The post Before they cross the commencement stage, FSU undergraduates reflect on what shaped them appeared first on Florida State University News.

Financial scams targeting older adults have reached a high level of sophistication, posing significant risks to this vulnerable demographic.

A recent Scientific American article, co-authored by two experts from Florida State University’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, reveals new insights into how artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly deceiving people with financial scams. According to the article, the well-organized attacks are hurting senior citizens because they are more prone to cognitive decline, social isolation or even life transitions.

Thomas Blomberg is the dean and Sheldon L. Messinger Professor of Criminology. He is also the executive director for the FSU Center for Criminology and Public Policy Research. His research focuses on identifying ways to more effectively link research knowledge to public policy. One of his areas of interest is examining the relationship between educational achievement among incarcerated youthful offenders and successful community reintegration.

Blomberg believes there are two main reasons scammers opt to prey on older adults.

“They’re easy targets and often they are fairly affluent,” Blomberg said of what draws scammers to older adults. “I think that’s pretty consistent throughout our research. They’re often not as skeptical. They believe someone’s word is their bond.”

Julie Brancale is an assistant professor at the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice. Her research focuses on understanding the causes, consequences and justice system responses to financial exploitation and victimization of older adults. Brancale also translates her research findings into practical recommendations for policy and practice.

Brancale believes some of the preventative strategies needed for older adults to stay ahead of scammers include building skepticism and getting educated.

“The big thing that we have found is skepticism is important,” Brancale said. “In order to build that skepticism, you need to be educated. What that means is constantly keeping up to date with these scams that are happening and the tactics that people are using. They’re so sophisticated and they’re getting more sophisticated every single day.”

A combination of old and new scam tactics has flooded the elderly in recent years – AI voice-generated phone calls, fraudulent calls demanding immediate payment, lottery and sweepstakes calls and more. For example, the “grandparent scam,” which originated in 2008, exploits a person’s emotions by impersonating a grandchild or another family member in distress.

However, the research by Blomberg and Brancale offers several ways to stay safe from scammers — ranging from social support groups of trustworthy friends, taking practical protections and actively reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement and advocacy groups.

Media interested in learning about the latest research into these sophisticated financial scams can reach out to Dean Blomberg at tblomberg@fsu.edu or Professor Brancale at Julie.Brancale@fsu.edu.

Thomas Blomberg, dean and Sheldon L. Messinger Professor of Criminology

How does the concept of financial wealth factor into older adults getting scammed?

What we found is that for a lot of older people, the idea of money is a little different. When they get to a certain age, it doesn’t have the same significance as when they were younger — struggling and worried about every bill or whether they can afford another car.

What kind of psychological tactics do some of these scammers use to gain the trust of seniors?

I have dealt with many heavy issues but have never found myself quite as emotionally distraught as I was in the Villages, seeing these older people who had been victimized and what it had done to their self-confidence. They’ll make decisions to please the other person. There is a cognition issue where they don’t have as much self-confidence. There’s a lack of skepticism often. And that’s the one thing we try to push in their education is building skepticism through education and awareness and building self-confidence.

Age is a thing in which self-confidence can decline and therefore your decision making can decline.

Julie Brancale, assistant professor

How can family members or caregivers help protect their loved ones from fraud?

With family members, there’s a couple of things that they can do to protect aging loved ones: the first is being in tune with the older adult. A lot of older adults are fearful of letting their family members know that they have been scammed, or they potentially could be scammed, because they’re afraid that their family might come in and take away their independent living situation. Having family members know that older adults truly value that independence and to not try to come in and take away their independence is really important. Having regular conversations and being in touch regularly with their family member to protect, and perhaps notice subtle changes in their cognition and their physical abilities, is also important. For example, ‘Are they talking on the computer more to somebody than they used to?’ I don’t think that there’s a really quick fix. I think this is like a long-term relationship and really building that trust between the parents and children or siblings across generations.

What are the most effective ways to prevent seniors from becoming scam victims?

It’s building education about what’s happening, what kind of scams are out there, what are the tactics that are being used, and then that helps to build that sense of skepticism and confidence in a person’s ability to say no or to delay making a decision. A lot of the scams that we’re seeing nowadays, they’re really putting the pressure on the older adult that you need to act right now. ‘You need to send this money right now. If not, something bad and terrible is going to happen.’ Or on the flip side, ‘if you don’t send this money right now, you’re not going to get the prize that you’re you’ve just won in the lottery.’

