For as long as he can remember, Florida State University sophomore and Presidential Scholar James “LJ” Dunphy has had a fascination with weather and a knack for data-driven science. Now, those interests have led him to be named a recipient of one of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) most competitive awards.

Dunphy, a meteorology and applied mathematics major in the College of Arts and Sciences from Tampa, Florida, has been selected as a recipient of the NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship. His research strives to make machine learning-based weather forecasts more accurate and less computationally demanding.

“What we’re looking at is trying to reduce those input parameters so we can save time and compute, while actually increasing forecast accuracy,” Dunphy said. “If we can just get a little bit more accurate forecast, we can have more accurate evacuation orders and better prepare the public for scenarios like hurricanes and tornadoes.”

The Hollings Scholarship Program provides awards up to $9,500 a year in financial assistance for two years of full-time study and a 10-week, full-time paid internship at a NOAA facility during the award’s second-year summer.

“LJ has been developing next-generation algorithms for AI-based weather models. I have never encountered a sophomore with such a high level of self-motivation and research talent,” said Zhaohua Wu, professor of meteorology and Dunphy’s research mentor. “Some of his results even surpass those reported in recent papers. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with him.”

Dunphy’s interest in meteorology was shaped by experiences with severe weather in Florida and beyond.

“Weather, being from Tampa, has always impacted me,” he said. “Hurricanes are kind of the first thing that come to mind and they impact us up here in Tallahassee, too. This is something I’ve always been surrounded by, and something I’ve always been interested in.”

His double major allows him to combine physical science with advanced computation, as machine learning becomes increasingly important in weather forecasting.

“[NOAA’s]  mission of protecting life and property has been a very important part of protecting my community. To be able to have the opportunity to give back is just something I’m really, really grateful for.”

– LJ Dunphy, FSU student and Hollings Scholarship recipient

“What I specifically want to go into in meteorology is the modeling part and forecasting,” Dunphy said. “My applied math major really, really helps with that, with understanding all the algorithms that go into it. So, it gives you the physical understanding from meteorology and the technical computational side from applied math.”

Dunphy applied for the Hollings Scholarship after encouragement from D. Craig Filar, associate dean of Honors, Scholars, and Fellows and director of FSU’s Presidential Scholars Program.

“When we invited LJ to be a part of the Presidential Scholars program, we knew he would do incredibly high caliber work in meteorology,” Filar said. “His recognition as a Hollings Scholar demonstrates his capacity for impactful and innovative work in the field of meteorology, and it speaks to his strong character to want to connect predictive modeling with improved notifications to protect communities. LJ will utilize this opportunity to expand his learning and experience in a manner that will serve his field well; I am incredibly proud of LJ for his recognition with the Hollings Scholarship program.”

As part of the scholarship, Dunphy will complete a 10-week NOAA paid internship next summer after his junior year and provide him with the opportunity to work at nearly any NOAA office nationwide.

“NOAA has always been a big part of my life,” Dunphy said. “Their mission of protecting life and property has been a very important part of protecting my community. To be able to have the opportunity to give back is just something I’m really, really grateful for.”

Dunphy recognized the role FSU’s academic environment and research opportunities played in helping him reach this milestone.

“All the resources that FSU has given me have been really, really immensely helpful,” he said, crediting the Presidential Scholars Program, the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and mentorship from faculty in the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science.

Looking forward, Dunphy urges fellow students to aim high and take chances, even if those opportunities seem out of reach.

“The only reason I got to where I am now is just because I put myself out there,” he said. “You’d be really surprised where your abilities take you, especially when you’re really passionate about something. The worst they can say is no.”

For more information about scholarships and fellowships, visit FSU’s Office of National Fellowships.

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Florida State University’s Art in STEM event returns for its 12th annual exhibition showcasing the artwork of FSU students conducting research in science, technology, engineering and math disciplines.

The FSU community is invited to enjoy an opening reception from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, April 21, at the Dirac Science Library, and vote in person or online for their favorite piece. The people’s choice award winner will be announced the following day.

This year’s edition of the annual exhibition, which can be viewed at the Dirac Library and accessed online in a digital gallery, is a collaboration among FSU’s Graduate Women in STEM (GWIS) organization, Art in the Library, and the FSU College of Arts and Sciences. It features 30 artworks created by students representing environmental science, geology, microscopic biology, neuroscience, physical chemistry, astrophysics, ecology, chemical engineering and more.

“The Art in STEM exhibition shows another side of students whose interests or majors are in STEM fields,” said Kaylie Green, 2025-2026 GWIS president and third-year biomathematics doctoral student. “We want viewers to connect with STEM topics through the artwork they see.”

Artists drew inspiration for their creations from their work in the field, lab and classroom, using microscopes, cameras, watercolor and acrylic paints, screen printing and more to capture the artistic side of science and bring their research to life.

“This event demonstrates that art can be found everywhere — even in cells viewed under a microscope,” Green said.

