91�Թ�� Downtown Archives | 91�Թ�� News

91�Թ�� Awarded $500,000 Grant from JPMorganChase to Support STEM Education and Strengthen Pathways to 91�Թ�� for Parramore Youth

91�Թ�� — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:00:43 +0000

Today, 91�Թ�� announces $500,000 in philanthropic support from JPMorganChase to deepen the university’s commitment to developing the next generation of STEM talent and expanding opportunity for young people in Parramore. The investment advances priorities central to by strengthening pathways to student success and preparing future innovators, creators and problem-solvers for high-demand careers.

“This important collaboration between 91�Թ��, JPMorganChase and the Parramore community is a significant step toward expanding economic opportunity and building Central Florida’s next-generation workforce.” — Betsheell “Billie” Udofia, vice president and program officer for global philanthropy at JPMorganChase

An initiative driven by the 91�Թ�� College of Community Innovation and Education (CCIE), the newly funded Parramore Launch Pad initiative aims to reach K–12 students in Orlando’s Parramore community earlier, helping prepare them for STEM-related higher education tracks and careers, while creating clearer pathways into these in-demand fields and improving long-term opportunity for students and their families.

Over the next three years, this funding will allow CCIE and 91�Թ�� Downtown, which borders the Parramore community, to implement a holistic educational approach that integrates academic enrichment with community-based support. This approach is intended to support student success in STEM in and out of the classroom while also addressing broader community needs that contribute to sustained achievement.

“This important collaboration between 91�Թ��, JPMorganChase and the Parramore community is a significant step toward expanding economic opportunity and building Central Florida’s next-generation workforce,” says Betsheell “Billie” Udofia, vice president and program officer for global philanthropy at JPMorganChase. “Efforts like this help ensure students at every level have the skills, tools and support they need to succeed and build futures they’re proud of. We’re committed to supporting strong STEM pathways and the resources students need to reach them.”

Bolstering STEM Education

Expanding on an established relationship between 91�Թ�� and Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), CCIE’s School of Teacher Education (STE) and 91�Թ��’s College of Engineering and Computer Science will work with leaders and educators at the OCPS Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) and another school, a pre-K through eighth-grade community school located in the heart of Parramore, to engage students in innovative STEM instruction during the school year, as well as throughout the summer.

ECLIPSE Summer Camp launched in Summer 2026, offering a free week of STEM activities for third- through fifth-graders. Delivered through a partnership between 91�Թ�� STE, OCPS ACE, and the Boys and Girls Club Levy-Hughes branch, the program is open to all students in the Parramore community and includes a complimentary Boys and Girls Club membership to the Levy-Hughes branch for the academic year.

Going Beyond 91�Թ��, Prioritizing Well-Being

While academic rigor is important, well-being also influences success. Stressors outside of school can interfere with a student’s capacity for learning. Creating a safe space for them to work through life’s hurdles is key to improving student outcomes.

By integrating both the Healing Oasis for Peace and Empowerment (H.O.P.E.) Circle, a positive youth development afterschool program with the Central Florida Boys & Girls Clubs, and the complementary in-school H.O.P.E. Huddles program for Parramore youth at OCPS ACE, Jones High School, and Evans High School, 91�Թ�� hopes to help students build positive, emotionally safe bonds with their peers, as well as reliable relationships with caring adults and mentors outside of their families. Programming focuses on helping students build critical skills around research, leadership, conflict resolution, teamwork and more.

“Central to the youth development programs is a reciprocal approach that redistributes traditional power dynamics between adults, researchers and youth in the community. While this model is less conventional, it is this shared ownership and co-creation that will ultimately drive meaningful, sustainable impact in the lives of youth, their families, and the broader Parramore community,” says L. Trenton S. Marsh, associate professor of urban education in the Department of Learning Sciences and Educational Research��and founder of the H.O.P.E. Lab at 91�Թ��.

Growing Social and Civic Prosperity

Launch Pad will also provide support to the Parramore Community Engagement Council (PCEC). University researchers and community leaders will work together on research-informed solutions for PCEC’s pillars of education, affordable housing, employment and holistic health. Further, there is a collaborative partnership with 91�Թ�� and PCEC through a new university-community fellowship program. This summer an asynchronous open-source training with nine sequential modules was developed to support the fellowship.

