A Florida State University master’s student and Presidential Scholar was accepted into a highly competitive national fellowship program for emerging civic leaders.

Ella Garcia, who is working toward her master’s degree in public administration, was accepted into the Coro Fellows Program housed at University of Missouri-St. Louis.

The Coro Fellows Program was founded in 1947 in San Francisco to train young World War II veterans in civic leadership skills. It now operates four centers in St. Louis, San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York, where it serves to advance civic engagement and accelerate the careers of those in public affairs.

As a Coro Fellow, Garcia will live in St. Louis and participate in a full-time, graduate-level leadership training program that includes seminars, interviews with local leaders, opportunities to learn about regionally specific topics, and placement in organizations across nonprofit, business and government sectors.

“I’m excited because it’s going to be very fulfilling to focus on the aspect of public administration that’s about giving back, not just pursuing my own professional goals, but learning how I can better the communities around me,” Garcia said. “It’s one thing to study administration and government in a theoretical way, but it’s another to apply what I’ve learned hands-on. It’s what I feel like I’m called to do.”

From Mount Dora, Florida, Garcia is a member of FSU’s Presidential Scholars Program. She earned her bachelor’s degree in political science and will graduate with her master’s degree this summer with support from FSU’s More in Four program, which helps high achieving students complete a bachelor’s degree in three years and continue immediately into a master’s degree.

Professors and mentors say Garcia’s involvement at FSU has prepared her well for the Coro Fellows Program. That includes her participation in FSU’s Applied Politics & Policy Learning Experience (APPLE) program, in the Department of Political Science, where she was able to intern for a state representative and a member of U.S. Congress.

“Ella has used her time at FSU to gain extensive hands-on government experience and advanced analytical skills, with the aim of driving informed, community-oriented public service,” said FSU professor Amanda Driscoll, cofounder of APPLE and one of Garcia’s mentors. “The Coro Fellowship will provide her with additional public service experience and practical leadership training to deepen her impact and professional growth. I am confident that she will translate her established civic commitments into effective, real-world solutions, and we can’t wait to see what she will accomplish next.”

Garcia’s interest in policy work extended beyond U.S. government last summer, when she traveled with a group of FSU Honors Program students to the Oxford Consortium of Human Rights workshop at the University of Oxford in England.

“Ella is among the finest students I’ve worked with at Florida State,” said Ross Moret, who led the trip to Oxford and serves as an associate teaching professor in the FSU Honors Program. “She is dedicated, responsible, insightful and caring. She will make an outstanding Coro Fellow.”

As a Presidential Scholar, Garcia said she enjoyed mentorship and a peer community that helped motivate her to reach her goals.

“FSU and the Presidential Scholars Program specifically have been instrumental for me,” she said. “It’s really shaped who I am, as a leader and as a person.”

To learn more about student support for pursuing national fellowships, visit the Office of National Fellowships and the Office of Graduate Fellowships and Awards.

Visit the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy website to learn more about the college, department and programs.

The post FSU student invited to nationally competitive Coro Fellows Program for emerging public affairs leaders appeared first on Florida State University News.

The post FSU 175: How commencement connects generations at Florida State appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University’s Career Center recently honored its final group of Garnet & Gold Scholars, culminating 16 years of student achievement and impact. Thirteen students were inducted at a ceremonial celebration breakfast.

Established in 2010, the Garnet & Gold Scholar Society was created to recognize students who engage in meaningful experiential learning opportunities beyond the classroom. Since then, experiential learning has become a defining component of the undergraduate experience and has been integrated into the CoreFSU curriculum for all students.

Reflecting on the legacy of the program, Li P. Pon, senior assistant director for Experiential Learning, emphasized the collective commitment and success of the Garnet & Gold Scholar Society. Its prominence is a result of the efforts of its founders, current leadership, overall program advisors, area contacts, area approvers and FSU Career Center’s Experiential Learning team.

“The Florida State University Career Center extends its sincere appreciation to those whose dedication has sustained the Garnet & Gold Scholar Society throughout the years,” Pon said. “We are deeply grateful to our administrators, campus partners and colleagues for their commitment to undergraduate student success.”

Each student received a medal and was celebrated for their honorable level of dedication and discipline for international experience, internship, leadership, research and service beyond the classroom.

