That dedication and her passion for research recently earned Kramer the inaugural Dean Deborah C. German, M.D. FIRE (Focused Individualized Research Experience) Impact Award, an honor named after the founding dean of 166su’s College of Medicine who created the FIRE course, which requires every student to conduct a two-year research project.

German announced earlier this year that she is transitioning from her role and will remain at 166su for a year as an advisor to the president and provost on health affairs. FIRE leaders created the award to honor German’s legacy of scientific discovery as part of medical training, an educational component that makes 166su’s medical school unique nationally.

“I want our students to develop a spirit of inquiry. I want every 166su physician not to be afraid to seek answers to medicine’s unanswered questions.” — Deborah German, College of Medicine dean

“I want our students to develop a spirit of inquiry,” German told Kramer as she presented her with the award. “I want every 166su physician not to be afraid to seek answers to medicine’s unanswered questions.”

After earning an undergraduate degree the University of South Florida, Kramer decided to attend 166su in part because the FIRE course was one reason she came to 166su.

“I wanted to combine research with clinical care,” she says.

Her FIRE project focused on glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer with a five-year survival rate of only 5% to 7%, according to the Mayo Clinic. Even if surgery, chemotherapy and radiation initially stop the cancer, it usually returns and becomes stronger. Kramer says she wanted to know why.

With support from her FIRE mentor, Kiminobu Sugaya, head of the College of Medicine’s neuroscience research division, she discovered that extracellular vesicles responsible for cell-to-cell communication may influence non-cancer cells to take on cancer-like properties.

The new award goes to the student whose research shows the greatest potential impact to medicine and/or biomedical research. College of Medicine faculty and fellow students chose Kramer for the award during the FIRE Conference.

“It is our privilege to establish this award in honor of Dean German,” say Robert Hines and Lane Coffee, co-directors of the FIRE course. “When establishing this medical school, she realized the importance of rigorous scientific inquiry, and our students have benefited from — and will continue to benefit from — this course within the curriculum.”

As coach of 166su’s championship Collegiate Cybersecurity Competition Team (C3), Thomas Nedorost ’02 keeps his eye on the prize — but not just the trophies.

For Nedorost, a management information systems alum, the real prize is seeing his students and C3 team members become trailblazers, land top industry jobs, build successful careers and pave the way for other Knights.

A senior lecturer in 166su’s , Nedorost has coached C3 to 15 national championships in 14 years. The team has finished among the top three in 198 competitions, earning 123 first-place wins along the way.

166su has one of the nation’s most successful collegiate cybersecurity programs, with its competition team winning 15 national championships in the last 14 years.

C3 members compete against top universities worldwide, putting their cybersecurity defense skills to the test by protecting systems against simulated threats.

Nedorost, who built the program from the ground up, is proud of what his teams have achieved over the years, and he sees the impact of their success in the opportunities that come their way.

“Because of the experience they get on C3, team members end up in fantastic internships in the field, and when they graduate, most of them skip over entry-level jobs and land roles at that next level, along with some impressive salaries. So, their career prospects are really strong,” Nedorost says.

Fostering Excellence, Investing with Impact

Even with the team’s consistent success, funding has remained an ongoing challenge.

“We have struggled from day one — not in finding talent or space, but in acquiring computer equipment and funds for airfare, hotels, meals and other operational expenses,” Nedorost says.

The university’s Collegiate Cyber Defense Fund through the has been a source of support, thanks to the generosity of individual donors, as well as several companies and organizations.

That support has helped C3 compete at the highest level. But Nedorost knows that long-term success requires long-term investment.

So, he’s making one himself.

Nedorost is making a planned gift to support future C3 teams. By including the program in his estate plans, he’s creating a legacy that’ll continue investing in the next generation of cybersecurity talent long after his coaching career ends.

His commitment represents the largest single gift to C3 to date.

“My hope is that this will always be a strong program, and that future team members will continue to compete at an elite level, become leaders in the industry and always feel like they have a place in the community we’ve built,” Nedorost says.

Building Greatness

C3 began when former information technology major Jonathan Singer ’13��approached Nedorost during his first semester as a 166su instructor and proposed entering the National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CDCC).

Nedorost had a background in management information systems and had served as an adjunct instructor at Valencia College and 166su, but he didn’t have experience in cybersecurity. He gave Singer the go-ahead to hold an interest meeting.

When 86 students showed up, Nedorost knew they were onto something.

The Collegiate Cyber Defense Club was born, and Nedorost began building a team from among its members, focusing on elevating 166su’s competitive excellence in this emerging field.

“During the live competitions, I can’t help them. They have to rely on what they’ve learned in class, what they’ve seen and done before, and what they’ve practiced as a team,” Nedorost says.

In its first year, with just eight members, the team won the Southeast CCDC regional competition. That victory earned the team a trip to nationals, where it finished 10th.

These days, Nedorost fields a team of 25 to 27 students each year, from which he builds competition rosters. C3 has won six CDCC national competitions since those early years — more than any other team in the competition’s history.

“Like any winning team, we put our top talent in the competition. And meanwhile, I’m always recruiting so that we have a strong bench for the future,” Nedorost says.

Fostering Community, Opening Doors

As he has built the program, Nedorost has also created a community that supports each other.

Experienced C3 members serve as speakers at club meetings and lead workshops to help other students. Program alumni return to help Nedorost coach the team, mentor students, serve as guest lecturers and even sponsor meals during local competitions.

