The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences (CLAS) academic advisors conduct thousands of student advising sessions each year while maintaining an average student-submitted rating of 4.7 out of 5. Our advisors also attend to email advising, phone advising, group advising, and represent CLAS at various campus functions and national advising organizations. Among us, we have numerous university- and nationally-recognized leaders and awardees.
Click to go to the section:
Leadership Team
Gillian Lord
Director, Academic Advising Center
Associate Dean for Student Affairs
Email: glord@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: she/ella
Bio
Hello! I’ve been at UF since 2001, in the Department of Spanish and Portuguese Studies. I am a Professor of Hispanic Linguistics, and I research how we teach and learn languages other than English, with a specific focus on Spanish. I’m specifically interested in how language learners can acquire the sound system—pronunciation—of a new language, and I have also researched the effects of study abroad, of technology on language learning, and the importance of interaction in language classrooms. It is an honor to work with the most talented and dedicated advisors on campus here in the AAC. They are here to help you with all your academic and campus-related questions, and are one of the most important resources you as a student have. I also am always open to hear from students, so feel free to email me with any questions, comments, or concerns you have. Go Gators!
Lynn B. O’Sickey
Associate Director of the Academic Advising Center and Director of Residential Advising Services
Email: losickey@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her
Bio
I help to manage the operations of the CLAS Academic Advising Center. In that capacity, I troubleshoot issues for students, faculty, staff, and family members. Frequently, I work to get policies and procedures clarified or simplified to ease the administrative life of undergraduate students. I help the AAC and the College to collect and use data to make decisions that are designed to enhance the undergraduate student experience and student success. I serve on numerous committees and often share the front-line perspectives of undergraduates and academic advisors. As someone who has personal and academic struggles as an undergrad, I get great satisfaction helping students avoid or successfully navigate potential challenges. I also love helping students open their minds to the breadth of opportunities available to them and the range of possibilities their futures can hold. In many cases, students are unaware of the many, many paths they can take to achieve their goals. Helping students clarify those goals and then find the right path for them is immensely gratifying.
Glenn Kepic
Associate Director of the Academic Advising Center and Director of Online Advising Services
Email: gkepic@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I was born in New York City and grew up mostly in Pennsylvania although I lived in 6 different states before settling in Florida. I earned my undergraduate and graduate degrees at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia where I also was a scholarship athlete in the sport of wrestling. I began working at the University of Florida in 1995 as an academic advisor. During my UF career, I have worked with many CLAS student populations including: probation and at-risk students, readmitted students, exploratory students and most recently online students. I also teach SLS 1501: College Success, through Flex Learning and in UF Online. I worked closely with the creation and development of the UF Online program which now delivers over 20 entirely online degree options to thousands of students worldwide. In 2004, I created and still serve as program director for a European Studies Summer Program in Salzburg, Austria. I have delivered over 25 advising related presentations across North America and served on the Board of Directors and as Vice President of NACADA, The Global Community for Academic Advising. I am the proud father of two spectacular daughters born in 2003 and 2007.
Sara C. Mock
Associate Director of the Academic Advising Center and Director of Transfer Student Admissions and Transition
Email: smock@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I advise CLAS majors, with a special focus on transfer students and pre-law students. Originally from Iowa, I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa and my master’s degree from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. I have worked at UF since 2000, first as assistant director for experiential education in the Career Resource Center before transitioning to the CLAS Academic Advising Center in 2003. I am the former president of SAPLA (the Southern Association of Pre-law Advisors), a past member of the board for PLANC (Pre-law Advisors National Council) and have been active in NACADA (Global Academic Advising Association). I have served on many campus committees, including the Undergraduate Advising Council Steering Committee, Machen Florida Opportunity Scholars (MFOS) Steering Committee, and Academic Integrity Task Force, and have served as a mentor in several student mentorship programs. I love helping students to have a successful transition to the University, and much of my current advising interests focus on working to improve the academic transition of transfer students to UF. I realize UF can seem large and daunting, and I enjoy helping students to feel at ease by showing them there are friendly people here to help. I encourage all students to find an advisor with whom they connect, meet with that advisor regularly, and ask lots of questions. There are many fabulous academic opportunities at UF, and we love to help you find a path that’s a great fit for you!
