into the data analyst program at Carnegie Mellon.”
The process of mentoring is efficient, Kidd said, since mentees also live in the
same building as their mentors. He also appreciates STEMinars, an additional resource to learn life skills.
“They have been really helpful,” Kidd said. “They bring in different companies and speakers. For example, they show us how to file taxes and boost your credit score. They always add new seminars each year.”
In his second year at UWF, Kidd also joined UWF STEM Scholars, a program established in 2021. Scholars accepted into the program receive a scholarship to support tuition each year, renewable for up to four years. Last year, the STEM Scholars program was named a recipient
of the Insight Into Diversity magazine 2024 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award. The Inspiring Programs in STEM Award honors colleges and universities that encourage and assist students from underrepresented groups to enter STEM fields.
The STEM Scholars Program had a particularly profound impact on alumna Brooke Davis’s life. She earned a Bachelor of Science in mathematics with minors in philosophy and statistics and a Master of Science in data science. Davis applied for the program and was selected because she showed academic promise and resilience having grown up in a financially disadvantaged home. She overcame several
THROUGH PEER, FACULTY AND STAFF
MENTORING, STEMinars, tutoring and housing programs with RAs who are STEM majors, STEM Living Learning Community residents are supported at every step of their academic journey.
obstacles as a student and credits the STEM Scholars Program for getting her to where she is today. For many years growing up, Davis was homeless. Now in her mid-20s, she has seen remarkable success in her career as a business intelligence analyst at Navy Federal Credit Union, which has allowed her to become a homeowner.
“Without the program, I doubt I would’ve gone to college — definitely not a university,” Davis said. “Professionally, I try not to consider where I’d be without
UWF and the STEM program. I’d compare it to a bunch of chance dominos that fell in just the right places and landed me where I currently am in my career, and I couldn’t be more grateful. I think I’ve personified the NSF STEM scholarship. I never have to worry about being homeless again.”
Due to the success, STEM Scholars and STEM Living Learning Community are now piloting an informal program to allow students who have lived in the living learning community for two years
and move to the on-campus Village apartments to continue participating in the STEM Living Learning Community programming through faculty and peer mentors, STEMinars and staff support.
“The STEM Living Learning Community has a proven record of helping students meet their potential and graduate with STEM degrees,” Molek said. “Students recognize that this program is
“Professionally, I try not to consider where I’d be without UWF and the STEM program. I’d compare it to a bunch of chance dominos that fell in just the right places and landed me where I currently am in my career, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
— Brooke Davis ’24
KEVON (far right) enjoys student life activities with friends in the UWF Commons.
Dr. Julie Gray
BY ALLISON MORGAN
Dr. Julie Gray grew up surrounded by educators. Her mother, father, grandmother, aunts and cousins made teaching a career or taught at some point in their lives. While she didn’t originally see herself on the same path, Gray, a professor in the School of Education, says it was meant to be.
“I had some talented and caring teachers over the years who influenced my decision to pursue a career in education,” Gray said. “My all-time favorite teacher was my eighth- and ninth-grade Spanish teacher, who became my mentor. Coincidentally, I became a Spanish and journalism teacher when I graduated with my undergraduate degree. I substitute taught at all grade levels to determine which was the best fit for me. I ended up teaching eighth to 12th grades.”
Gray received a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from the University of Alabama and a master’s degree in Education from the University of North Florida. She went on to earn her doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Alabama. After earning her doctorate, she moved to Northwest Florida to be closer to family. Moving to new places and starting anew was something she became familiar with growing up.
“As the daughter of an Army officer, I moved frequently and learned to make friends quickly,” Gray said. “I learned how to adapt to my circumstances, look for the positive, and rely on my sense of humor whenever possible. These experiences help me connect with others because of my family’s travels and adventures along the way.”
Despite job offers from larger universities, the faculty and community feeling of Pensacola and UWF made her feel at home.
“I love my colleagues and coming to work,” Gray said. “While connecting with our graduate students online can be challenging, I truly enjoy getting to know them and learning together. Those of us in the Educational Leadership program work diligently to provide the best program for our students so they are prepared to be instructional leaders across the Florida Panhandle in our partner school districts and all over Florida.”
Gray, with her colleagues, provides engaging lessons and innovative assignments that are practical and challenging.
“Most recently we have invited our students to participate in Mursion sessions, which are virtual reality interactive sessions led by a live Avatar,” Gray said. “These sessions have benefitted our students greatly as they are able to practice interacting in scenarios in a safe, non-threatening setting. This allows students to learn without punitive consequences, which they have described as incredibly practical and helpful.”