Those alumni connections also open doors to internships and jobs as former team members advance in their own careers.

The rise in cybercrime in recent years has fueled demand for cybersecurity professionals, creating a significant gap between the number of skilled workers and available positions. The United States has more than 1.3 million cybersecurity professionals — the largest cybersecurity workforce in the world today — with more than 500,000 open positions in the field (Programs.com 2026 report).

166su is preparing students to help fill that gap.

Designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education, UCF attracts talented students passionate about the field.

Nedorost is part of that success. In addition to serving as C3 coach and faculty advisor to the Collegiate Cyber Defense Club, he directs 166su’s and teaches courses including Cyber Defense Analysis and Topics in Cybersecurity.

Investments like Nedorost’s highlight the importance of 166su’s Go For Launch campaign: Investing in students to elevate their competitive excellence and shape a bold tomorrow.

In April 2023, a few days after senior prom, Gabby Murison ’26 and her family drove 650 miles from New Orleans to Orlando. They’d vacationed in previous years to the area’s theme parks, but this time they had just one destination on the itinerary: 166su. The university interested Murison for its strong film program through the . She also knew 166su offered a variety of pathways in case she discovered a new interest.

“I’ll never forget stepping onto Memory Mall,” she says. “My thoughts about college changed. I got caught up in this environment of ‘we support each other because we’re all Knights’ and I was ready to move.”

“… I discovered something bigger outside the classroom. I built my world here.”

Moving was nothing new to Murison. Her dad serves in the U.S. Army, so she’d already lived in eight cities across six states.

“But I’d never been anywhere like 166su,” she says. “I had big goals: to develop my creative side and learn about social media and film. But I discovered something bigger outside the classroom. I built my world here.”

The Curious Freshman Looking for Community

At the beginning, Murison was like most first-year students: a bit uncertain, searching for a connection.

“I realized quickly that the 670 clubs and organizations at 166su need people,” says Murison, who minored in event management. “As soon as I got involved, the student population of 70,000 got smaller. It ignited passions I didn’t know existed.”

“My perspective grew by talking with people … and observing how mentors … guided others.”

Her first connection came through an academic and community engagement initiative, which she saw as an opportunity to get out of her dorm and become involved in service, which runs in her family of military veterans, educators and nurses. On day one, she asked a fellow member, civil engineering major Luisa Cordova, to go for a walk. Murison learned about life in Venezuela on that walk. She also found a best friend and roommate.

“My perspective grew by talking with people like Luisa and observing how mentors … guided others,” Murison says.

A mentor gently persuaded Murison to apply her communication skills to the campus community. Still in her first semester and despite a full plate, Murison volunteered for Spirit Splash during Homecoming Week.

“It was supposed to be a simple way to pitch in,” Murison says, “but as I guarded the pool, I was struck by the impact students were making by running this big event.”

By her sophomore year, Murison had been named to the executive board for Homecoming.

“My involvement grew to the point where I’d see students wearing merchandise I helped design,” she says. “My confidence and connections to 166su kept expanding.”

A Full-Circle Moment

At the beginning of Murison’s junior year, Malaret suggested that Murison transition from LEAD to the President’s Leadership Council (PLC). Murison found PLC to be another way to inspire 166su students to make the most of their entire college experience, just as she’d been doing herself. Around the same time, she discovered an ideal outlet to share her knowledge and growing love for 166su: as an Undergraduate Admissions Ambassador.

“When I was a little girl, I wanted to be Hannah Montana,” she says. “Being a tour guide is as close as I’ve come to that dream. Talking about 166su to groups became like a performance, except everything I say is true.”

“My advice to students is to funnel your energy into organizations you care about. Make a difference. Grow your work ethic. Have fun.”

During at least 100 tours, Murison spoke with more than 1,000 prospective students and VIP guests. She walked them along Memory Mall, through the “we’re all Knights” environment that changed her view of college, and described firsthand the transformative power of campus involvement.

“My advice to students is to funnel your energy into organizations you care about,” she says. “Make a difference. Grow your work ethic. Have fun. And don’t be involved for the sake of a resume.”

On one tour in 2025, she met a girl from her high school in Louisiana, an 18-year-old version of herself, with one foot at prom and the other reaching toward the next phase of life.

“I must have given a decent tour because she just finished her freshman year at 166su,” Murison says. “She’s [involved on campus] and serves on the Homecoming committee. Isn’t that amazing? It’s gratifying to have made an impact, but even better to know that she’s creating her own path, and a personal story to share with others.”

Murison’s experience reflects the vibrant community and opportunities available across 166su — where getting involved can lead to lifelong friendships, new skills and a growing sense of belonging. It’s an experience reflected in 166su’s Grade A overall rating and its No. 19 ranking for Best Student Life in America and No. 21 for Best College Campuses in America by .

The Accomplished Graduate Ready for the World

In April, UCF and Universal Destinations & Experiences launched a Pegasus Partnership to strengthen three decades of collaboration with aligning education with real-world experience, creating career pathways and developing themed innovations.

In April, three years after her first step onto campus, Murison was awarded the Order of Pegasus, UCF’s most prestigious student award. She was notified that she had received the honor while on a retreat with admission tour guides, with whom she became friends.

“The honor meant more because they were there to celebrate with me,” she says.

