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Inside UNF — September 5, 2024

Campus Master Plan

UNF John A. Delaney Student UnionUNF is embarking on a year-long process to create a Campus Master Plan. This exciting effort will provide a roadmap for physical improvements across the campus over the next decade. The plan will explore the enhancements and expansions necessary to implement our Soaring Higher Together Strategic Plan and position the University for future success.

The Visioning & Analysis Workshop is the first in a series of workshops to be held throughout the academic year. It’s open to all UNF employees and allows you to contribute to identifying existing strengths and weaknesses about the campus, learn about our consultant team’s evaluation of the campus, and help shape the direction of the plan over the coming months based on your priorities.

It’s important to hear from administrators and faculty from a wide variety of programs to make sure the full diversity of perspectives are heard. Please plan to join the one of the two initial Campus Master Plan workshop. The workshop is being offered as two identical sessions to accommodate schedules.

Visioning & Analysis Workshop for UNF Campus Master Plan

Date & Time: Wednesday, September 11, 2024, 3 - 5 p.m. or Thursday, September 12, 2024, 9 - 11 a.m.
Location: John A. Delaney Student Union (Building 58W), Room 3703

UNF unveils new degree in environmental science

UNF students writing in notebooks sitting on a coastlineThe University of North Florida is proud to unveil a new Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science degree.
 
The B.S. in Environmental Science, the first fully interdisciplinary degree that incorporates involvement from all six UNF colleges, was designed by a team of interdisciplinary faculty from the Institute of Environmental Research and Education (IERE) Faculty Board and the IERE Community Council, comprised of environmental community and industry leaders in Northeast Florida.
 
“As the IERE prepares to celebrate its 20th year of providing environmental research and education to the UNF community, we are proud to offer the new degree in environmental science, created after years of dedicated work to expand programming,” said Dr. Erin Largo-Wight, director of the IERE.
 
The new program is designed to place students in jobs or graduate programs around the state and will be delivered primarily through face-to-face instruction with a strong emphasis on community-based learning in Jacksonville and local issues specific to the region.
 
Learn more about UNF's latest degree offering.

Convocation: State of Osprey Nation

UNF Convocation State of Osprey NationMark your calendars for the reimagined UNF Convocation on Friday, Sept. 20 at 10 a.m. in the Fine Arts Center's Lazarra Performance Hall, followed by a Party in the Plaza. This campuswide event celebrates the new academic year with students, faculty and staff.
 
All Ospreys are encouraged to attend, which will include an address from UNF President Moez Limayem and a post-Convocation reception in Osprey Plaza with scholarship and gift card giveaways — winners must attend to win.
 
Please RSVP by Sept. 11

Faculty Feature: Dr. Sebastian Fourné

Dr. Sebastian Fourné headshotDr. Sebastian Fourné, associate professor of entrepreneurship, is an internationally recognized expert in corporate entrepreneurship and family business research who joins UNF from the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics at the Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Canada, where he was an associate professor of strategy and entrepreneurship. He was a visiting researcher at Singapore Management University in Singapore and at the Rotterdam School of Management at Erasmus University in the Netherlands.

His research focuses on how organizations can combine incremental and radical innovation and change projects, the exploration of new technologies, decision-making under uncertainty, resource allocation to early-stage scientific inventions, and the role of middle managers in implementing technological innovation in larger organizations.

“One thing that drew me to UNF is the dual focus on supporting international research collaborations for faculty as well as study abroad programs and the Global MBA degree for students,” said Fourné. “It is very important to have strong entrepreneurship programs to support local and national businesses’ development as well as to prepare students for participation in international markets.”

UNF expands digital badge offerings for students

Ozzie holding a "Badge Up, Ospreys!" signThe University of North Florida is expanding its Digital Badging Initiative, equipping students with more opportunities to gain valuable skills and specialized knowledge sought by potential employers. To date, UNF offers more than 50 digital badge programs.

The digital badges complement academic degree programs by teaching specific skills that can help students throughout their time at the University and when they get into the workplace. After completing badging program requirements, students earn a digital badge they can share on social media, on a resume or website and with potential employers to verify successful completion of the program. More badges are under development and will be announced soon.

Learn more about the digital badge offerings available to UNF students.