Brittany Hoover
Assistant Director for Pre-Health Advising
Email: bhoover@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
My role in the AAC is to provide academic advising to all students who are interested in pre-health professions from all CLAS majors and those who do not have a designated UF Pre-health Advisor. I have worked at UF professionally for over twelve years and started my career in UF Admissions. I’m a proud Double Gator, earning my Bachelor of Arts from CLAS in Anthropology and my Master of Education in Student Personnel in Higher Education from UF College of Education. I was a first-generation college student at UF, and I continue to support this population on campus through serving on the MFOS steering committee and by serving as Chair of the NACADA First Generation College Student Advising Community from 2018- 2020. I began my journey in CLAS in July 2017 as a pre-health advisor. In October 2021, I was promoted to Assistant Director of CLAS Pre-health Advising where I assist in running our pre-health advising program, events, meetings, workshops, trainings, professional development for our pre-health advisors, website and much more! In the last few summers, I served as a Program Director for UF in Pontevedra Spain Clinical Shadowing program and summer 2024 I will lead the UF in Mestre, Venice Italy Clinical Shadowing program for CLAS B120. In my free time I love to be with my family, husband, two children and our pups. I am also a huge advocate of nature, and I am an Advanced Scuba Diver through UF, where I have dived to depths of over 110 feet at the U.S.S. Spiegel Grove. Overall, I am most looking forward to helping pre-health students grow and find their passions at the University of Florida and in their future careers.
Nicholas Mrozinske
Assistant Director
Email: nickmroz@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
Nicole Raymond
Assistant Director for PaCE Advising
Email: nraymond@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I work with our UF Online program, and primarily advise PaCE students pre-transition to campus. As a graduate of the University of Florida, I am so proud to help students graduate as Gators! I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in English from UF, so I have a tremendous affinity for the majors we offer in CLAS. Prior to returning to UF, I worked at both the University of Oklahoma, where I earned my Master’s degree in Education, and Florida Atlantic University. As an academic advisor, I love to collaborate with students to co-create academic plans and help them achieve their goals!
Kathy Rex
Assistant Director for Community Building
Email: kathyrex@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
In addition to advising general CLAS students, I work with students admitted through the Promise Program and with exploratory students. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree from American University in communications and foreign language media. After working for about seven years for a non-profit organization in Europe, Central America, and New York, I returned to school to get my master’s degree from the University of Florida in student personnel and higher education administration. I’ve been working for the CLAS Academic Advising Center since January 1999! Through my advising, I want to help students feel like they belong to the community that is UF so that they confidently make the most of their time here and graduate with no regrets.
Katrina Span
Office Manager
Email: kspan@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
As a Gainesville native and a proud graduate of an Alachua County high school, I bring a deep connection to the local community in my role as the CLAS Office Manager. With the support of the CLAS Shared Services Center, I ensure that our office runs smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, I have the privilege of supervising a dedicated team of staff members. I have proudly served at the University of Florida for 24 years, contributing to the success and growth of our academic community.
Taylor Stokes
Director of Beyond120
Email: taylorwstokes@ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
In my role as Director of Beyond120, I am committed to creating pathways for CLAS students to design a professional life that has meaning, purpose, and impact. I deeply believe learning through experience is transformative. Experiences in my life have shaped my career path including involvement in athletics, international travel, and conducting leadership development research. Prior to joining the Beyond120 team I worked in colleges and universities, both domestic and international, in areas including leadership development, community engagement, service-learning, career development, entrepreneurial and social impact partnerships between businesses and the university, student housing, student success, and student-athlete advising. In my free time you can find me in a yoga class, exploring local food spots with my husband, or chasing our two young daughters around Gainesville.
Joe Uong
Data Management/Analytics Coordinator
Email: joeu@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I am a graduate of the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a minor in Music. Prior to working in the AAC, I worked at the UF Office of the University Registrar and the COMPASS Implementation Team. As a Data Analyst, my goal is to enhance the student success through new, innovative, and strategic approaches through the data side of academic advising.Academic Advisors and Graduate Assistants
Hunter Altman
Academic Advisor
Email: altmanh@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I provide general academic advising for students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. I am a proud Double Gator with a B.S. in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences and an M.Ed. in Student Personnel in Higher Education. My appreciation for advising students started during my time here as an undergraduate when I worked alongside CLAS as a Preview Staffer. While assisting new Gators during their transition to campus, I experienced how inspiring our community is and how impactful it was to have someone support you on your unique path to success. My goal when advising students has always been, and always will be, to meet them where they are and provide access, authentic attention, and accurate advice. Go Gators!
