Whether you are taking a full class schedule, interning or enjoying a much-needed breather, staying engaged on campus is key to making the most of your summer semester. 166su offers a wide selection of resources specifically to help you keep the momentum.

Academic Support

Shorter summer sessions are fast paced and demanding, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Support services are available in person and virtually to keep your GPA on track.

• Private Coaching: The Student Academic Resource Center continues to provide for over 30 subjects. Visit the SARC office in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 117 or the Engineering II atrium for assistance.
• Math Tutoring: Located in the Mathematical Science Building, the Math Success Center offers for students enrolled in undergraduate math courses, providing a focused environment to master challenging concepts.
• Writing Center: From complex research papers and resume polishes to creative writing hobbies, the University Writing Center offers specialized to help you make tangible progress on all kinds of written projects.
• Study Spaces: Use the university’s to book a private study room in advance at the John C. Hitt and 166su Downtown libraries to ensure you have a safe, quiet place to study during finals.

Wellness Resources

Taking care of yourself is just as important during finals week as it is during a semester off. Fewer students on campus during the summer semester allows you more access to these wellness perks.

• Mental Health: Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides students with around-the-clock at no extra cost. Students also have free access to the anonymous peer-to-peer support community and teletherapy sessions throughout the entire summer.
• Physical Wellness: The gym remains open with full summer hours to help you maintain your fitness routine. For a brain break and an extra dose of sunshine, head over to the for free kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.
• Meeting Basic Needs: If your budget gets tight between semesters, you don’t have to worry. The Knights Helping Knights Pantry remains stocked and open during the summer to , toiletries and clothing to any Knight in need.

Professional Development

Summer is the perfect time to refine your professional brand. Career Services offers a series of Workshop Wednesdays and drop-in sessions to help you prepare for your next interview, internship or first day on the job.

• Career Readiness: Get quick, expert feedback on your resume, LinkedIn profile, practice interview or Handshake account with Critiques & Career Express. in-person or virtually throughout July 31.
• Workshop Wednesdays: throughout June and July to sharpen specific skills, including how to utilize AI in the job search, career exploration and the do’s and don’ts of networking online.
• Free Headshots: Stop by the Headshot Booth located in the Student Government office of the Student Union for . The booth is open and free for all students and produces professional, high-quality headshots same day.

Summer Events Around Campus

Stay engaged with these social and cultural opportunities that span the entire term.

• Socialize with Grad Students: Head to the Graduate Student Center in Trevor Colbourn Hall, Room 213 on the first Wednesday of each summer month for First Wednesday Cafe. Hosted by Graduate Student Life, it’s a , meet fellow students, and grab free bagels and coffee.
• Interactive Play Festival: Pegasus PlayLab is a festival hosted every summer by the 166su School of Performing Arts and is dedicated to helping develop the work of emerging playwrights across the country. for the workshop showings of Offshoot (May 29 – 30), Eight-Hand Jig (June 5 – 6), Between Shadows and Lightness (June 12 – 13), and the developmental production of Raccoon Play(June 11 – 14).
• Art Exhibition: Take a quiet culture break at the 166su Art Gallery (located in the Visual Arts Building) to experience The Carlos Malamud Prize. Running all summer long, with Rollins Museum of Art features striking works from six emerging Florida artists competing for a $10,000 prize.
• Therapy Dogs: If you need a serious mood boost, head over to CAPS to spend some time with certified therapy dogs during the It’s a proven, relaxing way to take a mid-semester breather and destress between your Summer A and Summer B classes.

Transportation and Parking

Summer is the best time to find a “prime” parking spot, but shuttles are still a reliable way to get around.

• Summer Shuttle Schedules: 166su shuttles operate on a modified summer schedule. Be sure to check the 166su Mobile app or the website for the most current route times, as frequency may differ from the fall/spring semesters.

Whether you are catching a sunset by the Reflecting Pond or grinding through a summer lab, remember that the 166su community is here to support you. Take advantage of the shorter lines and the specialized attention available this term and keep charging on!

Fueled by engineering ingenuity and months of testing, a team of 166su mechanical engineering students raced its human-powered vehicle past competitors from across the country to claim a national championship.

What began as a Spring 2026 Senior Design project ended with the e-HPVC Senior Design team earning three first-place trophies at the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) e-Human Powered Vehicle (e-HPVC) Challenge.

Hosted on 166su’s main campus, the annual competition challenges university teams to design, fabricate and race human-powered vehicles, testing everything from vehicle design and safety to endurance and speed.

166su’s team took first place in both the endurance and drag race events, second place in design and first place overall, earning four trophies and $2,500 in prize money.

“Becoming national champions while representing 166su feels surreal, says Estefano Cicci, a mechanical engineering major and member of the e-HPVC team. “I hope these trophies remind future students that the goals that feel out of reach are exactly the ones worth chasing, and that a small, dedicated team from 166su can prove itself on a national stage.”