A few weeks later, Murison graduated and finished an event management internship at Universal, where she further strengthened her ability to prioritize responsibilities and find balance. She now has job offers from several companies in Orlando, though she could envision a move to California to pursue filmmaking or scriptwriting. There will be plenty of time to decide.

“I’m the kid who watched with awe when the credits rolled at the end of Disney movies,” Murison says. “Building something big from scratch always fascinated me, especially when it involves a team. That’s what my 166su experience has been like. For now, though, I’ll just — exhale. I want to spend time being 22 for a little while.”

Every semester is a chance to start fresh.

Whether you’re navigating your first days on campus or a returning Knight, each new academic semester is an opportunity to discover what works for you, meet new people, challenge yourself and take advantage of everything 166su has to offer.

No matter what you set out to accomplish, you’ll find the support to help get you there. Whether you’re in need of academic guidance, career preparation, wellness resources and support or ways to get involved, here are the tools to set you up for success.

Build Strong Habits with Academic Support

The key to overcoming academic challenges isn’t waiting until you’re struggling — it’s knowing where to turn before you get there.

If you’re adjusting to college-level coursework, working through a difficult class or trying to stay ahead, UCF provides a variety of academic support services — available in person and virtually — to help you stay on track all semester long.

Start here:

• Academic Success Coaching: Students are encouraged to meet regularly with their for help setting goals, staying on track, improving study strategies, managing time and connecting with campus resources.
  • Support Pop-Up Station: Visit the 166su Student Union from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, and Thursday, Aug. 27, for on-the-spot support and guidance from Academic Advocates and Academic Success Coaches.

• Peer Tutoring: The Student Academic Resource Center (SARC) offers  in more than 30 subjects. Visit the SARC office in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 117 or the Engineering II atrium for assistance.

• : Drop in for help with undergraduate math courses and work through challenging concepts with experienced tutors.

• : Whether you’re writing your first college essay, polishing a lab report or updating your resume, writing consultants are available at every stage of the writing process.

• Academic Calendar: Refer to the official for important dates for enrollment, holidays, exams, commencement and events.

• : Academic Engagement Librarians are available to help graduate students find research materials, navigate databases, develop stronger research projects and access additional library resources and services.

• : From laptops for class to calculators for exams, this new service on the second floor of the John C. Hitt Library makes it easy to borrow the tools you need to succeed academically.

• Study Spaces: If you prefer complete silence, a lively atmosphere or the outdoors, there are plenty of places to help you stay productive. Check out some of these favorite spots across 166su’s campuses:

• • Grab your favorite drink and settle in at a coffee shop. Campus favorites like Dunkin’ Donuts, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Foxtail Coffee or Starbucks are ideal if you enjoy a little background noise while studying, meeting with a group or working on a project.

• • Escape the bustle of campus at the Burnett Honors College Meditation Garden, a peaceful outdoor space where shaded seating, lush greenery and a tranquil koi pond create a relaxing environment for reading, studying or recharging between classes.

• • If you’re crossing the Dr. Phillips Academic Commons Bridge between classes at 166su Downtown, pause to review your notes or catch up on reading in one of the quiet seating areas overlooking campus.

• • The shaded lounge area in front of Addition Financial Arena at Knights Plaza offers a comfortable place to catch up on assignments, meet up with friends or unwind between classes.

• • Looking for a quieter environment? in the John C. Hitt Library or find one of the many individual and group study spaces designed for focused work.

• • Take your studying outside at the Reflecting Pond by spreading a blanket on the grass or settling into a shady spot along the water. Fresh air and a change of scenery can be a great way to recharge while reviewing notes.

Prioritize Your Health and Well-Being

Taking care of yourself is just as important as keeping up with your coursework. When you feel your best, you’re better prepared to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Through 166su’s wide variety of health and wellness services, you’ll have support physically, mentally and emotionally throughout the semester.

That holistic approach to serving students recently earned 166su national recognition. The university received Insight Into Academia magazine’s 2026 Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award for fostering a campus culture in which students and employees have access to meaningful wellness resources, supportive communities and proactive care.

Available student well-being and support resources include:

• Mental Health Support:  (CAPS) provides all students with free around-the-clock mental health support. Additionally, they have complimentary access to ‘ anonymous peer support community and  teletherapy sessions throughout the semester. Students can access support by calling CAPS at 407-823-2811, visiting in person or . For after-hours support, call 407-823-2811 and press 5 to connect with a counselor.
  • Spend time with from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 27 and enjoy a mindful break while learning practical stress-management techniques as you ease into the semester.

• : Build healthy habits that support your well-being and academic success with free services and programs, including wellness coaching, FreshU Kitchen, cooking demonstrations and classes, and access to free healthy food.

• Physical Wellness:  is your on-campus healthcare home, providing convenient access to primary and preventive care, sports medicine, dental care, pharmacy, immunizations, laboratory testing and more. Looking to stay active? The  has you covered with a two-story fitness area, group exercise classes and a variety of recreational activities. For some fresh air, head to ��at Lake Claire, where you can unwind outdoors with free kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.

• Well-Being and Basic Needs Support: The Center for Student Care and Advocacy is a hub for navigating academic, personal and financial challenges. You can contact at 407-823-5607 or caremanager@ucf.edu for assistance. For help with everyday essentials, provides free food, clothing and toiletries daily to currently enrolled 166su students.

