Graduate School Newsroom
2026
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ alumna Damiana Sorrell named among Michigan Chronicle’s 2026 “40 Under 40” honorees
October 27, 2026
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ alumna Damiana Sorrell, a 2018 graduate of the Higher Education Administration program, has been named a Michigan Chronicle 2026 “40 Under 40” honoree. As chief program officer for Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan, she leads strategy around programming, partnerships and career readiness that helps girls develop into confident leaders.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ launches Master of Science in Sport Analytics this fall
August 21, 2026
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ's Silverfield College of Education and Human Services will launch a new Master of Science in Sport Analytics program this fall, preparing the next generation of data-driven professionals to meet rapidly growing demand across professional sports, collegiate athletics and sport technology industries.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Professor Turns Data into Community Impact through AI-driven Social Good
August 12, 2026
For Dr. Karthikeyan Umapathy, teaching computing at the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ means turning data and artificial intelligence into solutions that directly serve the community.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Graduate earns Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction while leading K-12 literacy efforts
August 10, 2026
After 29 years in education, Heather Teto is adding "doctoral graduate" to her list of achievements, earning her Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ on July 31 while leading elementary education for Clay County District Schools.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ students showcase innovative research at 2026 Summer Symposium
July 27, 2026
From exploring solutions to real-world challenges to advancing knowledge across disciplines, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ students recently presented their research during the University’s fourth annual Summer Student Research Symposium.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate student earns two International Business degrees while traveling the globe
July 23, 2026
Rosemarie Baker wanted to tour the globe while in college and she picked picked the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Coggin College of Business and Hicks Honors College to achieve that dream.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ receives NIH award to prepare students for innovative biomechanical pediatric research
July 21, 2026
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ has been awarded a nearly $800K, five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health to provide immersive research education focused on pediatric rehabilitation and assistive technology.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ grad student applying business analytics to Mercedes engineering career
July 15, 2026
Racquel Rowell was working as a principal compliance and regulatory safety engineer at Mercedes-Benz in 2024 when she realized continuing her education would help her use data to solve problems and help customers.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ professor honored for mentoring graduate students
July 13, 2026
Dr. Elena Buzaianu, a professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics in the College of Arts and Sciences, has been described as brilliant and accomplished, yet never too busy to sit down with students who need help.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate turns data into community impact
June 30, 2026
Sneha Kattari came to the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ with a clear goal to build the technical skills and real-world experience needed to thrive in the fast-evolving world of technology. Now, as she prepares to graduate this summer with a master’s degree in computer and information sciences with a minor in computer science, she leaves ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ with far more than a diploma.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ and River City Science Academy partner to strengthen literacy instruction
June 22, 2026
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ's Silverfield College of Education and Human Services and River City Science Academy (RCSA) have partnered to create a customized graduate certificate program designed to strengthen literacy instruction across RCSA’s five elementary and middle school campuses.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate student uses Artificial Intelligence to combat nutritional misinformation
June 10, 2026
As social media becomes a common source of health information, distinguishing fact from fiction has never been more urgent. At the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ, graduate student Vishwaa Shah is using artificial intelligence to help address that challenge.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ alum uses Physical Therapy expertise to help U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team ahead of 2026 World Cup
June 8, 2026
As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ alumna Lauren Church ('16) is helping prepare the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team as its director of physical therapy and rehabilitation.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ doctoral student builds mentorship pipeline for next generation of school leaders
June 4, 2026
Throughout her career, Jennifer Collins has had people in her corner. Mentors who guided her through her first years as a teacher, supported her transition into school leadership and helped her grow into the principal she became. That experience stayed with her and eventually shaped the work she does today.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ celebrates inaugural Fintech master’s program graduating class
May 27, 2026
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s spring commencement ceremony for graduate students marked a defining milestone for the Coggin College of Business as the inaugural Master of Science in Financial Technology (FinTech) cohort graduated.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate students shine at 2026 Conference of Florida Graduate Schools
May 15, 2026
This spring, four ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate students carried their research beyond campus and onto a statewide stage. From bacteria-based solutions to Florida's eroding coastline to next-generation diagnostics for tuberculosis, the work these students brought to the 2026 Conference of Florida Graduate Schools reflects the depth and ambition of graduate scholarship happening across ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ's colleges and the kind of impact that doesn't stop at the Jacksonville city limits.
