Vice Provost and Dean Perspective
It seems that fall has come to Florida. The mornings are a bit cooler, homecoming is next week, and students are plotting their strategies to take home a Spirit Splash duck. Traditions like these foster a sense of community that helps drive creativity and scholarship.
Like UCF, the College of Undergraduate Studies (CUGS) is young and bold. We are committed to innovation, excellence, and distinction. We know that our alumni and students are accomplishing great things. In this newsletter, you’ll read about a few examples of how CUGS is forging a path to solve society’s greatest challenges through education, civil discourse, and innovative academic resources.
I want to thank you for the support that you provide to our college and students.
Go Knights! Charge on!
Theodorea Regina Berry, Ed.D.
Vice Provost, Division of Student Learning and Academic Success
Dean, College of Undergraduate Studies
University of Central Florida
4365 Andromeda Loop North
Millican Hall 210
Orlando, FL 32816
ucf.edu
From the Desk of Wayne Bowen, Ph.D.
Interim Associate Dean, College of Undergraduate Studies
Director, Interdisciplinary Studies
Interim Director, UCF Abroad
We’re at the midpoint of the Fall 2021 semester. Do you remember what it was like? The temperature falls below 90 degrees, and it’s time for midterms. It can be a stressful time.
I provide students with the same advice I received as a new assistant professor from a senior faculty member, “I love beginnings, and I love endings. Every semester, we have a chance for both. Make the best of it.”
In a way, the advice applies to all of us. Dan Green ’20 is a great example. He had a successful career, raised a family, and competed in cycling and speedskating. Despite his success, he had one piece of unfinished business; he hadn’t finished his college degree. Dan began a new chapter and returned to college.
Last year, Dan earned his Bachelor of Integrative General Studies, and his quest for a college degree ended. A new beginning came quickly. He became a member of the College of Undergraduate Studies and Division of Student Learning and Academic Success Advisory Board.
I encourage you to begin a new chapter by engaging with your college as alumni. Consider mentoring a student or sharing your story in this newsletter. If you’d like to discuss involvement opportunities, please email me.
Go Knights! Charge On!
The Newest Member of the UCF Advisory Board Proves that It’s Never Too Late to Graduate
Dan Green ’20 talks about his long and winding road to a bachelor’s degree, the importance of staying flexible when it comes to choosing a career, and what motivated him to join the College of Undergraduate Studies and Division of Student Learning and Academic Success Advisory Board. Read more.
Mendez Guest on Academically Speaking
The “Academically Speaking” podcast’s first guest was UCF Alum Michael Mendez, a partner at the law firm of Colombo & Hurd, PL. He is also a member of the College of Undergraduate Studies and Division of Student Learning and Academic Success Advisory Board.
In a conversation with Vice Provost and Dean Theodorea Regina Berry, Mendez explained the importance of the Fourteenth Amendment relating to birthright citizenship and naturalized U.S. citizenship. Listen to the interview on Spotify. The “Academically Speaking” podcast, created and hosted by Berry, inspires inquiry, critical thinking, and discussion. Topics range from educational experiences in the classroom and real world to current events and trends that will help students know more, do more, and be more. It’s available on Spotify, Google Podcasts, and RadioPublic.
UCF Introduces Transfer Connect to Boost Transfer Student Success
This fall, UCF launched its Transfer Connect program, which provides comprehensive support, engagement, and resources to prospective and enrolled transfer students, both in-person and virtually. Read more
Your Gift Makes a Difference
Did you know that many College of Undergraduate Studies students have difficulty paying for educational expenses, including books? You can help these Knights with a contribution to the Vice Provost and Dean’s Undergraduate Success Fund? You may donate via credit card, check, Venmo, PayPal, or Cryptocurrency. Give now!
What’s Your Story?
Tell us about your work and adventures since earning your degree, as well as topics that interest you. Email the College of Undergradute Studies your story and news.
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