Prepare for Your Career Now

You don’t have to wait until graduation to start building your professional experience. The (DCDC) can assist you with exploring career paths, preparing for graduate or professional school,��building professional skills and connecting with employers from your first semester through graduation.

This semester, you can:

• Meet with 166su DCDC staff for resume reviews, LinkedIn profile feedback, mock interviews and more at the center.

• Get guidance from team for exploring careers that require advanced degrees and preparing and applying to graduate, health professional and law schools.

• Attend career workshops covering everything from networking and interviewing to job searching and using AI in your job search.

• Discover internship opportunities that provide you with real-world experience — and, in some cases, the chance to earn academic credit.

• Secure your next internship or job and connect with employers from a wide range of industries at the on Oct. 1 at Addition Financial Arena.

• Connect with employers, discover career opportunities and receive a free headshot at the on Oct. 28 in the Darden Auditorium.

Even if you’re only beginning to explore your career options, these experiences can help you build skills and connections long before graduation.

Find Your Community on Campus

Some of your best college memories happen outside the classroom.

Whether you’re looking to meet people, discover new interests, give back or just get out and have fun, you’ll find plenty of ways to get involved and connect with campus.

Take the opportunity to:

• Find your people by joining one (or more!) of 166su’s 650+ student organizations.

• Grab your game day gear and embrace the energy of Knight Nation while cheering on the Knights across 16 sports. Students can to home games throughout the season.

• Make a difference through Volunteer 166su, where you can sort donations at local food pantries, tutor students, assist in hospitals and connect with the community.

• Take part in iconic 166su traditions like Spirit Splash, one of the most beloved Homecoming Week events, and Pegasus Palooza, UCF’s official welcome week featuring free events and big-name entertainment.

• Graduate students: Build connections and get involved on campus through the Graduate Student Center, a welcoming hub in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 213, where you can meet other graduate students and participate in , including Fall Take Off, two weeks of activities that welcome new and returning graduate students.

No matter what your interests are, there’s a place for you here and a community ready to welcome you.

Know Your Transportation Options

A little preparation can make getting around campus much easier — especially during the first few weeks of the semester.

Before heading to class:

• Make sure you have the correct parking permit and know where you can park. Beforehand, review and real-time to save time and avoid hassle. Parking Garages A and I often have the most availability.

• Check shuttle routes and schedules using the 166su Mobile app or the . offers 10 conveniently located stops near most academic buildings and popular campus destinations.

• Give yourself extra travel time during the first few weeks of the semester, when campus is busiest.

Friendly reminder: A valid 166su or Daily Parking Permit is required to park on campus at all times (24/7).

Stay Organized with Essential Tools

myKnight STAR

Keeping track of classes, appointments and deadlines is much easier when everything is in one place. That’s where , powered by Navigate Student, comes in. With tools designed to help you stay organized, connected and on track, it’s your go-to resource for managing the semester and accessing the support you need.

Using the app or web browser, you can:

• View your class schedule.

• Schedule appointments for Academic Success Coaching and other campus services.

• Explore majors and career pathways.

• Connect with classmates to form study groups.

• Receive reminders about important academic deadlines and upcoming appointments.

Student Center

The Student Center, accessible through , has a new, mobile-first design and updated navigation, but the tools you rely on — such as class registration, financial aid, tuition payments, grades and academic records — remain the same. They may just be in a different place. For help finding and accessing key tools, log in to my166su and click the banner at the top of the page to visit the Help Center. Graduate students can also use the dedicated Graduate Students tile to access resources and tools for managing their academic journey.

Make This Semester Count

No matter where you are on your 166su journey, you won’t have to navigate it alone.

The habits you build now — and the people and resources you connect with along the way — can make all the difference in your college experience.

So ask questions, get involved, try something new and take advantage of the opportunities around you.

Wishing you a successful semester, Knights. Charge On!

This guide is a resource to help you develop a sense of belonging, find community and build lifelong friendships while studying at 166su.

Marquee Events

Whether you’re studying at 166su Downtown, the , Rosen College of Hospitality Management or the main campus,����you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Some signature events have become beloved 166su traditions��with not-to-be-missed programming:

• Pegasus Palooza, UCF’s annual welcome week, greets new and returning students to campus with a variety of events including notable headliners at Comedy Knight and Concert Knight.

• 166su Homecoming��Week,���ڱ𲹳ٳܰ����Բ���Spirit Splash,��kicks��off��Monday,��Oct. 19,��and��concludes��with the 166su football team’s matchup against BYU on��Saturday,��Oct. 24.

• Space Game, a football game unlike any other in the nation, pays tribute to our 166su’s roots as America’s Space University. This year’s matchup against Baylor on Friday, Oct. 30, marks 10 years of the Space Game.

• , held each spring at����Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, showcases the artistic talents of 166su’s faculty and students in performances, exhibitions, presentations and interactive experiences.

• Gather Luncheon,��a��community-building event in the spring hosted by��Wellness & Health Promotion Services and Dining Services,����brings hundreds of students��together����for��a free, three-course meal.

Recreation, Intramurals and Sports Clubs

In addition to its fitness and recreation facilities, the Recreation and Wellness Center has longstanding intramural and sports club programs that allow students to form friendships and win championships, sometimes on the brightest of stages.