“This event demonstrates that art can be found everywhere — even in cells viewed under a microscope.”

— Kaylie Green, 2025-2026 GWIS president and third-year biomathematics doctoral student

Jennifer Scheckowitz, an undergraduate majoring in physical science in the Department of Physics, is among this year’s featured artists. Her piece, “Heart in Malachite,” highlights the hidden beauty of geological microscopy — analyzing rock, mineral and soil samples to understand geological processes, environmental history and fluid interactions.

Using the depth composition feature on a Keyence VHX-7000 digital microscope, Scheckowitz captured multiple photos of the malachite crystal at different focal points and stitched the images together to produce one cohesive photograph, highlighting the shape of a heart appearing in the light-green stone.

“When I first got the opportunity to explore different forms of microscopy, I was immediately captivated by how rocks and minerals looked under a microscope,” said Scheckowitz, who also participated in the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement’s Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. “I spent a lot of time taking pictures of the microscopic surfaces of many different geological specimens, but the malachite was by far the most interesting to me.”

Scheckowitz’s research was conducted through the Microscopic BioArt research project under the Nanobio Materials and Robotics group led by Jamel Ali, associate professor of chemical and biomedical engineering at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, and based at the FSU-headquartered National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.

Beyond its artistic appeal, geological microscopy is an effective and valuable learning tool for students and amateur geologists, preparing Scheckowitz for future research in physical science and chemical engineering. Her additional artworks in the exhibit, “Biotite Schist under UV Light” and “Sodalite Crystal,” showcase the range and beauty of photomicroscopy.

“While many geological subjects may look identical to the naked eye, employing a microscope reveals fascinating new structures and hidden differences between them,” Scheckowitz said. “It highlights structural features that often go unnoticed, revealing a whole new world just on the surface of a rock.”

Art in STEM encourages the FSU community to engage with various scientific topics, providing an aesthetic entry point for viewers to learn about the innovative research conducted by undergraduate and graduate students across programs.

“This exhibition seamlessly connects art and science,” Scheckowitz said. “I believe that art fosters innovation — the two are intertwined. Artistic experimentation mirrors scientific development, and it’s important to highlight the similarities between the two.”

For more information or to view the 2026 Art in STEM digital exhibition, visit  artinstem.create.fsu.edu. The exhibition will remain in the Dirac Science Library through the summer.

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Florida State University recognized graduate student achievement and leadership at the Celebration of Graduate Student Excellence, sponsored by The Graduate School and the Congress of Graduate Students, on April 6 at the FSU Alumni Center.

The celebration honored graduate students who have earned external fellowships and grants and those who have excelled in teaching, mentorship, leadership, participation in public discourse, and research and creative activity. Faculty mentors were also recognized for their work with graduate students.

“Florida State has attracted some of the top graduate students from Florida, from around the United States and from around the world,” said Steve McDowell, interim dean of The Graduate School. “Graduate students are central to undertaking FSU’s important missions of education, research and creative inquiry, and service.”

So far during the 2025-2026 academic year, FSU graduate students have won 135 national fellowships and grants, higher than last year’s near record of 131. That number is expected to grow and includes recognition and funding from the National Science Foundation, the American Heart Association, the National Institutes of Health, the Fulbright Program, the Florida Legislative and Gubernatorial Fellows programs and the McCain Global Leaders Program.

“Graduate funding opportunities are competitive by nature, and so it is a testament to the strength of FSU’s graduate programs and, most importantly, our graduate students, to have this number of externally funded students in a year,” said Keith McCall, assistant director of the Office of Graduate Fellowships and Awards.

The event kicked off Graduate-Professional Student Appreciation Week, a national observance FSU celebrates with a series of events focused on recognition, professional development, wellness and community connection.

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At Florida State University, student curiosity is driving innovation and research through FSU’s Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, or UROP. In labs and classrooms across campus, undergraduate students are gaining hands-on research skills to advance their academic careers.

On March 6-7, UROP students moved their research into the spotlight by presenting their findings at the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference, or FURC, one of the largest multi-disciplinary research conferences in the country and an opportunity for FSU students to showcase their own research and connect with students at other Florida institutions.

“FSU students produce outstanding research across a wide range of disciplines, and we’re grateful they had the opportunity to share their work at this prestigious statewide conference,” said DeOnte Brown, dean of Undergraduate Studies. “At FSU, one in four undergraduates participates in research, made possible by faculty and other research mentors who help prepare the next generation of scholars.”

Their UROP Journey

UROP offers opportunities for first-year and second-year FSU students to participate in projects as undergraduate researchers. The program is organized by the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement, or CRE, a hub for promoting student research and creativity at Florida State.

The program features three parts to prepare students: a colloquium, a research assistantship and presentation at a symposium. The colloquium class answers questions about the goals and methods of academic research, helps students build fundamental skills and guides them as they navigate finding a project. The research assistantship pairs students with faculty for mentorship and training. Finally, students present their work to the public, giving them practice translating technical research into easily understood presentations that highlight the impact of their research.