2026 Garnet & Gold Scholar Society Honorees
(listed alphabetically by last name):

Marcy Bedaw, Biological Science, Palm Harbor, FL

Jude Bogusz, Nursing, Orlando, FL

Constanza Cescato, Behavioral Neuroscience, Rosario, Argentina

Patrick “Joey” DeMarco, Exercise Physiology, Jacksonville, FL

Grace Elliott, Behavioral Neuroscience, Clearwater, FL

Mia Gold, Biological Science; Russian, Tampa, FL

Richard “Richyie” Gonzaga, Psychology, Miami, FL

Isabelle Krukoski, Editing, Writing, and Media; Media and Communication Studies, Montverde, FL

Amber Losciale, Cyber Criminology, Inverness, FL

Rachel McCann, Finance; Marketing, Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Marissa Rouse, Information Communication Technology; Digital Media Production, Cincinnati, OH

Emma Sag, Behavioral Neuroscience, Wellington, FL

Hannah Squier, Biological Science; Economics, Stuart, FL

The post FSU’s Garnet & Gold Scholar Society welcomes final inductees appeared first on Florida State University News.

A Florida State University student is one of 16 talented undergraduate artists from across the nation selected for NASA’s Psyche Inspired program.  

Julia Stephens, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art and a Bachelor of Arts in creative writing, has produced a series of artworks relating to a current NASA mission as part of this prestigious internship.

Established in 2017, Psyche Inspired is a program that brings undergraduate students from any discipline or major together to share the excitement and innovation of NASA’s mission to visit, map and collect data on Psyche, a metal-rich asteroid roughly the same size as the state of Florida. Stephens and her fellow interns use their artistic skills to showcase scientific and engineering content with the public in creative new ways.

According to the agency’s mission overview, exploring the asteroid could help provide valuable information about the history of our solar system and even Earth’s own core. A van-sized probe launched as part of the mission in 2023 is currently en route to enter Psyche’s orbit in August 2029.

Stephens brings a lifelong interest in space and passion for science to her work as an artist and writer. As a Psyche Inspired intern, she is helping NASA tell the mission’s story and communicate complex ideas to the public.

 “I think connecting this research into artistic practices is very important, and it’s something that I want to keep doing within my personal art practice,” she said. “Being a part of something greater than myself — making art with other people that contributes to a greater whole — is one of the best parts of Psyche.”

The post FSU student creates space-inspired artwork as NASA intern appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University has bestowed the title of Distinguished Research Professor on four outstanding faculty members for their exemplary research productivity and contributions to their fields.

“The dedication of these scholars represents the very best of Florida State University,” said Vice President for Research Stacey S. Patterson. “By pushing the boundaries of what we know about everything from quantum materials to human behavior, they are not only advancing their respective disciplines but also inspiring the next generation of innovators on our campus. We are proud to support their continued pursuit of discovery.”

The Distinguished Research Professor award recognizes outstanding research and/or creative activity of eligible Florida State University faculty currently at the rank of full professor. Recipients receive a one-time award of $10,000 and can use the title Distinguished Research Professor throughout their tenure at FSU. The title is only surpassed by that of the Robert O. Lawton Distinguished Professor Award.

This year’s recipients are:

Hui Li, Electrical & Computer Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering

Hui “Helen” Li is a leading expert in power electronics for grid and transportation electrification. Her research focuses on developing innovative power conversion technologies based on wide-bandgap devices and advanced control to achieve high-performance operation and cost reduction. Li has led power electronics research at the Center for Advanced Power Systems (CAPS) for over two decades. Her work is instrumental in advancing next-generation grid systems to meet the surging power demand from booming AI data centers and widespread transportation electrifications. She is an IEEE Fellow, a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI), and a member of the Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine of Florida (ASEMFL).

Jon Maner, Psychology, College of Arts & Sciences

Jon Maner is a social psychologist who uses evolutionary theories to understand fundamental human social motives. His research explores the psychological processes underlying social hierarchy, romantic attraction, social affiliation, and self-protective processes like fear and anxiety. Maner received the American Psychological Association’s Distinguished Scientific Award for Early Career Contribution and is widely published for his work on how dominance and prestige influence leadership.