Staff Spotlight: Kyle Patterson

Kyle Patterson standing outside
Kyle Patterson, director of housing operations at the University of North Florida, says his No. 1 priority is to make housing procedures as simple as possible for UNF students. From processing applications to honoring room change requests, Patterson and his team are committed to ensuring current and future Ospreys have a wonderful experience living on campus.
 
“I’m a big believer in making things easier for our students,” said Patterson. “Our goal is to make things more understandable on our website, being more available to students and ensuring all of our processes are easy to navigate.”
 
“I’m excited for the future and the continued ability for us to serve as many students as possible,” Patterson said.
 
A native of Tampa, Florida, Patterson attended the University of South Florida and earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communication and media studies. As an undergraduate, he fell in love with student affairs — serving as a senator in student government and working as a resident assistant and orientation leader.
 
An avid sports fan, he initially planned to pursue a career in sports journalism, but found his true calling for housing operations while attending graduate school at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He gained a grad assistantship as an operations specialist, before landing a full-time position in housing operations at a small private university in Virginia where he worked for 10 years.
 
Seeking a return to the Sunshine State, he learned about UNF through networking opportunities with UNF employees. When he discovered an opening for an assistant director of housing operations in 2019, he applied and landed the job.
 
When he first arrived on campus, Patterson says he and his family were immediately impressed with the beautiful campus and the surrounding area.
 
“I saw the beauty and all of the opportunities, not only for all the things students can do but the amount of space and areas for growth,” he said.
 
Having accepted the position of director of housing operations earlier this year, Patterson emphasizes the great team of people he works with daily as a main component of why he loves his job.
 
“The reason I applied for this position is because of the people I work with — high-quality, high-character people with strong work ethic,” said Patterson. “It’s rewarding to go to work every day and see the changes and benefits happening for the student population.”
 

More about Kyle: 

When he’s not hard at work, Patterson enjoys morning workouts at the Student Wellness Complex, participating in fantasy football, cheering for all the Tampa sports teams and enjoying life as a foodie, often visiting local food spots with his family on weekends.
 
He also loves to play his favorite sport, disc golf, having turned semi-pro and becoming a sponsored athlete.

UNF's FL-DSSG interns help solve community problems

2024 Florida Data Science for Social Good team at the big reveal eventStudents throughout Florida showed how data science and technology design can impact social good in communities during the 2024 Florida Data Science for Social Good (FL-DSSG) Big Reveal on Wednesday, Aug. 21. 

After completing 12-week, in-person internships, the 12 students — nine from the University of North Florida — representing various disciplines, discussed their team’s efforts in helping Jacksonville-area nonprofits find solutions to difficult-to-solve social and cultural problems. 

The event, hosted by UNF at WJCT Studios, is in its seventh year.

Learn more about The Big Reveal.

Osprey Profile: Michael Barcal

UNF Student Body President Michael Barcal seated in the campus libraryNewly appointed Student Body President Michael Barcal shares his aspirations to increase Osprey pride among the student population and his experiences as a UNF student. In addition to his role in student government, he serves as vice president of health and safety for Theta Chi Fraternity, Inc. When he's not busy with coursework and campus obligations, the Fleming Island native enjoys surfing, traveling and spending time with friends. A fan of '70s and '80s rock music, Van Halen is his favorite musical artist.
 

Why did you choose to major in construction management and what are your professional aspirations?

I chose my major because I grew up in a town that was constantly growing and being developed. This inspired me to pursue a major in construction management. After graduation, I hope to go into the Navy as an Intelligence Officer for a couple of years before working for a construction company.

What brought you to UNF?

I originally toured UNF my senior year of high school and fell in love with the beautiful scenery on campus. The location was in a prime spot as it was close to the St. Johns Town Center and the beach. 

Why did you choose to get involved in student government?

I held leadership positions in both middle school and high school. One of my friends was already involved in SG when I came to college and highly recommended it to me. Once I got involved with the organization, I enjoyed it immensely.

What are your aspirations at the new SG President at UNF?

As the new SG President, I have a lot of aspirations. The main goal of our administration is to get students engaged into campus life and showcase all the University of North Florida has to offer. Another goal my administration hopes to accomplish is to enhance Osprey pride and improve our school spirit. I also hope to connect our campus into the wider Jacksonville community.

Have you participated in any memorable community service/campus projects, internships, presentations, etc.?