What the skepticism and education does is it allows the older adult to take a step back and make decisions a little bit slower. That’s always a good thing. And then identifying a trusted person that the older adult can go to; ‘Who is this that I can contact at any time? And they’re not going to make me feel silly, stupid, afraid for asking the question if this legitimate or is this not.’ Having somebody that that older adult can contact with a potential issue is key. It’s about making sure that an older adult has somebody who really is looking out for their best interest and can provide them additional education and help boost their skepticism and their sense of self-efficacy, or their concept of themselves and their belief in themselves.

A lot of older adults that we’ve interviewed over the years have told us that they fell victim because they didn’t want to reach out. They felt like they were going to be a burden on somebody else. So having somebody there can really be key and help prevent these scams and frauds from happening.

The post FSU experts available for comment on the rise of sophisticated financial scams appeared first on Florida State University News.

A team of researchers in the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice has received an award for their study exploring impacts of hate crimes and their work to develop strategies that support victims and strengthen community responses through translational research and data analysis. 

Brendan Lantz and the Hate Crime Research and Policy Institute (HCRPI) have received the 2025 Eva Lassman “Take Action Against Hate” Award, presented by Gonzaga University’s Center for the Study of Hate. This honor celebrates Lantz’s leadership and HCRPI’s innovative research and partnerships dedicated to addressing hate crime violence. 

Named for Holocaust survivor and human rights advocate Eva Lassman, the award recognizes HCRPI’s contributions to combating hate through research and action. 

“This is a tremendous honor — not just for me, but for our entire team. Our faculty affiliates, graduate students and undergraduate researchers have poured their time and passion into understanding and addressing hate crimes. This recognition affirms the importance of their work.” 

— Brendan Lantz, HCRPI director and associate professor of criminology and criminal justice

“This is a tremendous honor — not just for me, but for our entire team,” said Lantz, HCRPI director and associate professor of criminology and criminal justice. “Our faculty affiliates, graduate students and undergraduate researchers have poured their time and passion into understanding and addressing hate crimes. This recognition affirms the importance of their work.” 

Under Lantz’s direction, HCRPI brings together leading researchers like associate professors Marin Wenger and Sylwia Piatkowska alongside numerous graduate and undergraduate research assistants, establishing the institute as a national leader in hate crime victimization studies.  

Thomas Blomberg, dean of the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, credited Lantz, Wenger and Piatkowska for work that illuminates crimes that can go underreported.  

“As their work has shown, hate crimes are historically poorly measured and accounted for by law enforcement agencies across the country,” Blomberg said. “Through their research and partnerships with hate crime task forces, Brendan, Marin and Sylwia are bridging the knowledge gap, giving us a more complete picture and helping to inform policy across the country.” 

“Through their research and partnerships with hate crime task forces, Brendan, Marin and Sylwia are bridging the knowledge gap, giving us a more complete picture and helping to inform policy across the country.” 

— Thomas Blomberg, dean of the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice

Since its establishment in 2019, HCRPI has focused on improving the accuracy of hate crime data in the U.S. The institute oversees the Longitudinal Hate Crime Victimization Survey, the nation’s largest ongoing panel study examining the relationship between bias exposure and mental health outcomes. This work provides critical insights into the effects of hate-motivated violence and informs strategies to support affected individuals and communities 

HCRPI collaborates with various national and statewide hate crime task forces, law enforcement agencies and community organizations to enhance education and address inconsistencies in hate crime reporting. These partnerships have strengthened efforts to develop data-driven approaches. 

“This award is a testament to our team’s dedication,” Lantz said. “Our faculty, graduate and undergraduate researchers are passionate about understanding and addressing hate crimes. This honor fuels our mission to create a more just society.” 

The 2025 Eva Lassman “Take Action Against Hate” Award will be presented at the Human Rights Awards Banquet on Nov. 6, 2025, in Spokane, Washington.  

To learn more about HCRPI’s initiatives, visit criminology.fsu.edu. 

The post FSU’s Hate Crime Research and Policy Institute receives national award for leadership in combating hate  appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice has been recognized as one of the top programs in the country, earning the No. 2 national ranking in the 2026 Niche rankings of Best Colleges for Criminal Justice. 

The college has retained the No. 2 ranking for two consecutive years, reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence and leadership in the field.  

Dean Thomas Blomberg emphasized the college’s longstanding commitment to innovative research, excellence in teaching and preparing graduates to deliver on its mission of producing translational research aimed at reducing the pain and suffering caused by crime.

