Excellence in Civic Engagement

Elier Alvarado Hernandez

Digital Media Design

Elier Alvarado Hernandez is a Cuban American first-generation college student. He has always been passionate about design and photography, but he has also always been very stubborn and goal oriented. In his time doing his service learning, he has learned how to be a lot more open-minded and look at things from different perspectives, such as seeing the digital and physical aspects of design. 

When he first started at FGCU, he dreaded the service-learning requirement because he was just here for a degree, to get his classes done, and move on, but now that he has gone through it and found something he genuinely enjoys, he truly sees the value it holds. His service learning has helped him grow in ways he could never imagine. He made a ton of friends, got to talk with people from many different walks of life, and learned how to use machines. He has built a great community of colleagues and friends at FGCU and honed his skills as a designer thanks to his service-learning experiences.

Fabiola Martinez

Communication

With over 700 hours of service-learning, Fabiola Martinez, a communication student with a concentration in Public Relations at Florida Gulf Coast University, has built her college experience around using communication to serve, connect, and respond to community needs in Southwest Florida. Her work began in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, where Fabi partnered with the Quality Life Center to distribute essential resources and provide Spanish translation for families navigating recovery. This experience shaped her approach to service, prioritizing listening, adaptability, and culturally responsive communication. She carried these values into her work with the R.O.C.K. Center, supporting youth through field days and family literacy events while fostering inclusion for Spanish-speaking families. 

Through FGCU’s Leadership Experience, she advanced from Frosh Mosh mentee to Assistant Director of Selection and Development, while also serving as an Emerging Eagles mentor and Alternative Break participant. Across these roles, she trained mentors, developed programming, and supported students in their transition to college. Her work with Friends of the Florida Jr. Blades further refined her passion for strategic communication through content creation, social media management, and event operations. Following graduation, Fabi plans to pursue a master's degree in strategic communication at Florida State University to build a career centered on ethical storytelling, community impact, and meaningful connections.

Irena Ahmet

Health Science

Irena Ahmet is graduating from Florida Gulf Coast University with a degree in Health Science and a minor in Chemistry. Her commitment to civic engagement is rooted in a strong belief that service is not just about involvement, but about responsibility, recognizing opportunities to make an impact and consistently showing up for others.
One of the most meaningful aspects of her experience at FGCU has been founding the Albanian American Student Organization. After recognizing the absence of an organization representing Albanian students when she first arrived on campus, Irena took the initiative to create a space that celebrates culture and encourages connection. This experience strengthened her leadership skills and allowed her to build something meaningful within the campus community.

Irena has also been actively involved in supporting students academically and personally. As a Supplemental Instruction leader for Anatomy and Physiology, she has spent two years mentoring and tutoring students through challenging coursework. She has also served as an Honors mentor, guiding peers through their academic and personal development, and as a Global Engagement Office ambassador, where her role focused on supporting international students as they navigate the transition to college life and adjust to new academic and social environments.

Beyond campus, Irena has participated in dental outreach initiatives serving underserved communities, including her involvement in Give Kids A Smile (GKAS) in her local community, where she helped provide free dental care and oral health education for children. These experiences have reinforced her commitment to service within healthcare and highlighted the importance of access to care. They have also shaped her goal of becoming a healthcare provider who prioritizes compassion, connection, and service.

Kristin Draulans

Digital Media Design & Entrepreneurship

During her time at Florida Gulf Coast University, Kristin Draulans completed over 480 service hours. In her freshman year, she started a service-oriented organization on campus called Circle K International (CKI) where she worked with over 30 non-profits and local organizations through weekly service meetings and larger-scale events. Her focus was to find ways to serve the community through multiple projects that students would have access to. With the service-learning requirement at FGCU, she wanted to help educate students on how they could discover service opportunities and complete them through Eagle Service Network. Kristin worked closely with the sponsoring Kiwanis Club, Fort-Myers Metro-McGregor Kiwanis, and helped CKI host a K-Family Service Day. 

This large event benefited 14 organizations and 700 individuals and families. Her ability to start CKI and build strong connections with community partners set up a long-term, viable organization for future students. Through the FL CKI District Board, Kristin also served meaningful roles, including Goldcoast Lieutenant Governor and District Treasurer, that supported other organizations and members across the state. Overall, Kristin has put her passion for service in action, developed strong leadership skills, and built connections that will be valuable post-graduation.

Lauren Rodriguez

Exercise Science

As Vice President in 2024 and President in 2025 of the Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter, Lauren led the organization through a critical rebuilding phase, transforming it from near dissolution into a structured, sustainable, and highly visible campus organization. She expanded outreach by coordinating SVA member involvement in student veteran orientation in partnership with the Military and Veteran Success Office and created events such as the Welcome Back BBQ and Purple Up Day to strengthen connections within the military-connected community. 

Lauren established strong partnerships with campus and community organizations, reaching over 200 students and contributing to FGCU earning the designation as a Purple Star Collegiate School. She also introduced the 13 Folds Ceremony (as shown on the slide), creating a lasting campus tradition honoring service members. At the national level, Lauren advocated in Washington, D.C. for increased educational support for student veterans and worked with Florida representatives to address gaps in GI Bill policy affecting internship-based programs. Beyond campus, she founded VetHub, a digital platform providing accessible resources for veterans nationwide. Her work is focused on turning support into access, connection, and real impact for the veteran community.

Maddie Ritter

Marine Science

Madelyn (Maddie) Ritter, a Marine Science major, has dedicated hundreds of hours over her last two years at FGCU to community engagement. Madelyn's roots in the Performing Arts stretch back to fourth grade, a passion she now channels into shaping the next generation. In Fall 2024, she began volunteering at North Fort Myers High School as a Visual Tech for the marching band, teaching marching technique and choreographing dance segments for their 2024 show, Call of the Sirens, and 2025 show, Feathers and Folly. That winter, she was named Visual Coordinator for the Indoor Percussion program, contributing to show design for Battle Creek (2025) and The Rest Cure (2026). For Madelyn, the stage has always been more than performance; it is a vital space where creativity fosters confidence and supports the mental well-being of younger generations. 

Simultaneously in Fall 2024, Madelyn started her personal and professional journey into marine science research with Dr. James Douglass in the Benthic Ecology Lab at FGCU. Her first project was with Brianna Valdes on a biodiversity photo analysis of Kimberly’s Reef throughout time. In Summer 2025, Madelyn started a new research project aiming to define the distribution of the two estuarine clams that live in the Caloosahatchee River. Madelyn remains devoted to serving her community, bringing both passion and heart to everything she does.