DR.
JULIE GRAY speaks at her Rite of Passage lecture series event, which celebrates UWF faculty recently promoted to full professor.
A lifelong educator, Gray prepares and inspires aspiring school leaders
A few of the courses Gray teaches include Data-Driven Decisions Using Standardized Student Achievement Data, Principles of Curriculum, Introduction to School Finance and Leadership in Education: School Improvement Theory and Practice. Her research revolves around professional learning communities, school effectiveness, mentoring, enabling school structures, collective efficacy and academic optimism. She has co-authored a book, four book chapters and 15 peer-reviewed journal articles.
Luis Jara ’20, a vice principal at the largest high school in Portland Public Schools in Washington state, said his experience in the Educational Leadership program at UWF was significantly shaped by Gray’s exceptional mentorship.
“Coming from a math and science background, I was apprehensive about the writing demands of the program,” Jara said. “Dr. Gray’s instruction and feedback not only improved my writing skills but also fostered my leadership development. I continue to rely on her guidance, even years after graduating from UWF in December 2020.”
When she’s not teaching, Gray enjoys spending time with friends and family, especially her 11 nieces and nephews. When she has the opportunity, she enjoys traveling. She also loves to read, watch movies and Alabama football, and go to concerts.
“Dr. Gray’s instruction and feedback not only improved my writing skills but also fostered my leadership development. I continue to rely on her guidance, even years after graduating from UWF in December 2020.”
— Luis Jara ’20
“[We] work diligently to provide the best program for our students.”
USHERING IN A NEW ERA OF WORKING WITH NATURAL RESOURCES ON CAMPUS
BY ALLISON MORGAN
he University’s original campus plans emphasized preserving its natural landscape, and more than 50 years later, the University is envisioning and executing the full potential of its 1,600 acres of natural Florida beauty. With the launch of the Conservation Program, Argos’ Edible Campus, and the expansion of the UWF Community Garden, the University nestled among the pines is turning the page of a new chapter to protect and preserve with an intentional focus through the lens of conservation, education and recreation.
TogetherGrowing
It has been a little more than 15 years since Dr. Greg Tomso, vice president for academic engagement and student affairs, planted the first seed in the UWF Community Garden. Since then, he has seen a small campus community project transform into an expansive and engaging centerpiece of UWF’s campus.
“When I first met President Saunders, I was very inspired by her vision of making UWF a destination campus,” Tomso said. “I thought ‘I know how to do this. We can make a big impression on our visitors.’”
The mission of the garden is to build a community at UWF around growing food sustainably, locally and organically. Depending on the time of year, visitors can pick grapes or tomatoes, or just take in the beautiful scenery from one of the garden’s benches. UWF students and thousands of garden volunteers put in countless hours
each year growing fruits and vegetables, observing local wildlife, and learning about native plants and beneficial insects crucial to sustainable food production. Over the years, Tomso, and the garden’s co-founder, Chasidy Hobbs, director of conservation, have seen the garden grow in size and interest across campus.
“When I started at UWF, students were wanting fresh, healthy food,” Tomso said.
“At the time, we didn’t have as many restaurant options. I was working in the UWF Kugelman Honors Program and thought studying food culture would be a good honors project. I created a class where we brought in sociologists, anthropologists and hospital administrators to talk about the food ecosystem. It was very enlightening. From there we started growing food and it just caught on. Since then, we’ve had high levels of interest.”
“The garden is designed to bloom at different times of year, is color coordinated and attracts pollinators like butterflies and other insects.”
— Dr. Greg Tomso, vice president for the division of academic engagement and student affairs
Tomso’s most recent labor of love in the garden was bringing to life a new native plant terrace garden. The vision of it began about five years ago. With the help of UWF’s landscape architects, Fremont Latimer and Jaromy Marquis, his vision became a reality last year.
“It’s an educational site that allows people to understand the value of native plants,” Tomso said. “The garden is designed to bloom at different times of year, is color coordinated and attracts pollinators like butterflies and other insects.”
One thing Tomso is especially proud of is that the UWF Community Garden is truly open and accessible to all; it is fully ADA-accessible, and the new additions will be as well. There are plans for yet another expansion to the garden which include a 900-meter elevated boardwalk that winds through the native pine forest adjacent to the UWF Community
Garden. The boardwalk will provide a deeply immersive experience in UWF’s forested land.