Angelique Avelino
Academic Advisor
Email: angieavelino@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I am a general advisor for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Prior to joining the AAC, I worked as a preschool teacher at Baby Gator and taught 6th and 8th grade Social Studies, which I loved. As a proud Double Gator, I earned my Bachelor’s in History and my Master’s in Education. In my current role, I hope to guide students to make the most of their undergraduate experience, become well-rounded individuals and prepare for the next steps of their journeys. Outside of work, I find joy in practicing yoga, paddleboarding, exploring the outdoors, and delving into the history of UF.
Owen Beatty
Academic Advisor
Email: beattyoc@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Bio
I am a dedicated academic advisor with a strong background in educational guidance and student development. My experience working with students spans K-12 to Higher Education. I have a wealth of experience in mentoring students across various disciplines and has experience helping them navigate the complexities of academic life and achieve their educational goals. I am known for my personalized approach, taking the time to understand each student’s unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. My expertise in curriculum planning, career advising, and student engagement makes me a valuable resource for students seeking to maximize their academic potential. My commitment to student success is evident in my proactive involvement in academic planning, fostering a supportive environment that encourages growth, exploration, and achievement. As a transfer student myself, I earned my BA in Psychology from Saint Leo University and advanced degrees in Business Administration and Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Florida.
Todd Best
Academic Advisor
Email: tbest@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
My role in the AAC is to provide general academic advising for students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Originally from the Midwest (Indianapolis area), I joined the AAC after 12 years as an advisor in the Dept. of Computer and Information Sciences and Engineering. I earned a bachelor’s degree from Anderson University (Indiana), and I completed a master’s degree in religious studies with a focus on educational philosophy in CLAS at UF. As an academic advisor, I am especially interested in helping students become more reflective about their educational pathway and to consider the various ways they might be meaningfully engaged in their discipline beyond the classroom. In addition to advising, I have taught in the Beyond120 program, and I teach Honors Uncommon Reading courses on topics in the humanities, including media literacy, the common good, ecology, the self, and higher education. On a personal note, I am a fan of creative non-fiction film (a form of documentary), as well as other forms of storytelling. I enjoy exploring the outdoors with my family—hiking, biking, paddling, and taking in Florida’s unique places.
Racheal Croucher
Academic Advisor
Email: rcroucher@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I am an advisor for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and work with residential and Promise students. As a first-generation college student, I graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from Western Oregon University, and went on to graduate school at Oregon State University (OSU). At OSU I studied Human Development and Family Sciences, and researched Native American Student Success. Before coming to UF, I was an advisor for a TRIO SSS program, serving students who were first generation college students, students with a low-income background, and students with disabilities. My favorite part of advising is getting to know students and seeing them thrive. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring Florida with my family, traveling, photography, journaling, and all things nature!
Kayla Dasta
Academic Advisor
Email: kayladasta@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I am a general advisor for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Prior to serving as an advisor, I was an Elementary School teacher and have always had a passion for education and fostering a love of learning. I’m a proud Double Gator, earning both my Bachelor of Arts and Master of Education in Elementary Education with a minor in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences. My mission is to help students navigate their higher education by empowering them to create an academic plan tailored to their personal goals. I am honored to partner with you on your UF journey. It’s Great to be a Florida Gator!
Olivia Guthrie
Academic Advisor
Email: ogroves@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I am a general advisor for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Prior to serving as a general advisor, I worked for the Academic Advising Center as a Graduate Assistant. I enjoy helping students navigate their unique experiences at UF. I began my college career at the University of Alabama where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and later joined the Gator Nation at UF where I earned my Master’s degree in Student Personnel in Higher Education. As an advisor, I am passionate about helping students think outside of the box and find experiences in and out of the classroom to prepare them for their future.