“This recognition highlights the exceptional quality of our faculty, students and alumni. We are dedicated to producing research that informs policy and to prepare graduates to make meaningful contributions to society. This ranking is an affirmation that we are on the right track.”

— Thomas Blomberg, dean of the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice

“This recognition highlights the exceptional quality of our faculty, students and alumni,” Blomberg said. “We are dedicated to producing research that informs policy and to prepare graduates to make meaningful contributions to society. This ranking is an affirmation that we are on the right track.”

Niche bases its rankings on rigorous analysis of academic, admissions, financial and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along with millions of reviews from students and alumni. Acceptance rates, student-faculty-ratio, graduation and retention rates and surveys of criminal justice students, are some of the additional factors used by Niche in its rankings.

In addition to being ranked No. 2 in Niche’s rankings for the second consecutive year, FSU’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice was ranked No. 1 in 2023 by University Magazine. Its faculty were recognized as the most productive and influential in their field in a 2023 quantitative assessment by the Journal of Criminal Justice Education.

For more information about the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, visit criminology.fsu.edu.  

The post FSU College of Criminology and Criminal Justice ranked No. 2 by Niche appeared first on Florida State University News.

Annie English, a criminology and psychology student in the Florida State University Honors Program is an Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) leader, IDEA Grant recipient and Honors in the Major student. English uses her research experiences and involvement at FSU to teach and mentor fellow undergraduates about research.

As a leader in her sorority, she gives back to the FSU community by helping her fellow sorority sisters with community engagement, academic resources and finding opportunities at FSU. Through research and leadership, English’s commitment to service remains a highlight of her FSU experience.

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

From a young age, I knew I wanted to spend my life studying the criminal mind. I have encouraging parents who stopped at nothing to help me follow my dreams and foster my curiosity. In high school, when it came time to search for colleges, I discovered that FSU had one of the top criminology programs in the country. FSU quickly became my dream.

I heard stories from friends and family about the many academic opportunities that FSU had to offer, so FSU seemed like the obvious choice. I was admitted for the summer term and never looked back. I feel attending FSU was never a “choice” for me; it was always the goal.

What academic achievements are you most proud of?

I participated in UROP during my second year at FSU. I worked with a faculty mentor to conduct research about the presence of hostile men in online communities. I had the privilege of presenting our work at the Undergraduate Research Symposium in spring 2024. UROP increased my involvement at FSU and improved skills that led me to new opportunities.

After participating in UROP, I was empowered to further involve myself in undergraduate research. I am working on an Honors in the Major project on how perceptions of juvenile deviance are influenced by music genre preferences. I received an IDEA Grant to fund my research, and I am grateful for the guidance and support of so many incredible and intelligent mentors and faculty.

How have you served the FSU community?

The first significant contribution I feel I have made to FSU is my involvement in the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement (CRE) as a UROP leader. For the past two semesters, I have taught a UROP colloquium of students eager to get involved in research at FSU.

Beyond academics, I also was selected by the executive board of my sorority, Chi Omega, to serve as the 2025 Director of Career and Personal Development (CPD). This role gives me the opportunity to assist my sisters as they navigate their undergraduate experiences. The day-to-day workload as the CPD director involves individual advising, where I help them with resume writing, LinkedIn profiles, class schedules, financial literacy and personal well-being.

Working as the CPD director has allowed me to not only learn how to help in many situations, but it has also been a reminder that spending time with others in different fields is beneficial, and that there is so much to learn.

The post Annie English appeared first on Florida State University News.

As Florida State University celebrates the summer class of 2025, more than 2,850 graduates are stepping into the next chapter of their lives, joining a global network of over 407,000 FSU alumni.

This summer, the university will award 1,692 bachelor’s degrees, 881 master’s and specialist degrees, 183 doctoral degrees, 4 Juris Doctor degrees, 93 Juris Master’s degrees, and 2 LLM degrees. Roughly 1,850 graduates will participate in person, marking a proud moment for the FSU community.

This summer’s graduates have had a variety of experiences, mentors and moments that shaped their individual academic journeys. From groundbreaking research to personal transformation, these stories reflect the resilience, curiosity and drive that define the spirit of FSU.

Miguel Garcia-Salas is graduating with a doctorate from FSU’s School of Communication Science and Disorders. His work focused on speech-language pathology with an emphasis on family-centered interventions.

During his time at FSU, Garcia-Salas published in top-tier journals, presented at national American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) conferences, earned multiple awards and taught undergraduate courses.