Aliya Eggleton ’18 visited the UWF Community Garden in its formative days, when there was nothing but rock and debris.
“There was nothing special about it; there was just a vision and a plan to make that vision a reality. It’s mind blowing to see the vision come to reality,” Eggleton said.
As an alumna, she still makes frequent visits to the garden when she wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
“When I want to get away from a busy day I just visit,” Eggleton said. “I call it my palace when I go out there. I feel like I’m in a state of wonderment when I walk the path. When I walk the path I remember chiseling away to make this path. It’s exciting and nostalgic.”
Students in different degree programs often visit the garden for research, inspiration or connection.
By planting fruiting trees and bushes across campus, Hobbs hopes to grow the footprint of the Edible Campus and produce more fresh, free food for the UWF community.
Fighting Food Insecurity
Aside from the all-important community connection the UWF Community Garden fosters, it is doing the invaluable job of helping fight food insecurity on UWF’s campus. In 2021, the Argos’ Edible Campus program grew out of the UWF Community Garden to boost efforts to combat food insecurity.
“I learned one in 12 students use the Argo Pantry (a campus resource that provides UWF students with free, healthy food and basic personal care items),” Hobbs said. “Argos’ Edible Campus is a service that I wanted to give back to the University. I hope one day we can have harvest festivals. Working with Dr. Tomso and focusing on the importance of a healthier food system was the driving force of this.”
The goal is to have 1,000 fruiting trees or bushes across campus. As of Fall 2024, around 850 trees or bushes were planted. Hobbs worked with Kugelman Honors students to plant seeds at the start of the program.
“Three years since launching Argos’ Edible Campus, there have been 250 people helping to get us where we are now,” Hobbs said.
Kugelman Honors students developed a story map online that allows others to explore a dashboard with information on plants including photos, their locations on campus and harvest season so others can monitor the growth of the plants and expansion of campus plantings.
“Argos’ Edible Campus is a service that I wanted to give back to the University. I hope one day we can have harvest festivals.”
— Chasidy Hobbs, director of conservation
Through various programs, events and initiatives during the year, UWF ensures that the campus community remains good stewards of our 1,600-acre campus.
Preserving the Pines
The past few years have been pivotal in the preservation of UWF’s pretty campus. The launch of the Conservation Program, developed by Hobbs and Domani TurnerWard ’24, displayed UWF’s steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship.
The Conservation Program has three major focuses: Natural Resource Management, the UWF Living Lab and the Argos Conservation Corps.
Natural Resource Management focuses on land management and partnerships with entities such as the Florida Forest Service, the Water Management District, Escambia County and other natural resources managers. The UWF Living Lab encourages greater academic and research engagement with UWF campus natural
areas, facilitating outdoor class sessions and using conservation areas for research opportunities. The Argos Conservation Corps aims to build a community of volunteers who can help manage the University’s forests and trails, while also engaging in research and education.
The UWF Board of Trustees voted in Fall 2024 to amend a campus lease with the State of Florida, providing greater conservation protections and preventing future development of about 1,000 acres of designated wilderness areas.
The beauty of UWF’s campus and the University’s laser focus on environmental stewardship is no secret beyond its 1,600 acres. The University has earned the Tree Campus Higher Education recogni-
tion annually since 2019. In 2024, UWF hosted the inaugural Arbor Day Market, inviting students, faculty, staff and community members to enjoy the University’s Pensacola campus and celebrate that designation by the Arbor Day Foundation. With a campus abounding in natural beauty and a commitment to keep it that way, UWF will always take pride in its identity as the campus in the forest.
ABOVE: Students plant fruit trees on campus with Chasidy Hobbs.
RIGHT: Community members tour the nature trail on Arbor Day.
UWF Intelligent Systems and Robotics program boasts rapid growth and rocketing reputation
BY ALLISON MORGAN
When the Intelligent Systems and Robotics program was launched by the University of West Florida and the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition in 2019, the initial cohort consisted of five students. Just five years later, the program has seen an impressive level of growth in student enrollment with 27 students representing nine countries who provide rich, diverse and global perspectives. Dr. Brent Venable, the program’s founding director, says recent graduates have secured highly sought-after jobs, and their achievements are being regarded by prospective students globally.
BRENT VENABLE is the inaugural director for UWF’s intelligent systems and robotics doctoral program. Venable’s primary research interests are within artificial intelligence including constraint-based reasoning, preferences, temporal reasoning and computational social choice.
Students in the program build innovative robots to complete a variety of processes and tasks.