Chris Kozak
Academic Advisor
Email: ckozak@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I work with our UF Online program with Computer Science students letters A-K and PaCE students pre-transition to campus letters A-K. As a proud graduate of the University of Florida, it is my privilege to help current and future students achieve gator graduate status! I graduated with my Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre and went on to pursue my Master of Fine Arts in Production & Stage Management from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. With my artistic background, I look forward to being able to help students think outside of the box when it comes to academics and their life pursuits. It is my goal to create an inviting and collaborative space for students to help achieve their goals here at UF and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Robert Kwong
Academic Advisor
Email: rkwong@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I am a general residential advisor for CLAS majors. My additional responsibilities include programming support services for CLAS Transfer Students and Exploratory students. I had served as the faculty advisor for the following UF student organizations, Health Educated Asian Leaders (HEAL) and the Delta Chapter of Tau Sigma National Honor Society. My family emigrated from Hong Kong, and I am the first in my family to attend college. I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a B.S. in Chemistry and then my M.S. in Biomedical Science at Barry University in Miami, FL. I taught Biology courses at Loyola University of Chicago, and worked as a Learning Assistance Counselor, also at Loyola University. At UF, I previously worked as a pre-health advisor and have taught courses in the Honors Program. I believe education provides the tools to help us discover our talents and passions, and help us to see how we may use those gifts to serve to others.
Megan LeCorgne
Academic Advisor
Email: mefinton@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I primarily work with Pre-Health, Biology, Botany, and Zoology students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. As a double gator, it is my privilege to help students towards their dreams while here at UF! I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and went on to pursue my Master of Education in Counselor Education. With my background in therapy, I strive to support students through the many ups and downs that college brings while discovering their unique potential.
Fallen Lee
Academic Advisor
Email: fwlee@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I work with our UF Online program, and primarily advise Computer Science and Psychology students. I am a proud Gator graduate, with my Masters of Education in Student Personnel in Higher Education from UF. I was also a Liberal Arts and Sciences student, with my undergraduate degree in English. I truly value my liberal arts background and know it prepared me with strong writing and critical thinking skills that helped me through graduate school, and that I still use daily. As both a first-generation and transfer student myself, I always feel a special connection to these populations of students. I feel very privileged to say that I honestly love my job!
Robert Lopez
Academic Advisor
Email: rlopez@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I work with our UF Online program, primarily advising Sociology students and PaCE students pre-transition to campus. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication degree from UF, and I am very excited to be back at my alma mater. After graduating from UF, I earned my Master of Education degree from the University of North Florida, and then served as an academic advisor for student-athletes at Stetson University and Cal State University, Northridge. My favorite part of being an academic advisor is helping each student achieve their own unique academic and career goals. No two students are the same, and I thoroughly enjoy helping each individual student take ownership and navigate their college journey in a way that caters to their specific aspirations. Go Gators!
Marquita Ockletree
Academic Advisor
Email: ockletreem@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I provide general CLAS Advising to all majors and Exploratory students. I also lead the PROMISE program and work very closely with transfer students. I am a proud graduate of Winston-Salem State University (HBCU), where I received my Bachelor of Arts in English and a double minor in Speech Communication and Secondary Education. I went on to receive my Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina- Greensboro. I have over 14 years in the educational field, starting as a High School English teacher, and program coordinator, college instructor, and now as an Academic Advisor. My extensive background has provided me with a diverse outlook on the needs of students. I am passionate about student success, and I enjoy observing and assisting students in reaching their ultimate goals! I believe education is the door that unlocks opportunities for the future!
Kevin Orbegoso
Graduate Student Assistant
Email: kevinorbegoso@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
As a graduate assistant at the Academic Advising Center, I offer academic advising and support to students within CLAS. I am a Double Gator, having earned my degrees in Criminology and Political Science from UF in Spring 2023. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s in International Relations. My time at UF has been enriched by my experience as a former Involvement Team member, where I discovered the immense value of combined academic and extracurricular engagement. In my position at the AAC, I utilize my experiences to offer a holistic form of advising, including involvement and academic advising. I am excited to use my background to advise and assist students in their academic and extracurricular pursuits. My primary goal is to help students navigate their college journey, discover their passions, and reach their goals!
Alianna Ortiz
Academic Advisor
Email: aliannaortiz@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
Maggie Paxson
Academic Advisor
Email: mapaxson@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I provide general academic advising to students in CLAS with a focus on transfer students and the transition to UF from other colleges and universities. I am a proud double Gator, with a Bachelor of Science in Entomology and Nematology from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, and a Master of Education in Secondary Science Education from the UF ProTeach Program. While at UF, I was a member of the Honors College and active in Alpha Zeta, the National Agricultural Honor Fraternity. Prior to working in the AAC, I taught advanced (AICE and AP) Biology and Environmental Management at Gainesville High School for thirteen years. I am a former teacher of the year and passionate science educator, and still enjoy providing non-traditional educational opportunities through workshops, nature and bird walks, and other Alachua Audubon programming. In my spare time, I am an enthusiastic bird watcher and hiker, and as a 30+ year resident of Gainesville an eager explorer of our swamps and forests alike. I hope to help students find their place at UF and understand that there are many paths to realize a future career, and to discover the unique opportunities UF CLAS has to offer.