Over the next two years, the program will award two fellowships per year to university-based researchers and two per year to community leaders active within the council. The program is intended to serve as a model that can be replicated in communities across the country.

“We’ve already seen such positive impacts from 91�Թ�� Downtown and its proximity to our community. I’m thrilled for this evolution in our work with 91�Թ��,” says the Rev. Robert M. Spooney, outgoing chair of the Parramore Community Engagement Council and pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. “What makes this next phase so meaningful is the university’s commitment to not only being present, but to ensuring our community is resourced, supported and positioned to benefit from this work.”

A Shared Vision for a Thriving Parramore

In 2019, JPMorganChase, the Helios Education Foundation and the Kresge Foundation funded the Parramore Education and Innovation District, through which 91�Թ�� aimed to ensure residents of the Parramore community benefited from incoming economic growth and development and had access to the 91�Թ�� Downtown and Valencia College Downtown campuses. This latest support from JPMorganChase represents an evolution in this work, and a shared alignment in growing opportunity within the Parramore community.

“At 91�Թ��, we are building a future the world has only begun to imagine. A robust talent pipeline of STEM professionals is critical to that vision,” says Rod Grabowski, senior vice president for 91�Թ�� Advancement and Partnerships, and CEO of the 91�Թ�� Foundation Inc. “These skillsets are already sought-after, but they’ll be increasingly important with the evolution of AI, space, themed experience and more. By investing in students early and surrounding them with the support they need to succeed, we’re helping create pathways to higher education, meaningful careers and lifelong impact for our region. That commitment is at the heart of Go For Launch.”

91�Թ��’s Football Stadium Gains 2, Alumni-Made Murals

Jenna Marina Lee | Video by Daniel Forcella — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 19:30:54 +0000

When droves of fans step inside the gates of the new and improved Roth Tower at Acrisure Bounce House, they’ll be greeted with two one-of-a-kind, alumni-made murals and a welcome message that’s 100% 91�Թ��:

“It’s a perfect day to bounce in Orange County, Florida.”

The Roth Tower project, made possible by a $90 million commitment of Tourist Development Tax revenues from the Orange County Board of County Commissioners, represents a pivotal addition to the Kenneth G. Dixon Athletics Village that strengthens Orange County as a premier destination for sports tourism and community engagement.

When the investment was greenlit in 2023, university and athletics administration knew they wanted to add to the stadium’s art collection, which already features several installations around the concourse that include Knightro, wings of Pegasus (the university’s official seal), 91�Թ��’s Big 12 ties and Orlando.

91�Թ�� commissioned Harry Foreman ’18 to deliver two murals that pay homage to the 91�Թ�� story and the university’s relationship to Orlando and Orange County. To execute the installation in the week leading up to the tower’s unveiling, Foreman utilized virtual reality technology as part of his process and enlisted the help of fellow alumni: Nicole Lind ’11, a Burnett Honors Scholar who graduated with a degree in an elementary education, and Paulaiden Minerva ’15, who earned his bachelor’s in marketing through the program.

Foreman studied graphic design and emerging media management and previously completed murals for the 91�Թ�� Downtown and the Rosen College of Hospitality Management campuses.

91�Թ�� alumni Harry Foreman ’18 and Nicole Lind ’11 installed two custom murals in the week leading up to the Roth Tower grand opening. (Photo by Antoine Hart)

“When I was a student I always had so much fun on games days,” Foreman says. “It’s magic being back here.”

The Florida native, who now splits his time between Orlando and Denver, has been an active contributor to the Central Florida’s arts scene for years. He recently was selected to be part of the City of Orlando’s Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge, Art Pollination — a prestigious opportunity as Orlando was one of eight cities selected for the $1 million grant out of more than 150 submissions from around the country.

Acrisure Bounce House is his third football stadium mural project. He previously completed installations for the Denver Broncos and Jacksonville Jaguars.

“I always knew I wanted to paint big,” he says.

One mural is centered in an Art Deco theme and is an ode to how the university is entwined with Orlando. (Photo by Nick Leyva ’15)

Here he shares more about his latest creation.

What excited you about this project?

The campus personnel were so willing and excited about my ideas and style that I brought into this that it was almost a perfect match. I led with fun first and then presented some safer ideas. And they said, “Nope. We want the fun.”