Michael Shatruk, Chemistry & Biochemistry, College of Arts & Sciences

Michael Shatruk is an inorganic materials chemist specializing in solid-state and molecular magnetism and the discovery of new quantum materials. As the founding director of the FSU Quantum Science Initiative, Shatruk works at the boundary between materials chemistry and physics to uncover correlations between crystal structure and magnetic properties of quantum materials. His research, supported by numerous grants, utilizes advanced X-ray and neutron scattering methods to explore intermetallic magnets, stimuli-responsive materials and molecular qubits that could revolutionize optoelectronic devices, quantum technologies, computing and medical sensing. He is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Vladimir Dobrosavljevic, Physics, College of Arts & Sciences

Vladimir Dobrosavljevic is an internationally recognized leader in theoretical condensed matter physics, whose research has advanced the understanding of strongly correlated and disordered electronic systems, particularly near metal-insulator transitions. His work has introduced and developed powerful extensions of dynamical mean-field theory to explain how electron localization, strong correlations, and disorder interplay to produce emergent phenomena such as non-Fermi-liquid behavior, Griffiths phases, and quantum glassy dynamics, with direct relevance to materials including high-temperature superconductors, low-dimensional electron systems and “bad metals.” He has made seminal contributions to the theory of Anderson localization in correlated systems and to the understanding of non-equilibrium quantum dynamics, helping to establish glassy electronic behavior and quantum criticality as central concepts in modern condensed matter physics, while influencing both experimental directions and the broader field of quantum materials research.

###

The post FSU names four faculty as Distinguished Research Professors appeared first on Florida State University News.

PHOTO GALLERY

Florida State University’s First Lady Jai Vartikar joined hundreds of students, alumni and campus leaders Wednesday, April 22 for the inaugural Legacy Tea, an event that honored the university’s roots as a women’s college and recognized the impact of female leaders.

Hosted by the Panhellenic Association in the Student Union Ballrooms, the event was part of the university’s yearlong 175th anniversary celebration.

The program featured remarks from student, faculty and university leaders, including Vice President for Student Affairs Amy Hecht, history Professor and Department Chair Jennifer Koslow, Panhellenic President Emma Clark and this year’s featured speaker FSU First Lady Jai Vartikar.

Vartikar said the event reflects a central truth about Florida State’s history: “When we talk about the legacy of Florida State University, we are talking about the legacy of women.”

The post FSU 175: Legacy Tea with FSU’s First Lady Jai Vartikar celebrates women’s leadership, university’s history appeared first on Florida State University News.

A Florida State University neuroscientist has earned a national award for research on gustation, the scientific term for the sense of taste, and how it shapes eating behavior.

Associate Professor of Biological Science and Neuroscience Roberto Vincis has earned the 2026 Ajinomoto Award for Young Investigators in Gustation from the Association for Chemoreception Sciences, or AChemS, in recognition of his research into sensory systems with the aim to understand gustation’s influence on eating behavior.

His work focuses on how taste influences what we eat, and it informs a wide range of topics, from how and why people develop eating disorders to why they may overconsume ultra-processed foods.

“Learning how the brain integrates information from what we consume and experience really gets at the fundamental components of why some foods are good for us and others aren’t,” Vincis said. “Winning this award validates that my lab’s research is relevant and impactful because our peers recognize it as such.”

Since 1998, the Ajinomoto Award has been conferred annually to an outstanding junior scientist and emerging leader in gustation. Its awarding body, AChemS, is the preeminent organization dedicated to the advancement of chemoreception science, which includes smell and taste. Vincis is the first from FSU to earn this honor, which is supported by the Ajinomoto Group, a multi-billion-dollar food and biotechnology corporation credited with developing the first umami-flavored seasoning in 1909.

Vincis was presented with the honor Wednesday during the annual AChemS conference in St. Petersburg, Florida. As an awardee, he will also deliver a lecture at the conference that broadly covers the Vincis Laboratory’s investigation of the neurological mechanisms behind the role of taste in eating behavior and preferences.

“Dr. Vincis’ research investigates the neural circuits and computational processes of brain regions that regulate food intake and shape dietary preferences, which are key factors in understanding eating disorders,” said Lisa Eckel, director of FSU’s Program in Neuroscience. “The chemical senses have long been a hallmark of excellence within the program, and this recognition further elevates the stature of this distinguished community of scientists.”