Madison Hanson

Finance

Madison Hanson is a Finance major and Honors College student at Florida Gulf Coast University, recognized for over 1,100 hours of civic engagement rooted in her identity as a first-generation, self-supporting student. Her most transformative service came through the Alternative Break Program, where she rose from participant to Student Director, leading four service trips across New Orleans, New York City, Miami, and Houston. These immersive experiences brought her face-to-face with issues of human trafficking, re-entry justice, houselessness, and food insecurity, reshaping how she thinks about the systems behind every data point she studies in the classroom.

Beyond Alternative Break, Madison has served as a junior facilitator and Finance Director for Hugh O'Brien Youth Leadership, President and Treasurer of Omicron Delta Kappa, a peer mentor through TRIO, and a Bloomberg Lab Monitor supporting fellow students in financial literacy. As a resident of the Southern Scholarship Foundation's Pilot Scholarship House, a home she credits with making everything else possible, she has also served as Business Manager, Ambassador and House Manager.

Madison's civic record reflects not a requirement met, but a consistent belief that doing well and doing good are the same pursuit.

Sara Teoro De Morais

Management

Sara is a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University, majoring in Business Management and International Business. She is the founder and former president of BRASA FGCU. Currently, she serves as Network Manager at BRASA - Brazilian Student Association, where she leads initiatives to support and develop a global network of Brazilian student organizations.

Sara was one of the leaders behind the Copa BRASA, a global fundraising campaign that united more than 125 Brazilian student organizations worldwide and raised over $44,000 in six weeks, funding four years of education for five scholarship recipients. Through her leadership, she has mobilized a global network of student leaders and helped organize conferences in Boston and California, bringing together more than 600 students for leadership development, community building, and knowledge-sharing.
She has contributed to more than 200 hours of volunteer service, demonstrating a strong commitment to community impact and student empowerment. Inspired by her own journey as an international student, Sara is dedicated to creating opportunities for others and empowering the next generation of Brazilian leaders worldwide.

Tristan Weeks

Accounting

From his time at Florida Gulf Coast University, Tristan Weeks graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Tristan was eager to use what he learned in academics to make a difference in his community.

Tristan understands the impact that financial literacy can have on life. So, he began volunteering with United Way in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. He not only saved thousands of dollars for low to moderate-income households, but also informed clients on routes to improve their financial position. In the following tax season, Tristan became a Site-Coordinator for the FGCU tax site to guide his fellow volunteers. He advocated for VITA to encourage others to volunteer and for others to use their services.

In the process of joining Beta Alpha Psi, Tristan had the opportunity to tutor students in foundational accounting courses. With empathy and patience, he took the time to help students build a strong foundational understanding of accounting. Tristan also volunteered with outreach efforts through tabling and paneling to encourage high school students to study accounting and learn about personal finances.

Whitney Jo Hummel

Environmental Studies

Whitney Jo Hummel is an Environmental Studies major at Florida Gulf Coast University in The Water School, where her service-learning work has focused on hands-on conservation and community engagement in Southwest Florida. Through partnerships with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Audubon, she applied what she learned in class to real-world environmental issues by creating outreach materials, supporting educational events, and contributing to conservation-focused projects. As a team leader for an Honors Civic Engagement project, Whitney helped develop materials for turtle conservation on Sanibel Island that were used for public outreach, including a pamphlet, poster, and video. 

She also created educational materials on the Eastern Indigo Snake, a federally threatened species, helping make scientific information more understandable and engaging for the public, and contributed to research by assisting with a proposal on storm-surge-induced salinity changes and their effects on amphibian populations while compiling long-term datasets and basic statistical analyses. Through FGCU’s Water School, she was also involved with the Coastal Geomorphology Research Group, where she gained experience working with coastal data and research, and participated in the American Water Resources Association, which helped her grow professionally and connect with others in the field. Through these experiences, Whitney has developed a strong interest in conservation and hopes to continue combining research and community engagement in her future work.

Jake Raterman

Theatre and Child & Youth Studies

In his time at FGCU, Jake Raterman earned a BA in Theatre and a BS in Child & Youth Studies. Through these programs, he was able to earn hundreds of service-learning hours with nonprofits through internships and events. 

Jake worked as an educator at Sanibel Sea School where he grew up as a camper for ten years and developed a love for education and conservation. He cherished the chance to give back to a foundation that meant so much to him and reconnect with his former educator, Shannon Rivard and work alongside her for multiple summers. 

He also spent time with the Alliance for the Arts working as a Lighting Designer with their youth theatre program with favorite productions including Alice By Heart and In The Heights. He worked with Youth Theatre Director Carmen Crussard for many years and is excited to continue working with the Alliance post-grad. 

The third major sector of his service learning came through the FGCU TheatreLab. Jake worked on a dozen different productions in his time at FGCU under the guidance of Technical Director Anne Carncross. Jake performed in multiple shows in addition to working as a Lighting Designer, Costume Designer, and Stage Manager.

Valerie Redden

Finance

Valerie Redden, a Finance major with a concentration in Real Estate, is being honored for her outstanding service-learning commitment as a Teaching Assistant at Church by the Glades.

Over four years, Redden dedicated more than six hundred hours to supporting teachers, children, and families. Her work focused on inclusivity, especially for children with disabilities, creating a welcoming environment where every child felt valued and included.

Redden's commitment to the organization's mission of "come as you are" helped her develop significant skills, especially in leadership and communication. She learned that leadership is about setting a good example, leading with empathy and structure, and uplifting others. These skills were directly applied to her FGCU coursework, such as REE 4931 and GEB 4890,and her role on the board for the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS).

This experience profoundly strengthened her sense of civic responsibility and helped her realize that true leadership stems from service. Redden plans to carry these values of service, inclusion, and integrity into her future career in finance and real estate, aiming to build environments where people feel respected and supported. Her long-term goal shifted from simply gaining experience to becoming a leader who serves with heart.

Edicia Rodriguez

Health Science

Edicia has dedicated her time at FGCU to making higher education more accessible to students in the Southwest Florida area, especially for first-generation students like herself. She has served as a mentor for FGCU’s Early College Program, guiding high school students through the transition to university-level coursework and daily activities on FGCU’s campus. She has also served as an executive board member for Project Narrative, a club dedicated to bridging the gap between higher education and students in areas of Southwest Florida, and the Mexican American Student Alliance. Edicia has also dedicated countless hours to providing Spanish translations for campus tours of FGCU to Spanish-speaking prospective families with the Sugden Welcome Center. Besides her dedication to higher education, Edicia strives to make healthcare more accessible to underserved populations within the community. She has volunteered with Premier Mobile Health Services to offer accessible healthcare to the Immokalee and North Fort Myers areas, where she has worked with predominantly Spanish-speaking patients. Edicia intends to become a Physician Assistant where she will serve rural and Spanish-speaking communities, just like the ones she grew up in. As the daughter of migrant workers, she knows the importance of helping her community through advocacy and support.