Brandon Bonamarte, a first-year mathematics and music student, completed a research project about autism spectrum diagnostic tests as a high school senior.

“After I finished that research project around autism, I wanted to see if I could keep doing research at FSU,” Bonamarte said. “That is when I started looking at different programs and got an email about UROP. I looked it up online, and I decided, what better place to start than a program specifically for undergraduate researchers?”

Bonamarte used machine learning models in his research into autism spectrum tests to examine whether evaluations that aren’t traditionally used to test for autism could still provide accurate diagnoses. He used similar machine learning models in his UROP project to study relationship formation in a tropical bird species called lance-tailed manakins under the mentorship of Professor Emily H. Duvall. His research focused on the birds’ courting displays, analyzing what components of these performances relate to success in mating pairs.

For her research, second-year nursing and public health student Sofia Martinez wanted to explore postpartum health care. UROP gave her a chance to jump into a project with the help of a mentor who could guide her work.

“For a lot of research opportunities, you need experience. UROP helped me get into research,” Martinez said. “I thought the program was a great opportunity to get experience, because no matter what lab I was in, it would still be a research opportunity.”

She worked with Associate Professor Jessica Bahorski to study how maternal support and mental health influence breastfeeding for her UROP project. The project identified factors that influence recovery and support for new mothers, research that will help Martinez as she pursues her career goal of becoming a pediatrician.

“I got an incredible research opportunity through UROP, and it opened the door for so many more opportunities,” Martinez said. “I love the project that I’m working on. It aligns with my values and everything that I want to do in the future.”

Moira Shoffstall, a second-year art history student, turned to research as a passion project. UROP gave her the opportunity to explore research in a field outside of her major.

“I applied to UROP because I enjoy research. I like the process of investigating a topic and trying to answer the question that I am asking,” she said. “Humanities, art history especially, study the aftereffects of our culture, human interaction and history. Researching that is incredibly important to understanding ourselves and preventing history from repeating itself.”

Under the mentorship of Professor Ben Dodds, Shoffstall’s UROP project analyzed Spanish bandit Don Juan de Serrallonga through the lens of a biographical poem. The project compared this poem to historical records and earlier Spanish literary works to examine how historical figures are reconstructed through storytelling.

“By presenting at conferences like FURC, students gain the skills and confidence to communicate their ideas, connect with peers and imagine what’s possible in their future academic and professional paths,” said Latika Young, the director of CRE. “Those early research experiences shape how students think, communicate and engage with the world around them.”

The Florida Undergraduate Research Conference

After completing their research, Bonamarte, Martinez and Shoffstall prepared to present their work to a wider audience. With support from the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement, they joined fellow FSU undergraduates and students from around Florida at the University of North Florida for FURC. The conference marked their first major milestone in showcasing their research, and it offered valuable experience practicing public speaking for an audience that didn’t have the specialized knowledge they had developed. The event also gave students the opportunity to move beyond the classroom and engage with a wider community of researchers.

“My favorite part about FURC was not just presenting my research, but hearing others present theirs,” Bonamarte said. “I hunted down those in my field and had some really good discussions that I cannot really get elsewhere.”

Besides presenting their research, FURC attendees experience the chance to network with other undergraduate researchers and field experts, providing opportunities for academic growth and connection.

“I am not the most social person, and when I am social, I do not have a lot of practice at interacting with students my own age,” Shoffstall said. “By being given a very easy conversation topic — FURC and my own research — I had a much easier time connecting with and meeting people who are as curious as I am.”

More opportunities

The UROP students who attended FURC will also be presenting at the upcoming Undergraduate Research Symposium, or URS. The event is the largest symposium of undergraduate researchers at FSU, and it brings together student research from a variety of programs across campus, including UROP, the Garnet and Gold Scholar Society, the Honors in the Major program and more. Students with creative projects such as original films, dance and music projects present their work at Nourishing Creativity, a showcase of creative work at the symposium.

For many students, the symposium is their first time presenting their research. Bonamarte, Martinez and Shoffstall will bring their experience at FURC to the event.

“Presenting at FURC helped prepare me for URS by giving me practice explaining my research clearly and confidently to people who may not be familiar with my topic. It also reminded me that we all start somewhere,” Martinez said. “I met so many incredible high-achieving students who were also presenting for the first time, which made the experience feel very encouraging and collaborative.”

The Undergraduate Research Symposium will take place April 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Student Union Ballrooms.

Students interested in applying to UROP can learn more and apply on the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement website. Applications for incoming first-years and current first-year students are open until May 1 and Applications for transfer students with an AA starting in the fall close July 3.