A highlight of his research was the development of the DREAM Program, Dialogic Reading Education through Accessible Modules. This online initiative helps families implement dialogic reading, a proven technique that fosters language development through interactive storybook reading. Garcia-Salas piloted the program with 42 families and reported promising outcomes in his dissertation.

Beyond academics, Garcia-Salas raised his young family in Tallahassee, an experience he describes as deeply meaningful.

“This is all my family knows, this FSU community,” Garcia-Salas said. “The FSU Childcare and Early Learning Program, the Florida Center for Reading Research my school, the library and university grants have all played a role in helping me balance fatherhood and scholarship.”

After graduation, Garcia-Salas will join the University of Arkansas as an assistant professor. He plans to continue working with historically underserved families and community organizations to promote language and literacy development through home-based interventions.

Carlton Wier, a Marine Corps veteran born and raised in Tallahassee, is graduating this semester with a degree in interdisciplinary social science from Florida State University’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy.

Wier chose to attend FSU for its tradition, culture and the outstanding reputation of the Student Veterans Center.

“It is an honor to walk in this semester’s commencement ceremony and join close relatives as Florida State alumni,” Wier said. “The history, culture, tradition and the people I had the privilege to meet set Florida State apart.”

During his time at FSU, Wier found support through the Student Veterans Center, which he described as a model of integrity, inclusion and expertise in navigating VA benefits.

“The Student Veterans Center is an example of what selfless service truly means,” he said. “It improves character, performance and confidence in a veteran experiencing college life after and during military service.”

He said he will miss the staff, facilities, athletics, academics, professors, students and alumni most from his time at FSU.

After graduation, Wier plans to start a business or organization dedicated to supporting veterans, law enforcement, first responders and their families with a broader mission to serve the community in any way possible.

“I look forward to continuing to uphold the title and responsibility that comes with being a graduate of Florida State University,” he said. “Go Noles!”

Zahria Moore, a first-generation college graduate from Boca Raton, Florida, is earning her degree in criminology with a minor in African American studies from Florida State University’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Moore chose Florida State for its standout academic programs and vibrant campus life. Criminology, one of FSU’s top-ranked majors, caught her attention early on, but it was the university’s spirit and support systems that made it feel like home.

“My journey has been very unique and challenging,” Moore said. “Walking in this commencement ceremony is something I’ve always dreamt of, but never fully imagined happening until this week. Getting the email that I would graduate made my heart do a backflip.”

Throughout her time at FSU, Moore found a strong sense of community through the Unconquered Scholars Program and CARE (Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement). These programs provided her with more than just academic support—they gave her a village.

“These programs feel like drinking from a wishing well,” Moore said during her keynote address at the 2025 Unconquered Scholars Awareness Banquet. “Everything that I wanted, everything that I came to college looking for, I found in this remarkable program and these amazing people. My family, my home away from home, my safe space, my confidants.”

Moore’s proudest accomplishment was not only growing within the Unconquered Scholars Program but also helping it grow. Serving on the executive board became a defining part of her college experience.

“Joining the board was possibly one of the best things I could have done in my college career,” she said.

When she reflects on her time at FSU, Moore lights up at the memory of football season and spontaneous campus events.

“Something I love about FSU is the spirit of football season. It unites everyone—no matter who you are or where you came from,” she said. “And I’ll miss the random events on Landis. Waking up to a carnival being built genuinely made me smile.”

After graduation, Moore will begin her career as a youth counselor at a juvenile detention center in New Hampshire—her first step toward a long-term goal of positively impacting the criminal justice system.

“I earned this,” she said. “And I’m excited for everyone to see that.”

Alison Cole has always been drawn to the roar of engines. Growing up in Jupiter, Florida, she was captivated by a nearby facility that assembled and tested military helicopters.

“I grew up down the street from where they built the Blackhawks, and I’d always watch them get tested, and you could hear the engines going,” Cole said. “It was just really fascinating to me.”

That early fascination led her to pursue a Master’s in Business Administration at FSU, which she will receive this month. After graduation, she will work in Orlando for Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control department.

Cole credits her success to the support she received from professors and mentors, especially Larry Giunipero, one of the nation’s top supply chain experts.

“Without Dr. Larry Giunipero, I don’t know where I would be,” she said. “His connections and his love of the supply chain really helped me focus on where I wanted to go after graduation.”

Giunipero praised Cole’s intelligence, business acumen and drive, noting her potential to help solve complex supply chain challenges.

Cole said her MBA experience helped her understand business dynamics and corporate strategy, giving her the tools to navigate the professional world.

Outside of academics, Cole recently completed the London Marathon, a personal milestone she describes as one of her proudest accomplishments.