Noah Veliz

Finance

Beginning with a guided service trip to the Harry Chapin Food Bank in his first semester at FGCU, Noah Veliz was committed to serving both his campus community and the greater Southwest Florida region. In the Honors Foundations of Civic Engagement course, he helped lead a semester-long project supporting Camp Kesem, an organization that provides free summer camps for children whose parents have been affected by cancer. Motivated by the impact that cancer had on someone important in his life, he and his team organized fundraisers and supply drives that raised money to sponsor campers and enhance camp programs. He later helped design a service project with Roots of Compassion and Kindness, developing and teaching lessons on kindness, compassion, and empathy to kindergarten students at Bonita Springs Charter School. Through interactive activities tailored to the children’s needs, his work improved classroom relationships, engagement, and emotional communication. In addition to his project work, Noah served for over two years as a mentor and ambassador for FGCU’s Accelerated Collegiate Experience Program, guiding hundreds of students and helping them connect with meaningful service opportunities. Upon graduation, Noah will begin a career in wealth management and remain dedicated to giving back to the community.

Gustavo Hernandez

Political Science & History

Gustavo is graduating with a double major in Political Science and History. Originally from Mexico, his journey as a first-generation American, college student, and English language learner has profoundly influenced his dedication to community-centered and globally conscious service. These early life experiences sparked his passion for both local civic engagement and international development efforts. At FGCU, he has led impactful service initiatives that bridge civic engagement, education, and equity. As the only Spanish-speaking canvass captain for the Lee County Democratic Party during the 2022 midterm elections, he led targeted outreach in underserved communities, registering voters and expanding access to election resources. Internationally, Gustavo has led service trips through FGCU’s Dominican Republic Outreach Program, supporting underserved youth through education and mentorship. His Honors Thesis, “Harvesting Inequalities”, examined socioeconomic labor disparities in Florida’s farmworker communities, combining academic research with advocacy. As President of Project Narrative he helps first-generation youth in Immokalee navigate college applications and access higher education opportunities. Gustavo’s service reflects a deep commitment to sustainable, inclusive development and a belief in grassroots engagement as a catalyst for social change.

Nicole Bartling

Biology

Guided by a deep sense of empathy and a lifelong calling to serve, Nicole Bartling has emerged as a compassionate civic leader, dedicated to advancing dignity and equity in healthcare. Through her involvement with Global Medical Brigades, Nicole assisted physicians in providing essential medical care to underserved communities in Guatemala and Honduras. These powerful moments shaped her understanding of healthcare as not just a service, but a lifeline.

Closer to home, Nicole served with Unlocked Memories, a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s. At Canterfield Assisted Living, she used art therapy and meaningful conversation to help residents feel seen and valued, even when their memories had faded. Her work reminded her that true connection doesn’t rely on recollection—it relies onpresence, patience, and compassion.

Nicole’s service journey has never been about counting hours, but about showing up with heart.Every interaction, whether abroad or in her own community, has reinforced her belief that healing begins with human connection. As she prepares for a future in medicine, Nicole remains committed to becoming a physician who not only treats illness, but also uplifts the spirit—ensuring that every patient feels heard, respected, and never alone.

Hannah Bloomquist

Early Childhood Education

Hannah Bloomquist has demonstrated a deep commitment to civic engagement through over 600 hours of service-learning at Florida Gulf Coast University. Her primary project involved restoring garden beds at the Little Eagles Learning Center, where she led every phase—from fundraising and planning to planting and long-term maintenance. The revitalized gardens now serve as an educational space where young children explore nature, food systems, and sustainability.

One garden was transformed into a butterfly habitat, giving children the chance to witness the life cycle of butterflies up close. Hannah’s initiative not only enhanced the learning environment for students but also strengthened her own skills in leadership, problem-solving, and community collaboration.

In addition to her work at Little Eagles, Hannah volunteered at the Golisano Children's Museum of Naples and several local elementary schools. In each setting, she supported early learners through interactive lessons and classroom engagement, gaining valuable experience in education and youth development.

Hannah’s service has made a lasting impact on both the community and her own growth as an educator. Her dedication to hands-on learning, environmental awareness, and child development reflects her passion for teaching and her ongoing commitment to making a difference.

Conner Bapst

Health Science

During his time at FGCU Conner has demonstrated a commitment to medical service and further the education and research into paleontology at FGCU. He has invested 4 years into Global Medical Brigades, 2 of which he served as President of the club. During his time with GMB Conner was able to serve in 3 countries over a total of 4 trips to serve over 1,500 patients in Central America. He was privileged to serve as group leader in Honduras, Guatemala and Panama. Conner’s passion for serving in a medical role stems from his education as an EMT and has brought him to medical clinics around Lee County including Immokalee, Dunbar and Naples. He has a passion for preventative medicine and identifying chronic illness in the community to prevent further medical issues. Conner hopes to continue his medical service both locally and abroad as he works towards becoming an Emergency Nurse Practitioner. Outside of the medical field Conner is dedicated to researching fossilized shark teeth. This research allowed him to present his findings at conferences across the country, visiting museums and fossil sites to expand his research as well as offer educational field trips to other students interested in fossils.

Alexandra "Lexy" DePhillips

Legal Studies

During her time at Florida Gulf Coast University, Alexandra DePhillips dedicated over 360 volunteer hours to Friends of Fisher House West Palm Beach, a non-profit organization that supports veterans and their families while they receive care at the VA Medical Center. Motivated by a deep personal connection to the military, Alexandra led initiatives to enhance the organization’s operations, including organizing a fundraiser that raised nearly $9,000, securing $15,000 in grants, and managing the volunteer program. Her current contributions extend across leadership roles on two committees, CRM management, and community engagement through monthly dinners with veteran families. In January 2025, Alexandra was honored to join the Board of Directors, a role that has allowed her to deepen her involvement and continue serving a cause she cares deeply about. Alexandra’s experience with Friends of Fisher House has not only strengthened her leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills, but also reaffirmed her commitment to public service and advocacy. Alexandra plans to attend law school and, in her future legal career, is committed to continuing her support for underserved communities and advocating for justice.