I’m grateful and appreciative that I’m creating in a way that is so well received by so many people. Especially with the way we’re doing these murals with minimal color and a gold approach, I think it’s a style that has an elevated look while also having this fun, bubbly, childlike feeling, which is perfect for a football stadium on game day.

Where did you pull inspiration from for the two murals?

A staple in a lot of my mural work is my “orange blossom gang.” They are fun, smiling orange characters that I will sprinkle in throughout a lot of my murals. They act almost as the glue that keeps other imagery and assets like together. They appear in both murals.

For the 91�Թ��-themed mural, we have my signature doodle collage style. We’re in the Bounce House, baby. So I tried to have this flowy, bubbly movement with the clouds. I wanted it to feel like it was light and airy.

With regards to Easter eggs, when I was a student, I did artwork around Orlando and I would do this little emanating whoopsie daisy flower. I snuck it into a postcard stamp. The manatee celebrates Central Florida’s natural springs, which is in my opinion, one of the most magical parts about the entire state. I also snuck in a variation of the rubber duck for Spirit Splash.

For the Orange County mural, it is centered in an Art Deco theme and is an ode to how the university is entwined with Orlando. From the downtown corridor to our relationship with the hospitality sector around I-Drive to space and 91�Թ��’s engineering and technology roots. And we wanted to include a message to what helped make this possible: “In appreciation of Orange County, Florida, whose continued belief, support and investment will welcome millions through these gates to bounce.”

Harry Foreman ’18 began using VR technology a year ago to aide his artistic process in forecasting his artwork onto large-scale walls. (Photo by Antoine Hart)

How do you apply virtual reality technology in your process?

I first started using the VR headset to project my artwork on walls last year. There are many different ways to get your art on your walls through grid systems, sketching freehand, projectors and now through headsets. In this circumstance, I have another mural next week. I’ve got to get in and out. I didn’t want to wait till the nighttime to use a projector. What’s great about the headset is no matter the time of day, you are able to work and operate, and forecast your artwork on a wall.

It’s a really weird, immersive and amazing technology. If you got vertigo like I do, tread lightly. As I’m wearing it, I’m constantly thinking, ‘We are in the future.’ ”

How did your 91�Թ�� experience help you hone your craft?

“Being at 91�Թ�� pushed me to be great.” — Harry Foreman ’18, muralist

My 91�Թ�� experience was not just a four-year degree. I used nearly every offering 91�Թ�� had — I was in different clubs, at the gym all the time. I was in the engineering lab using the laser cutter for a lot of my school projects. My experience was almost competitive nurture in a sense, learning in a school setting with so many talented creatives around me. Being at 91�Թ�� pushed me to be great and taught me how to be a shape shifter.

I already was running a business while in school. I immediately graduated and went right into freelancing, and the Orlando community and 91�Թ�� network at large welcomed me right when I needed it. I booked amazing jobs right out of school. The 91�Թ�� Downtown project, I would say, is still some of my most impactful work that gets me jobs to this day.

I never in a million years thought murals would allow me to be traveling all over the nation. I’m about to buy my wife a house. It’s a great time to be a muralist. It’s the best job in the world.

Two murals designed by 91�Թ�� alum Harry Foreman ’18 are now part of the new Roth Tower. (Photo by Nick Leyva ’15)

What does it mean to you to be able to give back to your alma mater and Orlando in this way?

It’s so special. As a student, and even as an artist, there’s no textbook for success, no single game plan for how to do things. The fact that I get to paint and create in spaces like this, I hope it can inspire the next student. I hope they see this and they say, “That is so cool. I want to do that,” because whenever I saw someone doing it, that was my first response.

If you’re a student that is worried about the creative world that we’re entering into, as long as you’re pushing yourself to make great work, everything you could ever want is already there waiting for you. Orlando as a canvas is the best place to blossom. It was for me.

91�Թ�� Pegasus Palooza 2026 Kicks Off Aug. 23

Juzanne Martin — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 13:30:40 +0000

There’s nothing quite like the start of a new semester at 91�Թ��. With Fall 2026 classes beginning Aug. 24, , 91�Թ��’s annual welcome week, kicks things off with events and activities that bring new and returning Knights together across campuses.