Building a Better Ride

In previous years, 166su’s e-HPVC teams have placed well in the competition with recumbent tricycles, but each new group strives to improve upon the last. Eric Cruz-Hernandez, a mechanical engineering student and member of this year’s team, says the group closely studied past designs to determine what worked and what needed improvement.

This year’s vehicle featured a mid-drive motor with electronic shifting to improve speed and battery endurance. The team also redesigned the frame to make it lighter and more accessible for riders of varying heights.

Engineering Excellence Across the Board

The e-HPVC team wasn’t the only group of Knights to win their competition.

A second 166su team placed second in the ASME Innovative Additive Manufacturing 3D Challenge, which asks students to re-engineer an existing product or create a new design. Teams were judged on ingenuity, engineering design principles and their use of additive manufacturing.

A third 166su team also showcased a fully functioning robot in the Student Design Competition, but didn’t place.

The Teamwork Behind the Trophies

For Bryce Ballard, a mechanical engineering student and external outreach chair for ASME at 166su, hosting the 2026 EFx event on campus was just as meaningful as competing in it. It not only gave students the chance to represent the university, but also to create a welcoming and supportive environment for teams traveling from across the country.

“One of the most impactful parts of hosting was being able to support other teams when they encountered issues with their trikes,” Ballard says. “Whether it was lending tools, helping troubleshoot problems or offering guidance, those interactions stood out the most. It reinforced that the competition is not only about performance, but also about collaboration, sportsmanship and building connections within the engineering community.”

Johnston, who was born without arms, joined 166su’s program in Fall 2024 and is now graduating this May. IES, housed by the in the College of Community Innovation and Education, is a state-recognized, two-year certified transition program that immerses students with disabilities into campus life while helping them develop the independence necessary for long-term employment.

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

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

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

Program Director says Johnston made a strong first impression even before she arrived at 166su.

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

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

Her growing involvement even led to a part-time job at the information desk in the 166su Student Union. She says these experiences have greatly improved her confidence and social skills.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Looking ahead, Johnston says she is excited for her next chapter and grateful for all her experiences at 166su.

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

“The residency accelerates clinical reasoning by three to five years, making [residents] more competitive candidates for the best jobs.” — Meredith Chaput, research coordinator and liaison for the 166su and Orlando Health sports physical therapy  residency program

“We look for people who thrive on rigor,” says Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy Meredith Chaput, the residency’s research coordinator and liaison. The payoff is priceless. “The residency accelerates clinical reasoning by three to five years, making them more competitive candidates for the best jobs.”

Chaput’s sport-specific expertise, along with that of four of her colleagues in the 166su Division of Physical Therapy who serve as didactic and clinical mentors, is an instant draw to the program. So, too, are 166su’s research labs, partnerships and the opportunity to teach students in the 166su doctor of physical therapy program.

The residents are equally drawn to the opportunity to advance their skills alongside a seasoned clinical team at Orlando Health. They take on a caseload of sports and orthopedic patients, providing specialized care ranging from post-surgical rehabilitation to elite-level performance optimization, tapping into advanced rehabilitation technology to improve athlete recovery. Nearly 2 million people every year suffer sports-related injuries and receive treatment in emergency departments, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

With all of this in place, professionals are being prepared, two at a time, through a specialized 12-month program, to join the select group of 169 board-certified sports clinical specialist physical therapists in Florida. It’s a coveted residency and one designed to develop healthcare providers to better aid athletes of all levels. Central Florida is a premier sports destination, featuring a mix of professional franchises, elite collegiate athletics, large high schools and massive amateur complexes.

“When we started this program in 2020, our mission initially aimed to strengthen the rehabilitation services provided to the local sports-based community within Central Florida by producing highly trained and skilled sports physical therapists,” says Philip Agostinelli, residency program coordinator and rehab clinical operations manager with Orlando Health Sports Medicine and Rehab Center.  “Now, currently, in our sixth cohort of residents, that mission evolved to encompass the needs of athletes on a national scale, with multiple past graduates working in professional or semi-professional sports across the country.”

The Tireless Protege: Alvaro Zapata

Long days do not faze Alvaro Zapata, even as they turn into 60-hour weeks. To him, they’re part of the allure of the residency program.

“I ask myself, ‘When would I have this kind of opportunity again?’ and the answer is never,” Zapata says. “The program opens doors that would otherwise not be open.”

“I’m gaining all the knowledge I could possibly need to eventually be at the top of my profession.” — Alvaro Zapata

Since entering the program last August, Zapata has stretched his aptitude alongside clinicians at Orlando Health and Jewett Orthopedic. He’s worked with athletes in high schools and at 166su and accessed the inner circles of Orlando’s two professional soccer teams.

As Zapata puts it, “I’m gaining all the knowledge I could possibly need to eventually be at the top of my profession.”

Zapata was poised to climb the ladder with his Doctor of Physical Therapy from Boston University when he heard about Chaput heading up the residency program at 166su. He knew of her published research and presentations to global audiences.

“She’s a big reason I wanted this residency so badly,” Zapata says.