“It was the hardest thing I’ve probably ever had to accomplish, but I’m really proud that I did that,” she said.

The post Celebrating excellence: FSU graduates reflect on purpose, passion and the path forward appeared first on Florida State University News.

Amber Losciale is a first-generation college student dedicated to fostering safe and comfortable communities while pursuing ambitious research projects.

Losciale is a data scientist at the Leon County Sherrif’s Office (LCSO) where she helps protect the safety of Tallahassee. She has previously held positions shadowing the Wildwood Police Department (WPD) and as a crime analyst at the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD).

As a part of the Honors in the Major program (HITM), she is conducting research on the sociodemographic characteristics of sex offenders online in comparison to offline. She presented this research at the American Criminal Justice Association National Conference, where she received third place in human trafficking academic testing.

Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?

As a first-generation student I was fixated on making it out of my hometown and being able to attend university. I am grateful that I managed to become the first in my family to go to college and pick the perfect place for me when choosing FSU.

To say I love being here is an understatement; this place is my home. I am incredibly fortunate to be a cyber criminology major at one of the top criminology programs in the world. The professors in my field are not only excellent mentors but kind individuals whom I have had the opportunity to both learn from and work with. 

FSU also aligns with my passions. I was a band kid in high school, so I gravitated to the Marching Chiefs which gave me the chance to travel and make memories. I live in Traditions Hall, where I am close to the music, the school spirit and the energy that emanates from Doak Campbell Stadium. I am grateful every day I chose to be here!

What has been your most valuable academic experience?

I believe my most significant academic research accomplishment is my Honors in the Major thesis, Unpacking the Profiles of Online Sex Offenders. This research project will examine the sociodemographic characteristics that contribute to online and offline sexual exploitation and then develop typologies based on this data.

I attended the American Criminal Justice Association National Conference in Long Beach, California, where I represented FSU on the national stage in front of several criminology professors and practicing law enforcement officers. This was my first time presenting my HITM research. I got to engage in discussions about the implications of my research on policy and received 3rd place in Human Trafficking academic testing, competing out of more than 200 attendees from across the country.

Associate Professor Sylwia Piatkowska, my faculty adviser, has told me that my work has potential for publication in an academic journal, and I will work to see that through. I already see so much potential and am overjoyed to have another year to establish my legacy at FSU.

She has been instrumental in my success; without her, I would not have been able to bring these ideas to fruition. She has been an excellent mentor, and I feel like I have been able to develop so much as a leader under her tutelage.

How have you helped your community as a leader?

About halfway through college, I reached the lowest point of my life because of victimization. It shattered my sense of self, strained my ability to function and left me feeling like a statistic rather than a person. Seeking and receiving professional help through FSU’s health services facilitated my healing and transformed my understanding of strength and leadership.

This shaped how I lead and serve within my communities. As I recovered, others turned to me for guidance in navigating their mental health challenges. I helped those around me find the resources they needed. This experience has fueled my passion for cultivating safe, supportive environments within my organizations. By promoting open conversations about mental health and reinforcing the importance of vulnerability, I strive to be a leader who uplifts others and creates space for healing and growth. 

What has been your most significant impact on the community?

As a cyber criminology student, I obtained firsthand experience in my field through FSUshadow at the Wildwood Police Department, where I observed detectives lure predators through DNS lookups and decoy communications. I later began a crime analyst position at the Tallahassee Police Department, where I solved inactive cases and linked other offenders to their affiliations and associates. 

These experiences have helped me become a data scientist at the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the most fulfilling role I have held to date. My supervisor and mentor is Dixie Rocker, a former FSU College of Criminology professor. She has helped me to build skills and create positive change. The data and policy decisions I am reviewing impact the people of Tallahassee. I am a part of a team that maintains the operational pursuits of LCSO. Knowing that my work contributes to and elicits real change is satisfying. 

The post Amber Losciale appeared first on Florida State University News.

Twenty-two Florida State University students will study around the world this summer through the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the Gilman Scholarship gives students the opportunity to study or intern in foreign countries, providing students with skills critical to U.S. national security and economic prosperity while preparing them for a globalized world. To be eligible for the Gilman Program, applicants must have a strong academic record and plan to pursue a credit-bearing experience. Applicants must also be receiving a Federal Pell Grant during the time of application or provide proof that they will be receiving a Pell Grant during the term of their study abroad program or internship.

Since its inception, FSU has had 187 Gilman Scholars who have studied abroad in 43 different countries and earned over $700,000 toward their international experiences. With this award, Florida State students join the prestigious ranks of the Gilman alumni network stretching across the globe.