The RWC’s intramural sports program welcomes all 166su students, especially those who are new to Orlando and haven’t met enough peers to form their own team. Thanks to its free agency feature, individuals ca��be matched up with others or be paired with an established team.

The sports club includes 45 different sports, encompassing everything from judo to lacrosse to wakeboarding and have produced some of 166su’s most notable alumni. Gold medalist Phil Dalhausser ’02, who played club volleyball while pursuing his business degree, and bronze medalist Kristen Thomas ’16, who began her rugby career��as a theatre studies major��at 166su,��both went on to��represent��Team USA��at��multiple Summer Olympic Games.

For more information, visit��.

Registered Student Organizations

166su offers more than 650 registered student organizations spanning academic, professional, cultural and spiritual, social and recreational, and sports interests.

KnightConnect��is 166su’s official involvement platform where students can explore��these organizations or even create a new one.��Each organization has its own page with meeting times, contact information,��and ways to get involved.

Visit the����to find the organization right for you.

Greek Life

The fraternity and sorority experience has long been a part of campus life. Since the 1970s, fraternities and sororities have been providing spaces of belonging for students to grow together during their collegiate years.

Currently our 166su Greek community is comprised of 47 organizations, which all share the values of scholarship, leadership, service and brotherhood/sisterhood.

For more information visit��.

166su Athletics – Knightmare Society and Marching Knights

166su is a member of one of the premiere conferences in the nation, the Big 12. From��Fear the Fronds��to��Zombie Nation, the student section’s energy is��an integral part of the game day atmosphere��and gives the Knights a distinct home field (and court) advantage.

All full-time UCF-enrolled students (except 166su Online) are eligible for free tickets to home sporting events. Please note: all seating is first-come, first-served and admission is not guaranteed. For more information, especially for football and men’s basketball student tickets, please visit .

�ճ���� is an organization built and run by 166su students and supported by 166su Athletics. Joining the official group has its perks, including football tickets automatically loaded to members’ Ticketmaster accounts, a dedicated fast pass entrance at all 166su men’s basketball games, and first access to post-season student ticket claims.

Students can also contribute to game-day experiences by joining��, a more than 390-member marching band student organization that performs at pregame shows, halftime shows, pep rallies and��other��fan-fest��events. By creating the soundtrack for these dynamic events, the Marching Knights serve as one of the most vibrant and visible forces for school spirit.

Engage in��Research

Undergraduate research provides opportunities to build a learning community with faculty and fellow students��while engaging��in meaningful work that��develops��solutions��for��challenges facing our communities,��industries��and the world.

In addition to forging connections with peers and mentors, this��practical experience��allows students to��build their professional resumes��before��they graduate.

, UCF’s annual university-wide celebration of research and creative scholarship showcases graduate and undergraduate research. The week is scheduled for March 29 through April 2, 2027, featuring presentations, exhibitions and other events showcasing student research.

For more information on how to get involved with undergraduate research, visit��.

�������ǰ��������������Ի��

166su students live in one of the most vibrant destinations in the world, Orlando.��Whatever your interest, Orlando��likely has��it:��theme parks,��elite��sporting events,��electric festivals,��Michelin-rated restaurants,��nearby��coastlines��and��natural springs.

Orlando is what you make it, and there are ways to experience it all on a student budget.

�ճ������offers��discounted��tickets to various attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal��Orlando��and Kennedy Space Center.��Every spring semester, UCF students��enjoy��free, exclusive access to Universal Islands of Adventure as part of Universal Knights.

��gives Knights of all experience levels opportunities to go on hiking and camping trips at nearby springs, learn to surf, paddle through bioluminescent waters and more.

Several cultural museums in the area offer free entry,��including��the�� on the main campus,��Rollins Museum of Art��and Mead Garden in nearby Winter Park,��and the��Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central Florida��in Maitland.���ճ����acclaimed��Orlando Museum of Art��offers free entry on the third Thursday of each month��as part of its Access for All initiative.

Held annually at the start of the fall semester, Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining offers a chance to sample some the area’s exceptional restaurants at a fraction of the normal cost. Savor three-course, prix-fixe dinners�� — including at Aurora at the on-campus The Celeste Hotel — for just $40 or $60 per person from Aug. 14 – Sept. 30, 2026.

To mark this historic achievement, the State University System will launch Florida 10 for 10: Celebrating a Decade of Leading Higher Education, a statewide competitive scholarship initiative awarding up to $1,000 to 10 full-time undergraduate students at each participating university.

�ճ����10��scholarships��awarded��to 166su students��will be available��through the��university’s��.��To apply, students��are required to��submit��a written essay or a video essay explaining why they chose to pursue higher education in Florida and why they selected 166su. Applications��will open Monday, Aug. 3,��and��are due Oct.��2.

“Florida’s Board of Governors cares about one thing, first and foremost — student achievement.” — Alan Levin, Florida Board of Governors chair

In addition to��the Florida 10 for 10��scholarships, students��will��also��be able��to complete their��general��scholarship applications��through��the��,��which connects them��with hundreds of scholarships��through 166su colleges and departments.��In��fiscal year 2025��alone,��166su awarded more than��3,200 scholarships and over $7.5 million to��students.

“Florida’s Board of Governors cares about one thing, first and foremost��—��student achievement,” says��Board of Governors Chair Alan Levine. “Parents and students know that when they choose Florida’s system of higher education, they are investing in a degree that has value. Our students graduate with low or no debt, and they have high-value jobs they can compete for. That is what students,��parents��and taxpayers rightly expect. Student success is behind every decision we make as Florida’s governing body for higher education.”