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As a Florida native, Ella Vizzini was searching for a university experience that could offer her the familiar feelings of home while simultaneously pushing her to grow in new directions — both of which she found at Florida State University. Her passion for health and fitness coupled with her love of science meant that FSU’s innovative exercise physiology program was another determining factor in her decision to attend.

Vizzini is both an Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) participant and a 2025 IDEA Grant recipient, dedicating a significant portion of her time at FSU to metabolic and vascular research. She has also served as the Director of Philanthropy for the Alpha Phi International Fraternity, raising more than $77,000 supporting the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Heart and Vascular Center and the Alpha Phi Foundation.

With a family history of heart disease, Vizzini has used her personal experiences as a driving force in her commitment to community service. She is a member of the FSU Medical Response Unit, where she has gained real-world experience responding to emergency medical situations on campus. Taking advantage of the opportunities presented to her at Florida State University, Vizzini will be applying to medical school this summer.

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

I chose to attend Florida State University for its stellar academics, breathtaking campus and unwavering school spirit. As a Florida native, I knew I wanted to continue my education at a university that gave me the comforts of home while still providing new and enriching experiences, and FSU gave me just that. While browsing FSU’s catalog of prospective majors, I came across exercise physiology and was immediately intrigued. It combined my passion for health and fitness with my strong interest in the sciences. Seeing all this program had to offer, I knew it would be one of my primary motivating factors in gaining acceptance to FSU.

What academic achievements are you most proud of?

Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), I joined the Lab of Integrative Vascular and Metabolic Physiology under the mentorship of doctoral candidate Paul Baker. There I assisted in studying the effects of creatine monohydrate on vascular health in overweight and obese individuals. This experience was incredibly rewarding and deepened my passion for vascular and metabolic research. I had the opportunity to present our findings at both the FSU Undergraduate Research Symposium (URS) and the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference (FURC). This experience gave me the knowledge and confidence to apply for the 2025 IDEA Grant alongside my lab mate. We aimed to further explore the relationship between exercise interventions and metabolic health — specifically in women. With a shared interest in women’s health, we designed a study on the effects of exercise interventions on menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women. We conducted our research and presented our findings at the President’s Showcase of Undergraduate Research Excellence in October 2025.

How have you impacted your community?

I have a deep passion for giving back to the community in ways that are personally meaningful. With a  family history of heart disease, I’ve pursued opportunities that allow me to make a tangible impact on this cause. During my time in Alpha Phi, the funds I helped raise have gone on to support research advancements, purchase critical technology and fund programs that positively impact not only the Tallahassee community but others across the country. Through my involvement with Who We Play For, an organization that provides free or low-cost electrocardiogram screenings to help prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest and raise awareness for heart health, I’ve been able to make a direct impact by providing affordable, potentially life-saving care to individuals in the community. As a researcher, the work we do in our lab contributes valuable scientific knowledge and informs interventions that can help individuals improve their overall health. Additionally, as a member of the FSU Medical Response Unit, I’ve had the opportunity to provide hands-on emergency medical care to those on campus.

All in all, my work at FSU and in the broader community is driven by my passion to help others and to positively impact their health and quality of life.

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Genessa Dulcio is a civil engineering major and part of the Engineering Ambassadors Network at Florida State University. She is the winner of the Spring 2025 Civil and Environmental Engineering Undergraduate Research Award for her work in wind engineering and computational fluid dynamics models.

Her research, mentored by Assistant Professor Fernandez-Caban from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, enhanced her love of engineering research and inspired Dulcio to continue research into her future career.

Dulcio serves in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) as the fall regional conference chair where she supervised all conference planning efforts and directives for the region’s 2025 conference.

She also serves as president of the Caribbean Student Association.

Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?

FSU was a perfect fit and the obvious choice for me. I’ve always been an adventurous person, and I wanted a larger school with enough room to grow so I didn’t go stir crazy. I had been exploring different schools, but I admired how FSU seemed to foster growth and embrace student learning. 

Programs like the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and Global Scholars seemed to really be geared toward getting students out of their comfort zone and pushing them academically. It was a comforting thought to see that I could end up somewhere that would satiate my desire to constantly be learning something new and doing something different. When I came on a tour, I fell in love with the campus and energy of everyone I met and knew I’d have a great time here. 

What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?

One of my proudest academic accomplishments was winning the Spring 2025 Civil and Environmental Engineering Undergraduate Research Award. Coming into college, I had high school teachers tell me to get into research because they thought that type of environment suited me; but truthfully, I had no clue what research would actually look like.  

I took the initiative to research civil and environmental engineering professors and staff to find someone doing work in a subject I found cool and relevant. I found Assistant Professor Fernandez-Caban, who allowed me to shadow some of the projects he was working on.  

That work inspired me to dive deeper into my research, so together we developed a personal research project for me to independently pursue. Now, that project is focused on wind engineering and computational fluid dynamics models, and it makes me excited for all my future research. To have a project that not only I can call my own, but that has already been recognized for excellence among my peers has given me confidence to continue in research. 