“Our 2025 class is a particularly impressive group of young scholars,” said Jesse Wieland, associate director of the Office of National Fellowships. “These students didn’t shy away from Gilman’s most competitive application cycles to date but rather used that competition as motivation to craft compelling application materials. Our Gilman scholars are a microcosm of the creativity and academic rigor amongst our student body; they all found ideal study programs that align with their majors or professional aspirations in coordination with FSU faculty and staff.”

The Institute of International Education (IIE) has administered the program since its inception in 2001, with more than 28,000 students awarded. The IIE received a record high of 17,000 applications across the 2024-2025 academic cycle, and FSU awardees are among those selected to pursue an international experience over the summer.

Nine of the 22 recipients will use the Gilman Scholarship to participate in study abroad experiences administered through FSU International Programs. Shinaika Hiller, Jean-Luc Cruz, and Alyia Fitzgerald will participate in the “Social Work & International Affairs: Human Rights” program in Prague, Czech Republic this summer.

The post Latest cohort of high-achieving FSU Gilman Scholars set to study abroad this summer appeared first on Florida State University News.

The post Photos: Saturday Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremonies appeared first on Florida State University News.

As the spring 2025 semester draws to a close, Florida State University is preparing to celebrate the achievements of its latest cohort of graduates. This year’s commencement is particularly significant as FSU will honor its largest graduating class in history, with 8,926 degrees expected to be awarded.

The ceremonies, scheduled for May 2-3 at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, will be a testament to the resilience and determination of these students, especially in the wake of the tragic events of April 17.

Despite the challenges, graduates have demonstrated remarkable perseverance and dedication. From groundbreaking research projects to impactful community service initiatives, they have made significant contributions both on and off campus.

View Additional Graduates

Rylee Digges, a first-generation student from Freeport, Florida, is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Driven by a lifelong connection to the university through family and teachers who were proud alumni, Digges applied only to FSU.

Throughout high school, Digges considered pursuing a pre-medical track, but after being accepted to Florida State, nursing quickly emerged as a more fitting calling.

“The relationship between a nurse and a patient has a lot more depth to me,” she said. “I wanted to have a deeper connection with my patients.”

During her time at FSU, Digges has been involved in various extracurricular activities. As vice president of Seminole Nursing, she planned the senior banquet for the college, an event that reflects the hard work and dedication required to succeed in the rigorous program.

Digges also completed her preceptorship in labor and delivery, solidifying her decision to specialize in women’s health. Looking ahead, Digges aims to return to a rural area similar to her hometown to provide accessible women’s health care.

“I would love to bring a facility of women’s health to those rural areas,” she said. “A lot of people miss out on important things like pap smears and mammograms because it’s not convenient to drive an hour or more away.”

Digges will miss FSU’s traditions and campus. Her university journey has been marked by personal growth, academic excellence and a clear vision for the future.

“Nobody expects their final few days of college to end the way they have this semester, but I am so proud to be a part of a student body that is resilient and supportive,” she said.

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry student Yudan Chen is completing his doctorate in chemistry focused on solid-state batteries, an emerging technology in energy storage. His research spans an angle of battery studies, including materials development and the investigation of failure mechanisms.

Originally from Chongqing, China, Chen moved to Tallahassee in August 2020. He chose Florida State University for its strong reputation in materials chemistry research and the opportunity to access cutting-edge instrumentation at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.

Walking in this semester’s commencement ceremony is a meaningful milestone for Chen as it symbolizes the dedication, perseverance and academic growth he has achieved during his doctoral studies.

“Out of loss, we find purpose. Out of heartbreak, we find strength. And today, out of grief, we rise with love and honor,” Chen said.

Chen cherishes the supportive academic environment and vibrant research community at FSU. He will miss working closely with his mentor, Yan-Yan Hu, a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, whose guidance, support and encouragement have been instrumental in his academic and professional growth.

One of Chen’s proudest accomplishments at FSU is having his research and dedication recognized by the broader scientific community, including several first-author publications in leading peer-reviewed journals such as Nature Materials and Angewandte Chemie. In addition, one of his projects has led to a pending U.S. patent.

“My goal is to contribute to the practical implementation of next-generation battery technologies and to drive innovations that support a more sustainable and energy-efficient future,” he said.

When FSU men’s basketball guard Jamir Watkins put on his jersey bearing No. 1, it was a reminder to himself to lead on the court and in the classroom.