Here, he has had the opportunity to collaborate with Chaput and progress research on the “visual-cognitive control-to-chaos continuum” in rehab, a model for which Chaput is one of the original creators. After ACL reconstruction surgery, patients often develop inhibitions within the brain that limit the coordination of knee movement. Instead of movement in competition being instinctive, athletes are often consciously aware of deficiencies that were once automatic.

“If you can’t trust your knee, then you can’t get back to the top of your game,” Zapata says. “Rehab is typically done in a controlled setting. The real sports environment is chaotic. We’re finding ways to challenge people the day after surgery, so inhibitions don’t set in.”

This means “visual-cognitive” challenges are added to rehab in the very early stages. For example, the physical therapists might have the patient look for colored lights on a screen. Red means squeeze the right leg. Blue means squeeze the left leg. Yellow means squeeze both.

The visual-cognitive control-to-chaos continuum calls for therapists to gradually make exercises more complex for the patient, from simple, controlled movements to more unpredictable, game-like situations. The goal is to better prepare patients to safely return to sports by training both the body and the brain.

“We want athletes to react instead of thinking first,” Zapata says. “It could be a game changer.”

The Team Player: Tsianna Barnwell

At noon on a Monday, Tsianna Barnwell leaves Jewett Orthopedic Clinic, where she’s been broadening her skills since 7 a.m. She’ll now drive to a local high school to work with athletes across a range of sports. Barnwell thrives in the residency program because no two days are the same. She might work with the Orlando Pride or Orlando City, provide expertise for USA Track or binge on insights at Orlando Health.

Some people call the program challenging. Barnwell calls it “incredible.”

“I’m getting the best of all worlds,” she says. She even immerses herself in the world of Orlando Ballet, calling it “another unique experience to add to my toolbox.”

Barnwell takes her toolbox into the Cognition, Neuroplasticity and Sarcopenia Lab, where she and Chaput are advancing research, which they recently presented in Athens, Greece, at the Isokinetic Conference. It started with a question Barnwell had from her days as a Division I soccer player: Why are female athletes two to six times more likely to suffer knee injuries than men? Through her sports residency, she’s discovered that females are more likely to be weaker in their hamstring muscles. Studying these anatomical and physiological differences can inform impactful changes in rehab, recovery and injury prevention, she notes.

“With this residency under my belt, my opportunities will be almost endless.” — Tsianna Barnwell

Barnwell knows firsthand what it’s like to suffer a torn ACL. She’s also known “the team” as her home away from home since leaving Qatar as an 18-year-old to study and play soccer at St. Bonaventure University. Ultimately, she wants to be part of a team again, perhaps as the director of rehabilitation for a professional women’s soccer team. That’s her preference, but when the residency ends, she’ll be prepared to work with any team — even a ballet company, Cirque du Soleil or the rehab team at Orlando Health.

“I’m fortunate to gain such a breadth of knowledge,” Barnwell says. “With this residency under my belt, my opportunities will be almost endless.”

The Empowered Graduate: Jeremy Wydra ’18 ’22DPT

Jeremy Wydra ’18 ’22DPT is where Zapata and Barnwell will soon be: residency complete, now pursuing a path to find more effective ways to help athletes and performers recover and raise the bar.

“That’s the great outcome for me: variety,” says Wydra, who finished the residency program in 2024 and is now practicing clinically, and working toward his doctorate in kinesiology at 166su, where he is collecting data on the recovery and return to performance after ACL reconstruction.

Wydra worked his way through 166su, first envisioning a career in mechanical engineering and ultimately earning a bachelor’s in health sciences. Along the way, he decided he wanted a people-facing profession and shadowed at a clinic, where he noticed physical therapists conversing with patients throughout treatment sessions, often for more than an hour. He saw it as personalized healthcare that he could optimize with physics and innovation.

After finishing his doctorate in physical therapy at 166su, Wydra landed in a dream situation in Maryland, practicing as both a strength and conditioning coach and a physical therapist within sports performance centers. It begs the question: Why return for the residency?

“I wanted to work with mentors who would push me to be better,” says Wydra.

Unlike Zapata and Barnwell, Wydra had little soccer experience. Gaining it became part of the push he desired.

“… the value of the residency for me: having access to such diversified people and environments.” — Jeremy Wydra ’18 ’22DPT

“During my second week in the residency, I stepped into the Orlando City Academy training room to work with high-level athletes,” he says. “I also helped on the sidelines and talked with the medical staff about team-centered communication with coaches and players. That was the value of the residency for me: having access to such diversified people and environments.”

Wydra sees himself taking full advantage of the variety still in front of him, perhaps as a physical therapist and sports scientist, reforming best practices and helping others be their best.

“That’s what my mentors in the residency have done for me: made me a better person and professional,” he says. “I wouldn’t trade those 12 months for the world.”

For 25 years, members of have shared a powerful belief: investing in 166su is ultimately an investment in students and the lives they’ll lead.

Through planned gifts such as bequests, estate plans and retirement assets, society members extend opportunity far beyond a single generation. Their support fuels scholarships, research and academic programs that prepare students to meet the evolving needs of industry and community.