From signature 91�Թ�� traditions to opportunities to meet new people, get involved and have some fun before classes get into full swing, there’s plenty to experience. Here’s your guide to the week’s events on the main campus and at��. Just remember to bring your 91�Թ�� ID to participate in each event.

For the latest event details and updates, check the��,��and @91�Թ��_OSI on Instagram.

Sunday, Aug. 23:

The Knighting
Addition Financial Arena
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

91�Թ��’s official welcome ceremony brings together all new Knights to celebrate the start of their 91�Թ�� journey. No ticket is required, and the event is open to all. Doors open at 10 a.m.

Opening Knight
Student Union
12 – 4 p.m.

What’s the best way to get involved at 91�Թ��? Meet the Knights already doing it. Stop by the Student Union to explore student organizations, connect with current members and find your place on campus. Plus, enjoy DJs, free food, giveaways and more.

Monday, Aug. 24:

Welcome Back Social
Reflecting Pond
12 – 1 p.m.

Grab complimentary sweet treats and mingle with 91�Թ�� President Alexander N. Cartwright, faculty, staff and students.

Movie Knight
Memory Mall
7 – 10 p.m.

Grab your friends and head to Memory Mall for the Campus Activities Board’s annual Movie Knight. Catch Project Hail Mary under the stars, take on a human hamster ball course and enjoy free popcorn and drinks. The event is open to all 91�Թ�� students.

Tuesday, Aug. 25:

Taste of 91�Թ��
Addition Financial Arena
4 – 6 p.m.

Experience international destinations through food, music, dance and traditions from around the world. This annual celebration brings students together to explore the many backgrounds represented at 91�Թ�� and throughout the greater Orlando area while building connections and a sense of belonging.

Wednesday, Aug. 26:

Welcome Expo
Student Union Key West Ballroom
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

For nearly 30 years, the has helped Knights discover what campus — and the surrounding community — has to offer. Stop by to learn about 91�Թ�� programs, explore campus resources, meet local businesses and discover new opportunities, all in one place. Plus, enjoy music, food and tons of giveaways while taking part in a longtime campus tradition.

Homecoming Theme Reveal
Student Union Atrium
12 – 2 p.m.

Be among the first to find out the Homecoming Week 2026 theme and score some 91�Թ�� Homecoming merch.

Comedy Knight Featuring Leslie Jones
Addition Financial Arena
7 – 9 p.m.

Join the Campus Activities Board for a night of fun and laughs featuring Primetime Emmy-nominated comedian and actress Leslie Jones. Best known for her five seasons on��Saturday Night Live, Jones has appeared in nearly 60 film and television projects, including 2016’s��Ghostbusters. Get ready to experience her comedic talents, incredible writing and magnetic stage presence live at 91�Թ��.

Current 91�Թ�� students get in free with a valid 91�Թ�� ID. Tickets for the general public are available at additionfiarena.com.

Thursday, Aug. 27:

Taste of Downtown
Dr. Phillips Academic Commons at 91�Թ�� Downtown
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Take your taste buds on a trip around the world at this signature event featuring international flavors, live entertainment and interactive experiences inspired by destinations worldwide. Come try something new, meet fellow Knights and celebrate the people and traditions that make 91�Թ�� Downtown and the greater Orlando area so vibrant.

Speed Friending
Dr. Phillips Academic Commons, Room 107 at 91�Թ�� Downtown
12 – 2 p.m.

Break the ice at Speed Friending, a fast-paced, low-pressure way to connect with fellow 91�Թ�� Downtown students. Rotate through quick conversations, tackle fun icebreaker questions and see who you click with along the way. Whether you’re new to campus or looking to expand your circle, it’s a fun way to meet new people, make meaningful connections and create lasting memories.

Concert Knight Featuring Quavo
Addition Financial Arena
7 – 9 p.m.

Get hyped for a night of live music featuring Grammy-nominated rapper, singer and producer Quavo. Known for solo hits like Hotel Lobby and Workin Me and as a member of Migos, the chart-topping rap group behind Bad and Boujee and Stir Fry, Quavo has amassed more than a billion streams and captivated audiences worldwide with his signature sound.

Current 91�Թ�� students get in free with a valid 91�Թ�� ID. Tickets for the general public are available at additionfiarena.com.