How do you serve the FSU community?

My two most significant leadership contributions would be to the Caribbean Student Association (CSA) and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). I’ve been involved in CSA as Miss CSA, the secretary and now the president. In NSBE, I served as the hospitality and entertainment coordinator for the 2024 Region 3 conference planning committee and now serve on the regional board as the fall regional conference chair. 

Both organizations are important to me because they’ve offered amazing opportunities for growth and leadership. They also connect me with students who understand my struggles, background and that will offer unrelenting support. In return, for the priceless bonds and knowledge both CSA and NSBE have offered me, I’ve had the chance to shape these organizations and create a lasting impact for future students to be embraced in the same way I was. 

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Hayley Schermer, a fourth-year College of Medicine cell and molecular neuroscience major, has spent the past two years immersed in research through Florida State University’s Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), a Directed Individual Study (DIS) and an IDEA Grant.

During her time at FSU, she worked in the lab of Department of Exercise Physiology’s Linda Grizzard Owens Endowed Professor Robert Hickner. There she investigated how exercise influences sleep quality in pre-diabetic, postmenopausal women. As part of a four-week exercise program, she monitored participants’ health data using Oura Rings and surveyed them to assess psychological changes.

Beyond the lab, Schermer is making an impact in the Tallahassee community. She founded the New Horizons Network, a nonprofit dedicated to helping job seekers. Through résumé workshops at the Kearney Center, she has created, printed and distributed 30 resumes — giving individuals the tools they need to pursue employment opportunities.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

I chose to attend Florida State University for many reasons, but what really stood out to me was the strong sense of community. When I visited, the tour guides made FSU feel welcoming right away, and they were actually the reason I applied to the Honors Program. Talking with them, I could tell that FSU was not just a school, it was a place where students supported each other and took pride in being part of something bigger.

Another big factor in my decision was Florida State’s impressive resources for students pursuing medical school. I knew I wanted to go into medicine, and FSU offered everything I needed to be supported on that path.

There is something so special about being surrounded by students who love where they go to school and show up for each other, not just in the classroom, but at games, events and everywhere in between.

FSU felt like the right fit from the moment I stepped on campus. It had everything I was looking for: strong academics, a supportive community and a campus culture that made me feel right at home.

What are some of your academic achievements while at FSU?

One of my greatest accomplishments during my time at FSU was my IDEA Grant project. Assisting in Professor Hickner’s lab for almost two years has taught me so much and working with postmenopausal women in the lab has been an incredible experience. As I got to know more about the challenges they face during this stage of life, I realized I was inspired. My mom, who is currently perimenopausal, opened up about her sleep issues, and that is how my IDEA Grant project came to life.

My IDEA Grant project is titled “The Impact of Exercise on Physiological and Psychological Indicators of Sleep Quality in Pre-Diabetic Postmenopausal Women.” We are especially curious to see whether their biological data aligns with how they feel, or if there are any discrepancies. I am really hopeful that our findings can make a difference. Menopausal women are such an understudied group, and I am proud to be working on something that could potentially help improve their quality of life.

How do you serve the FSU community?

My most meaningful community service experience has been co-founding New Horizons Network, a program aimed at helping the jobless population of Tallahassee. What has really made this experience meaningful are the conversations I have had with the people we serve. Hearing their stories, how their lives took unexpected turns and how hard they are working to get back on their feet has been incredibly moving.

One moment that really stuck with me was working with a Jamaican immigrant who came to the U.S. chasing the American dream but faced unexpected challenges that led to homelessness. He was actually the very first person we got to help through our program. A few weeks later, he returned to the Kearney Center wearing his new Waffle House uniform and gave us both a big hug, thanking us for helping him get back on his feet.

That moment reminded me why this work matters. I truly believe New Horizons Network has the potential to change lives. Not only are we helping people find jobs and regain stability, but we are also creating space for conversations that break down harmful stigmas surrounding joblessness.

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Florida State University will celebrate the achievements of its newest alumni Friday as the fall 2025 semester draws to a close. FSU will award 2,982 degrees, and more than 2,000 graduates are expected to participate in commencement ceremonies. 

The ceremonies are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 12, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. President Richard McCullough will preside over all three events: a doctoral hooding ceremony at 9 a.m., followed by ceremonies for bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degree recipients at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. 

Featured speakers include Florida State Rep. Lawrence McClure and retired FSU head men’s basketball coach Leonard Hamilton. 

FSU’s fall graduates are putting their education to work in fields from health care to the arts. The students featured here have strengthened the university through their research, service and leadership and are ready to do the same beyond FSU. 

Lagos, Nigeria native Bolade Olateju is on the verge of reaching another personal milestone as he earns his doctorate in exercise physiology with the FSU Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Science. 

Following graduation, he plans to continue his work in biomedical research with a focus on preclinical and translation studies aimed at cardiovascular and metabolic health. Olateju values the significant work he has accomplished while mentoring his students at FSU. 