Allison Rhodes
Graduate Student Assistant
Email: arhodes@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I am a Graduate Assistant for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. My role within the Academic Advising Center is to help students with general advising questions. I recently graduated from the University of Florida in Spring 2023 with a B.S. in Psychology, a B.A. in Education Sciences, and a minor in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences. I am currently pursuing dual M.Ed. and Ed.S. degrees in Mental Health Counseling with the Counselor Education program in the College of Education here at UF. As an undergraduate student at UF, I also worked in the AAC as a Peer Advisor, so I’m excited to be continuing my work advising undergraduate students and helping them forge their paths and discover their passions!
Roxanna Ruiz-Vázquez
Academic Advisor
Email: roxannaruiz@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I primarily advise students in Computer Science and Psychology. Originally from Puerto Rico, I earned my undergraduate degree in Sociology from the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, followed by a graduate degree in School Counseling from Central University of Bayamón. My career journey led me to New York City, where I worked with post-secondary-focused non-profit organizations, and in 2020, I relocated to Gainesville to serve as an administrator at Santa Fe College. As a first-generation college student, supporting students in their educational goals remains a pillar of my career. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, and all things running.
Dani Sakkal
Graduate Student Assistant
Email: danisakkal@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Bio
Hey there! As a graduate assistant at the Academic Advising Center (AAC), I provide academic guidance and personal support for students in need. I was born in Beirut, Lebanon and raised in Boca Raton, Florida. Gainesville has been my home for the last several years, having completed a dual degree at UF in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences (FYCS) and Arabic. During my undergraduate years I also served as a Florida Cicerone, providing official campus tours to prospective students and their families. I am currently seeking a masters (M.Ed) and education specialist (Ed.S.) degree in mental health counseling. In my role at the AAC I integrate skills from all of these academic backgrounds to provide holistic services, focusing on the needs of students first and foremost.
Jason Storch
Academic Advisor
Email: jstorch@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Bio
My role in the AAC is to provide general advising for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Prior to serving as a general advisor, I worked in the Hawkins Center for 24 years as an academic advisor for University of Florida student athletes. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Brandeis University and hold a Master’s degree in Sports Management and a Ph.D. in Higher Education both from the University of Florida. As an advisor, I am passionate about collaborating with students by providing accurate and detailed information so students can make educated and well-informed decisions. It is imperative to provide an environment where students can mature, develop, and understand how their actions and choices shape their academic experience. I strive to challenge students to ask questions, investigate options, and uncover their true potential. I am excited to work with students as they navigate the University of Florida and throughout their academic career.
Luzmi Valenzuela
Graduate Student Assistant
Email: luzmivalenzuela@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Ella
Bio
I currently serve as a Graduate Assistant at the Academic Advising Center (AAC) within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. I am a proud first-generation college student and first-generation American originally from Willingboro, New Jersey. I recently earned my B.S. in Political Science and B.S. in Criminology with minors in Education and Psychology. I am now pursuing an M.Ed. in Student Personnel in Higher Education here at UF. I have a strong passion for providing an accessible education and helping students navigate their transition to college. My goal is to support our students in discovering their passions and setting them up for success post-college.Beyond120 Team
Aimée Bourassa
Beyond120 Lecturer and Internship Coordinator
Email: aimeebourassa@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
Hi! I’m Aimée [eh-MAY]. As a Beyond120 lecturer, I help develop and offer career readiness courses, experiences, and advising for undergraduate students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. I notably coordinate the Beyond120 internship program and collaborate with several partners to create, promote, and increase access to rewarding internship opportunities. Before coming to UF, I completed a Ph.D. in Political Science at Brown University, where I also designed and taught multidisciplinary college courses. During this time, I developed a passion for supporting student academic, personal, and professional development by connecting scholarly discussions and skills with applied perspectives and experiences. At CLAS, I strive to empower students with the resources to explore, learn, and succeed in their unique paths in college and beyond. Go Gators!