Friday, Aug. 28:

Paint Rave
Memory Mall
7:30 – 11 p.m.

Join Late Knights for Paint Rave, a high-energy night packed with glowing paint, music, mocktails and plenty of ways to get creative. Bring a friend, hit the painting stations and light up the night while making memories you won’t want to forget.

Saturday, Aug. 29:

Day of Service
Student Union Patio
7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Make an impact beyond campus with Volunteer 91�Թ��’s Day of Service. Team up with fellow Knights and four local community partners for a morning of hands-on service supporting youth and mentoring, the environment, education and literacy. Choose the cause that speaks to you, meet new people and have fun while giving back to the greater Orlando community. Students will earn three service hours for participating.

Service sites are selected on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive at 7:30 a.m. for check-in, and RSVP on KnightConnect to participate.

Guide to Social Activities, Belonging at 91�Թ��

Jenna Marina Lee — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 15:09:48 +0000

Earning your degree is just one, albeit important, part of the college experience. Just as significant are the connections you make, the communities you join and the experiences that shape your time as a Knight.

This guide is a resource to help you develop a sense of belonging, find community and build lifelong friendships while studying at 91�Թ��.

Every year, students vie for special-edition rubber ducks at the Homecoming Week tradition, Spirit Splash.

Marquee Events

Whether you’re studying at 91�Թ�� Downtown, the , Rosen College of Hospitality Management or the main campus,��you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Some signature events have become beloved 91�Թ�� traditions��with not-to-be-missed programming:

Pegasus Palooza, 91�Թ��’s annual welcome week, greets new and returning students to campus with a variety of events including notable headliners at Comedy Knight and Concert Knight.

91�Թ�� Homecoming��Week,��featuring��Spirit Splash,��kicks��off��Monday,��Oct. 19,��and��concludes��with the 91�Թ�� football team’s matchup against BYU on��Saturday,��Oct. 24.

Space Game, a football game unlike any other in the nation, pays tribute to our 91�Թ��’s roots as America’s Space University. This year’s matchup against Baylor on Friday, Oct. 30, marks 10 years of the Space Game.

, held each spring at��Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, showcases the artistic talents of 91�Թ��’s faculty and students in performances, exhibitions, presentations and interactive experiences.

Gather Luncheon,��a��community-building event in the spring hosted by��Wellness & Health Promotion Services and Dining Services,��brings hundreds of students��together��for��a free, three-course meal.

The 91�Թ�� flag football team bested the Florida Gators to win the Fiesta Bowl Classic championship on live, national television in April 2026. (Photo by Patty Kennedy / Fiesta Sports Foundation)

Recreation, Intramurals and Sports Clubs

In addition to its fitness and recreation facilities, the Recreation and Wellness Center has longstanding intramural and sports club programs that allow students to form friendships and win championships, sometimes on the brightest of stages.

The RWC’s intramural sports program welcomes all 91�Թ�� students, especially those who are new to Orlando and haven’t met enough peers to form their own team. Thanks to its free agency feature, individuals ca��be matched up with others or be paired with an established team.

The sports club includes 45 different sports, encompassing everything from judo to lacrosse to wakeboarding and have produced some of 91�Թ��’s most notable alumni. Gold medalist Phil Dalhausser ’02, who played club volleyball while pursuing his business degree, and bronze medalist Kristen Thomas ’16, who began her rugby career��as a theatre studies major��at 91�Թ��,��both went on to��represent��Team USA��at��multiple Summer Olympic Games.

For more information, visit��.

The Collegiate Cyber Defense Club is a renowned and highly accomplished defensive and offensive cybersecurity student organization that has seen alums go on to work at some of the world’s largest companies, including Google, IBM, Microsoft, Amazon and more. (Photo courtesy of Hack@91�Թ��)

Registered Student Organizations

91�Թ�� offers more than 650 registered student organizations spanning academic, professional, cultural and spiritual, social and recreational, and sports interests.

KnightConnect��is 91�Թ��’s official involvement platform where students can explore��these organizations or even create a new one.��Each organization has its own page with meeting times, contact information,��and ways to get involved.

Visit the��to find the organization right for you.

The Elite Epsilon Chapter of Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. was established at 91�Թ�� in 2005.