Humans’ perception of taste generally falls into five categories — sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami — each triggered by specific chemicals. For example, ingesting alkaloid molecules like the caffeine in coffee and dark chocolate will leave a bitter taste in your mouth. Chewing adds a layer of sensation, as the action releases gaseous chemicals, which then hit the nose. Somatosensory components like temperature and texture also factor into what and how much someone consumes.

“All of these sensory modalities give rise to the percept we call flavor, and our daily consumption is highly dependent on this initial sensation,” said Vincis, who, in addition to traditional research methods, employs machine learning techniques to analyze neural activity from different brain regions. “Neurons don’t speak in English, so by decoding neurons’ specific language as they receive sensory information, we can understand how certain eating behaviors develop.”

Theoretically, people eat when they are hungry, stop when they feel full and only select nutritious foods and beverages. Examining the reality of humans’ experiences reveals a different picture that includes the impact of ultra-processed foods and wide-ranging public health concerns such as obesity and eating disorders. Vincis’ work strives to explain this gap in biological theory and real-world occurrences.

“We use the term ‘maladaptive’ to describe nutrition-related behaviors that will cause long-term problems,” Vincis said. “For example, ultra-processed foods can lead to overeating because they are packaged with very rewarding olfactory and sensory cues. When we taste these foods, we feel good, but they are devoid of nutrients. This is how sensory information from your oral cavity can hijack your brain, similar to the way a drug hijacks neural reward pathways for dopamine to drive addiction.”

Ultra-processed foods like soft drinks and many packaged snack options are industrially manufactured and include a high number of ingredients not found in a common household kitchen. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, approximately 70 percent of packaged products in the nation’s food supply could be considered ultra-processed, and children get more than 60 percent of their calories from such foods. Due to their addictiveness, caloric density and lack of nutrients, the prevalence of ultra-processed foods is known by nutrition scientists, epidemiologists and major health organizations such as FDA to be a significant contributor to rising rates of obesity, heart disease and cancer, among others.

“The National Institutes of Health and Food and Drug Administration consider research on nutrition-related behavior to be a public priority at this stage,” Vincis said. “Earning the Ajinomoto Award means we are on the right track and is likely to help us secure future funding and fellowships so that we may continue our work.”

Florida State University has been a prime contributor to chemosensory research for more than 50 years and has served as a home base for generations of the field’s leaders including the late James C. Smith — a chemosensory research legend, FSU Robert O. Lawton Professor and alumnus of the FSU Department of Psychology — who was among the cofounders of AChemS in 1978.

To learn more about Vincis’ research and its scientific impact, visit the Vincis Laboratory website. Visit the FSU Program in Neuroscience website to learn more about this  interdisciplinary program.

The post FSU neuroscientist earns national award for research on taste and eating behavior appeared first on Florida State University News.

FSU Panama City’s Dean Randy Hanna recently announced that Korhan Adalier has been chosen as the 2026 recipient of the Provost Sally McRorie Excellence in Teaching and Service Award. 

The award, which was created in honor of former FSU Provost Sally McRorie, is presented annually by FSU PC faculty as part of the celebrations leading up to spring graduation. 

“This award was established by the faculty at FSU Panama City in 2022 as an acknowledgement of exceptional work in the classroom with our students as well as outside in the community,” Hanna said.  

Adalier is the director of FSU Panama City’s engineering programs and serves as a teaching professor. He has been the coordinator of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Program since 2005.  

“I am also deeply honored that this award is associated with former Provost Sally McRorie,” Adalier said. “I have great respect for her leadership and contributions to the university, and receiving an award in her name makes this recognition particularly significant to me.” 

Before joining FSU PC in 2003, he was a civil engineering faculty member at Eastern Mediterranean University in Cyprus, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York.

“Teaching, academic advising and mentoring students is the most rewarding part of my profession, and I take great pride in helping prepare the next generation of civil engineers. It is especially meaningful to see a large majority of our graduates remain in Northwest Florida and contribute to the local workforce and economy.” 

— Korhan Adalier, director of FSU PC Engineering Programs

“Teaching, academic advising and mentoring students is the most rewarding part of my profession, and I take great pride in helping prepare the next generation of civil engineers,” Adalier said. “It is especially meaningful to see a large majority of our graduates remain in Northwest Florida and contribute to the local workforce and economy.” 