Record-breaking turnout marks spring 2026 Student Research Symposium
April 30, 2026
Every semester, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ students step up to share the work they've been quietly building — and this spring, a record number of them did. From clinical trial methodology to cryptozoology, from rural transportation infrastructure to the role of screens in preschool classrooms, the Spring 2026 Student Research Symposium showcased the extraordinary range of research, scholarship and creative work happening across campus.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate student applies data science skills to real-world community impact
April 29, 2026
From building her foundation in computer science as an undergraduate to contributing to a live civic data platform serving the City of Jacksonville, Sneha Kattari has always been driven to turn data into something meaningful. This May, she earns her Master of Science in Computer and Information Sciences from the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate student applies AI and automation to real-world industry challenges
April 27, 2026
When Alekhya Seelam began exploring graduate programs, she had a clear objective: deepen her understanding of core computer science principles and prepare for advanced technical roles.
Driven by purpose, guided by mentorship, a ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ grad student’s path to research excellence
April 20, 2026
Growing up in Northern India, Swarnima "Tina" Naithani watched as her mother lived with epilepsy.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate student bridges automotive passion and biomedical breakthroughs
April 15, 2026
A decimated car slumped in the middle of the backyard – twisted frame, parts ripped off, paint scorched. As her father moved around the wreck with quiet confidence, Sayyada Harry patiently watched him rebuild the vehicle piece by piece.
Mother and son graduate together from ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ
April 13, 2026
When Julian Hooks was young, doctors cautioned that as an autistic child he would struggle socially and with expressing himself.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ ranks among U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Graduate Schools
April 7, 2026
The University of North Florida ranks among U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Graduate Schools for many of its graduate school programs and specialties including:
CEO Magazine ranks ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ among 2026 Best Global MBA Programs
March 30, 2026
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Coggin College of Business MBA and GlobalMBA programs have been ranked Tier One among global business schools by CEO Magazine in the 2026 MBA Rankings.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s GlobalMBA program launches alum into international business career
March 24, 2026
A Jacksonville native who once preferred to stay close to home, Brenna Brisson (‘22, ‘23) never imagined her academic journey would take her across the globe. Today, as a graduate of the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s GlobalMBA program, she credits the experience with transforming her perspective and shaping her career.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ and Petticoat-Schmitt advance AI-driven solutions for construction industry
February 23, 2026
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ and Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors are working together to develop AI‑powered tools that can help construction firms manage time‑consuming, inefficient or error‑prone tasks.
2025
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Celebrates Fall 2025 Commencement
Today, the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ celebrated 1,286 students earning their degrees during the Fall 2025 commencement ceremonies at the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Arena.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Graduate Student Champions Patient Comfort through Research and Clinical Experience
December 10, 2025
From shadowing health care professionals in high school to earning her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesiology at the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ, Randi Corley has always been driven to make a difference in patient care.
From Cancer Treatment Advancements to NASA Collaborations - ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ's Year in Research
December 3, 2025
In 2025, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ faculty research ranged from collaborations with NASA to advancing cancer treatments, while students made headlines with innovations in brain injury detection and marine mammal conservation.
Breaking Records, Building Dreams: ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s Year of Impact and Innovation
December 2, 2025
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ faculty and staff have spent the last few years strengthening partnerships across campus and within the community, while enhancing the student experience.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Doctoral Candidate Fulfilling Lifelong Dream of Becoming a Nurse Anesthetist
November 14, 2025
When Madison Funk was in the sixth grade, she told her parents she was thinking about becoming a nurse. That summer, with the urging of her father, a healthcare employee, Funk gained valuable experience volunteering with hospital nurses.
Inside ‘Swoop’ on What’s New and Upcoming for 2025-26 Academic Year
August 18, 2025
As ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ soars into the fall semester, students and visitors will spot notable upgrades across campus, including major building renovation projects, new academic programs, fresh dining options and exciting events. There will be opportunities for campus engagement and academic and personal growth for all Ospreys joining The Nest this academic year.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Celebrates Summer 2025 Commencement
August 1, 2025
Today, the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ celebrates 1,016 students earning their degrees during the Summer 2025 commencement ceremonies at the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Arena.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Alum Empowers the Next Generation of Nurses
July 29, 2025
As the world grappled with uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ alum Edward Jones (‘94, ‘99) and his wife Sara Lynn Jones (‘95, ‘99) took action to help others. As the president and CEO of the Houston Methodist Research Institute, Edward Jones knew the importance of frontline healthcare providers, leading the Jones’ to establish the Edward and Sara Lynn Jones Endowed Scholarship for Nursing at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Graduate Student Uses Research, Prevention and Engagement to Improve Community Health
July 28, 2025
Growing up in the Dominican Republic, ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ graduate student Mariel German always knew that she wanted to help people. While enrolled in ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program, German has conducted extensive cancer and COVID-19 research related to underserved communities, both domestically and internationally.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Academic Advisor Encourages Students to Pursue Their Passion
July 14, 2025
As the summer 2025 term is underway and students at the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ begin looking ahead to the fall semester, David Kersey (‘13, ‘15) is hard at work helping Ospreys plan their course schedules for the remainder of the year.