Grayson Aceto

Integrated Studies

Grayson is a dedicated student leader and aspiring educator whose commitment to service-learning has made a lasting impact at Florida Gulf Coast University. Over the course of three years, he has contributed nearly 400 hours of service, primarily through FGCU’s Office of Adaptive Services, where he tutored students in Spanish, math, and statistics. As an Honors Mentor, Grayson supported first-year college students, offering academic guidance and moral support rooted in empathy and lived experience. His passion for education was further enriched by mentoring and tutoring roles, volunteer work at an orphanage in Campeche, Mexico, and engagement in after-school programs at Pine Ridge Middle School. Grayson’s service philosophy centers on compassion, active listening, and helping others recognize their potential—especially those who, like him, have faced unique challenges in their academic journey. His ability to create a supportive andempowering environment has left a lasting impression on his peers and mentees, inspiring growth and resilience.

Angelia Greenwell

Biology

Angelia Greenwell is a Biology major at FGCU whose commitment to service has

profoundly shaped her academic and personal journey. Her volunteer work on the Labor and Delivery unit at HealthPark Medical Center has provided her with intimate insights into the joys and challenges of patient care, reinforcing her aspiration to become a physician assistant. 

In 2022, Angelia joined the Gift of Life Marrow Registry during a campus club meeting, unaware that this decision would lead her to save a stranger's life through stem cell donation. This life-altering experience inspired her to become a campus ambassador for the registry, where she has since educated peers about the importance of marrow donation and successfully recruited dozens of students to join the cause.

Beyond healthcare, Angelia collaborated with the Macias Wildlife Society to develop educational materials on local keystone species, now utilized in local schools and in the community. She also contributes to research in a nanotechnology lab, focusing on personalized medicine and detecting harmful neurotoxins in water-based fluids using silver nanoparticles.

Driven by purpose and guided by compassion, Angelia is preparing for a future in medicine that blends scientific inquiry, patient care, and a deep commitment to advocacy."

Cindy Tran

Biology

Cindy Tran is a dedicated student leader and advocate for animal welfare whose service-learning journey at Florida Gulf Coast University has made a lasting impact on both campus and the community. As president of Pause for Paws, she expanded the organization’s reach and created accessible volunteer opportunities by repurposing donated t-shirts into dog toys for local shelters. Under her leadership, Pause for Paws organized collaborative events such as GoldenFest and “Pack Power: A Day of Giving,” connecting students with meaningful causes and strengthening relationships with community partners. Cindy also volunteered extensively with FSTOP, a nonprofit focused on wildlife conservation through photography. For three years, she helped analyze trail camera footage to track species like the endangered Florida panther—contributing to land-use advocacy efforts. Her commitment extended to Shy Wolf Sanctuary, where she logged over 100 hours caring for rescued wolves and exotic animals, gaining hands-on experience in animal behavior and care. Through these diverse projects, Cindy has demonstrated resilience, leadership, and a deep passion for service. She leaves FGCU as a confident changemaker, inspired to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and continue advocating for animal welfare and environmental conservation.

Thomas Hagin

Criminal Justice

During his time at Florida Gulf Coast University, Thomas Hagin served over 550 hours with the 501st Legion and Lee County Sheriff's Office. Thomas joined the 501st Legion in 2019 and has participated in over 250 service events with the organization, helping to raise almost $200,000 for various charities globally. His favorite service event with the 501st is visiting children's hospitals. In 2023, Thomas became the first intern to serve at Lee County Sheriff's Office, Innovation and Technology Unit. While an intern, Thomas assisted in many IT-related operations, learning about new technologies used in law enforcement. Thomas also spearheaded a large radio update project. Thomas repaired and updated the software on hundreds of radio units at LCSO. His efforts ensured that the radios were up-to-date and functioning optimally. Thomas had a meaningful impact during his time at LCSO. After completing his internship, Thomas was offered a full-time role with LCSO's Innovation and Technology Unit. Soon after beginning full-time, Thomas was given the opportunity to become a drone pilot at LCSO, which he accepted. Thomas will continue to serve as an Unmanned Systems Operator in the Electronic Surveillance Unit at Lee County Sheriff's Office. After graduation, Thomas plans to continue working as a drone operator at the Lee County Sheriff's Office, a place he has come to call home. His parents will be moving to the area soon, and his sister will be starting at FGCU. Thomas intends to stay with the Lee County Sheriff's Office for several years.

Michelle Cardenas

Digital Media Design

During Michelle's college years, Service Learning played a critical role in Michelle's growth and development, seamlessly intertwining personal and professional advancement. She refined her communication skills by participating in service activities and forging meaningful connections. By collaborating with various organizations, such as the FGCU offices, the Community Cooperative, Guardians of Florida Animal Rescue, the American Society of Interior Designers, and the Hartley Academic Resource Center, Michelle discovered avenues to contribute to her community. Particularly significant was her role as a mentor to Spanish-speaking students, which marked the beginning of her service journey. Helping these students in different subjects allowed her to overcome language barriers and make a small difference for those students.

Kayla Gutierrez

PGA Golf Management

PGA Golf Management (PGM) major, Kayla Gutierrez, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the FGCU community dedicating over 1,000 service-learning hours. Her passion for service stems from the desire to ease the transition into college life for younger students, helping them feel more welcomed and supported.

Kayla played a pivotal role in the PGM program, serving for three years on the student association Executive Board as the Social Media Communications Manager. Through her strategic and engaging social media efforts, Kayla not only heightened the program’s visibility locally and nationally but also connected personally with hundreds of prospective and committed students. Kayla founded and established the PGM Peer Coach Program, a peer mentoring initiative that fosters a supportive community by pairing incoming PGM students with experienced upperclassmen. Her involvement also spans several PGM Student Association Committees, PGM events, tournaments, and fundraisers, as well as the annual FGCU PGA Mentor Program.

Through Kayla’s targeted social media efforts, she helped raise over $19,000 in the first two years of the Eagles FORE FGCU fundraising campaign, supporting student success initiatives in the PGM Program. Kayla also contributes time to the Lutgert College of Business Student Advisory Board, serves as founding Co-President of the American
Marketing Association Collegiate Chapter, and has assisted with various university events on campus.

Looking ahead, Kayla is enthusiastic about continuing her engagement with FGCU as an alumna. She is committed to mentoring future students and contributing to the ongoing success of the FGCU community, inspiring future students to lead and serve.