Adalier’s primary expertise lies in the areas of geotechnical engineering, soil mechanics, earthquake engineering, soil dynamics, ground improvement and forensic engineering in natural and man-made earth structures. He is an author or co-author of more than 100 technical publications in the fields of geotechnical and earthquake engineering. 

“My interest in engineering began with a strong appreciation for mathematics and physics,” he said. “Civil engineering, in particular, represents the application of these foundational subjects to solve real-world problems and improve infrastructure and communities. This natural connection led me to pursue a career in engineering, and ultimately in education, where I could share that passion with students.” 

A member of numerous technical associations and societies, Adalier has been a reviewer for 10 different technical journals and received several professional awards, including the Casimir Gzowski Medal (2005) from the Canadian Society of Civil Engineers. He has taught more than 20 different engineering courses over the past 30 years as a college professor. He received his master’s and doctoral degrees in civil engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1992 and 1996. 

“Advances in computational tools, data analysis and modeling have significantly shaped how we teach and apply civil engineering concepts,” he said. “As educators, we continuously adapt our approach to ensure students not only understand fundamental principles, but also develop the skills needed to effectively use modern tools in a rapidly evolving profession.” 

For more information about FSU Panama City, visit fsupc.fsu.edu. 

The post FSU Panama City faculty honors Korhan Adalier with Provost Sally McRorie award appeared first on Florida State University News.

A Florida State University student has been selected for a national civil rights and public policy program, joining a network of emerging leaders committed to advancing social change.

Shiv Patel, a sophomore majoring in exercise physiology on the pre-med track, is one of five undergraduate and five graduate students selected from around the country as a scholar in this year’s cohort of the John Robert Lewis Scholars & Fellows Program.

The program brings together student leaders for a yearlong experience centered on civil rights, public policy and community engagement. Scholars participate in immersive programming, including fully funded trips and a Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage, where they explore key sites of the Civil Rights Movement and engage with leaders in government, business and nonprofit sectors.

The program is named for the late Congressman John Lewis, a civil rights leader known for his lifelong commitment to nonviolent activism and public service.

“A lot of my passion came from growing up in the capital, being around healthcare legislation and knowing people that are affected by it.”

– Shiv Patel

At FSU, Patel has built a strong foundation in both research and public health leadership. He serves as president of the Student Health Advisory Committee and as health services director within Student Government. In these roles, he works to promote student wellness initiatives and improve access to health resources on campus.

Patel has also conducted oncology research under the mentorship of Jerome Irianto, assistant professor at the College of Medicine, and has worked as a medical assistant in Tallahassee, including at FSU PrimaryHealth and at Florida Cancer Specialists, where he gained experience serving underserved populations.

A Tallahassee native, Patel credits his upbringing and exposure to healthcare systems in the region as key influences on his career goals.

“I was a medical assistant with FSU PrimaryHealth, a clinic that serves underserved communities, and working with them gave me a lot of direct exposure to patients in underprivileged conditions,” Patel said. “A lot of my passion came from growing up in the capital, being around healthcare legislation and knowing people that are affected by it.”

Through the John Robert Lewis Scholars & Fellows Program, Patel will engage in a project and collaborate with peers and mentors across disciplines. He plans to focus his work on improving healthcare access in rural communities and exploring how clinical innovation and policy can reduce disparities in care delivery.

“The program focuses on civil rights and policy activism. We will go on a pilgrimage to different cities in the Southeast to learn more about the legacy of Congressman Lewis and his opinions on activism philosophy,” Patel said. “They also put us in contact with their alumni network, which has done a lot of things both in terms of public policy and healthcare policy. There’s been physicians who have been Lewis Scholars and have focused their advocacy around non-violent principles, specifically on civil rights.”

Patel also was one of four FSU students to recently receive the 2026 Barry Goldwater Scholarship, a national honor recognizing outstanding sophomores and juniors pursuing research careers in the science, engineering and mathematics fields.

After graduating, Patel plans to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician-scientist focusing on improving access to equitable care through healthcare technologies and policy solutions.

The post FSU student from Tallahassee selected for John Robert Lewis Scholars & Fellows Program appeared first on Florida State University News.