“During my time at FSU, I have been fortunate to build a diverse and impactful record of academic research and leadership accomplishments,” Olateju said. “I have trained and mentored numerous students, supported multiple federally funded research projects, and contributed to several publications focused on sarcospan, cardiac remodeling and cardiometabolic disease.” 

Olateju chose FSU’s Exercise Physiology Ph.D. program “because of its strong reputation in integrative human physiology and translational research.” Searching for a program that would accelerate his research — particularly in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases — Olateju is thankful for the challenge FSU provided. 

“I wanted a program that would challenge me, support my growth as a scientist and allow me to conduct meaningful research,” Olateju added. “FSU provided exactly that.” 

Jocelyn Muñiz, a graduating Master of Public Health (MPH) student, was recently promoted to program administrator of the Public Health Dental Program at the Florida Department of Health. 

The Public Health Dental Program guides the Florida Department of Health’s initiatives to strengthen and protect oral health across the state. The program has an incredible impact across Florida, managing statewide dental health data, setting policy priorities, supporting education and prevention programs and providing direct dental services.  

As the program administrator, Muñiz oversees dental health plans to increase access to oral health services, promote preventive care and improve outcomes across diverse communities.  

“Working at the Florida Department of Health, I already feel like I apply my education to my job,” Muñiz said. “Being a public health major really helped me understand the inner workings of policy and the reasons that health and health-related issues are in the state that they are. Knowing the system and its influencing factors impacted my desire to make a change from within.” 

Muñiz is a Tallahassee native and earned her bachelor’s degree in public health from FSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy (COSSPP) in 2023. Muñiz credits her time at COSSPP with helping her build the strong professional network that opened doors and propelled her toward her dream career.  

When asked what aspect of FSU has left a lasting impact on her, Muñiz said, “Dr. (Deanna) Barath has had the biggest influence on me as a student and as an individual in the field of public health. Not only does she give me feedback on my classwork, but she also provides guidance on my professional career, helping me build my résumé, serving as a reference, and offering insight into the public health system and how it functions.” 

Joanna Chowdhury, a graduating Master of Public Health (MPH) student and two-time COSSPP alumna, was named Northwest Regional Health Manager for Special Olympics Florida. 

In this position, Chowdhury works closely with clinicians and students, training them to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role is hands-on and collaborative, supporting work with volunteers for health education classes at partnered community facilities and coordinating noninvasive health screenings at sporting events and partner sites. 

“What makes this role so special is that I get to do something I absolutely love, bridging the clinical side of health care with public health in a way that genuinely makes a difference,” Chowdhury said.  

Chowdhury chose to attend FSU because of the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE), which provides first-generation students with academic preparation and support through programming and advising to face challenges due to educational or economic circumstances.  

“It was the deciding factor for me, and looking back, it completely shaped the trajectory of my education and career,” Chowdhury said. “CARE gave me access to resources I didn’t even realize I needed to be successful in college: life coaching, case management, university housing and a support system that showed up for me consistently.” 

Through CARE, Chowdhury learned about COSSPP’s Combined Pathways program, which allowed her to blend two of her interests — public health and social sciences — while saving time and money. The pathway helped her transition from her dual bachelor’s degrees (B.S. Public Health and Interdisciplinary Social Science) into the MPH program, giving her a clear direction toward the field she now works in.  

Chowdhury’s dual degree shapes her understanding of both fields. Taking courses such as urban and regional planning and public administration influenced her perspective on policies that impact health care. “It taught me to view public health as a connected system where history, policy and environment all shape outcomes,” Chowdhury said.  

The support from FSU aided her academic and personal development. One professor, specifically, Ladanya Ramirez Surmeier, made a lasting impact during Chowdhury’s most difficult moments. After the death of her father, Ramirez Surmeier encouraged her to seek mental health support. 

“She reminded me that I could not advocate for others if I was not willing to advocate for myself,” Chowdhury said. “Her advice became the missing piece in my healing.” 

Chowdhury is and has been involved in several organizations and programs, including Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc., CARE, FSU University Housing and the Master of Public Health Student Association. These organizations provided her with community, mentorship, friendships and opportunities for professional development. 

After graduation Chowdhury hopes to continue advancing health equity and mentoring future public health professionals.  

Jada Llerena, of Stuart, Florida, is graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She credits the FSU community and curriculum with strengthening her commitment to service and equipping her with the confidence to succeed. 

During her time at the College of Nursing, Llerena researched GABA migration in the developing brain after nicotine exposure. However, one of her most meaningful experiences was serving as an ACE Learning Tutor. 

“FSU taught me that knowledge is most powerful when it is shared, a lesson that continues to guide me as both a student and a future nurse,” she said. 