Greek Life

The fraternity and sorority experience has long been a part of campus life. Since the 1970s, fraternities and sororities have been providing spaces of belonging for students to grow together during their collegiate years.

Currently our 91�Թ�� Greek community is comprised of 47 organizations, which all share the values of scholarship, leadership, service and brotherhood/sisterhood.

For more information visit��.

91�Թ�� students wave palm fronds as a distraction tactic during opponent free throws. (Photo by Brooke Morris ’22, 91�Թ�� Athletics)

91�Թ�� Athletics – Knightmare Society and Marching Knights

91�Թ�� is a member of one of the premiere conferences in the nation, the Big 12. From��Fear the Fronds��to��Zombie Nation, the student section’s energy is��an integral part of the game day atmosphere��and gives the Knights a distinct home field (and court) advantage.

All full-time 91�Թ��-enrolled students (except 91�Թ�� Online) are eligible for free tickets to home sporting events. Please note: all seating is first-come, first-served and admission is not guaranteed. For more information, especially for football and men’s basketball student tickets, please visit .

�ճ�� is an organization built and run by 91�Թ�� students and supported by 91�Թ�� Athletics. Joining the official group has its perks, including football tickets automatically loaded to members’ Ticketmaster accounts, a dedicated fast pass entrance at all 91�Թ�� men’s basketball games, and first access to post-season student ticket claims.

Students can also contribute to game-day experiences by joining��, a more than 390-member marching band student organization that performs at pregame shows, halftime shows, pep rallies and��other��fan-fest��events. By creating the soundtrack for these dynamic events, the Marching Knights serve as one of the most vibrant and visible forces for school spirit.

Knights work alongside expert faculty on research — like Professor Kareem Ahmed (right) at the HyperSpace Center — that is shaping our future and society. (Photo by Kadeem Stewart ’17)

Engage in��Research

Undergraduate research provides opportunities to build a learning community with faculty and fellow students��while engaging��in meaningful work that��develops��solutions��for��challenges facing our communities,��industries��and the world.

In addition to forging connections with peers and mentors, this��practical experience��allows students to��build their professional resumes��before��they graduate.

, 91�Թ��’s annual university-wide celebration of research and creative scholarship showcases graduate and undergraduate research. The week is scheduled for March 29 through April 2, 2027, featuring presentations, exhibitions and other events showcasing student research.

For more information on how to get involved with undergraduate research, visit��.

Every spring semester, 91�Թ�� students enjoy free, exclusive access to Universal Islands of Adventure as part of Universal Knights. (Photo by Kadeem Stewart ’17)

��ǰ��Ի��

91�Թ�� students live in one of the most vibrant destinations in the world, Orlando.��Whatever your interest, Orlando��likely has��it:��theme parks,��elite��sporting events,��electric festivals,��Michelin-rated restaurants,��nearby��coastlines��and��natural springs.

Orlando is what you make it, and there are ways to experience it all on a student budget.

�ճ��offers��discounted��tickets to various attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal��Orlando��and Kennedy Space Center.��Every spring semester, 91�Թ�� students��enjoy��free, exclusive access to Universal Islands of Adventure as part of Universal Knights.

��gives Knights of all experience levels opportunities to go on hiking and camping trips at nearby springs, learn to surf, paddle through bioluminescent waters and more.

Several cultural museums in the area offer free entry,��including��the�� on the main campus,��Rollins Museum of Art��and Mead Garden in nearby Winter Park,��and the��Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central Florida��in Maitland.��ճ��acclaimed��Orlando Museum of Art��offers free entry on the third Thursday of each month��as part of its Access for All initiative.

Held annually at the start of the fall semester, Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining offers a chance to sample some the area’s exceptional restaurants at a fraction of the normal cost. Savor three-course, prix-fixe dinners�� — including at Aurora at the on-campus The Celeste Hotel — for just $40 or $60 per person from Aug. 14 – Sept. 30, 2026.

91�Թ��’s Summer 2026 Commencement Set for July 31-Aug. 1

Jenna Marina Lee — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:58:16 +0000

91�Թ�� will award more than 4,900 degrees during this summer’s ceremonies, continuing its record-setting momentum in preparing highly skilled graduates for in-demand fields, including engineering, computer science, business, nursing, and digital and emerging media.