In 2025 alone, planned gifts accounted for nearly one-third of all charitable support to 166su.

The society is named for 166su’s founding president, Charles Millican, a visionary who built the university with the future firmly in mind. During his tenure, Millican transformed 1,227 acres of Central Florida scrubland into an institution designed to support the space race and prepare students for careers in engineering and computer science. He championed what would become the Central Florida Research Park and helped shape 166su’s enduring ambition to reach for the stars.

Today, that vision lives on through more than 500 members of The Charles Millican Legacy Society — and through the students whose futures are shaped by their generosity.

A World of Possibility

Thiago Maillo’s path to a bachelor’s degree wasn’t linear — but it was driven by something unwavering: the pursuit of greater opportunity.

After his first year studying medicine at the Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Maillo realized he wanted a different future. He saw higher education in the United States as the place to build it. Just three months after applying to Valencia College, he moved to Florida and later .

“Scholarships have made all the difference. They’ve made it possible for me to achieve my dreams.” — Thiago Maillo, biomedical sciences major

Today, he’s a Burnett Honors Scholar and biomedical sciences major on the neuroscience track, with a minor in psychology. He’s conducted research at the Applied Cognition and Technology Lab, completed an internship with ThinkNeuro and serves as an undergraduate teaching assistant in Genetics and Embryology. He’s also found community as president of the Argentinian Student Association.

“Being at 166su was my goal from the start,” says Maillo, who plans to pursue a doctoral degree in cognitive neuroscience. “I love being a Knight. Scholarships have made all the difference. They’ve made it possible for me to achieve my dreams — and pave the way for my two siblings to follow in my footsteps.”

Reimagining What’s Possible

Shannon Hankinson didn’t follow the traditional path to 166su — she created her own.

A Tampa native and single mother of two, Hankinson spent years leading teams at Target before realizing that success and fulfillment aren’t always the same. Determined to change course, she saved money, left her job, earned an associate degree at Eastern Florida State College and transferred to 166su, becoming the first in her family to pursue a four-year degree.

“Donors made it possible for me to build a future that reflects my values and supports my family.” — Shannon Hankinson, electrical engineering major

Now a senior electrical engineering major, she has seized several opportunities at 166su. She completed two semesters in the , joined the Society of Women Engineers and works as a research assistant in 166su’s Radiation Effects Exploration Laboratory. There, she studies semiconductor reliability, hardware design and embedded systems under Assistant Professor Enxia Zhang. Through the Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement program, she also gained hands-on experience with the U.S. defense sector.

This spring, Hankinson will graduate debt-free — supported by scholarships, research funding and a fellowship that’ll carry her directly into a 166su master’s program. A doctorate is next.

“One of my goals was to show my children that it’s never too late to do what you want to do with your life,” Hankinson says. “Donors made it possible for me to build a future that reflects my values and supports my family.”

A Lasting Legacy

On May 2, UCF celebrated the 25th anniversary of The Charles Millican Legacy Society. The milestone coincides with , which builds on the university’s commitment to accelerating student success, advancing research and driving societal impact.

“… support from … our Charles Millican Legacy Society members [continues] to power our innovators, educators and researchers …” — Rod Grabowski, senior vice president of Advancement and Partnerships

“This university was founded to serve the next great frontier — America’s space race — and it’s support from dedicated individuals like our Charles Millican Legacy Society members that continue to power our innovators, educators and researchers as they move that mission forward,” says Rod Grabowski, senior vice president of Advancement and Partnerships and CEO of the 166su Foundation. “From driving the latest advances in AI to creating next-level immersive experiences and sparking breakthrough medical research, UCF is building a future others have only imagined — one that this society’s namesake would be proud to see.”

Maillo is forging new frontiers for his family. Hankinson is showing her children what’s possible when you start again.

They aren’t outliers. They’re what happens when students with extraordinary drive meet extraordinary support.

This is the true legacy of 166su, of Millican and of the society members: students with the confidence to go further, supported by those who believe they can.

Four outstanding undergraduate students are redefining the boundaries of STEM through their high-impact research — and in doing so, placing the university among the nation’s top producers of Goldwater Scholars.

The prestigious Goldwater Scholarship identifies and supports the nation’s best student researchers in the fields of engineering, mathematics and natural sciences.

This year’s honorees — all expected to graduate next spring — have propelled 166su into an elite tier of research institutions, surpassing several Ivy League institutions and tying for fourth in the nation in total Goldwater Scholars produced alongside Stanford University, the University of Notre Dame and the University of Chicago. Their impactful work reflects 166su’s commitment to building a high-level research environment that empowers students to lead projects addressing significant global and scientific challenges.

Supporting Space Exploration

Goldwater Scholar: Keanu Brayman

Major: Mechanical engineering

Ultimate Goal: To develop robotic systems to support human exploration on Mars.

Keanu Brayman’s passion for space began early.