Jack Hellmer

(MS) Entrepreneurship

Jack Hellmer, a dedicated mental health advocate, served over 400 hours for the David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health. Hellmer’s efforts began by igniting a passion within his Alpha Tau Omega fraternity brothers to address the mental health crisis within our community. Hellmer spearheaded advocacy, volunteer, and fundraising initiatives that led to thousands of hours served by his fraternity brothers and over $42,000 fundraised for DLC.

As a vital role in spreading awareness and reducing stigma around mental health, Hellmer built a partnership with the David Lawrence Centers and the Marieb College of Health & Human Services to bring the globally recognized Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training program to campus. The MHFA certification training empowers individuals with the knowledge and skill set to support and direct an individual to care when experiencing a mental health challenge. This initiative resulted in 52 individuals within our community becoming MHFA certified.

Throughout Hellmer’s entrepreneurship academic career, he founded the UBYou student wellness and success hub designed to enable students with resources that support them in alleviating their stressors.

Hellmer will continue his mission of supporting mental health as a board member of the DLC Advocates and as the founder of UBYou.

Jessica Miceli

Biochemistry

Jessica is a Biochemistry major and has spent the last four years embarking on service-learning experiences that reduce healthcare disparities and advocate for quality education. After COVID-19, Jessica entered Golisano Children’s Hospital as part of the first wave of volunteers since the program had closed, ultimately serving as a trainer for others on the emergency department floor. Wanting to gain more exposure to the medical field, Jessica traveled to Honduras with FGCU’s Global Medical Brigades, working with indigenous communities, Honduran physicians, and students to culminate sustainable healthcare solutions. Jessica furthered her experiences by participating in mini brigades to Immokalee, providing free blood pressure and sugar screenings, as well as dental hygiene kits. She also served in Immokalee through Project Narrative, an organization she has served as the president of the past two years. Project Narrative is a mentoring program that works with nonprofits in Immokalee to help historically underserved students with their college application materials. After graduation, Jessica will be applying into medical school, where she will become a physician who values the importance of community and civic engagement.

Alyssa Oquendo

Integrated Studies

In her 4 years at FGCU, Alyssa Oquendo has had the opportunity to serve within many campus communities. This has included being a member of Programming Board, serving on the Board of Governors within Resident Housing Association, a senator from the college of Arts and Sciences in Student Government, and an ambassador for Organizations and Student Involvement. It's with her passion for student engagement and mental health advocacy, Alyssa integrated both elements into her service work with the Roots of Compassion and Kindness Center at FGCU. Becoming the founding president of the ROCK RSO, she dedicated her time to creating monthly self-care events and service learning opportunities that targeted the ROCK Center's pillars of kindness, compassion, and empathy. Her research with ROCK led her to present at Eagle X twice, meet with President Timur on how the Center impacted her college life, and compete an honors thesis based on addressing mental health through kindness. After graduation, she plans to peruse her master's degree and hopes to continue her research in the benefits of student involvement for college undergraduates.

Serena Truong

Nursing

Serena, a Nursing major, embarked on her service journey early in her college life. In her freshman year, she engaged in Multicultural Leadership and Development’s Alternative Break and the FGCU Honors Immokalee Immersion Weekend, sparking her passion for service. On campus, Serena became deeply involved in service, partnering with the Harry Chapin Food Bank during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also contributed to Make a Difference Day, cleaning debris at the FGCU Food Forest post-Hurricane Ian. As President of the FGCU American Red Cross Club, she organized annual CPR Training events and hosted blood and bone marrow drives. Dedicated to healthcare, Serena invested four years in FGCU’s Global Medical Brigades, gaining hands-on patient care experience in both the 2022 Panama and 2023 Honduras Brigades. Serena's passion for serving with GMB extends beyond personal growth; she hopes to empower others to understand and engage with the healthcare system that surrounds them. In her role as GMB President, Serena co-led free health screenings in Immokalee, Golden Gate, and East Naples, FL launching the SWFL Community Health Clinics through the Millennium Fellowship. Post-graduation, Serena aims to apply the knowledge and compassion cultivated from her service experiences in her career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.

Andrew Parra

Psychology

Committed to driving positive change through dedicated service and advocacy, Andrew Parra stands as a fervent civic leader whose unwavering dedication to community well-being has made a lasting impact. Serving as the Chief of Staff and Vice President for Global Medical Brigades, he contributed significantly to the establishment of free health clinics in indigenous communities across Panama and Honduras. As a certified sexual assault advocate and suicide crisis counselor, Andrew demonstrated a profound understanding of the emotional and psychological dimensions of supporting others in need. His role as a Blood Donor Ambassador with the Red Cross involved collaboration with Missing Maps, where he actively contributed to intricate mapping efforts addressing the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations in geographically isolated or remote areas. In his most recent endeavor with the Millennium Fellowship program, Andrew co-led the initiative to create a free health clinic in the Golden Gate community, showcasing his enduring commitment to community health and education. Looking ahead, Andrew aspires to attend medical school and pursue a dual degree in Medicine and Bioethics, furthering his mission to make a positive impact on the intersection of healthcare and ethical considerations.

Emily Stringer

Marketing

Emily is a Marketing major who has always had a passion to help others both on and off campus. On campus, Emily used her voice to improve student services as a Student Government Senator for the College of Business and a member of the Special Allocations Committee, a committee member of the Programming Board, and a representative on the Junior Panhellenic Board. Off-campus, in her Honors course Emily created and edited online media to promote Lover’s Key State Park about its amenities for their visitors. She served others through the Multicultural and Leadership Center by participating in their Alternative Break program in Boston as well as her church’s Real Break program in Texas. Emily demonstrated her enthusiastic personality and leadership skills to make a positive impact on others in a diversified team setting. In addition, she has led fundraisers for the Abuse Counseling and Treatment Center of Ft. Myers through Alpha Chi Omega to support services and necessities that the women needed during their difficult times. During the pandemic, she remotely tutored students with disabilities in Algebra from her former middle school. Emily will continue to make her passion for community service a priority in her life. Post-graduation, Emily plans to begin her master’s degree in Business Administration at FGCU in the Fall. She is currently seeking a job in the marketing field.

Kayla Hughes

Environmental Studies

In her four years at FGCU, Kayla has had the opportunity to volunteer in multiple departments on campus and help with local community partners. She started serving as a tutor for student athletes and then transitioned to water quality research and environmental education. On campus, she served with the Athletics Department, Physical Plant, the Vester Field Station, and the Environmental Health and Safety Office. Off campus, she helped a native plant garden, Everglades Wonder Gardens, Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, and Rookery Bay NERR. Through service, she was able to form connections with each of these organizations and further her education and career. After graduation, Kayla plans to stay at FGCU to pursue her master’s degree in Environmental Science, continuing her research at the Water School and the Vester Field Station to focus on water quality issues in Southwest Florida.