Worth noting among this graduating class:

Roughly 30% of the undergraduate students receiving their degrees are the first in their families to earn their diploma.
More than 25% of this term’s degrees are tied to STEM majors.
About 30% of the undergraduate graduating class are Pell Grant recipients.

91�Թ�� is the leading producer of talent among Florida’s universities, awarding roughly 19,000 degrees annually to Knights who go on to work in high-demand industries. About 85% of our alumni stay in Florida because of the ample opportunity to thrive as part of our state’s workforce.

Graduates will hear from��three��esteemed speakers��— all 91�Թ�� graduates —��whose leadership and impact��have��benefited��our region:

Psychology alum��Allen Johnson��’81,��chief��venue��officer for��City��for��Orlando Venues
Journalism alum Tanya (Easterling) Hill ’97, market president for Central Florida for Florida Blue
��Բ��ܲ��پ��ܳ��Fred Kittinger ’80, 91�Թ��’s former��senior associate vice president for government and community relations

(Left to Right): Fred Kittinger ’80, Tanya Hill ’97 and Allen Johnson ’81 will return to their alma mater as this summer’s commencement keynote speakers.

Commencement Festivities

Held in the Addition Financial Arena, summer commencement will take place over three ceremonies spanning Friday, July 31, and Saturday, Aug. 1.

All guests, including children and infants, need a ticket for admission. All graduates who have filed an intent to graduate will receive five commencement ceremony tickets when they pick up their regalia packet.

Guests who do not have tickets may watch the live ceremony via a simulcast viewing in the FAIRWINDS Alumni Center and the Student Union. Ceremonies will also be .

Commencement Photo-ops Across 91�Թ��

91�Թ�� Downtown’s most photographic locations for grad pictures.

Graduating Knights are unable to take photos at the Acrisure Bounce House football stadium this semester due to ongoing construction.

Grad Walk

On Thursday,��July��30,��4:30-7 p.m. (doors close at 6 p.m.),��summer��graduates are invited to a photo-op — Grad Walk — within the Addition Financial Arena. This will be a first-come, first-served occasion for graduates and up to 10 of their well-wishers to take photos and videos on the ceremony stage. Graduates��are required to��register at��.

All commencement ceremonies are livestreamed. (Photo by Antoine Hart)

Commencement Schedule

Graduates and guests can review the below commencement ceremony schedule, listing colleges, ceremony��dates��and streaming links:

Friday,��July��31

6��.��.

College of Arts and Humanities

College of Community Innovation and Education

College of Graduate Studies

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

Saturday,��Aug. 1

9 a.m.

Barry S. Miller��College of Business

College of Health Professions and Sciences

College of Medicine

College of Nursing

2:30��.��.

College of Engineering and Computer Science

College of Optics and Photonics

College of Sciences

For more details and FAQs about��Summer��2026 commencement celebrations, visit��ucf.edu/graduation.

Commencement Speakers

Allen Johnson ’81 graduated with a degree in psychology.

Allen Johnson ’81

Chief Venues Officer, City of Orlando Venues

Allen Johnson ’81 has served as chief venues officer of Orlando Venues since 2004, overseeing the City of Orlando’s diverse portfolio of Kia Center, Camping World Stadium, Tinker Field, Leu Gardens and the Mennello Museum of American Art.

Johnson brings decades of venue management experience from leadership roles across Florida. Under Johnson’s leadership, Orlando Venues has evolved into a premier, globally recognized destination for sports, entertainment and culture, welcoming millions of guests each year while strengthening Central Florida’s reputation as a world-class destination.

A proud 91�Թ�� graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, he has earned numerous honors, including the 2025 International Association of Venue Managers Foundation Legacy Award, the SPORTYS Executive of the Year Award and the Downtowner of the Year Award.

He remains active in the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), serving as past chairman and trustee of the foundation board, while also contributing to organizations that include the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, Florida Citrus Sports, Victim Service Center and the .

Tanya Hill graduated with a degree in journalism.

Tanya (Easterling) Hill ’97

Market President for Central Florida, Florida Blue

Tanya Hill ’97��is Florida Blue’s market president for Central Florida,��responsible for��regional business and community engagement in a 9-county region.