Watkins, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Social Science from the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy, earned All-ACC honors and led the Seminoles in scoring in both of his years wearing the garnet and gold. He was named to the All-ACC Academic Men’s Basketball team, the ACC Academic Honor Roll, and earned academic Dean’s List honors twice during his career.

But that’s not why he chose to wear No. 1 on his jersey.

Watkins wore the number to remind himself of his goal to become the first person in his family to earn a college degree. Each time the Seminoles appeared on national television, he wanted to show the younger members of his family that they have the abilities to earn an advanced degree.

“To become the first member of my family to earn a college degree is a blessing,” he said. “Graduating from Florida State will honor the belief that my mother and father have always had in me, while at the same time showing my brothers and sisters, my nieces and nephews, and everybody in my family what they can achieve.

“The opportunity to impact the younger members of my family is what drove me to become a graduate of Florida State University, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful.”

Samantha Haas, a Tallahassee native, is graduating from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art with a focus in photography. Haas’s journey at FSU began in 2022 after she transferred from Tallahassee State College. Her decision to attend FSU was influenced by her family’s legacy. Her brother, sister and grandfather are alumni.

Along with her coursework, Haas also honed her photography skills through an internship with the FSU Office of University Communications, capturing campus life and stepping out of her comfort zone to learn and grow.

“This was never something I thought I would do, but I learned so much,” she said.

Haas aims to become a wildlife and nature photographer. She hopes to sell her prints and bring joy through her images. Her passion for nature began with childhood explorations in Tallahassee.

Among her proudest accomplishments at FSU are her internship and the opportunities to display her work in galleries on campus, including the Fine Arts Building and Carnaghi Arts Building galleries.

Along with exhibiting her work on campus, Haas also became a Council on Culture & Arts member and had her photography featured in PhotoFest 2024 and Creative Tallahassee 2025. She also started a business, Photography by Sami, through Student-Made, an online marketplace created by the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship at Florida State University. This platform showcases a range of products and businesses created by students.

Haas is excited about her future and hopes to make a positive impact in her field. .

Born and raised in Moscow, Nastya Sidorova will complete her master’s in higher education administration from the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (Anne’s College). Her family always supported her dream of becoming a teacher, and her professional path was shaped by this early passion.

“I always dreamed of becoming a teacher,” Sidorova said. “Instead of the usual dolls, my toy collection included a chalkboard and a pointer.”

After graduating with a bachelor’s in foreign languages and intercultural communication with a minor in law from the Higher School of Economics in Russia, Sidorova worked at a secondary school in Moscow, specializing in advanced foreign languages instruction. She later taught advanced business English at her alma mater’s business school before joining the master’s program in higher education administration at FSU’s Anne’s College.

Sidorova decided to attend FSU due to her desire to experience “vibrant student life and the idea of a true campus ecosystem,” something she felt was lacking in Russian universities.

“FSU truly stood out as a family and offered me a supportive community during both moments of glory and challenges,” she said. “The technical preparation and the enthusiasm of the people from my program showed me how much they loved what they do.”

Sidorova’s proudest accomplishments at FSU include her participation in the Sustainability Fellows Program, where she collaborated with the Apalachee Regional Planning Council on developing a sustainability development plan for Gadsden County’s Economic Development, and the Career Ambassadors Program where she worked to elevate the Career Center’s brand and increase student engagement through ambassador activities.

“Being part of projects with such a meaningful impact on the community was truly inspiring,” Sidorova said. “These roles allowed me to strengthen my leadership potential, sharpen my organizational skills and work collaboratively with a talented and motivated team.”

Both experiences were pivotal moments of her personal and professional growth at FSU.

“Walking across the stage this semester is about far more than shaking the president’s hand or wearing a beautiful robe in FSU’s signature garnet and gold,” she said. “It represents two years of navigating cultural adaptation in a country I had only known through movies, books and music. I learned that real strength and the true depth of your spirit reveal themselves when you are far outside your comfort zone.”

In the future, Sidorova hopes to bring cultures together and empower students, both in her home country and internationally, to achieve academic and cultural excellence.

Seth Alday, a patrol lieutenant with the Chattahoochee Police Department in Gadsden County, has worked his way through Florida State University as a full-time police officer while earning his bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice. 

“My dad worked in the Department of Corrections, so I watched him wear a uniform every day,” Alday said of his career choice. “Law enforcement is my thing. I love it, and I’ll be doing it until I retire.” 

A desire to expand his career led Alday to consider earning a four-year degree. When he learned of the Regalf Scholarship, which covers tuition and fees for students who are current police officers interested in criminology, he jumped at the opportunity. 

