Center for Success of Women Faculty

What is your current job title and responsibilities?
Assistant Vice President, Operational Excellence and Assessment Support. I support the university wide Institutional Effectiveness Assessment process. I oversee the design of statistical studies to provide analytical reports about student engagement and institutional conditions that enhance student learning outcomes, progression, and retention. I also serve as the external evaluator for National Science Foundation and Department of Education funded educational initiatives.

What is your history at UCF and before UCF?
I joined the University of Central Florida in 2001. My first position was Coordinator, Statistical Research in Operational Excellence and Assessment Support (OEAS). I was responsible for implementing and conducting enterprise survey research studies to inform continuous improvement initiatives at UCF. Over the years, I was promoted to several leadership positions in OEAS. Prior to joining UCF, I held positions conducting evaluation research at The Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Westat, Inc., the University of Alabama, and Palm Beach Community College.

What is your academic background?
I earned my B.A. from Brooklyn College and an M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Wayne State University.

What is your favorite UCF memory?
My first week at UCF.

If you could change one thing at UCF, what would it be? ($ and time no object)
I would create opportunities for all undergraduate students to engage with teams of students and faculty members in a structured undergraduate research, creative projects or entrepreneurial experience prior to graduation.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with your colleagues?
Hold tight to your dreams. Practice persistence for endings lead to beginnings. Listen with your
mind and your spirit. Put your trust in others and build bridges together.

If UCF was going to name something in your honor, what would you like it to be and why?
A generous scholarship for first generation students. I am a first generation student. My undergraduate education was almost entirely paid for by the citizens of New York City. This educational opportunity changed my life.

If you could have lunch with anyone at UCF (who you do not normally eat lunch with), who would you choose and why?
UCF students.

Who at UCF would you like to thank for your success?
Dr. Julia Pet‐Armacost recruited me to UCF to work with her and continues to serve as an inspirational mentor and friend. The OEAS staff for their dedication to our mission and their expert ability to value our UCF partnerships and deliver outstanding products and services.

Name and describe a teacher or researcher from your past who truly inspired you and why.
Dr. Art Reber served as my undergraduate research mentor at Brooklyn College during my participation in the Scholars Program. As I produced my undergraduate thesis, he taught me to follow my curiosity, believe in myself and unleash my quest for knowing through the production of scholarly work.

What undergraduate or graduate class/program/experience inspired you the most and why?
I participated in the Scholars Program at Brooklyn College as an undergraduate student. Under the supervision of my undergraduate mentor, I was able to design, conduct, write and defend an independent undergraduate research thesis study. This rich experience solidified my plan to apply and attend graduate school to become a psychologist.

What is your favorite restaurant or food?
Fresh caught grilled salmon with fresh herbs and vegetables.

What is your favorite movie, book or music?
Casablanca

What is your favorite vacation destination?
For long vacations, I head to the mountains to hike or to unspoiled beaches. But, for mini vacations, I enjoy daily walks with my dogs.