This past summer I did an internship with Auld & White, a construction firm in Jacksonville, that's done plenty of projects on UNF's campus such as the Boathouse renovations and the newly opened fourth floor balcony at the Library.

What have you enjoyed most about your experience at the University of North Florida?

I have enjoyed my entire experience at UNF, but mostly the connections I've made with my fellow peers and faculty. UNF has a unique group of individuals that truly care for each other and the University as a whole.

What's your favorite place on campus? 

My favorite place on campus is either the second floor of the library or the Student Union.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

The best advice I got was from my eighth grade science teacher and she quoted the Lorax: "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better..." She followed this up by telling me to take charge and not wait for anyone else to fix something if you know you can make a difference.

Who or what inspires you?

My parents and my peers around me inspire me the most.

What is a fun fact about you many people may not know?

I used to be a very shy person in elementary school. I would be too afraid to talk in front of a group.

Graduate student of the month nominations

UNF grad student holding a certificateAttention Ospreys!

Each month, The Graduate School announces a grad student of the month. This initiative is designed to shine a light on outstanding grad Ospreys and recognize them with a certificate and a special shoutout on the School's social media pages.

Students, faculty and staff are able to nominate any graduate student for this recognition. To nominate someone, complete the online nomination form.
 
Learn more and view the current Graduate Student of the Month for September 2024.

Carpenter Library opens fourth floor balcony

There’s a new place on the UNF campus with beautiful views to recharge, relax, collaborate and learn! The balcony, located on the fourth floor of the Thomas G. Carpenter Library, was officially opened last week. Special thanks to the UNF Student Government for sponsoring the new space for faculty, students and staff to enjoy.
 
UNF personnel cutting a ribbon during a ceremony at the UNF library Outside view of the UNF library 4th floor balcony with tables
View of the UNF campus from the library's 4th floor balcony

Inside News Roundup

Suit-Up with JCPenney

Shop select career dress apparel up to 50% off at the JCPenney store at the Avenues Mall on Sunday, Sept. 8 from 4 to 7 p.m. This is a great opportunity to get what you need to finish your look for that next interview or job fair - including suits, dresses, sport coats, dress pants and more. This event is available to all UNF students, faculty and staff. You must show a valid Osprey 1Card to get the discount. Learn more details about this event.

open lunch box displaying an apple and a sandwich saying lunch timeVirtual Health & Vitality Lunchtime Chat

The next Virtual Health & Vitality 30-minute lunchtime chat is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 19 from 12 to 12:30 p.m. Amy Howell and Julie Baker-Townsend, two of UNF nurse practitioners, will be delving into the significance of breast health and its impact on our overall wellbeing. They’ll share valuable tips and strategies to prevent potential health problems in the future. The presentation will be about 15 minutes followed by Q&A. To register, go to the UNF events calendar, click on 9/19 and RSVP by Sept. 17.  Registered attendees will receive the Zoom invite on Sept. 18. All present attendees will have a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card at the end of the presentation.   

Opening Reception for Voces Y Caras: Hispanic Communities of North Florida

The UNF Gallery of Art is celebrating the artistic achievements of the contributors at the 2024 edition of the Voces Y Caras exhibition, with an opening reception on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 5 p.m. at the UNF Gallery of Art. This exhibition will showcase a variety of works using different mediums created by UNF students and alumni who are part of our local Hispanic and Latinx communities.

15th Annual Roar and Soar Jaguars Tailgate

Tickets are now live for the 15th annual Roar and Soar Jaguars Tailgate on Sunday, Oct. 6 at 10 a.m., Everbank Field. In addition to the games, food and fun, a special co-branded T-shirt will be given to all participants in celebration of this milestone. This event is open to all Osprey alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends. Due to a minimal number of lower bowl seats, don't wait to purchase your tailgate and ticket package today. If you have season tickets or already purchased game tickets, add a tailgate pass.

Faculty and Staff News

Osprey Fountain on UNF campusBrooks College of Health
Dr. Elissa Barr, professor of public health and chair of the Florida Healthy Youth Alliance (FHYA), recently co-presented with Pascale Alcindor, Donna Sabatino, and MPH student, Kathleen Patti, at the Florida Public Health Association’s annual conference in Orlando on “Florida Sexual Health Education: Connecting the Dots to Public Health.”
 