“Even before they graduate, our students are sought after by companies and academia,” Venable said. “The program really fosters connection with their next step. The graduates speak highly of the program wherever they go, which has contributed to its exceptional growth.”
Dr. Taher Rahgooy was the program’s first graduate in 2021. He transferred to UWF from Tulane University on the heels of Venable being named the program’s founding director and is a senior machine learning research scientist at Meta. Rahgooy said the program laid the foundation for his growth as a professional in the artificial intelligence and machine learning fields.
“The program’s personalized and research-driven approach allowed me to focus deeply on my interests, particularly in artificial intelligence and machine learning,” Rahgooy said. “The mentorship I
received from world-class researchers, especially Dr. Venable, provided exceptional guidance and clarity about my career direction. The financial and institutional support helped me dedicate myself fully to my research, which led to multiple publications and opportunities to present my work at prestigious conferences.”
Graduates secure esteemed positions in both industry and academia. Dr. Andrea Martin completed a Ph.D. in Intelligent Systems and Robotics specializing in AI and cognitive models. After earning industry experience at LinkedIn and Intuit, where she developed recommendation systems and deployed generative AI models, Martin moved into academia, where she teaches courses in AI in business.
“The program gave me the freedom to do research on things that I was passionate about,” Martin said. “I also had a baby during the program and I felt very supported. Thanks to Dr. Venable, I was able to be in the program and be a mom.”
Dr. Bhavyansh Mishra is a senior autopilot software engineer at Tesla, where he focuses on developing capabilities for the Optimus robot, a Tesla Bot. Mishra says the research he conducted towards his Ph.D. thesis was pivotal in his hiring by the Optimus team at Tesla.
“At IHMC, I got the chance to implement and validate various algorithms to enable humanoid robots to traverse challenging terrain,” Mishra said. “Throughout the doctoral program there was emphasis on developing novel approaches to solving problems for humanoids. Everything I learned during my research proved invaluable and has been directly benefiting me in my current job.”
Venable added that multi-million dollar grants from various federal agencies provide a great platform for Ph.D. students to create and innovate with ambitious research ideas. In 2024, the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative program of the USDA awarded Dr. Hakki Erhan Sevil, associate professor in the Department of Intelligent Systems and Robotics, a three-year $727,981 research grant in collaboration with faculty at New Mexico State University. UWF and NMSU will develop a multi-robot system for precision agriculture and water management in New Mexico green chile pepper farming.
“What I personally experience is the number of emails I get from all around the world with prospective students asking about the program,” Sevil said. “They ask how they can apply, how they can get a scholarship. They hear about our program in different ways, but they hear about it in a good way.”
“THE MENTORSHIP I RECEIVED FROM WORLD-CLASS RESEARCHERS, ESPECIALLY DR. VENABLE, PROVIDED EXCEPTIONAL GUIDANCE AND CLARITY ABOUT MY CAREER DIRECTION.”
— Dr. Taher Rahgooy, ISR’s first graduate in 2021
A WINNING
LEGACY
UWF’S NEWEST FACILITY SETS A GOLD STANDARD FOR STUDENT-ATHLETE CARE AND INNOVATION
BY BRITTANY SHERWOOD ’14
When Sandy Sansing walked onto the University of West Florida’s campus as a student-athlete in the 1960s, he likely didn’t imagine that decades later, he’d play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the very athletic program that once helped shape him. Last fall, UWF celebrated the grand opening of the Sandy Sansing Sports Medicine Center — a $6 million facility that’s poised to redefine student-athlete care and training.
Nestled within the expanded Darrell Gooden Center, this cutting-edge facility promises to enhance how UWF’s more than 370 student-athletes train, recover and excel. With its sleek design and innovative features, the 10,000-square-foot center is not just a
building — it’s a promise to the Argonauts’ success, both on and off the field.
“This facility represents UWF’s commitment to providing our student-athletes with the very best resources to support their academic and athletic pursuits,” said UWF President Martha D. Saunders. “I would like to thank the Sansing family and our generous donors for allowing us to enhance UWF’s care for student-athletes. This facility will serve as a source of pride for the University and the community for years to come.”
Alongside his wife Peggy and the Sansing Foundation, the family contributed over $600,000 to the project and scholarships for student-athletes.
For Sansing ’69, CEO of Sandy Sansing Automotive, supporting this initiative was deeply personal. “As a UWF graduate and a former student-athlete, I am thrilled to help make this facility a reality for current and future Argonauts,” he said. “We hope this center enhances the health and wellness of all future Argos and helps the University build champions for life.”
