Delaine Priest
Associate Vice President for Student Development and Enrollment Services
history month profiles What is your current job title and responsibilities?
I am currently the Associate Vice President for Student Development and Enrollment Services (SDES). SDES engages student in the total collegiate experience. I provide leadership and administration to 12 UCF units, 146 employees, and a budget over 18 million dollars. These units focus on the transition, retention, and graduation of UCF students. The units also provide a diverse array of programs and transitional support services such as orientation, academic advising, and learning opportunities that empower students to succeed.
What is your history at UCF? (past job titles, responsibilities)
I began at UCF in 1994 and have had the privilege to work at the University of Central Florida for over 19 years. I have held six positions during that time. I have served as coordinator, assistant director, and director of various units including Academic Support Services, Student Academic Resource Center, University Testing Center, and First Year Transitions. I have also led various student success units in my roles as Assistant and Associate Vice President. I have worked in the divisions of Student Development and Enrollment Services and Administration and Finance.
What is your favorite UCF memory?
I have many! But one of my favorite memories was the day that my oldest son graduated from UCF. It was a special day!
If you could change one thing at UCF, what would it be? ($ and time no object)
Reduce the faculty to student ratio.
What is one piece of advice you would like to share with your colleagues?
“To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.” Author: Unknown This is important to recall when working with UCF students.
What is your favorite restaurant or food?
Charley’s is my favorite restaurant. Seafood and Asian food are my favorite foods.
What is your favorite book or movie or song?
My favorite book is Malcolm X.
My favorite movie is Imitation of Life.
What is your dream vacation spot?
New Zealand/Fiji Islands
If UCF was going to name something in your honor, what would you like it to be?
A facility for Academic and Learning Support Services and establish scholarships for low income and first generation students.
If you could have lunch with anyone at UCF, who would you choose and why?
Members of the Board of Trustees.
Who at UCF would you like to thank for your success?
I have many people to thank- mentors, colleagues, wonderful staff that I work with, UCF students and the Leadership Enhancement Program.
Name and describe a teacher from you past who truly inspired you.
The Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Alabama Birmingham—His ethics, dedication, and passion for his work, students, and the field for higher education deeply impacted and inspired me.
What undergraduate class/program inspired you the most and why?
Introduction to Marketing—It helped me see life ‘outside of the box’, inspiring creativity and innovation.