Three ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Faculty Named Research Mentors of the Year for Supporting Student Success
July 9, 2025
At the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ, faculty achievements extend beyond the classroom, encompassing research, scholarly contributions and mentorship, playing a pivotal role in shaping the academic and professional trajectories of students.
IERE Coordinator Supports Environmental Education Programs
July 8, 2025
For ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ alum Ruby Cox (‘22), serving as the program coordinator for ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s Institute of Environmental Research and Education (IERE) is a full circle moment — transforming her student experiences in IERE programs into a career dedicated to empowering others through environmental education.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Grad Student Conservationist Dives Deep into Marine Mammal Research
July 7, 2025
From the savannahs of Disney’s Animal Kingdom to the winding waters of the St. Johns River, Andrea Swinehart’s path to a master’s degree in biology from the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ has been shaped by a wealth of hands-on experience and discovery.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Ranked No. 4 in Nation for Best Online Master’s in Dietetics in 2025 by Forbes
July 3, 2025
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s Master’s in Dietetics Online program was ranked No. 4 in the nation by Forbes for 2025. The program was also awarded Best Value for Florida Residents.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Grad Contributes to Human Freeze Response Research
June 30, 2025
Ula McCarthy, who graduated last semester from the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ with a master’s degree in psychological science, has taken an in-depth look at how the human body reacts to fear and perceived threats as part of her master’s research.
Osprey Alum Helps Students Navigate the World of Financial Aid
June 18, 2025
Chase Whiteman (‘21), an advisor in the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s One-Stop Student Services, loves interacting with students and helping to put their minds at ease. In his role, he primarily assists students with inquiries revolving around financial aid, records and registration, but strives to provide holistic service and find answers even if a topic is outside of his purview.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Alum Named Hospital President of Brooks Rehabilitation’s Arizona Campus
May 22, 2025
Bryan Murphy knows the positive impact of mentorship on success. From his father to professors to higher-ups at work, he’s sought valuable feedback to achieve lasting success in healthcare.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Grad Student Places 2nd in MIT’s Global Healthcare Hackathon
May 14, 2025
Jessica Jin, a ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ health administration graduate student, recently earned second place in the Transformative Intelligence Track at the 2025 MIT Hacking Medicine GrandHack, one of the world’s leading healthcare innovation events held annually in Boston, Massachusetts.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Engineering Students Develop Groundbreaking Technology to Detect Traumatic Brain Injuries in Sports
May 12, 2025
A team of ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ mechanical engineering students is breaking new ground in sports safety with the development of an innovative, low-cost sensor designed to detect traumatic brain injuries.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Celebrates Spring 2025 Commencement
May 2, 2025
Today, the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ celebrates 2,103 students earning their diplomas during the Spring 2025 commencement ceremonies at the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Arena. Degrees are being awarded from 45 unique combinations of majors in total.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Celebrates First Graduates of New Health Admin and Physical Therapy Dual Degree Program
April 29, 2025
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Brooks College of Health is shaping future leaders in the healthcare industry through an innovative new dual degree program.
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Ranks Among U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Graduate Schools
April 8, 2025
“We are honored to see so many of our graduate programs acknowledged for their excellence and soaring higher in the national rankings by U.S. News and World Report,” said Dr. Michele Moore, dean of ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ’s Graduate School. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty and staff in providing highly sought after advanced degree programs.”
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ MedNexus and UF Health Jacksonville Launch Clinical Research Coordination Program
April 7, 2025
ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ MedNexus and UF Health Jacksonville are offering a new program that prepares students for careers in clinical research with a focus on research coordination skills. All students in the Clinical Research Coordination Badge program complete internships with either UF Health Jacksonville or Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.
CEO Magazine ranks ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ among 2025 Best Global MBA Programs
March 24, 2025
The ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ Coggin College of Business MBA program has been ranked Tier One among global business schools by CEO Magazine in the 2025 Global MBA Rankings.