The Sandy Sansing Sports Medicine Center is a hub for innovation. Designed in collaboration with Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, it features specialized areas for warm-ups, cool-downs and restorative treatments tailored to meet the demands of collegiate sports. The facility also boasts expanded training spaces and advanced therapy equipment for UWF Athletics.
But the benefits extend beyond UWF’s athletic programs. Students in the University’s Movement Sciences and Health Department will
gain invaluable hands-on experience through internships and lab hours at the center, thanks to a partnership with Baptist Health Care and Andrews Institute. This synergy bridges academics and athletics, preparing the next generation of health professionals while elevating UWF's reputation for excellence.
The realization of this transformative facility was made possible by the unwavering support of donors. Notable contributors include Darrell Gooden ’73; Dr. Judy Bense, UWF President Emeritus; Eric and Peg ’81, ’03 Nickelsen; Rodney ’91 and Amy ’98 Sutton; Joe and
Maggie Ambersley; Jason ’04, ’10 and Heather Crawford; Stephen ’81 and Mona ’79 Wright; and Rick Fountain ’70, among others. Their collective generosity underscores the deep community investment in UWF’s mission to cultivate champions on and off the field.
The Sandy Sansing Sports Medicine Center isn’t just a facility; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation and community. For UWF’s student-athletes, it represents a promise to prioritize their health, nurture their talents and equip them for success in competition and in life.
“We hope this center enhances the health and wellness of all future Argos and helps the University build champions for life.”
— Sandy Sansing ’69, CEO of Sandy Sansing Automotive
UWF CELEBRATES the grand opening of the Sandy Sansing Sports Medicine Center at the Darrell Gooden Center on Nov. 7, 2024.
ARGOS,
Last year we hit a momentous milestone — 100,000 alumni from the University of West Florida. This remarkable achievement underscores the enduring impact of our University and the growing momentum of our global alumni network.
This year, we aim to further strengthen our alumni network by fostering meaningful connections and building a bigger, stronger presence of UWF alumni. We’re planning a variety of exciting events and programs, regional chapter gatherings and alumni travel opportunities.
As we move forward, I challenge each of you to play an active role in our alumni community. Volunteer your time, attend alumni events, donate to support your alma mater and stay connected with former classmates.
Your collective experiences, insights and support are invaluable to who UWF is today and who we can become tomorrow.
Thank you for your continued support. Go Argos!
Whitney Fike ’07 President UWF Alumni Association
IN MEMORIAM Lyman Harris
’69
Lyman Harris was the first student to enroll at UWF in September of 1967.
At the time, UWF was an upper division school, only allowing juniors and seniors to enroll. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1969. He later went on to earn a master’s and doctoral degree from Florida State University.
“My grandfather never finished high school, so my grandfather very much wanted his two sons to have opportunities he didn’t have — one of those was college,” said Harris’ daughter, Carrie Harris Phillips. “As a family, they were so excited about UWF opening because it would allow my dad to live at home, work and continue fulfilling that dream.”
Harris devoted nearly four decades to developing the rehabilitation science program at Arkansas Tech into a nationallyrecognized, premier program. Harris was presented the Distinguished Alumnus Award for Service to the Profession in 2005. In 2016, he passed away after his battle with cancer.
In his honor, Phillips, along with Harris’ wife Carol Ann Harris, recently established The Dr. Lyman B. Harris Memorial Scholarship to provide scholarship support to students by covering the cost of tuition and books, as needed. Preference is given to First Generation Students who need financial assistance.
“This University gave my dad a shot to transform his life and give me a very different life than he had.”
— Carrie Harris Phillips
“This University gave my dad a shot to transform his life and give me a very different life than he had,” Phillips said. “I’m honored, along with my mom, Carol, and my husband, Chris, to be in a place to give back to the place that meant so much to him.”
LYMAN HARRIS with his daughter Carrie Harris Phillips
Tim Pelot
Senior Strength and Conditioning Coach, United States Olympic Committee ’02, ’04
Since he was a student at UWF, Tim Pelot has always had a passion for the fundamentals of training and pushing an individual’s performance.
He does that today at the highest level working with Team USA as a strength and conditioning coach. Pelot supported athletes at his fourth Olympics games in the Summer of 2024 in Paris, where one of his teams, men’s indoor volleyball, earned a bronze medal.