A Florida State University researcher has earned a major grant to research local waterways that affect the everyday lives of Tallahassee residents.

Ming Ye, a professor in the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science, has been awarded more than $2.5 million from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to research groundwater sources in the Wakulla Springs basin and map the basin’s underwater caves, some of which have never been explored.

“All of Florida’s springs are facing critical issues: water level is dropping, amount of flow is decreasing, and water quality is becoming worse,” said Ye, who is also affiliated with the Department of Scientific Computing. “The funding of this project gives us a chance to finally go subsurface to understand both the quantity and quality of the water.”

Wakulla Springs, just a 30-minute drive from FSU’s Tallahassee campus, is a natural exit point for the groundwater of the Floridian aquifer, one of the most productive aquifers in the world, which provides drinking water to nearly 10 million people. The basin comprises a series of caves, conduits and sinkholes that lead into Wakulla Springs, which was named an International Geological Heritage Site in 2024.

By testing water at the springs and mapping the cave systems that lead into it, researchers will better understand how our water is affected by the geological makeup of the caves it passes through and how it’s affected by various other environmental factors, from rising sea levels to pollution.

Ye will partner with the University of South Florida, a cave diving team of the Woodville Karst Plain Project, and SunFish, a Texas-based underwater field services company to train its new technology, the Underwater Autonomous Vehicle, in mapping cave systems beneath Wakulla Springs. While in the cave systems, divers will accompany the UAV — a small, drone-like machine — and “teach” it how to map the caves by guiding it through passages so the machine can work independently in the future.

“Ming is an expert in hydrogeology and using computational approaches to model groundwater transport, which helps him study fluid transport beneath the ground here in Florida,” said Michael Stukel, chair of the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science and a professor of oceanography and environmental science. “He’s a collaborative and interdisciplinary scientist and teacher whose work builds bridges across different curricular groups within EOAS.”

Florida is home to the highest concentration of springs in the world — over 1,000 throughout the state — which are an essential part of the ecosystem. Methods like dye tracing have long been used to map how water moves through the underwater cave system, and taking water samples has provided insights into the chemical makeup of the water.

While divers have charted some of the caves, parts of the basin remain unmapped and unsampled because they’re too narrow or dangerous for humans to reach. The UAV can access these dangerous caves, taking water samples from more areas to provide a comprehensive picture of how different geological compositions in the cave system affect the water that’s eventually consumed and used in our daily lives.

“This area was brought to my attention on day one of my FSU career because it had a worldwide reputation for how difficult it was to map,” said Ye, who began studying Wakulla Springs when he joined FSU’s faculty in Spring 2007. “There are still a lot of research questions regarding these water sources.”

The Wakulla Springs basin is the largest spring basin in Florida, and the cave system stretches approximately 25 miles. The UAV will map the size and shape of the caves while taking water samples to help researchers understand the chemical makeup of the water that will eventually make its way to Wakulla Springs.

“The UAV is a new way to study these systems, and the technology can be expanded to the entire state and to other states with ongoing problems in their springs,” Ye said. “Wakulla Springs is part of our heritage; I bring my daughter to swim in the spring, and I hope it can remain as healthy as possible so future generations can also enjoy it.”

Ye received his doctorate in hydrology from the University of Arizona in 2002 before completing his post-doctoral research with the Hydrology Technical Group in Portland, Oregon, part of the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. He joined FSU’s faculty in 2007 as part of the Department of Scientific Computing before transferring to EOAS in 2017. During his time at FSU, Ye has been honored with awards such as the Department of Energy’s Early Career Award, FSU’s Developing Scholar Award, and the Walter L. Huber Civil Engineering Research Prize from the American Society of Civil Engineers. He was elected as a fellow of the Geological Society of America in 2012.

Visit the FSU Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science website to learn more about Ye’s work and research.

The post FSU hydrogeologist receives $2.5 million to map Wakulla Springs system, providing insight into Florida’s water supply appeared first on Florida State University News.

The Florida State University College of Nursing celebrated its fourth-annual Nole Nurse Shining Stars Gala on Saturday, April 11, held at the Dunlap Champions Club in Doak Campbell Stadium, honoring the achievements of alumni, faculty, students and community partners while recognizing the college’s continued impact in health care. 