Courtney Musselman

Forensic Studies

From the ages 9 to 13, Courtney was a camper at the Florida Elks Youth Camp, a summer camp supported by the Florida State Elks Association consisting of a 405-acre complex to provide campers with a unique experience for seven weeks each summer. As a Counselor-In-Training, Courtney was assigned to a cabin with new campers each Sunday over the summer. During her time, she would oversee her seven campers and interact with all of the campers and staff on the property during the day. As a camper, the experience changed her life in ways she never could have imagined. Courtney's volunteer work consisted of creating game schedules to keep the campers entertained throughout the day, guiding them on how to interact with others and show respect for the world around them. She was able to create friendships and lasting bonds with her campers and coworkers, which she is still in contact with today. Courtney plans to continue her passion for helping others and creating safe spaces by pursuing a career in law enforcement and becoming an individual in the field in which victims feel they have a safe space. She also plans to continue to work to make her community a safer place for all its residents.

Bradley Cook

Political Science

Bradley founded two volunteer organizations while at FGCU. The first, Unlocked Memories, was created with the mission of volunteering, fundraising, and advocating for the Alzheimer’s and dementia community in SWFL. Unlocked Memories has introduced many FGCU volunteers to local memory care facilities, which has led to intergenerational experiences that have become invaluable to both residents and students. Unlocked Memories has raised over $15,000 from fundraising that has gone directly to this population through new technology, necessities for these facilities, and gifts for the residents. The second organization, Rebuild SWFL, was started as a response to Hurricane Ian. After witnessing the devastation caused by this disaster, Bradley, along with a few friends, decided to take the initiative to help those in need. From a booming social media presence to having hundreds of weekly volunteers, Rebuild SWFL operated as a means to clear debris in the homes of people who were in most need. Over the past five months, volunteers have traveled from all over the nation to help out in any way possible. Through service, Bradley has been able to grow as a civically engaged leader in his community. After graduation, Bradley will be taking the LSAT and then going to law school.

Brigette Myers

Psychology

Bridgette is a Psychology major with a concentration in Neuroscience & Cognition and a minor in Entrepreneurship. She obtained the majority of her service-learning hours working with the Fort Myers Beach Kids Foundation, which provides impoverished children and families on Fort Myers Beach with necessary school supplies, basic living expenses, and Christmas gifts which are delivered by the Fort Myers Beach Fire Department on Christmas Eve. Aside from her desire to make an impact in her hometown, Bridgette has a vested interest in mental health advocacy. She has traveled to New Mexico to volunteer for the Zuni Pueblo Native American Tribe, learning about their physical and mental health disparities. In May 2022, she ventured to the jungles of East Panama to provide medical aid to remote villages without accessible resources. She has also been able to work with Kids’ Minds Matter, an organization that works with Golisano Children’s Hospital, which dedicates time and effort to advancing pediatric mental and behavioral health services. After graduating, Brigette plans to attend medical school, initially to pursue Psychiatry or Neurology; however, working as an ER scribe, she has an open mind and will see where the journey takes her.

Dani Hamilton

Biology

Dani studied biology with a chemistry minor. Most of her service-learning hours were at the Southwest Florida Horse Rescue, where she was able to give horses who had been neglected or mistreated a better chance at life. She was one of few volunteers who worked with three wild stallions that had no trust in humans for over two years, transforming from not being able to be touched to being trained and loved. Dani has continued to work on her senior research over a year after she completed the required course. She believes that the research she is doing with Dr. Emer on Zebrafish can make an impact on future toxicology studies and potentially a positive impact in healthcare. Dani also volunteered at the Preserve Senior Living during and after Hurricane Ian. She assisted with many different tasks to help not only the staff, but also comforting the residents during a scary time. Dani also volunteered with the American Red Cross helping pass out meals after the hurricane. Service-learning was never about the number of hours for Dani, but rather the impact she could make on others; whether that be people or horses. Following graduation, Dani is working with her research professor, Dr. Emer, over the summer. She has also been accepted into the Fall 2023 Biology Thesis Master’s program at FGCU.

Susannah Cogburn

Marine Science

Susannah is a Marine Science major with a double minor in Geology and Climate change. She obtained a majority of her service hours teaching and mentoring future generations of science divers, through FGCU’s Scientific Diving Program. Through the four semesters (Spring ‘21, Fall ‘21, Spring ‘22, and Fall ‘22) she has assisted with the class, and she has been a part of the training and certifications of 53 AAUS Scientific Divers.  Everything she learned through this class corresponds with her career goals in marine science, combining both scientific research techniques and methods with scuba diving. In addition to the service hours she has done with FGCU’s scientific diving program, she has also partnered with 11 other organizations, most notably the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Naples. Here, she volunteered in their Environmental Learning Center and on their fisheries team. Volunteering with Pat O’Donnell, Rookery Bay’s Fisheries Biologist, she was able to assist with his ongoing shark tagging research that sampled monthly. This experience inspired her to pursue a master’s thesis in shark ecotoxicology. Susannah was able to expand her skillset outside of the classroom and become more in tune with what is going on in her local community.

Samantha Romero

Journalism

Samantha Romero is a journalism major and an interdisciplinary studies minor at FGCU. Samantha began her service-learning experience at Eagle Media as a news director in its TV program, where she was promoted to the director of Eagle News TV her sophomore year. Samantha later served as a student reporter for WGCU Public media. As an immigrant, Venezuelan-American student, Samantha felt called to use her talents to inform the Hispanic/Latinocommunity in Immokalee, Florida. Samantha’s stories have been aired on Southwest Florida radio stations like Radio Conciencia and WGCU. She also volunteers at St. John XXIII Catholic Church as a video minister to stream masses to the sick and homebound, and served this past year as the creative director for The Music Forest, a student-led program at FGCU that raises awareness of Hispanic culture in traditional music and its roots, while providing music lessons. Samantha will pursue her calling in news and her experience has left her inspired to serve others. She is motivated to continue being civically engaged as she transitions out of FGCU into the community.