“Being a part of it is something super special,” Pelot said. “It’s very rigorous; very exhausting physically, mentally, emotionally. It’s like climbing Mount Everest.”
Part of his job includes helping athletes to feel fresh, powerful and explosive for their event and ensure
“It’s a smaller school, but it had a big impact on me. The professors and the experiences that I had fostered learning and growth.”
—
Tim Pelot ’02, ’04
they’re recovering properly. He credits UWF and his bachelor’s degree in exercise science and master’s degree in sport physiology for launching his career.
“I had a couple professors who I connected with really well,” Pelot said. “It’s a smaller school, but it had a big impact on me. The professors and the experiences that I had fostered learning and growth.”
Pelot is now preparing for the next Olympic Games in 2028 in L.A., where he resides with his wife and two children.
“The Olympics are a daily grind for me,” Pelot explained. “There is a lot that leads up to the games in the years before it. This time it’s different because it will be on our home turf and almost in my backyard.”
THE 2024 PARIS OLYMPIC GAMES marked Pelot’s fourth Olympic games with Team USA.
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
Alumni Stephen ’81 and Mona ’79 Wright announced a gift of $500,000 to UWF to create the Wright Family Institute for Global and Population Health, housed in the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health.
The UWF Alumni Association welcomed alumni to a lively tailgate before UWF's Homecoming game with food, kids' activities and a photo booth.
The UWF Alumni Association hosted a breakfast and social gathering in the Museum Plaza in downtown Pensacola for alumni and supporters to kickoff UWF Homecoming weekend.
On
The UWF Historic Trust unveiled the Barbara Goggins Train Pavilion outside of the Museum of Industry.
Local graffiti artist and muralist, "Patty Sauces," demonstrated graffiti and mural techniques in a public artist workshop for students in the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities.
Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, The Art Gallery (TAG) in UWF's Center for Fine and Performing Arts held an opening reception for "TESTBED," the TAG summer artist residency featuring work by faculty members John Dougherty, Jason Pinckard and Marzia Ransom.
The UWF Department of Theatre performed 'Akeelah and the Bee' in the Mainstage Theatre of the Center for Fine and Performing Arts.
The UWF Retired Employee Association Board poses at the Oktoberfest event hosted by the REA last fall.
Class Notes
1970s
’72 Thomas W. Farinas, B.S. Marketing; Farinas was inducted as the Cantonment Rotary Club president in Cantonment, Florida.
’75 LtGen John “Jack” W. Bergman, MBA; Bergam was elected to another term to serve as Michigan U.S. House District 1’s representative to the U.S. House of Representatives. He was first elected to the House in 2016 and is the highest-ranking combat veteran to have ever served in the U.S. House.
’76 Darlene V. Earhart, B.A. English; Published her first book titled “EVER THOUGHT.” It is available on Kindle and Amazon.
1980s
’86 Michael B. Poole, B.A. Accounting; Poole was hired as the chief financial officer at Port Tampa Bay in Tampa, Florida.
’88 Dr. Sandra F. Whitehead, B.A. Anthropology; Whitehead was recognized by the National Environmental Justice Advisory Council for her work on cumulative impact assessment. Dr. Whitehead is a nationally recognized expert on assessing and addressing the human health impacts of policies and regulations.
’89 Carissa F. Bergosh, B.A. Elementary Education; Bergosh won Escambia County Florida School Board’s District 4 seat.
’89 Bob Marinan, MPA; Marinan was appointed to the Mid-Bay Bridge Authority by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
1990s
’91 Dr. Cody J. Arvidson (Hargrave), B.A. Psychology; Arvidson was selected for inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who, a directory containing short biographies.
’92 Brenda D. Nichols (Welch), M.S. Health, Leisure and Exercise Science; Nichols was hired as head coach of the Western New Mexico University Women’s Basketball program.
’92 Lesley P. Sunas, M.A. Psychology; Sunas published a new book titled “The Beautiful Life of Laura Humphrey,” a novel that follows a high school music teacher who discovers the ways in which she impacted the lives of her students and friends while reflecting on her own journey as she faces a terrifying diagnosis.
’93 Dr. Shanna R. Sasser, B.A. International Studies; Sasser was named economic development administrator for Los Alamos County in New Mexico.
’95 & ’97 Dr. Shannon R. Self-Brown, B.A. Psychology & M.A. Counseling Psychology; Self-Brown was named a Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Health Policy and Behavioral Studies in the School of Public Health at Georgia State University.