“I am deeply proud to lead and represent the No. 1 public university system in the nation,”says State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues.“At a time when confidence in higher education is being tested, Florida has remained focused on improving student outcomes and ensuring academic programs are grounded in merit and excellence. By prioritizing skills and qualifications, our universities are developing the next generation of leaders for Florida and the nation. I thank our university leadership, faculty and staff whose dedication and commitment make this success possible every day.”

“Our decade of nationwide higher education leadership reflects a commitment to excellence, opportunity and innovation.” — Alexander N. Cartwright, UCF president

“Florida’s future is being built by the talent developed across our State University System. Our decade of nationwide higher education leadership reflects a commitment to excellence,��opportunity��and innovation,” says��166su President Alexander N. Cartwright. “This recognition illustrates what is possible when universities align education with rapidly evolving societal needs. As Florida’s Technological University, UCF is proud to produce in-demand talent at an unmatched scale while preparing the tech-literate professionals who will shape Florida’s next generation of prosperity.”

That leadership is reflected in outcomes that matter most to students and families. Florida’s public universities compete successfully on��the��national stage, ensuring graduates earn high‑quality degrees and move confidently into their careers and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Additional��Florida higher education highlights include:

• No.��1 in the nation for lowest in-state tuition

• No.��1 for attracting and developing a skilled workforce

• Seven��State University��System institutions ranked in the��nation’s��top 100��public universities

• 80%��of in-state students��attend��a��State University��System institution without a federal student loan

• Nearly 75%��of graduates��are��employed��or continuing their education,��with��a median salary of $52,600 within one year��of��graduation

166su produces nearly 19,000 graduates annually, the most of any State University System institution, and many work in high-demand fields such as engineering and nursing that are vital to Florida’s future. 166su also is the nation’s leading provider of graduates to the aerospace and defense industries, according to Aviation Week.

166su��is��among��the nation’s��10��Most��Innovative��Schools among��public universities,��as ranked by��U.S. News & World Report.��This��month��166su��was ranked among the top 10��by��SmartAsset��for America’s��Best��Value��Public Universities.

University leaders across the state credit collaboration,��accountability��and sustained investment for the��State University��System’s success.

U.S. News & World Report��State Rankings evaluate key metrics, including��educational attainment, graduation rates,��affordability��and federal student loan debt.

Studies have shown the condition affects nearly one in four women worldwide and is linked to dozens of potential disorders involving multiple organ systems. Yet many healthcare providers receive only limited training in diagnosing the source of pain, often leaving patients facing years of uncertainty, repeated testing and ineffective treatments before receiving the right diagnosis.

A yearlong collaboration between a 166su physician-scientist and two biomedical sciences undergraduate students aims to create a better environment for doctors and patients to reach an understanding together. Biomedical sciences students Sarah Gabriela Nieto Chavarro and second-year Juliana Dimetry interned with Georgine Lamvu, a 166su College of Medicine volunteer professor of obstetrics and gynecology, to transform years of international research into a practical tool to help clinicians evaluate patients more quickly and confidently.

The team is developing an AI-assisted clinical questionnaire application that guides physicians through a patient’s symptoms and identifies which organ systems and conditions should be examined. Rather than replacing a physician’s judgment, the application compiles patient histories quickly to help guide physicians toward making a clearer diagnosis.

From International Research to a Practical Tool

Despite the prevalence of CPP, many healthcare providers lack specialized training in diagnosing the underlying condition because symptoms often overlap with gastrointestinal, urinary, musculoskeletal and reproductive disorders.

“We’re hoping that this can become easy to use and can take a detailed medical history that could take an hour to get through down to just 5 to 10 minutes.” — Georgine Lamvu, volunteer professor and Orlando VA practitioner

“We’re hoping that this can become easy to use and can take a detailed medical history that could take an hour to get through down to just 5 to 10 minutes,” says Lamvu, who practices at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Orlando and directs its gynecological surgery fellowship program and center. “That allows physicians to have a more efficient evaluation and spend more time with the patient.”

The center is a pioneering program designed to address the growing demand for specialized gynecologic care among women veterans. As the number of women veterans using VA healthcare services is expected to increase significantly, this fellowship and center aims to train highly skilled gynecologists to meet their healthcare needs within the VA system and beyond.

As part of that initiative, this project builds upon nearly five years of work led by Lamvu alongside an international coalition of physicians, researchers and patient advocacy groups.

Their research culminated in an international consensus called R U MOVING SOMe, an acronym that categorizes the broad range of symptoms associated with chronic pelvic pain and is the basis of the AI-tool Lamvu and her team developed.

Finding a Definitive Diagnosis

Lamvu says the team translated the clinical research into the logic behind a chatbot-style application that asks fewer than 20 targeted questions. Physicians enter a patient’s symptoms and history into the program, which then suggests the organ systems and conditions most likely responsible for the pain, helping clinicians focus their evaluation.

The team plans to expand the application beyond patient questionnaires by incorporating physical examination findings into the same scoring system. Ultimately, the researchers say they hope it can be used in any practice that serves women, but it may be years away from being realized.