Holli McLean

Psychology

Holli is a first-generation college student who studied psychology and will be entering the world of higher education. She found her passion for quality education within student affairs through her service both on and off campus. She served with multiple departments across campus including Prevention and Wellness and the Multicultural and Leadership Development Center, and I was able to use these experiences to gain a connection with Make A Wish Southwest Florida. Through these service experiences, Holli was able to educate students across campus and in the community about health and wellness, cultural competence, and leadership development. Holli has served in many roles such as Assistant Director for Emerging Eagles, President for Omicron Delta Kappa, and a Peer Educator, and all of these roles helped guide her love for service to design a lifetime career of service within the education industry.

Nina Mendes

Journalism

Nina Mendes is a journalism major with a double minor in creative writing and interdisciplinary studies. During her freshman year, she began her volunteer experience with FGCU’s independent student-run publication, Eagle News. Nina was a staff writer for two years before being promoted to the News & Features Editor during her junior year. While serving with Eagle News, she discovered Valerie’s House, which is the sole nonprofit in Southwest Florida dedicated to helping children grieve the loss of a parent or sibling. Nina has been volunteering with this organization for the past two years as a member of their Val’s Pals Mentor Program. She mentors a young girl named Addison, who has taught her the impact of giving back to the community. Nina’s volunteer experience has inspired her to continue serving others, and she is dedicated to lifelong service even after she leaves FGCU.

Quinton Jeske

Biology

Quinton is a Biology major and has served his community in many capacities both on and off campus. On campus he has worked with Peers Care as a Peer Educator, as letter writer for Students and Seniors, a Student Government Senator for the College or Arts and Sciences, a student representative on the committee to update the Student Code of Conduct, and an Associate Justice with Student Government. Off campus he has worked with Showing Up for Racial Justice as a food sorter and distributor, is founding member of the SWFL coalition for LGBTQ+ Youth that advocated for anti-bullying guidelines in the Lee County Code of Conduct, and as a front desk volunteer at Virginia B. Andes Community Clinic: a free clinic in Port Charlotte. These rich experiences have shaped his time at FGCU and set him on a path to serve his community as an accepting and inclusive family practice doctor, keeping time for the boots on the ground work that always needs to be done.

Kaelyn Julmeus

Biology

Kaelyn has been volunteering with Lee Health since May 2019. After working in Gulf Coast Medical Center’s Emergency Department , she soon was provided the opportunity to volunteer at Golisano Children’s Hospital of SWFL as a patient care assistant position at the Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Unit. Fast forward, she became the Vice President of the Cancer Research Program and wanted to revisit the RSO’s mission, cancer education, advocacy, and research. While focusing on advocacy and with the help of American Cancer Society, her team organized a virtual panel where former patients and families spoke on their journey with cancer. Many patients were treated at Golisano and shared ideas on how to be better advocates for patients with cancer. An idea brought up was completing chalk designs outside the hospital to bring support to patients receiving treatment. After working with her volunteer supervisor, she organized a “Chalkwalk” with CRP students during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month at the hospital’s garden area, a common place patients relax from treatment. This event was so successful, CRP students did it again for the holidays. This is now becoming an annual event in partnership with Golisano Children’s Hospital in the month of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (September).

Rebecca Salas

Art

Rebecca is a first-generation student majoring in Art and minoring in Psychology and Theatre. She completed most of her hours in partnership with Franklin Park Elementary School, where she created the foundations for a tutoring program in collaboration with the Little Eagle tutors, participated in cleaning up their garden during Make A Difference Day, conducted tutoring sessions the following semester, and in her final semester she began a theatre club with her peers in the Applied Theatre class. During the summer, she volunteered at the Center for the Arts in Bonita Springs, where she became a teacher’s aid and helped the students complete their activities. She enjoyed serving her community, and after experiencing all of these little pieces of happiness, she realized just how important volunteer work is. Even if it is just a couple of hours one day a week, it is a lifetime of change for someone else. She realized that kids are dreamers and have so much optimism when it comes to life, and she wants to help them express that through art.

Carli Valentino

Communication

Carli Valentino has always had a passion working in the nonprofit community since she was a little girl. At her first years at FGCU she volunteered for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Naples Zoo and Caribbean Gardens, Naples Alliance, and an internship with Freedom Waters Foundation. Providing over 60 therapeutic trips on the water for families with critically ill or disabled children, and veterans during her internship at FWF. She continued her volunteering experience while at home for USSA fundraising over 75 trips for critically ill or disabled youth and veterans on fishing and hunting experiences as their dream wish. Lastly, she spent her senior year as a teaching assistant for 5 courses over the 2 semesters as an internship and for service-learning hours. As a TA, she brought in nonprofit organizations like Freedom Waters Foundation, Naples Zoo and Caribbean Gardens, Golisano Children’s Hospital, and Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples as clients for the Public Relations Campaign Capstone course to encourage students to create meaningful campaigns for their final projects. After grad school, she plans to become a teacher so that she can continue to inspire students to volunteer in the community. 

Sophia Amvrosiatos

Communication

Sophia is a Communication major with a concentration in Public Relations and double minors in Marketing and Interdisciplinary Studies. The start of Sophia's empowerment began with her involvement in the Multicultural & Leadership Development Center. She has worked diligently to present topics on leadership skills, self-knowledge. Her journey at FGCU includes Emerging Eagles Mentor, Teacher’s Assistant for Elementary Calculus, Course Assistant for The Contemplative Life, Course Assistant for the Humanities League and a Lead Team Member. Through these experiences, she has impacted students through recognizing their resiliency and inner strength. In addition, Sophia has volunteered at the FGCU Food Forest, The Wonder Gardens, and The Freedom Waters Foundation. From mentoring students on campus, connecting with caregivers in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico, and partnering up with other nonprofits she has learned even in the midst of the unknown, and all the things she may not understand, that she can rest on the present moment. She believes that there is always something to be grateful for. The course of her service is not over. She is still learning, growing and always will be. Serving is growth and growth is forever.

Seeka Agama

Nursing

Seeka Agama is a nursing major who not only loves to serve, but lives to do so. She has served both locally and abroad with the Dominican Republic Outreach Program (D.R.O.P.), Alternative Winter Break Trip to Puerto Rico, and in many other capacities as a mentor. Seeka believes that service is not all about the impact you are able to make on others, but about the impact they are able to make on you and the relationships you develop while doing so. She has learned so many lessons and has never missed a moment of sharing her experiences with others in order to also encourage them to foster a sense of civic responsibility. Seeka is committed to service and devoted to lifelong learning. She is so thankful to FGCU for giving her the platform to be able to do so. After graduation, she plans to apply all of the knowledge, compassion, and skills she has learned through serving, in her career as a pediatric nurse. Seeka stated, “I now know what it means to serve with passion and purpose, and for years to come, I will never stop doing so!”