’96 Kimberly Nihill Taylor, B.A. Studio Art & M.Ed. Educational Leadership; Taylor was named principal of the Okaloosa STEMM Academy in Valparaiso, Florida.
’97 Eddie W. Nunn, BSBA Management; Nunn was named director of Redstone Arsenal’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation program in Huntsville, Alabama.
2000s
’00 & ’11 Terry D. Johnson, BSBA Accounting & MBA; Johnson was named the chief financial officer at UT Federal Credit Union in Knoxville, Tennessee.
’00 Gerald D. Morris, B.A. Communication Arts; Morris was named National Market Lead- Federal Civilian for Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services.
’01 Donald D. Brown, B.S. Industrial Technology; Brown was appointed to the Florida Building Commission by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
’01 Heather L. Lopez (Hale), B.A. Criminal Justice; Lopez received the Florida Department of Children and Families 2024 Change Agent of the Year award.
’03 & ’11 Crystal M. Lopez-Ballard, B.A. Psychology & B.S. Clinical Laboratory Sciences; Lopez-Ballard was named laboratory manager at Atmore Community Hospital in Atmore, Alabama.
’03 Sara Anne Tompkins (Smith), M.A. Psychology; Tompkins was named associate dean for student services of Colorado State University’s Graduate School.
’05 Christopher D. Mertz, B.S. Teacher Education; Mertz was named principal of Discovery Elementary in Deltona, Florida.
’06 Nina E. Borthwick, BSBA Finance; Borthwick was named principal at South Walton High School in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
’06 Mary A. Gimenez, B.S. Clinical Laboratory Sciences; Gimenez was honored as the veteran of the month for June 2024 by the Otoe County Veterans Service in Nebraska City, Nebraska. She served in the U.S. Air Force for 16 years.
’07 William R. Drummond, MBA; Drummond was selected for inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who, a directory containing short biographies.
’07 Whitney Vaughan Fike, B.A. Communication Arts; Fike received the Gold Pinnacle Award for Communicator of the Year from the Florida Public Relations Association.
’08 Stephanie A. Wheat, MSA Educational Leadership; Wheat was named the Principal of Longwood Elementary School in Shalimar, Florida.
’09 & ’10 Nicole Stacey, B.A. Communication Arts & M.A. Strategic Communication; Stacey received an Award of Distinction for Visit Pensacola’s Influencer Marketing Campaign from the Florida Public Relations Association.
2010s
’10 The Hon. Ashlee M. Hofberger (Barnhill), BSBA Marketing; Hofberger was elected as Commissioner for Escambia County Florida District 4. She had previously been appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to fill the vacant seat.
’10 Dr. Brittany A. Mock, DO, B.A. PreProfessional Biology; Mock joined the Mobile Infirmary Internal Medicine Clinic in Mobile, Alabama, as an internal medicine physician.
’11 Brad E. Embry, MSA; Embry was appointed as Okaloosa County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
’11 Kelley S. Raymond, B.A. Political Science; Raymond was recognized as one of the “2024 Top Women in HVAC” for contributions to the industry.
’12 Cristie M. Kedroski, MBA; Kedroski was announced as the interim president of Northwest Florida State College in Niceville, Florida.
’14 & ’18 Elena A. Davis, BSBA Professional Accountancy & MAcc; Davis was named Tax Senior Manager at James Moore & Company in Daytona Beach, Florida.
’14 Brittany D. Sherwood (Blackburn), B.A. Communication Arts; Sherwood received the President’s Award for Professional Development from the Florida Public Relations Association. Sherwood served as president of the Pensacola Chapter of FPRA for 2023-2024.
’15 Jennyfer L. Amano, M.Ed. College Student Affairs Administration; Amano was hired as the Associate Ombuds at the University of North Carolina Charlotte.
’15 Garret David Caillouet, B.S. Exercise Science; Caillouet appeared in season seven of Netflix’s reality show, “The Circle.”
’15 Jini L. Glaros (Curry), B.S. Biochemistry; Glaros was named to the “Marijuana Venture” magazine’s 40 Under 40. Glaros is currently the chief science officer at Modern Canna Labs.
’15 Melissa Jade Pappas, B.A. Exceptional Student Education; Pappas appeared in season three of Netflix’s “Barbecue Showdown.”
’15 Valarie S. Thomas, MSA Acquisition & Contract Administration; Thomas was named a finalist for Richmond County Teacher of the Year in Augusta, Georgia.
’15 Brennah D. St. Ores, B.A. Art History; Ores joined Gulf Coast Air Care in Pensacola, Florida, as social media manager.