“One of my earliest memories is watching a Space Shuttle streak across the sky from a beach in South Florida,” Brayman says. “I remember being amazed there were people on board and feeling drawn to one day help explore the stars and discover what lies beyond our planet.”

At 166su, Brayman has refined that dream with the support of faculty and mentors — including Department of Physics Chair and Professor Adrienne Dove, Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Tarek Elgohary and NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Engineer Christopher Proctor — as well as through programs like the .

He plans to pursue a doctoral degree in aerospace engineering to support lunar exploration and NASA’s Artemis program, as well as develop robotic systems that can extract resources and build infrastructure to support human exploration on Mars.

Engineering the Brain

Goldwater Scholar: Kyle Coutray

Majors: Computer engineering and biomedical sciences

Ultimate Goal: To research ways to restore communication, movement and cognitive function to the brain through engineering methods.

Kyle Coutray is focused on the intersection of neuroscience and technology.

“I’m interested in building systems that interact directly with the brain,” Coutray says. “In the lab, … [I’m] blending [both majors] into one approach.”

He aims to pursue a doctoral degree in neural engineering to further his research on brain-computer interfaces that translate complex brain activity into useful functions.

A 2026 Order of Pegasus inductee and a Burnett Honors Scholar, Coutray credits his success to disciplined focus and strong mentorship, particularly from Charles N. Millican Professor of Computer Science Joseph LaViola and Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Helen Huang.

Advancing Patient Care

Goldwater Scholar: Varun Nannuri

Major: Molecular and cellular biology

Ultimate Goal: To pursue a career as a physician-scientist.

Varun Nannuri is driven by a desire to understand why people experience different health outcomes and improve care.

“Through my clinical experiences, I have seen how much patients and families rely on physicians during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” Nannuri says. “My research experiences have shown me that better care depends on asking better questions.”

Nannuri plans to pursue a dual M.D./Ph.D. degree and become a physician-scientist. His ambition earned him recognition as a 2026 Order of Pegasus inductee while also completing his Honors Undergraduate Thesis. Nannuri is also a member of the Burnett Honors College as a Burnett Medical Scholar, a program that offers guaranteed admission to the 166su College of Medicine upon completion.

“166su has given me opportunities to grow as a student, researcher, leader and future physician,” Nannuri says.

Restoring Human Senses

Goldwater Scholar: Trevor Overton

Majors: Electrical engineering and biomedical sciences

Ultimate Goal: To improve the lives of people with disabilities through advanced robotic prostheses.

Burnett Honors Scholar Trevor Overton’s work centers on neuroengineering and next-generation prosthetics.

“I’ve always had a passion for building things, and I also love reading and watching sci-fi,” Overton says. “When 166su offered me the opportunity to join the MEDD [ … I knew I had to take it.”

166su’s MEDD program provides scientifically driven students like Overton with a unique opportunity to integrate engineering principles into medicine.

Much like the development of cochlear implants, Overton imagines similar breakthroughs with vision and touch.

“I envision a future where robotic prostheses are so advanced that they could completely replace or enhance the abilities of humans,” Overton says. “It’s not entirely impossible.”

After earning a doctoral degree in electrical engineering with a focus on neuroengineering, he hopes to inspire the next generation — just as his professors inspired him — emphasizing that 166su’s strength lies in professors who actively invest in their students.

A Growing Research Powerhouse

With four 2026 Goldwater Scholarship recipients, UCF continues to strengthen its position as a leader in undergraduate research. The achievement reflects both students’ immense dedication and a university-wide commitment to driving innovation, mentorship and hands-on discovery. As these Knights prepare for the next steps in their academic journeys, they carry forward a shared mission: to turn research into real-world impact.

Students interested in applying for the Goldwater Scholarship or other major national awards should contact the Office of Prestigious Awards at opa@ucf.edu.

Academic Support and Study Strategy

Preparation is the best way to reduce anxiety, and 166su offers a variety of coaching, tutoring, or peer support to help you conquer your study strategy.

•  From Monday, April 27 through Friday, May 1, the Student Union again will become your campus study headquarters, offering free live review sessions led by tutors and Supplemental Instruction leaders across a variety of courses. Plus, Academic Consultation & Engagement peer consultants will be available to provide personalized academic support.
• :��Peer mentors from the Office of Academic Advocacy will host a Mindsets & Motivations Event on Tuesday, April 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., in Trevor Colbourn Hall, room 202.  They will also be in the Student Union Atrium during the hours listed below to connect you with resources, such as the Writing Center (Trevor Colbourn Hall, room 109 and the John C. Hitt Library, room 330) and Math Lab (Mathematical Science Building, rooms 153, 241, 240, and 242). Graduate students, remember that the  is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. in Trevor Colbourn Hall, Room 213.
• Reserved Study Rooms: We all know how busy the library can get during finals week. Use the to book a room at the John C. Hitt, Downtown, or Rosen libraries in advance to make sure you have a designated quiet space to study.

Wellness Resources

Your mental health is the foundation of your academic performance. If the pressure begins to feel unmanageable, there are several ways to find support.