Robyn Clarke
Beyond120 Experiential Learning and Career Advisor
Email: robyn.clarke@ufl.edu
Bio
As Beyond120’s experiential learning and career advisor, I connect students to the proper Beyond120 resources based upon their goals and interests as well as provide career planning guidance. I am also a proud double Gator. I earned my bachelor’s degree in sports media from UF’s College of Journalism and Communications and my master’s in Student Personnel in Higher Education from the College of Education. My goal as a professional is to always meet students where they are and cultivate an environment that allows them to show up authentically. As a young woman with cerebral palsy, I am particularly passionate about serving students with disabilities. When I am not working, I love to write, spend time with loved ones, and attend as many UF sporting events as possible!
Madelyn Diller
Beyond120 Communications Manager
Email: madelyndiller@ufl.edu
Bio
Hi, I’m Maddie and I am the Communications Manager for Beyond120. I am a proud Florida gator and graduated from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a degree in linguistics. Since my undergraduate degree, I have explored a variety of academic and professional spaces, working in TESOL, teacher education, student support services, and tech marketing and content strategy. These experiences make me very familiar with the different skills LAS students use to communicate their skills and passions in authentic and transferable ways. As Communications Manager, I love getting to share Beyond120’s student stories to our partners both at UF and beyond. In my free time, you can find me exploring Gainesville parks with my rescue pup, taking or teaching yoga classes, and enjoying the wonderful farmers’ markets.
Charlie Fanning
Beyond120 Lecturer and Undergraduate Research Coordinator
Email: c.fanning@ufl.edu
Bio
I serve as the Lecturer and Undergraduate Research Coordinator for Beyond120 and am responsible for undergraduate research instruction and programming. I am committed to teaching innovative and practical courses, collaborating across CLAS to expand local, national, and international research opportunities, and advancing students’ research and career goals. Overall, I aim to connect teaching and research to real-world problems and to empower students to succeed in the workforce and make change in their communities. Prior to joining the Beyond120 team at UF, I earned my Ph.D. in History from the University of Maryland, College Park and worked in research positions in organized labor and the UN system. I also hold an MA from Georgetown University and a BA from Florida Southern College.
Brittany Grubbs-Hodges
Beyond120 Assistant Director for Experiential Learning
Lecturer
Email: brittanygrubbs@ufl.edu
Bio
In my role as a senior lecturer, I teach experiential learning classes and assist with various programming efforts within Beyond120. My favorite thing about this job is helping students along their professional journey! I am originally from the Jacksonville area, but moved to Orlando to attend UCF and later moved to Gainesville to earn a Master’s degree and Ph.D. from UF – double Gator! In my spare time, I enjoy volunteering, spending time with friends and family, being involved in church, and of course, going to Gator games!
Dylan King
Beyond120 Lecturer and Global Engagement Coordinator
Email: dsking@ufl.edu
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Bio
Hi! I’m Dylan, and I’m a lecturer for the Beyond120 program, where I focus on global engagement. I also serve as the director for several of our Beyond120 internship and shadowing programs, helping students gain real-world experience and expand their global perspectives. My journey to Beyond120 is rooted in my passion for music! I hold both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in music, with a focus on flute performance. So, how did I get here? While pursuing my passion for music during my undergrad, I also gained valuable experience through work-study positions in admissions for the university and the School of Music. This hands-on work laid the foundation for my graduate assistantship in admissions and student services at UF’s School of Music, which ultimately led to my career as a CLAS academic advisor—and now, to my role in Beyond120. I believe that everything you do, both in and outside the classroom, is an opportunity to develop the skills needed for a wide variety of careers. I’m here to help you unlock your full potential, both at UF and beyond! When I’m not working with students, you’ll find me playing flute with the Gainesville Orchestra and the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. I also direct the Gainesville Flute Ensemble (flutists of all levels are welcome to join!) and currently serve as the program chair for the Florida Flute Association. Outside of music, I enjoy spending time with my partner, two dogs, cat, and snake.
Roberta Knickerbocker
Director Pre-Health Post-Bac (PHPB) program
Beyond120 Pre-professional Senior Lecturer
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Email: rknicker@ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I am director of the Pre-Health Post-Bac (PHPB) program where I advise UF alumni and non-traditional students who wish to pursue admission to healthcare professional schools. I am also part of the Beyond120 program as a Sr. Lecturer teaching prehealth courses. I began my career as a pediatric and hospice nurse. I was also a hospice chaplain and bereavement coordinator. I came to the University of Florida Academic Advising Center and prehealth advising in 2008. It is my privilege to assist undergraduates, alumni and non-traditional students in their journeys towards pursuing a healthcare profession.