“The Shining Stars Gala is a powerful reflection of the strength and legacy of our Nole Nurse community,” said Jing Wang, dean of the FSU College of Nursing. “Each year, we are proud to recognize individuals who exemplify excellence in nursing and who continue to move our mission forward. Their work inspires the next generation of nurses to lead with compassion and purpose.” 

The Nole Nurse Shining Stars Gala highlighted achievements across nursing education, practice, leadership, research and philanthropy, reinforcing the college’s commitment to advancing health care and improving lives. 

The event also celebrated five years of significant momentum for the FSU College of Nursing, marked by significant growth, innovation and national recognition. In the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, the Doctor of Nursing Practice program climbed seven spots to No. 21 overall and No. 12 among public institutions, while continuing to rank No. 1 among all public and private institutions in Florida. 

This progress reflects a broader trajectory of advancement across the college. Over the past year, the College of Nursing secured a historic $10 million gift to expand health care education and innovation in Northwest Florida and has made significant investments in its continued growth, including unveiling a new 5,000-square-foot simulation training lab, launching the nation’s first Master of Science in Nursing program focused on artificial intelligence applications in health care and achieving a 62% increase in faculty over the past five years, among more. 

Awards presented during the evening included the Distinguished Graduate Award, recognizing alumni for their outstanding contributions to the nursing profession; the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Nursing, honoring individuals and organizations whose leadership and partnership advance the college; and the Dean’s 3T Award, celebrating those who give generously of their time, talent and treasure to support the future of nursing education. 

Distinguished Graduate Awards: 

Sara Barber, a triple alumna of the FSU College of Nursing recognized for more than two decades of dedicated practice and service. A longtime pediatric nurse practitioner in Tallahassee, Barber has also served as an FSU instructor and contributed to the field through published research and textbooks. Her commitment to the community extends beyond clinical care through mentoring students as a clinical preceptor and volunteering with the Tallahassee Memorial Animal Therapy Program. 

Angie McDonald, recognized for a 35-year career dedicated to excellence in bedside critical care nursing. Known for combining advanced clinical expertise with compassionate patient advocacy, McDonald has made a lasting impact both at the bedside and as a mentor to fellow nurses. Her leadership and commitment to her patients, colleagues and alma mater reflect the enduring influence of frontline nursing care. 

Peter Preziosi, recognized for a distinguished career marked by global leadership and innovation in health care. A Florida State University alumnus, Preziosi has held senior roles with the World Health Organization in Geneva and currently serves as president and CEO of TruMerit, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting foreign-educated health care professionals. His work advancing health workforce mobility and driving innovation reflects a lasting impact on health systems worldwide. 

Toni Sanchez, a double alumna of FSU, was recognized for a distinguished career defined by leadership, service and excellence in nursing. A retired U.S. Air Force colonel, Sanchez led a team of 33 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, overseeing more than 200 air evacuation missions for 3,100 wounded service members. She now serves as specialty nurse manager at the VA Tallahassee Outpatient Clinic, where she has played a key role in restoring critical specialty services for local veterans. 

Martin Schiavenato, a triple alumnus of Florida State University, was recognized for his contributions as a nurse-scientist, educator and innovator. A former NICU nurse at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, he has become an international leader in nursing research, particularly in neonatal pain, and was named a finalist for the 2024 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award. Schiavenato continues to mentor the next generation of nurses through his work in academia, digital education and emerging areas such as artificial intelligence in nursing education. 

Kyrie Thomas, an alumna of FSU, was recognized for a career defined by transformational leadership and service in health care. With more than 15 years of experience, she has served as chief nursing officer at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, providing strategic leadership for more than 2,300 nursing professionals. Throughout her career, Thomas has led major clinical initiatives, including the development of advanced oncology and neuroscience programs, while fostering a culture of mentorship, collaboration and excellence. 

Jeann Michael Edodoleon, recognized for his commitment to excellence in critical care nursing and his inspiring professional growth. Beginning his career as a volunteer at Baptist Health, he advanced to become a registered nurse in the medical-surgical intensive care unit, where he is known for his strong clinical judgment and calm leadership in high-acuity settings. Edodoleon is also a dedicated mentor to new nurses and a compassionate patient advocate, exemplifying the integrity and commitment of the nursing profession. 