“Physicians just need a way of processing all the information that comes from the patient to narrow it down to a differential diagnosis,” Lamvu says. “Right now, it’s all too common to see healthcare workers panic a little when they hear a patient has chronic pelvic pain because it’s considered a complex condition.”

An Inspiring Internship

The students sifted through years of research and developed the logic for the AI in less than a year. Given the complexity of CPP and the vast amount of data, Lamvu says she is impressed by Dimetry and Nieto Chavarro.

“They learned valuable lessons, like if you see a problem that seems unsolvable to everyone else and that directly and negatively impacts patients, you have the power to do something about it,” she says. “These are experiences not every student gets to have, especially this early on in their life.”

Dimetry says she challenge intrigued her, and that she was drawn to the project for the opportunity to be at the forefront of medicine and emerging technology.

“I think that adapting the field of medicine to AI in ways such as this project is necessary to keep medicine growing and advancing,” she says. “I also saw how impactful this project could be if done successfully, and I wanted to be a part of that and make a difference,”

For Nieto Chavarro, who graduates Summer 2026, the experience showed her how to use technology to help deliver compassionate patient care.

“On a personal level, this experience has taught me to keep going and to never give up,” Nieto Chavarro says. “All of this has ultimately reinforced how essential it is to genuinely listen to patients so they feel safe and understood”

Three 166su graduates have been selected for the Orlando Veterans Affairs (VA) primary care nurse practitioner residency, a highly competitive postgraduate training program at the nation’s fourth-largest VA medical center.

Only three residents are selected annually from a pool of applicants to participate in the program, in which 166su has had consistent representation since its inception. This year, all three spots were awarded to 166su graduates — including two who earn their Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) this Saturday during a 166su Summer 2026 commencement ceremony.

For , Melissa Fajardo ’11 ’23 and Nancy Saintil ’10MS ’25DNP — three first-generation college graduates and two first-generation Americans — it’s a career opportunity forged in hard work and shaped by an education at 166su.

“This milestone represents years of perseverance, faith, growth and the encouragement of people who believed in my potential,” says Alliance, is among the more than 300 nursing students graduating from 166su this week. “It is also a reflection of the mentorship, opportunity and support I received throughout my education at 166su.”

“These three 166su graduates are highly qualified and will excel in both their residency and future careers as nurse practitioners.” — Jacqueline LaManna ’13PhD, UCF director of adult primary care nurse practitioner programs

The one-year program is designed to ease the transition into independent practice for newly graduated, licensed nurse practitioners. Nurse practitioner residents rotate through clinical settings with structured mentorship to help care for the 149,000 veterans served by the Orlando VA Healthcare System.

“This program requires advanced clinical practice, scholarship and leadership skills,” ��says Jacqueline LaManna ’13PhD, UCF’s director of the adult primary care nurse practitioner programs. “These three 166su graduates are highly qualified and will excel in both their residency and future careers as nurse practitioners.”

“166su prepares nurse practitioners for success,” adds Jonathan Decker, director of the family nurse practitioner program. “Our graduates’ consistently surpass national first-time pass rate averages on board certifications and many secure employment or advanced training opportunities before graduation – just like these three.”

The graduates will begin their residency this fall at the Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona, minutes away from 166su’s new Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion. The state-of-the-art facility is helping address critical nursing shortages — awarding more than 900 nursing degrees in the last academic year.

For Saintil, the wife of a veteran, the opportunity is deeply personal.

“Through my exposure to the VA healthcare system, I have seen firsthand the positive impact it has on the lives of America’s veterans,” she says. “I am inspired by the VA’s commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care and honored to contribute to that mission.”

Together with their cohort, the three new Knight nurse practitioners are joining one of the nation’s fastest-growing occupations and meeting increasing demand in Florida. Driven by physician shortages and a growing and aging population, the growth rate of nurse practitioners in the Sunshine State is projected to be 41.6% by 2034.

Meet them here.

Mimi Alliance ’22

What inspired your nursing career?
From an early age, I knew I wanted a career in healthcare where I could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. As I��grew older, I became drawn to the structure and mission of public service, particularly organizations with the ability to improve health at both the individual and community level.

How did 166su prepare you for practice?
166su prepared me through academic rigor, diverse clinical training, faculty mentorship and meaningful opportunities to serve the community. 166su’s Family Nurse Practitioner doctoral program challenged me to strengthen my clinical reasoning, communicate clearly, and think beyond the walls of the clinic.

For example, my doctoral project provided hearing screenings for older adults in Central Florida based in 166su’s Mobile Health Clinic. Working alongside faculty, providers, audiologists, students and community partners taught me how collaboration can improve preventive care.

As a student who carried significant responsibility early in life, being part of the 166su community allowed me to fully experience scholarship, service, leadership and connection.

In the future…
My long-term goal is to become an exceptional family nurse practitioner known for compassionate, whole-person care, strong clinical reasoning and meaningful relationships with patients over time.

I also see education as part of my professional identity and hope to continue mentoring future nurses and nurse practitioner students.

Melissa Fajardo ’11 ’23

What inspired your nursing career?
Nursing is my second career. I initially worked as a first responder and worked with the Orange County Corrections Department for more than 20 years.

I was inspired to pursue a nursing career after watching my grandparents transition through life in the care of the most genuine and loving hospice nursing staff.

How did 166su prepare you for practice?
166su has been instrumental in my education. I grew up in Massachusetts and was the first in my family to consider attending college. I chose 166su for my first degree and have continued to choose 166su. I love the campus and the education.