’16 Sarah J. Davis (Hufford), MSW; Davis was appointed to the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
’16 Dr. Sarah Lukas (Turner), M.Ed. Educational Leadership; Lukas was appointed Dean of Florida Programs at National Louis University’s southeastern campus in Tampa, Florida.
’16 & ’17 Kerry A. Sandell, B.A. Theatre & M.A. Strategic Communication & Leadership; Sandell performed and wrote “Dissonance,” a two-person play about race, love and friendship set in the months following George Floyd’s murder in 2020.
’16 Lindsey C. Steck Jackson, B.A. Public Relations; Jackson received an Award of Distinction for Visit Pensacola’s Influencer Marketing Campaign from the Florida Public Relations Association.
’16 Rebecca A. Whitescarver, BSBA Professional Accountancy; Whitescarver was hired at the New York Attorney General’s office as an auditor for government programs.
’17 Hiram H. Raulerson, M.S. Software Engineering; Raulson was named assistant director of local government and community affairs at Florida Farm Bureau, serving North Florida and the Florida panhandle.
’19 Natasha Saavedra, M.Ed. Educational Leadership; Saavedra was named Principal at Pine Grove Elementary School in Bay Minette, Alabama.
2020s
’20 Devon M. Jones, B.A. Exceptional Student Education; Jones joined Plantation Key School as a fourth grade teacher in Islamorada, Florida.
’21 Brooke L. Hull, BFA Graphic Design; Hull joined the Stuckeman School’s Department of Graphic Design in the Penn State College of Arts and Architecture as an assistant professor.
’21 Joshua D. McGovern, B.A. English; McGovern joined The Catholic Spirit, a newspaper in Minneapolis/Saint Paul, as a reporter.
’21 Sarah M. Wieck, B.S. Athletic Training Education; Wieck was named athletic trainer for the Wichita Thunder hockey team, the East Coast Hockey League affiliate of the NHL’s San Jose Sharks.
’22 Alby D. Clendennin, B.A. International Studies; Clendennin graduated with his Masters of Arts in Student Affairs administration from Appalachian State University and was hired as a residence director at the University of Washington, serving over 10,000 residential students.
’23 Lydia C. Hanneken, M.Ed. Educational Leadership; Hanneken was named assistant principal of Fort Walton Beach High School in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
’23 Cody J. Waldrop, MBA; Waldrop joined PetSmart Veterinary Services as a principal veterinary business consultant.
’24 Aimee M. Lewis, M.Ed. Educational Leadership; Lewis was named assistant principal of Northwood Elementary School in Crestview, Florida.
’24 Jessica L. Voigt, B.A. Communication; Voigt was named group sales executive for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.
’24 Jada S. Washington, B.S. Exercise Science; Washington was named group sales executive for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.
’04 Alesia Y. Macklin (Williams), B.A. Interdisciplinary Social Sciences
’05 & ’21 Melissa Lynn Puckett (Hatfield), B.A. Communication Arts, B.A. International Studies & M.A. Strategic Communication & Leadership
’05 Katrina F. Simpkins, B.A. Psychology
’09 Alicia A. Tappan, B.A. Psychology
’10 & ’17 Brian E. Ranelli, BSBA Marketing & M.A. Strategic Communication & Leadership
’11 Donte K. Sheppard, B.A. Interdisciplinary Social Sciences
’12 Annie R. Gray, B.A. Theatre
’14 Matea A. Washington, B.A. Exceptional Student Education
’14 Lydia S. Wedderburn, B.A. Psychology
’16 & ’19 Anna J. Lochas, B.S. Hospitality, Recreation and Resort Management & MSA Public Administration
’17 Margaret K. Henley, MSA Health Care Administration
’17 Emily S. Lalas, BSBA Professional Accountancy
’17 Courtney M. Radcliffe, B.A. Public Relations
’21 & ’22 Catherine A. Lysek, B.A. & M.A. English
SPRINGTIME in full bloom on campus in 1978.
Connection
University of West Florida
11000 University Parkway
Pensacola, FL 32514
uwf.edu/alumni
“I had heard a lot about UWF, but it wasn’t until I took a campus tour that I realized this is a place where I could grow and thrive. The size of the classrooms and the location of the campus are what made me choose to attend UWF.”
At the University of West Florida, our spirited learners are exploring limitless possibilities and finding real value in everything we have to offer. Find a campus community, new friends and an unparalleled education — all at UWF. uwf.edu/apply