College of Arts and Sciences
Communications
Dr. John Parmelee, professor and director of the School of Communication along with Dr. Nataliya Roman, associate professor and Dr. Berrin Beasley, professor, published “Moral framing in Ukraine war coverage” in the journal Media, War & Conflict.
 
Dr. John Parmelee, professor and director of the School of Communication, published “Moral reframing in contemporary U.S. presidential debates” in the Atlantic Journal of Communication.
 
Dr. Rachel E. Riggs, assistant professor of mass communication, Dr. Sydney E. Brammer, assistant professor of mass communication and Dr. Rochelle Davidson Mhonde, assistant professor (George Mason University) published “Disclosure of sexual assault in entertainment media: Adolescent girls’ sense-making of supportive and unsupportive sexual assault disclosure narratives,” in teens, sex & media: Understanding media impact on adolescent sexuality, sexual health, and advocacy, edited by Drs. Stacy J. T. Hust, Jessica F. Willoughby, and Rebecca Ortiz. Published by Routledge. July 2024. Specialty: Health Communication, Media Effects.
 
English
Mark Ari, assistant professor of creative writing, published “El Greco and the Secret Meaning of Pants (creative nonfiction) and “The Dish and The Spoon” (song) in Gargoyle Magazine.
 
Dr. Clark Lunberry, professor of English, published the article "Picturing the Flames of Kyoto's Daimonji Fire Festival,” in Kyoto Journal, July 2024.
 
Physics
Dr. Devki N. Talwar, research associate, physics and Jason T. Haraldsen published “Simulations of Infrared Reflectivity and Transmission Phonon Spectra for Undoped and Doped GeC/Si (001)” in Nanomaterials.
 
College of Education and Human Services
Dr. Luke Cornelius, associate professor wrote a chapter on Clark Kerr, a leading therorist of the 20th century, in The Palgrave Handbook of Educational Thinkers.
 
Dr. Han Soo Kim, assistant professor, published a research article "Unveiling the Forces Behind Exercise Intent in Sports and Fitness Live Streaming: A Combination of Symmetric and Asymmetric Modeling Approaches" in the International Journal of Sports Marketing and Sponsorship.
 
Dr. Matthew Ohlson, professor and director of the Taylor Leadership Institute, was elected to the Board of Trustees for ECS4Kids on Sept. 1.

Free Things to Do

Flyer for art exhibition A Gathering of HopeA Gathering of Hope

Exhibit on view now through Sept. 30, Lufrano Intercultural Galery
A Gathering Hope is a collective art response that engages the community through events and gatherings that prompt expressions of hope through creative collaboration and interaction.

Emil Alzamora: Starship Abundance

Exhibit on view now through Feb. 2, 2025, MOCA Jacksonville
New York-based artist Emil Alzamora (b. 1975 Lima, Peru) presents a multidisciplinary exhibition, intended “as a nod to the seemingly unending richness that abounds on planet Earth.” Learn more about MOCA's latest exhibition. (© Emil Alzamora, Starship Abundance)

Fill My Heart with Hope

Exhibit on view now through March 23, 2025, MOCA Jacksonville
MOCA Jacksonville is pleased to present "Fill My Heart With Hope: Works from the Gordon W. Bailey Collection," an exhibition featuring artworks from the collection of Los Angeles-based scholar and collector Gordon W. Bailey. Learn more about this thought-provoking exhibition. (@ Eddie Arning, "Untitled (woman with cat in tree)," ca. 1960s. Mixed media on paper. 16 x 22 inches.)

Coffee with a Curator

Saturday, Sept. 7, 11 a.m. - noon, MOCA Jacksonville
Sit and chat with artist Emil Alzamora, curators Jenny Hager and Lance Vickery, and MOCA Senior Curator Ylva Rouse, and learn more about Emil Alzamora: Starship Abundance. Enjoy drinks and snacks from Setlan Coffee and dive into the details about this multidisciplinary exhibition. Learn more and register for this event, which is free to all UNF employees and students.

Spin/Spin Express

Monday, Sept. 9, 5:30 - 6:25 p.m., Student Wellness Complex (Building 61, Room 1800)
Push your cardio limits while pedaling through hill climbs, sprints and other interval drills with great music and motivating instructors. Bring a towel and water, and get ready to sweat. Learn more about this upcoming class and other group fitness opportunities.