Leslie Webber, recognized for a 25-year career dedicated to pediatric nursing and clinical leadership. At Wolfson Children’s Hospital, she advanced from a pediatric ICU staff nurse to nurse director of Children’s Emergency Services, leading key programs including pediatric cardiovascular care, ECMO and trauma services. Known for her integrity and commitment to excellence, Webber has earned honors such as the DAISY Nurse Leader Award, the Great 100 Nurses of Northeast Florida and the FSU Alumni Association’s Grads Made Good award. 

Dean’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Nursing: 

The Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation was recognized for its longstanding support of the Florida State University College of Nursing. Through its investment, the foundation has helped generations of Nole Nurses complete their degrees and enter the workforce, creating a lasting impact on nursing education and the health care community. Since 1993, the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation has provided over $3 million in scholarship support to FSU Nursing students.  

Dean’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Nursing: 

Mark Hillis, a graduate of the FSU College of Business, was honored for his role in establishing a lasting partnership between the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation and the College of Nursing. During his 33-year career at SunTrust Bank, Hillis connected the foundation to the college, creating opportunities that have supported nursing students for generations. A dedicated supporter of Florida State University, Hillis’ commitment to service and philanthropy has helped strengthen the future of the College of Nursing and its students. 

Dean’s Award for Outstanding Service: 

Pam Turner, recognized for a pioneering career and longstanding service to the nursing profession and the FSU College of Nursing. She broke barriers in 1977 as the first female firefighter and paramedic for the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department and went on to lead in pediatric nursing and advance health care quality and safety. Turner has also served as adjunct faculty at both Florida State University and the University of Florida. A former chair of the College of Nursing Advancement Council, Turner has played a key role in guiding the college through periods of growth and transition. Her leadership and philanthropy, including her early commitment to an endowed professorship, reflect a lasting dedication to advancing the mission of the college. 

Dean’s 3T Award: 

Laura Levine, recognized for her exceptional contributions of time, talent and treasure to the FSU College of Nursing. Through the establishment of the Laura and Alan Levine Endowed Professorship in Innovation Applications in Nursing, Levine has made a lasting investment in the college’s future, supporting faculty leaders who will advance nursing education and innovation for years to come. Levine’s career has spanned hospital and public health settings, including leadership roles as a nursing director and contributions to national public health initiatives. She continues to serve as a bedside nurse and mentor in the ICU. A dedicated member of the Nole Nurse Advancement Council, Levine’s philanthropy and leadership reflect a deep commitment to strengthening the college and inspiring future generations of nurses. 

The 2026 Nole Nurse Shining Stars Gala was made possible through the generous support of presenting sponsor, BayCare, garnet sponsors Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare and Mayo Clinic in Florida, and dessert reception sponsor Big Bend Hospice. 

For more information on award nominations and upcoming events, visit nursing.fsu.edu. 

The post FSU College of Nursing honors alumni excellence at 2026 Nole Nurse Shining Stars Gala appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University has named Joan M. Schenkel as the new Associate Vice President for Research Administration.

A seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in higher education research administration, Schenkel joins FSU to bolster the university’s research infrastructure and support its continued growth as a top-tier research institution. She succeeds Kerry Peluso, who has served in the role since 2017 and is retiring.

“We are incredibly pleased to welcome Joan to Florida State University,” said Vice President for Research Stacey S. Patterson. “Joan’s deep expertise in the research lifecycle — from pre-award strategy to post-award compliance — will be invaluable as we continue to expand our research footprint and drive innovation.”

Schenkel comes to Florida State after a 20-year career at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). Most recently, she served as the Associate Vice President for Research in the Office of Research and Technology Management, where she played a pivotal role in managing a research enterprise of $642 million.

At CWRU, she was instrumental in leading digital transformation initiatives, including the implementation of upgraded enterprise software solutions to reduce administrative burdens and improve workflow transparency.

“I am passionate about helping position universities so that researchers can do their best work and make the important discoveries and breakthroughs,” Schenkel said. “I look forward to collaborating with the talented faculty and staff at Florida State University to optimize our research operations and support the groundbreaking work being done across campus.”

Schenkel holds a Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction from McDaniel College and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Dickinson College. She starts at Florida State on April 28.

The post Florida State University names Joan M. Schenkel as Associate Vice President for Research Administration appeared first on Florida State University News.