• Mental Health Support: Beyond traditional counseling, (CAPS) provides 24/7 crisis support by dialing 407-823-2811.
• Free Mental Health Apps: Students have free access to , an anonymous peer-to-peer mental support community, and for free tele-therapy sessions, including evening and weekend appointments.

• Meeting Basic Needs: If your budget is tight during finals, the provides food, toiletries and even clothing to Knights in need.

Finals Week Events Around Campus

Conquer the end of the semester with these main campus events. Whether a study session or a social break, these opportunities are designed to help you cross the finish line feeling supported and confident.

• OverKnight Study (various dates between April 20 – May 5, 1 – 6 a.m.): The John C. Hitt Library will extend normal hours during to accommodate late-night study sessions in a safe, quiet environment.
• Sunset Yoga at Lake Claire (April 22, 7 – 8 p.m.): Join the Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC) for a special end of semester Sunset Yoga session — the perfect way to decompress and stretch out after a long day of studying. Check the to register for a spot.
• Float Into Finals (April 23, 4 – 5:30 p.m.): Graduate Student Life to Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 213 for some well-deserved ice cream floats and good vibes with other students.
• Study Union (April 27 – May 1): SARC partners with the Student Union to bring multiple final exam review sessions in-person and online before and after finals week, with by a Peer Tutor or Supplemental Instruction Leader.
• Late Knight Breakfast (April 28, 10 p.m. – midnight):��Mark your calendars to come by the Student Union Atrium to enjoy your favorite breakfast foods. Hosted by Student Government, for students.
• Mindsets & Motivations with PeerKnights (April 28, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.): Held in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 202, this event helps students prepare for finals with campus resources focused on time management, study tips and staying motivated.

Transportation and Parking

To avoid parking delays, students are encouraged to arrive at campus early during finals week.

• will run on their regular schedule Monday, April 27 through Thursday, April 30, from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and on Friday, May 1, from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Need a ride on Saturday? There is a special shuttle service on May 2. Routes 1–10 will provide transportation to the Main Campus from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Quick Links for Success

Whether you are hitting the books in a reserved study room, meeting with a PeerKnights coach or taking a brain-break at the gym, remember that every resource at 166su is designed to help you succeed. Take a breath, trust your preparation and know that the 166su community is there to help and cheer you on.

“Once I realized it wasn’t a mistake, I was thrilled,” says Xhemali, one of the inaugural recipients of the Katherine Crock Memorial Scholarship. “I’m financing this entire experience on my own, so every bit helps. That’s money I can now put toward my future.”

For Xhemali, an aspiring lawyer, college once felt like a distant world reserved for others. Between traveling back-and-forth across the Atlantic Ocean to live with his parents in Albania and relatives in Chicago and Jacksonville, Florida, he constantly balanced family expectations with his own ambitions. Ultimately, Xhemali faced a difficult choice: work to support his family or focus solely on his studies. He chose both, supplementing his scholarship by working as a produce clerk at Publix and a warehouse shipper.

College of Business alum Raymond Smithberger ’02MBA understands that drive. Growing up on a 100-acre farm in Southeast Ohio, Smithberger learned the value of hard work and family obligation early on. The oldest of five, with a father who worked in a factory and a mother who was a receptionist, Smithberger was aware of the financial hurdles facing a first-generation student when he left home to pursue his undergraduate degree and later an MBA at 166su.

Now the chief operating officer at Help at Home, a national home care provider, Smithberger credits his late mother, Katherine Crock, for pushing him to blaze his own trail.

“She was the one who really encouraged me to do things differently,” Smithberger says.

Following his mother’s passing, Smithberger honored her legacy by creating the Katherine Crock Memorial Fund. The endowment ensures students like himself, and Xhemali, have the support they need to define their own futures — and pays tribute to someone who valued education more than anything else.

166su Day of Giving is Thursday, April 9. Join us during Knight Nation’s single largest day of impact as we support our favorite colleges, programs, student services, research endeavors and more. .

“[My mother] wanted to pursue further education but never had the chance,” Smithberger says. “I feel honored to support other first-generation students in her memory.”

Strategically launched last year on to maximize impact, visibility, and matching opportunities, the Katherine Crock Memorial Fund helps to expand student access, reduce financial barriers,and accelerate academic success. By funding both established and new scholarship initiatives, donors directly enable 166su students to focus on their studies and career-shaping experiences, such as internships and campus involvement, rather than financial stressors.

While the finer points of 166su Day of Giving are still new to Xhemali, he understands the significance ofSmithberger’s generosity.

“I’m still fresh, but I’m figuring out this stuff,” Xhemali says. “What I do know is that I want to use this scholarship to put me in a position where I can help someone like Mr. Smithberger has helped me.”

The National Leader in Emergency and Crisis Management

166su earned the No. 1 Homeland/National Security and Emergency Management Graduate Program ranking in the nation for the  third consecutive year.

At the forefront of this year’s ranking is the College of Community Innovation and Education (CCIE)’s online emergency and crisis management program, signaling 166su’s long-standing leadership in programs that keep people safe from disasters of all kinds.

