Double Eagles

December 01, 2025

Earlier this year, we introduced FGCU’s “Double Eagles,” individuals who work and have earned degrees at FGCU. They use their professional expertise and academic knowledge to help shape the university in unique and meaningful ways.

Across campus, you’ll find Double Eagles in classrooms, offices and labs. Read below to learn more about your fellow colleagues who are making an impact.

If you would like to submit a Double Eagle to be featured, send an email to newsletter@fgcu.edu.

Jorge Lopez | Associate Vice President of Student Success Initiatives, Student Success & Enrollment Management (Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Master of Business Administration)

What inspired you to return to FGCU as an employee? The mission, the people and the students. I feel a deep sense of pride and connection as an alum. FGCU has shaped both my personal and professional journey and being able to contribute to its continued growth feels like giving back to a place that has given me so much. As a two-time FGCU graduate, I’m inspired by the university’s commitment to student success, innovation and community impact. Having personally experienced the difference FGCU makes in people’s lives, I’m passionate about advancing that mission and ensuring that others have access to the same opportunities for growth and achievement that I did. FGCU is not just where I earned my degrees, it’s part of who I am. I am inspired to work here because I believe in the mission. I take pride in contributing to an institution that impacts the lives of students, staff and faculty.

How does being an FGCU graduate and employee shape the way you engage with and contribute to the university community? Being both an FGCU graduate and employee deeply shapes how I engage with and contribute to the university community. Having earned two degrees here, I have a personal understanding of the transformative power of an FGCU education; the supportive faculty, the sense of community, and the opportunities that empower students to grow academically and personally. This experience drives me to give back by ensuring that our students have access to the same level of encouragement and resources that helped me succeed. As an alum, I take great pride in representing FGCU’s values and mission in everything I do. I approach my work with a sense of ownership and purpose, knowing that my efforts contribute to the continued success and reputation of a university that has profoundly influenced my life. My perspective as a former student allows me to connect authentically with students, families and friends, understanding their challenges, aspirations and what makes the FGCU experience unique. Ultimately, being both an FGCU graduate and employee motivates me to go beyond my job responsibilities. It inspires me to serve as an ambassador for the university, foster a culture of collaboration and excellence, and help strengthen the Eagle community for future generations.

Jennifer McGurk | Internship Coordinator, School of Resort & Hospitality Management and Adjunct Instructor (Bachelor of Science in Management, Master of Business Administration)

What inspired you to return to FGCU — not only as an employee, but also to pursue a second degree? I was already an FGCU employee when I decided to pursue my MBA. After just one year in my role, I realized my true passion was education, and I knew I wanted to teach at FGCU. Completing my MBA allowed me to combine my love for education with my professional expertise. My career began in hospitality, where I held leadership roles in human resources at organizations such as Naples Grande Beach Resort, Edgewater Beach Hotel and the Naples Grande Golf Club. These experiences shaped my understanding of workforce management, employee development and organizational culture — insights I now bring to my teaching and student mentoring.

In what ways have your undergraduate and graduate studies at FGCU shaped your career path and personal goals? Since 2013, I have served as an adjunct instructor at FGCU, teaching courses in human resources, career success, internships and management. I also lead the Hospitality Business Academy, a summer program designed to prepare high school students for careers in hospitality. I love assisting students with professional development, including resume guidance, career fair preparation and Dress for Success clothing fittings so students can look and feel their best. My FGCU education provided a foundation in business, leadership and human resources, which I apply daily in mentoring students, designing experiential learning programs and bridging academic knowledge with real-world hospitality practice. The combination of academic and professional experience enables me to assist in cultivating the next generation of hospitality leaders.