Llerena also notes that the faculty played an instrumental role in her development by challenging and supporting her growth. After graduation, she will begin her career at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville. She will work in the Neuro and Vascular Intensive Care Unit at the Level 1 trauma center, where she hopes to mentor other nurses and continue the cycle of guidance she found at FSU. 

Max Allen, of Cocoa Beach, Florida, is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts from the School of Theatre, with a dual track in performance and directing. Drawn to FSU for its renowned arts programs and the ability to utilize the Bright Futures Scholarship, Allen said the campus environment was a major draw. 

“I’d known FSU for a long time. It has very strong arts programs with a lot of supportive faculty, and I’m really glad I made the decision,” Allen said. 

Allen’s undergraduate career was defined by high-level research. Through the IDEA Grant and the Honors in the Major program, he developed projects and attended graduate-level seminars, opportunities rarely afforded to undergraduates. He credits mentors such as Kris Salata, chair of the School of Theatre, and Assistant Professor Sarah Fahmy for guiding his journey. 

Allen plans to pursue a doctorate in theater to continue his work as a director, performer and scholar.

Mckenzie Simon, of Broward County, Florida, has made a lasting impact on campus through extensive service and leadership. A member of the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) program, Simon served as a Summer Bridge Ambassador, supporting first-generation college students during their transition to campus life. 

Simon also served as an ambassador for the College of Nursing and a “Take Stock in College” student ambassador, mentoring students across Florida. 

“Obstacles aren’t stop signs, they’re invitations to push harder,” Simon said. 

Beyond his ambassador roles, Simon gained clinical experience as a nurse extern at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare. He was also a featured speaker at the Horizons Unlimited Conference, where he offered advice to incoming nursing students. 

After graduation, Simon will join the Cardiac Surgery ICU at HCA Florida Capital Hospital. He plans to gain critical care experience before pursuing certification as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. 

At just 19 years old, Nicolas Monteagudo is graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. 

Monteagudo’s time at FSU was marked by academic distinction and advocacy. He was inducted into Phi Kappa Phi — becoming one of only two nursing students in his cohort selected for the nation’s oldest collegiate honor society, and Sigma Theta Tau, the International Nursing Honor Society. 

Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), Monteagudo worked with James Whyte, director of the Ph.D. in Nursing Science program, to investigate HIV-related stigma. As a Hispanic student, he found particular meaning in his work with the Florida-Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation and contributed to initiatives that increase underrepresented minority students in STEM. 

He also conducted policy analysis for the Florida Department of Management Services regarding health care costs and advocated for cancer research funding. 

“Graduating at 19 has taught me that there is no ‘perfect’ timeline for success,” Monteagudo said. “If there is one piece of advice I can impart, it is this: dreams without action become anxiety. When you think of your dreams, I hope you sing with rapture and dance like a dervish, fearlessly, freely and without hesitation.” 

Monteagudo plans to become a nurse practitioner and pursue a doctorate in nursing, following in his mother’s footsteps. 

When Olivia DeForest started at FSU in 2022, she wasn’t certain which direction to take. Fortunately, her strong math abilities and interest in practical applications led her to choose finance as her major. 

“I knew that I had a passion for making money, and that was about it,” DeForest said. “I honestly picked finance because I knew that I was much more of a math person. When I initially started taking my classes, I found myself really interested in the material.” 

This month, she receives her Bachelor of Science in Finance after thriving as a student at FSU’s College of Business. DeForest took a demanding courseload, worked multiple jobs, paid her way through school and was involved in Kappa Delta Sorority, Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity and Dance Marathon. 

Her biggest obstacle at FSU also became the turning point for her career ambitions. After her sophomore year, she applied for an internship at financial services company Raymond James but was rejected. She used the rejection as motivation and landed a finance and accounting internship with the company the next year and later secured a full-time position 

“I was heartbroken,” DeForest said about the initial rejection. “I kind of took that as ‘Okay, I can either completely redirect or use this as my motivation and go get it next summer.” 

In January 2026, her new position awaits her as one of Raymond James’ corporate banking credit associates. “From my first day of freshman year, my reason for attending FSU has been to get an education, secure a job and eventually excel in my career,” DeForest said. “It’s really cool to say in four years here, I did exactly what I wanted to do.” 

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For Dev Sangha, a biological science student at Florida State University, it was strong academics and ample research opportunities that drew him to join the FSU community.

Both an IDEA Grant recipient and participant in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), Sangha has made sure to use any academic opportunities that will help him reach his highest potential. When he is not busy in the lab formulating heart tissue research devices or working as an FSU chemistry learning assistant, Sangha spends his time volunteering at the Big Bend Hospice and Alzheimer’s Project.

From his first visit, Sangha recognized that FSU allows students to grow both academically and personally by offering new experiences.

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

When I first visited FSU, I felt a strong sense of belonging and knew that I wanted to be a part of this amazing community. I was initially drawn to the strong academics and research opportunities, specifically the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP). This program was the perfect fit for me as I wanted to continue researching when I got to college. FSU seemed like more than just a school to me; I saw it as an environment where I would be able to get involved, create new experiences and grow in both academic and personal aspects. 