Alice Anne LightCummer Family Foundation Concert Chamber Music Series presents: Hours

Tuesday, Sept. 10, 7:30 p.m., Fine Arts Center
A Melodrama for Mezzo-Soprano and Piano by Cecil Price Walden, composer. The concert features Alice Anne Light, mezzo-soprano, Cecil Price Walden, piano/composer and Kristy Kristinek, visual artist. Learn more about this upcoming musical performance.

37th Annual Great American Jazz Series presents: UNF Jazz Faculty Scholarship Concert

Thursday, Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m., Lazzara Performance Hall
This concert features special guests, UNF Combo 1. J.B. Scott, artistic director and UNF JE1 director. Learn more about this scholarship concert.

Writing Program and Center Teaching Symposium

Friday, Sept. 13, noon - 2 p.m., Skinner-Jones Hall (Room 1704)
This year's theme is "Alternative Essays: Transgressing Traditional Approaches to the Teaching of Writing." Presentations will focus on assignments and activities that teach college essay writing habits in ways that do not rely on the traditional college research essay. Learn more about this symposium sponsored by the the UNF Writing Program and Center.

Botanical Life, Art and Culture Garden Tour

Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Starts at Thomas G. Carpenter Library (Lot 2)
Explore the lush gardens and admire the stunning flora and fauna that surround UNF's campus. Participants will also tour the intricate sculptures and art installations that are nestled within the gardens, and learn about the cultural significance of each piece. Learn more about this recurring garden tour of the UNF campus.

Peace By Chocolate

Saturday, Sept. 14, 5 - 8 p.m., Andrew A. Robinson Jr. Theater
You're invited to attend this free special film screening of "Peace By Chocolate." This poignant, family-friendly film is based on the inspirational, true story of the Hadhads, a Syrian family forced to flee war to start a new life in Canada. Learn more about this film screening sponsored by the Hicks Honors College.

Mobile phone showing TikTok logoTikTok on Trial: The Future of Social Media Regulation

Monday, Sept. 16, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Andrew A. Robinson Jr. Theater
TikTok regulation has been a key topic of discussion at all levels of government, with legislation targeting the platform being passed in both Washington and Tallahassee. Hear from experts and share your thoughts on how the U.S. should handle the challenges of social media regulation. Learn more about this discussion sponsored by the Office of Public Policy Events.

Self-Care Day with Healthy Osprey

Tuesday, Sept. 17, 9 - 10:30 a.m., Ogier Gardens
Join Healthy Osprey for yoga in the gardens. Enjoy the nature of Ogier Gardens during a relaxing yoga session. Learn more and RSVP for this relaxing yoga session.

Swoop Summary

North Florida Men's Basketball 2024-25 scheduleMen's Basketball Releases Non-Conference Schedule, Full 2024-25 Slate

North Florida men's basketball announces its 13-game non-conference schedule to complete its 2024-25 slate, featuring four at home and five games against Power Four opponents. Learn more and view UNF men's basketball season schedule.

Women's Basketball Releases Full 2023-24 Schedule

North Florida women's basketball officially announces its full 31-game schedule in late August for the 2024-25 season. View the schedule and learn who the Lady Ospreys will face in the upcoming season.

UNF Women’s STEM and Athletics Scholarship Luncheon Presented by JEA Announced

North Florida Athletics is excited to announce Donna Orender as the keynote speaker at the UNF Women's STEM and Athletics Scholarship Luncheon Presented by JEA slated for Sept. 17. The event will be held at the Adam W. Herbert University Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. that afternoon. Learn more details about this upcoming event.

Upcoming events:

Men's Soccer vs. UAB
Friday, Sept. 6, 7 p.m.  |  Hodges Stadium  |  Free admission
 
Men's Soccer vs. Georgia Southern
Monday, Sept. 9, 7 p.m.  |  Hodges Stadium  |  Free admission
 
Volleyball vs. Florida State
Tuesday, Sept. 10, 5 p.m.  |  UNF Arena  |  Free admission
 
Men's and Women's Cross Country Duval 5k XC Challenge
Friday, Sept. 13, 6 p.m.  |  UNF Hayt Golf Center  |  Free admission
 
Women's Soccer vs. Stetson
Sunday, Sept. 22, 6 p.m.  |  Hodges Stadium  |  Free admission