“To maintain the U.S. News No. 1 ranking of graduate programs in homeland security and emergency management is truly a team endeavor,” Associate Professor of Public Administration Yue ‘Gurt’ Ge says. “It reflects our nationally and internationally renowned faculty in education and research, our stellar students and alumni — who have become the backbone of the emergency management profession in Florida and beyond — and our signature staff members and advisory board representing government, nonprofit, and business sectors across Central Florida.”

That strong connection to practice is central to the program’s success. Faculty research influences policy nationwide, while students gain real-world insight through close partnerships with emergency managers at the local, state and federal levels. Graduates leave prepared to respond to complex crises, from natural disasters to public health emergencies, at a time when the need for highly trained professionals continues to grow.

A Top-10 School Preparing Student Counselors

166su’s College of Community Innovation and Education also earned the No. 9 ranking for Student Counseling and Personnel Services Graduate Programs in the nation.

Recognition for CCIE’s student counseling  graduate program reflects 166su’s high-touch faculty mentorship model and its emphasis on integrating research, service, and professional preparation.

For Benoit Aubin, a first-year doctoral student in counselor education, that support has been transformative. A former firefighter and medic, Aubin now works as a mental health clinician for his former fire station while serving as a graduate research assistant with 166su’s Marriage and Family Research Institute (MFRI).

With guidance from Department of Counselor Education and School Psychology Chair and MFRI Executive Director Sejal Barden, Aubin has conducted clinical research focused on trauma and relationship stress among first-responder couples. His work has already contributed to a funded grant, conference presentations, a published book and the development of a training program — achievements he credits to a highly supportive learning environment.

“166su knows how to prepare us to compete professionally,” Aubin says.

A 34-Spot Rise in Advanced Nursing Education

166su’s College of Nursing jumped  34 spots to No. 37 for Doctor of Nursing Practice Graduate Programs in the nation — the highest ranking in the college’s history.

166su’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program (DNP) improved ranking reflects a continued investment in academic rigor, faculty expertise and hands-on clinical training designed to address the nation’s growing need for nurse practitioners.

Graduates from the DNP program consistently outperform national first-time pass rates on nurse practitioner certification exams. They also often receive job offers before they even complete their degrees, according to Christopher Blackwell ’00 ’01MSN ’05PhD, director of 166su’s adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner program. All full-time faculty hold at least one doctoral degree, more than half remain actively practicing clinicians and many are nationally recognized fellows. Through partnerships with healthcare organizations across Central Florida students gain applied experience alongside expert preceptors in varied clinical settings.

“The incredible amount of support I’ve received from 166su’s nursing professors and the opportunities to make an impact through my research and clinical practice solidified that I made the best choice in my graduate degree,” says Mimi Alliance ’21, a family nurse practitioner doctoral student who provides care and conducts research on the 166su Mobile Health Clinic.

Some of that training is anchored in the college’s Helene Fuld Health Trust STIM Center, an internationally recognized simulation facility that strengthens clinical skills and decision-making before students enter patient-care environments. The STIM Center, as well as 166su’s nursing programs, are housed in the Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion, which opened in Lake Nona in Fall 2025 thanks to generous state and industry support — a proof point of 166su’s ability to solve real-world issues.

Building on a Legacy of Aerospace Engineering Excellence

As Florida’s Technological University, UCF continues to build on our strength in technology-driven fields by ranking No. 38 for Aerospace Engineering Graduate Programs in the nation.

The 166su College of Engineering and Computer Sciences‘ aerospace engineering graduate program ranking reinforces the university’s legacy in a field deeply tied to Florida’s Space Coast and NASA’s recent Artemis II launch.

“It is gratifying to see the hard work and exciting research of our faculty and students recognized by our peers,” says Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Jeffrey Kauffman, noting that since launching the aerospace engineering doctoral program in 2019, UCF has steadily climbed in rankings while program enrollment has grown to more than 100 doctoral students.

Fueling that growth are advances in hypersonic flight, space exploration and defense research, with 166su’s HyperSpace Center serving as a catalyst for interdisciplinary collaboration. Faculty success in securing competitive federal research funding has strengthened infrastructure and expanded opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students.

The result is a vibrant research environment where students engage directly in cutting-edge projects and build industry connections well before entering the workforce.

Across disciplines, UCF’s growth in the U.S. News & World Report’s graduate rankings reflects a shared commitment to student success — driven by faculty who mentor closely, curricula that align with real-world needs and an institutional culture focused on impact. As 166su’s graduate programs continue to climb, they reinforce the university’s role as a national leader preparing professionals to tackle society’s most urgent challenges.

That’s because every dollar ripples far beyond a single day. Every gift opens doors: for students to chase a dream, create unforgettable memories, boldly invent the future and be recognized for their hard work. And every donor does more than give — they ignite potential, spark inspiration and elevate Knights for generations.

With 166su Day of Giving 2026 right around the corner — Thursday, April 9 — we’re reflecting on the transformational effects and personal stories of triumph that emerged from last year’s show of support, knowing that shortly, our collective contributions will set another wave of Black & Gold breakthroughs, successes and discoveries into motion.