Christina Mattern
Beyond120 Partnership & Industry Engagement Specialist
Email: christinamattern@ufl.edu
Bio
I serve as the Partnership & Industry Engagement Specialist for the Beyond120 team. I am also a proud Double Gator completing my Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and my Master of Arts in Education in Student Personnel in Higher Education. I began my higher education career working in the Office of Admissions at both Santa Fe College and the University of Florida before transitioning to my current role with Beyond120. Through my work, I enjoy assisting students in experiential learning opportunities by connecting industry partners with Beyond120 and CLAS. Outside of the office, I am a passionate Gator Sports Fan and enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter enjoying all that north central Florida has to offer.
Chelsea McCall
Beyond120 Office Manager
Email: chelseamccall@ufl.edu
Bio
Hello, I’m Chelsea, the Administrative Specialist for Beyond120. I’m a recent Florida transplant coming all the way from the Pacific Northwest. I attended a small Liberal Arts school called Whitworth University in Spokane, WA. As I entered the workforce, I felt lost and I tried a lot of jobs even working as a flight attendant, where I gained valuable perspectives traveling the globe. Honestly, it took me almost a decade post college to figure out what I wanted to do for a job. To say I would have benefited from a program like Beyond120 is an understatement. I truly believe having tangible experiences that happen outside of the classroom can help point students in the direction that allows them to become who we are in a deep way. My hope for this program is to connect as many CLAS students with meaningful experiences that mold them into global citizens. In my free time, you’ll find my husband and I at Disney World, exploring Florida with our dogs, or traveling around the world.
Christine Richmond
Beyond120 Associate Director
Senior Lecturer, Global Engagement
Email: richmoc@ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
Hi, I’m Christine and I’m the Associate Director of the Beyond120 program and a senior lecturer in Global Engagement. I’m happy to say I’ve always been a Gator and earned both of my degrees here. I’m a program director for many of our Beyong120 Internship and shadowing programs, and have helped lead Beyond120 excursions both in the U.S. and internationally. I went through most of my time as an undergraduate student in CLAS completely undecided about my career path, so I can relate to students who have not yet discovered what they want to do. If only the Beyond120 program had been around when I was a student! Through experiences like traveling, teaching, and taking on a variety of jobs I finally discovered that I love working with college students. In my free time I’m a mom, photographer, and spend most Saturdays photographing and exercising animals at Alachua County Animal Resources or volunteering at rescue adoption events.Staff
Carley Anderson
Academic Assistant II
Email: carleyanderson@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I am a recent graduate of the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a minor in Mass Communications. During my time as a student at UF, I studied abroad in Cape Town, South Africa and Glasgow, Scotland, and I very much enjoy traveling and learning about the world in any way I can. In my current position in the AAC, I support many aspects of the Beyond120 program. Outside of work, I am a classically trained ballet and contemporary dancer and have a great love for theater and the arts.
Mike Brown
Admissions Officer II
Email: michaeljbrown@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
As a lifelong Gator, I am excited to join the CLAS Academic Advising Team. My mom and dad were Gators. I met my wife here at the University of Florida in 1986. Both of our children graduated from the University of Florida. So, you can see I have a vested interest in the success of this fine establishment of higher learning. I am also a big fan of all Gator athletics. Go Gators!
Haley Eaton
Admissions Officer II
Email: haleyeaton@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I graduated from the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a minor in Public Relations. As a UF alum, I look forward to using my insights and experiences to facilitate a welcoming transfer process for all students. I am enthusiastic about supporting the Academic Advising Center’s transfer team to help new and prospective students navigate their journey and achieve success at the University of Florida.
Alisha Diane Jordan Olin
Admission Services Supervisor
Email: ajordan@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I am a graduate of the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Criminology and Law. Additionally, I have a Master of Education in High Education Administration from the UF College of Education. As the Admission Officer for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, I work with transfer and readmission students attempting to gain admission to CLAS majors. I also coordinate with the departments to process all CLAS certificate applications. My goal is to guide students through the application process, answering questions and addressing concerns of students and their families, to ensure they receive quick and accurate decisions.