What is your most significant academic achievement?

My time at the Solís Lab, where Principal Investigator and Assistant Professor Christopher Solís and I have been working on two innovative heart tissue research devices, has been significant for me. Our goal is to better understand the properties of heart tissue for the development of research in cardiovascular health, as the mechanical properties of heart tissue change with disease.  

This summer, I received FSU’s IDEA Grant to support the development of these devices. With the ideation and great mentorship of Chrostopher Solís, I created the physical and digital designs of the devices. I applied my technical skills in circuit board development, programming, prototyping and 3D computer-aided design using FSU’s access to Autodesk Fusion 360 to create the devices. I relied on the FSU Innovation Hub’s 3D printing center to print the designs for prototyping. Both devices have patents in process and I am listed as a co-inventor. I continue to innovate in the biomedical space by improving our current designs and developing new devices to improve the health of the heart. 

How have you supported the FSU community?

One of my most meaningful contributions beyond the classroom has been my time helping other students succeed through my work as a Chemistry Learning Assistant. In arguably one of the most challenging core science courses, I help students problem-solve and understand complex material both inside and outside of the classroom. My goal as a Chemistry Learning Assistant is to foster an environment where students are comfortable asking questions and feel heard. I was in their shoes not long ago, so I know how it feels to be overwhelmed about chemistry. My previous experiences and struggles in this class have given me the perspective that I need to support the students with empathy and understanding. This role has helped me grow as both a mentor and an educator. I find it extremely rewarding to support FSU’s academic community while watching students gain confidence and thrive. 

Share your most impactful service experience.

Providing support for senior adults, especially those with memory loss or nearing the end of life, has been deeply meaningful to me. In Tallahassee, I have contributed through volunteering at the Big Bend Hospice and Alzheimer’s Project. At the Alzheimer’s Project, I provide company and engage in activities with individuals living with Alzheimer’s, giving caregivers a much-needed respite. At the Big Bend Hospice, I provide at-home respite and help for the family during end-of-life care. I am so privileged to be able to help families during this emotional and difficult transition period. Through my work as a volunteer, I have built many meaningful relationships with members of the Tallahassee community who are in need, most notably the patients I provide care for and their families. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to service and allowed me to give back to the community. 

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Kaya Simmons, a behavioral neuroscience student at Florida State University, found classes tailored to her interests in both biology and psychology at FSU.

Simmons has been heavily involved in research through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, Honors in the Major and lab work.

Through her research, she looks for ways to protect the local environment while inspiring FSU students to connect with wildlife and care for their ecosystems. As president of the birding club, Simmons also partners with the university to reduce bird-window strikes on campus.

Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?

Campus is so beautiful, and the community is so welcoming, energetic and supportive. I was mainly drawn to the neuroscience program at FSU. As a student interested in both biology and psychology, the neuroscience major offered exactly what I was looking for in a degree. I have shaped my degree to align perfectly with my interests and academic goals by taking courses in everything from ornithology to physiological psychology.

The opportunities for research and formative experiences offered also drew me to FSU. Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program, I secured a spot in a research lab during my first semester. Through Directed Individual Study and the Honors in the Major program, I have led research projects and learned skills to prepare me for my future research aspirations.

What is an academic achievement you are proud of?

Working under Emily DuVal, I developed a new way to use machine learning to measure complex animal behavior. Our focus is the lance-tailed manakin, a small bird whose males perform coordinated dances to attract females. By automating the analysis, we save future lab members hours of work and create opportunities to ask new questions.

For my Honors in the Major project in Emily Lemmon’s lab, I study how vasotocin, a hormone that affects neural communication, changes the reproductive state in female frogs. Female reproductive behavior has important evolutionary implications, but the mechanisms behind these choices remain unclear. Much of the research has focused on males, and vasotocin’s role can vary across species. My work aims to help close these gaps.

How have you served the FSU community?

I am proud of the Spoonbill Society, FSU’s birding club and our ongoing work in surveying bird-window strikes on FSU’s campus and advocating for effective solutions.

I am the president and co-founder of the organization and have grown our membership. I hosted on-campus and off-campus birding trips and educational workshops and have engaged over 100 students with birding for the first time. Getting students outside, teaching them how to identify local birds and helping them connect with their environment has been one of the most fulfilling initiatives I have been a part of at FSU.

I am part of a team of dedicated students who survey fatal bird-window strikes on FSU campus and working toward effective solutions. Our team has been documenting bird strikes for the past two years. It’s heartbreaking but important work. Through this work, I strive to make people feel like they can make a difference.

By implementing campuswide action to reduce bird strikes, I want to inspire others to take steps to create positive change in their communities and do their part in protecting the environment. I aim to help make FSU a more bird-friendly campus and raise more awareness of issues surrounding birds and their conservation.

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