Nicole Foster

Integrated Studies

Nicole is an Integrated Studies major who will be graduating with over 2,000 service hours. Most of her hours came from working as a student manager for the FGCU women’s basketball team. After combining her genuine love for the game of basketball and her desire to help the local community, she was able to serve along a championship team for 4 straight years. Nicole also started a non-profit her senior year as an element of her Honors Foundations of Civic Engagement course. She was able to create an organization that served as the connection between families in need and donor families and was successful in helping over 180 individuals in our local area. Nicole hopes that future students see that their service should not only help the community, but that it should help them learn and grow as an individual and as a proud Eagle.

Alexis Rivero

Elementary Education

Alexis is an Elementary Education major who looks forward to teaching the young minds of our future.  Alexis has worked with several child-center organizations, focusing on raising money for medically ill children and expressing the importance of giving them the chance to feel like a kid.  Alexis assisted the organization Give Kids the World, providing hospitalized children and their families the opportunity to experience and enjoy a Make A Wish Foundation and Walt Disney World partnered vacation.  Alexis devoted all four years of her college experience with the university’s Dance Marathon; from solely dancing to taking the position of Morale Captain, to later becoming Head-Morale Captain.  Raising thousands of dollars over her four years, Alexis served with the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital organization – this year raising money for our local Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.  In addition, Alexis also devoted all four years to volunteering with our Athletics Marketing Team at our sporting events.  Alexis looks forward to continuing to serve in these areas of excellence and hopes to pursue a career in Patient Academic Services, where she will educate children who have been admitted into the hospital, as well as any sibling(s) that may require her services.

Allyne Smith

Legal Studies

Allyne is a Legal Studies major, full-time paralegal, full-time mom, President of her neighborhood association, Guardian ad Litem, and volunteer paralegal for her local Bar association. Allyne feels that giving back to the community around her is a lifetime requirement and necessary for her to maintain a sense of completeness. While at FGCU she completed more than 700 hours of it. The majority of her volunteer work involved representation of children for the Guardian ad Litem program where she advocated in Court on behalf of the best interests of 17 different children over a 3 year period.  She also worked on pro bono family law cases and focused on healing families. Allyne’s life has been enriched by the children she has helped and she plans to continue as a Guardian ad Litem and pro bono paralegal for the rest of her life. 

Estelle Ayomen

Biology and Psychology

Estelle studied Biology and Psychology, and apart from STEM was actively involved in music at FGCU and in the community. Through her involvement in several community choirs, she learned that the existence of music and the arts has the power to deeply connect a community, transcending all differences. Estelle has also volunteered with the New Horizons of SWFL, an organization special to her because it values the importance of giving time to youth in the community. Here she volunteered to empower students through academic guidance for those who may not receive that in school or at home. While she taught the students topics in math and science, they taught her the value of people, of community, and the long-lasting impact people can have on one another. Estelle vows to continue sharing her passions with the community and to work to make a positive impact on the lives of her community neighbors.”

Daniel Kohl-Fink

Biology

Daniel majored in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. After graduation he hopes to go to medical school and fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor! For as long as he can remember he has always been interested in helping and giving back to the community. Since he has been at FGCU, he has strived to give back to the community in as many ways as possible. From being a freshman and becoming a founding father of a leadership fraternity on campus, to helping in the collection of unrecyclable plastics to make eco-bricks in order to build sustainable furniture for our FGCU Food Forest. But most recently he has been shadowing different doctors in hopes of one day being one and coaching a local U19 Soccer Showcase team.

Chelsea Caneel

Music Therapy

As a Music Therapy major, Chelsea partnered with Thrive Community Church to bring love, joy, and impact to the SWFL region. She played the piano in church every Sunday during her time at FGCU and became a mentor for young students coming into the university. Chelsea also spent time with the elderly, playing guitar and singing to those in assisted and independent living facilities, hospice, nursing homes, and even private homes. Chelsea helped target and solve social issues with an enthusiastic and positive attitude.  She attributes her accomplishments to the outstanding Office of Service-Learning for encouraging her to partner and serve with a local agency in need. Chelsea firmly believes that serving with Thrive over the course of her time at FGCU changed her life for the better and she looks forward to continuing to serve in the future wherever she goes next.
 

Natalie Colwell

Public Health

When Natalie, a Public Health major, aged out of the traditional camp program she began serving as a counselor at the camp that meant so much to her, Camp Boggy Creek. Natalie served over 1,000 hours working with the teens on leadership skills, team work, and self-confidence. She encouraged her campers to love themselves and to never let anyone stop them from being who they are. 

Karla Moreno-Perez

Forensic Science and Forensic Studies

Karla, a first-generation Cuban-American double majored in Forensic Science and Forensic Studies. She has served locally and abroad. "Reflecting back on the many communities I have served, the lessons learned from each, and the stories of all whom I’ve encountered throughout my years has helped me realize that I will never stop serving others, no matter what the capacity may be."

Evelyn Pacheco

Criminal Justice

Evelyn, also known as Eve, is a first-generation student who believes she has exceeded the expectations that society has placed on her. She is a Criminal Justice major with a minor in Spanish. Eve feels that commitment to service and civic engagement are done by giving love and sacrifice to one's community.  She promises  she will continue to serve long into the future.

Luisa Rodriguez

Biology

Luisa is a Biology major who first got involved with service through an Honors Foundations of Civic Engagement course. From there Luisa took initiative and founded Project Ciclovia where she led a group of students in serving the  Immokalee community by providing free medical services for the adults and educational games for the children. She hopes that other students  follow in her footsteps and uplift their own communities through service.

Rachel Stewart

Biology

Rachel is a Biology major who took the reins of Be-A-Buddy, a program aimed at connecting the special needs community with the local SWFL community by bringing special needs students from a local high school on field trips each semester. Be-A-Buddy soon  became more than just field trips; it became about connection, growth, and meaningful community engagement. “Be-A-Buddy is about love, kindness, having fun, and creating lifelong friendships with people no matter how different they are from you.”

Stephen Vale

Psychology

Stephen is a Psychology major and through his commitment to service and civic engagement, has assisted Habitat for Humanity, Special Equestrians, and Naples Community Hospital. Stephen has worked to help combat unequal housing, help to provide affordable treatment options for disabled children, and has confronted healthcare and sustainability issues within the community. His commitment to service and lifelong learning have guided him to his future career path in pediatric neurology.