Anyas Kellermann
Pre-Health and Pre-Law Assistant
Email: anyas.kellermann@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I am a graduate from the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of South Florida in Tampa. I have a dual Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology and English, with a Concentration in Professional and Technical Communications, and had the amazing opportunity to study abroad at the University of Exeter in England. As a lifelong Floridian and Gator football fan, it’s been full circle to work at the University of Florida and live in Gainesville! With a passion for student-focused communications, I assist CLAS’ pre-professional advising teams in fostering pre-health and pre-law student success. My goal is to support all CLAS students with intentional, adaptable, and accurate communications to best support their academic and professional success. Outside of work, I find joy in popular culture, live music, reading, crafting, travel, mental health advocacy, and spending quality time with loved ones!
Juan Oleas
End User Computer Specialist II
Email: oleas.juan@ufl.edu
Bio
I am a graduate of the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and minors in Physics and Math. I joined the AAC in 2023 as the tech lead for the department. My goals are to make sure all department systems work accordingly and that our faculty, staff, and student assistants get the IT support they need.
Dan Shields
IT Analyst
Email: danshields@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Bio
I manage AAC, Preview Prep, Beyond120, and the Pre-Health Postbac websites, along with various other administrative tools. My career began in tax and legislative journalism on Capitol Hill, then moving into computing, marketing, and management in the tech industry where I worked for Cisco Systems, PR Newswire, and Microsoft. I enjoy supporting our faculty and students.
Shabon Thomas
Academic Assistant II
Email: smthomas@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
As the Student Assistant Hiring Manager for CLAS Advising, I specialize in recruiting federal work-study students to support a variety of essential functions within the department. My role also involves close collaboration with the CLAS Petitions Team and the Promise Team, where I contribute to achieving our shared administrative goals. I am dedicated to assisting CLAS students by providing general information and checking in students for their appointments to ensure they receive the guidance and support they need.
Laurie Tejada
Academic Assistant II
Email: ltejada@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
Hi, I’m Laurie! I graduated from the UF College of the Arts with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and a minor in Theatre Production. I serve as the Forms Assistant and Supervisor of the Student Assistants here at the CLAS Academic Advising Center. Before I joined the AAC, I worked at two other UF locations; Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and the Stephen C. O’Connell Center as a tech crew member. I love working as part of a team and the AAC is definitely the best team I’ve found at UF!
Grace Tyler
UF Online Academic Assistant II
Email: gracetyler@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I am an Academic Assistant II working primarily with our UF Online College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) student population. I graduated from CLAS with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences in the Spring of 2022. I am now pursuing my master’s degree at UF in the Student Personnel in Higher Education program. In the Academic Advising Center (AAC), I bridge the connection between online students and their academic advisor by answering the phone and directing students to relevant campus resources. My goal is to help CLAS students understand the advising services available to them and maintain efficiency in AAC operations.
Becca Sandbach Woods
Academic Assistant III
Email: bsandbac@advising.ufl.edu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bio
I graduated from UF with a B.A. in English (Literature) in the Fall 2005 and joined the Academic Advising Center in May 2006. I am the Graduation Coordinator for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS). In my free time, I am an enthusiastic multi-crafter with a primary focus in knitting.Peer Advisors
Flavia Costa Domingues
Peer Advisor
Email: f.costadomingues@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
Aidan Garemani
Peer Advisor
Email: agaremani-aac@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
Hi! I’m Aidan, a fourth-year chemistry and statistics pre-medical student from Long Island, NY. I love to travel and road trip across the East Coast and I’m apart of the school’s marching Gator Band– I also lead the school’s Walk Club and Hula-Hooping club (HOOPZ). Being a peer advisor allows me to connect with and assist a wide range of the student body that I normally would not have had the pleasure of interacting with. Go team!
Elie Haddad
Peer Advisor
Email: eliehaddad-aac@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
Annalise Minogue-Marcuson
Peer Advisor
Email: annalise.minogue-aac@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
Ashley Theilacker
Peer Advisor
Email: atheilacker@advising.ufl.edu
Bio
I am a third year student majoring in History and Anthropology, with a minor in Classical Studies. I hope to work with museums, collections, and public history in the future. Being a Peer Advisor is an opportunity that allows me to connect with others, learn more about the CLAS department, and serve as a resource for students! I am also involved with UF’s Peer Leader program and I am an officer in UF’s History Honors Society.Emeritus Advisor
Lou Powers
Emeritus Senior Associate in Advising
Email: lpowers@advising.ufl.edu