Prioritizing Unique Opportunities

Area of Support: College of Engineering and Computer Science Dean’s Excellence Fund
Amount Raised: $67,421
Impact: Learning experiences

Growing up in rural Ohio, Jordan Hires, an aerospace engineering major and Burnett Honors College Scholar, often gazed at the boundless night sky, inspired by the astronauts from her home state of Ohio. Moving 1,000 miles away for college was daunting, but manageable. With her sights set on becoming a chief engineer for deep space flights, UCF offered two key benefits: a renowned aerospace engineering program and proximity to NASA.

“It’s the best decision I’ve made,” she says.

Since becoming a Knight, she’s done backstage tours at NASA, met with industry leaders from Mitsubishi, Siemens Energy and Lockheed Martin, and even talked to a former astronaut at an awards ceremony. This past summer, she worked alongside Professor Kareem Ahmed in the Propulsion and Energy Research Lab as a U.S. National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) fellow, testing a solution to remove heat from engines — research that could make hypersonic aircraft safer and cheaper. It was her second research experience as an undergrad.

“I don’t know if it’s every little girl’s dream to work on classified projects with military and civilian applications, but it definitely was this little girl’s dream,” she says. “Thanks to 166su, I’ve had experiences that most students don’t get until graduate school.”

Many of those opportunities are made possible by the College of Engineering and Computer Science Dean’s Excellence Fund, which supports hands-on learning, cutting-edge research equipment and innovative initiatives.

Supporting Lasting Memories

Area of Support: Marching Knights Scholarship Fund
Amount Raised: $14,067
Impact: Multiple scholarships for band members

For 166su Marching Knights President Zoie Taverna, two moments define her 166su experience: the rush of running onto the field for her first game and the bittersweet joy of singing the alma mater song alongside her best friend for their final game before graduation.

“For three whole years, we stood next to each other in the stands, screaming, feeding off each other’s energy,” Taverna says. “For her last game, we went all out. We couldn’t even talk by the end of it. We cried while singing the alma mater.”

Taverna is among the Marching Knights whose experiences at 166su are bolstered by the Branen Band Endowed Scholarship, which helps cover essentials like textbooks, meals and rent that her Bright Futures scholarship does not. As a mechanical engineering major, band leader and corresponding secretary for the national chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, she packs her days with coursework, practice and student engagement.

During the summers, she works full-time at a summer camp for kids, and she spends her weekends and evenings at Panera Bread to save up enough to cover the expenses to allow her to stay focused while in school.

“Without scholarships, I wouldn’t have the time to do extracurriculars, such as Marching Knights, where I get to represent 166su in Central Florida and around the world,” she says. “And I wouldn’t get to spend every Saturday in the Bounce House with all of my friends, immersed in the band life we love.”

Illuminating Pathways

Area of Support: College of Optics and Photonics (CREOL)
Amount Raised: $54,880
Impact: $4,880 Went Toward Supporting 19 scholarships for attendees

This summer, high school student Chloe Phung left the bright lights of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to spend a week immersed in the study of light on 166su’s campus. As part of the third Laser and Photonics Summer Camp hosted by CREOL, she joined more than 50 high school students from across Central Florida — and around the world.

“I had the chance to learn many things, to learn more about optics, lenses and lasers,” Phung says.

In addition to learning opportunities, the camp shines a light on the photonics industry, where more than 10,000 jobs open each year in the U.S., despite only 80 to 100 students in the nation graduating with bachelor’s degrees in photonics annually. A third of those graduates come from CREOL.

Paying it Forward

Area of Support: Dr. Michelle R. Dusseau Communication and Community Impact Endowed Scholarship Fund
Amount Raised: $1,780
Impact: $1,500 scholarship for one communication major, awarded annually

Beatrix Alerte transferred to 166su in Spring 2024 with a plan: build community on campus, explore a career in media, stay active in service and say yes to every opportunity.

The first three goals came naturally. She enrolled in classes, mentored two freshmen as part of the 166su chapter of Big Sister Little Sister mentoring program and served as a trip coordinator for the Alternative Spring Break Program. Alerte also gained work experience as a marketing ambassador for Project BEST, a Student Support Services project that supports first generation students, and as an intern with 166su Athletics.

Her final goal was made easier this summer when Alerte was named the inaugural recipient of the Dr. Michelle R. Dusseau Communication and Community Impact Endowed Scholarship, created this past year by longtime the College of Science‘s Nicholson School of Communication and Media faculty member Michelle Dusseau.

“This scholarship has given me the freedom to say yes to career-building opportunities, many of which are unpaid, while worrying less about covering

personal living expenses,” Alerte says. “That support makes all the difference.”

This 166su Day of Giving, we’re launching Knights to new heights! Save the date to on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Check out the to maximize your impact. And get ready to join your Knight Nation family as we Bounce, Stomp, Splash and Cheer our way to more impact than ever before.