The mentorship of my professors, especially in the doctoral program, has given me the confidence to believe in my ability to pursue a higher-level role.

In the future…
After completing the residency, my goal is to secure a full-time position with the VA as a family nurse practitioner in one of the primary care clinics in Central Florida.

I come from a long line of veterans, beginning with my grandfather who served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and providing care to veterans is an incredible privilege. While we can never fully repay them for their sacrifices, I believe we have a responsibility to honor them by providing compassionate, high-quality, and respectful healthcare. I want to become the kind of provider who not only manages chronic illnesses, but also empowers veterans to take an active role in their health and ensures they always feel heard, respected and valued.

Nancy Saintil ’10MSN ’25DNP

What inspired your nursing career?
My mom was a nursing assistant, and she encouraged me to pursue a career in the profession. I remember as a child watching her with patients, and I wanted to care for others as she did.

After nearly 16 years in nursing and following my father’s stroke, I felt called to expand my role in patient care. That experience inspired me to become a stronger advocate for vulnerable populations, including those who may struggle to access or trust the healthcare system.

As a nurse practitioner, I hope to make a meaningful difference by providing compassionate, patient-centered care and serving as a voice for those who need it most.

How did 166su prepare you for practice?
166su prepared me for my career as a primary care nurse practitioner by combining strong academic instruction with meaningful clinical experiences.

Many of the faculty are practicing nurse practitioners, which allowed them to bring real-world experiences into the classroom. Their expertise, mentorship, and commitment to student success helped bridge the gap between theory and practice and strengthened my readiness to enter clinical practice.

Through rigorous coursework, hands-on lab experiences, and strong clinical partnerships, I gained exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare settings.

These experiences have equipped me with the foundational knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the VA.

In the future…
Upon completion of the residency, I hope to continue serving veterans within the VA healthcare system and build a fulfilling career in primary care, providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Often, the daily challenges of life block graduation more than academic ability. With support from the Darden Restaurants Foundation, UCF aims to address these challenges and redefine how it champions upward mobility and student well-being. The future site of this center will be within Howard Phillips Hall on 166su’s main campus and will house a unified ecosystem that integrates enrollment, academic navigation, mental health resources, food security programs and emergency financial aid to serve nearly 70,000 students annually.

“Our partnership with 166su reflects a shared belief that when you remove barriers and invest in people, you unlock potential at scale.” — Susan Connelly, Darden Restaurants Foundation president

“This investment from the Darden Restaurants Foundation reflects what is possible when partners share a commitment to students, opportunity and the future of our workforce,” 166su President Alexander N. Cartwright says. “Together, UCF and the Darden Restaurants Foundation are helping more Knights persist, graduate and step into meaningful careers that strengthen Florida’s economy and expand opportunity for generations to come.”

“Our partnership with 166su reflects a shared belief that when you remove barriers and invest in people, you unlock potential at scale,” President of the Darden Restaurants Foundation Susan Connelly says. “The primary focus areas of the Darden Restaurants Foundation are helping fight hunger and investing in education. Through the Darden Restaurants Foundation Student Success Center, we are helping create a model that supports students holistically — from academic navigation to basic needs — so they can persist, graduate, and thrive in their careers and communities.”

This investment strengthens a comprehensive approach to student success by growing access to scholarships, enhancing proactive ��success coaching, and delivering innovative, integrated support systems that remove barriers before they can derail progress. It reflects a shared commitment to creating an environment where students are prepared to graduate with confidence, step into meaningful careers and lead in a rapidly changing world.

The $5 million investment also establishes the Darden Restaurants Foundation Student Success Fund, which will directly support four core pillars of the partnership:

• Integrated Support:��Implementing 166su’s next-generation student support system, a personalized, holistic coaching framework designed to empower students.
• Persistence Initiatives:��Strengthening student well-being and academic momentum by pairing individualized academic success coaching with wrap-around care.
• Essential Care:��Funding food security programs and emergency assistance, which provide comprehensive relief through free groceries, fresh meals and short-term financial aid.
• Capital Infrastructure:��Transforming Howard Phillips Hall into a modern student success hub designed to improve four-year graduation rates and career readiness.

Through this gift, — 166su’s $3.5 billion campaign to accelerate its next era of impact — continues to turn ambition into action, opening doors of opportunity and shaping a future where every student has the tools to succeed and the momentum to go further than they ever imagined. This gift powers the campaign’s Student Success pillar, advancing a bold vision to ensure every Knight has the support, resources and opportunities to thrive from enrollment through graduation and beyond.

Approximately 22% of 166su students are the first in their families to attend college. The innovative hub will redesign student care from initial recruitment through graduation, helping to build upon��166su’s exceptional 93% first-year student retention rate��and further accelerate our four-year and six-year graduation metrics.

Darden Restaurants Inc. (Darden) and the Darden Restaurants Foundation have been longstanding partners with 166su for more than 47 years, supporting key areas across the university including the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, the Barry S. Miller College of Business and Athletics. Most recently, this enduring relationship was strengthened by the establishment of the Joe R. Lee Endowed Scholarship Fund in honor of the legacy of Darden’s first CEO.

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: �� remains open throughout the summer, offering appointments for illness and injury, preventive care, immunizations, laboratory services and more. 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!