“We work 12-hour shifts, so there have been a lot of sleepless nights getting homework done,” he said. “It’s a balancing act, but I’m very thankful to have earned my degree and furthered my career at the same time.” 

Alday credited his professors and instructors with being responsive and quick to provide help throughout his time at FSU. 

“They were incredible,” he said. “I wouldn’t ask for anything different in my experience at FSU.” 

The post Honoring achievement: FSU’s class of 2025 graduate spotlight  appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement (CRE) hosted a record-breaking spring symposium for undergraduate researchers Tuesday, April 1, in the Student Union Ballrooms.

More than 700 undergraduate students showcased their research projects at the largest Undergraduate Research Symposium (URS) in the event’s 25-year history. Student projects at the interdisciplinary showcase included more than 500 posters and creative presentations, attracting nearly 2,000 attendees.

“We are overwhelmingly grateful for the hard work of all the students, mentors, administrators and staff who made this year’s symposium the largest event yet,” said Latika Young, CRE director. “This growth is a testament to the ways in which FSU supports undergraduate research and helps students explore their creative and academic interests as soon as they arrive at the university and throughout their undergraduate careers.”

One of the largest university-based symposia in the country and FSU’s only all-campus undergraduate research showcase, the URS includes undergraduate students from all majors, representing various initiatives such as Honors in the Major theses and the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP).

Students presented on varied topics including parents’ roles in child reading achievement, risk factors in vascular dementia, the development of polymer-based materials that can withstand space exploration and a historical look at how Florida represented itself at two World’s Fairs.

The post Florida State University hosts 25th Undergraduate Research Symposium, the largest in its history appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice (CCCJ) has launched a new certificate program to help meet the rising demand for technology and data analysis expertise in law enforcement agencies.

The new Certificate in Crime and Intelligence Analysis aims to empower undergraduate students with the tools and hands-on experience to meet that growing need.

“This program is a logical extension of our college’s mission of translational research,” Dean Thomas Blomberg said. “The program ensures its students will gain theoretical grounding and practical learning opportunities to position them for success in this growing sector of law enforcement.”

Central to the certificate’s hands-on experience is the Capital Region Real Time Crime Center (CRRTCC). The center is a collaboration of the CCCJ, the Tallahassee Police Department, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the FSU Police Department and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The center, which launched in 2023, was recently named Center of the Year by the National Real Time Crime Center Association.

Among its functions, the CRRTCC provides 24-hour, real-time data to local law enforcement on everything from car accidents to crimes in progress.

“This certificate allows our students to come out of FSU with a credential that shows they have specific knowledge and experience with these technologies and strategies — that’s a tremendous advantage.”

—Brian Stults, professor and co-director of the Real Time Crime Center Research and Policy Institute

Julie Brancale, assistant professor and co-director of the Real Time Crime Center Research and Policy Institute said the college’s role as an embedded research partner makes the CRRTCC one of a kind — and offers unmatched opportunity for students.

In addition to working alongside researchers and CRRTCC analysts, students gain proficiency in essential tools, including crime mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), statistical analysis software, data analytics, and the advanced technologies commonly used in RTCCs, such as surveillance systems and social media monitoring.

But it is the college’s role as a founding partner at the CRRTCC that helps set it — and the certificate program — apart, Brancale said.

“No other real time crime center has had a research partner embedded in its operations from the start,” she said. “The center offers a unique opportunity to provide students with tangible skills working in a cutting-edge environment.”

Professor Brian Stults, who is also a co-director of the Real Time Crime Center Research and Policy Institute, agrees and says the program will position students for today’s job market.

“Most people entering this field have very little knowledge of crime and intelligence analysis and they do most of their learning on the job,” he said. “This certificate allows our students to come out of FSU with a credential that shows they have specific knowledge and experience with these technologies and strategies — that’s a tremendous advantage.”

The program requires the completion of three required courses and one elective. Most of the classes will take place in the Learning Lab at the CRRTCC.

“This is one of the fastest growing sectors of law enforcement, so we want our students equipped with the academic knowledge and the practical skills and hands-on experience,” said Young-An Kim, associate professor and co-director of the Real Time Crime Center Research and Policy Institute. “The demand for this expertise is soaring so this is very good timing for launching this program.”

For more information, visit the Certificate in Crime and Intelligence Analysis or the Real Time Crime Center Research and Policy Institute.

The post FSU’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice launches new crime and intelligence analysis certificate program  appeared first on Florida State University News.