Throughout her more than 25-year career, she has worked with reputable brands including Chick-fil-A, Target and Walt Disney World to drive business results through strategic partnerships.

Hill is passionate about investing time in the community and has been involved with��numerous��community and civic organizations. She currently serves on the board of directors for the��African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, 4Roots Foundation, Orlando Economic��Partnership��and the Winter Park Health Foundation.

Hill holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from 91�Թ��.

Fred Kittinger graduated with a degree in criminal justice.

Fred Kittinger ’80

Former Senior Associate Vice President for Government and Community Relations, 91�Թ��

A native of central Florida, Fred Kittinger ’80 recently retired as senior associate vice president for government and community relations at 91�Թ��, where he served for more than 22 years.

He worked alongside local and state leaders to help foster some of 91�Թ��’s most transformative achievements, including the approval of 91�Թ��’s College of Medicine, the creation of the world-class Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy, the development of 91�Թ�� Downtown, the expansion of the 91�Թ�� Business Incubation Program and investments that enhanced the student experience and advanced regional impact.

Prior to his career at 91�Թ��, Kittinger served as chief of staff to Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood and previously as vice president of government relations for the Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce. He began his career as a legislative aide to state Senator George Stuart of Orlando.

Reflecting his commitment to the community, Kittinger currently serves on the board of directors for Junior Achievement of Central Florida (past chair), Central Florida Council for Scouting America and Legacy Pointe at 91�Թ��.

Kittinger graduated from 91�Թ��’s criminal justice program and earned his master’s degree in public administration from Florida State University.

Lifelong Knight Fred Kittinger ’80 Retires, Leaving Legacy of Collaboration and Growth

Jenna Marina Lee — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:08:05 +0000

For many in our region, Fred Kittinger ’80 is 91�Թ��.

In his role as the senior associate vice president for government and community relations, Kittinger has been a constant and trusted presence in 91�Թ��’s work across Central Florida.

He has faithfully represented the university with a spirit of collaboration, generosity, and care that has strengthened relationships and opened doors for years, leading to some of the university’s most impactful, long-lasting, and strategic partnerships.

On April 22, Kittinger will conclude his tenure at his beloved alma mater after nearly 23 years of service.

“Fred Kittinger has approached his work with authenticity, optimism and a sincere joy that brings people together and builds the connections that propel our success,” says 91�Թ�� President Alexander N. Cartwright. “He has left a lasting impression with everyone he has worked with and leaves an enduring legacy at 91�Թ��.”

Fred Kittinger ’80 commemorates the founding of 91�Թ�� Downtown in 2017.

Joining Knight Nation

An Orlando native, Kittinger remembers the main campus being built in the 1960s. He enrolled at 91�Թ�� in 1977, known then as Florida Technological University.

He was intent on staying one year to save enough money to eventually transfer to another, more established university in northern Florida. He abandoned the plan in mere weeks, falling in love with the school that he would later spend so much of his career serving.

“We always had that chip-on-our-shoulder attitude, even back then. I like that part of 91�Թ��,” Kittinger says. “We were the little engine that could. We knew we were going someplace. We knew we were important.”

He served on orientation team and President’s Leadership Council, joined Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, witnessed 91�Թ��’s first home football game in 1979 and stockpiled memories he now relays with a smile before graduating with his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

After completing his master’s degree at Florida State, he went on to work as a legislative aide in the Florida Senate and as vice president with the then Orlando Chamber of Commerce. He later served as chief of staff for City of Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood.

In 2003, he was approached by the late Senior Vice President Emeritus Dan Holsenbeck and Board of Trustee charter member Patrick Christensen to gauge his interest in a position at 91�Թ�� working with local governments.

Now nearly 23 years later, he’s ready for his next adventure.

For years, this Florida Tech Blvd. street sign — procured when the university changed its name to 91�Թ�� in 1978 — hung in Fred Kittinger’s office at Millican Hall. (Photo by Antoine Hart)

Advocating for his Alma Mater

When you’re anywhere as long as Kittinger has been at 91�Թ��, you’re bound to pick up a few keepsakes. Precious items that once adorned his office walls and bookshelves will now have a new place in his home.

A metal pipe from the Reflecting Pond’s old plumbing before it was refurbished in 2018.

A Florida Tech Boulevard street sign, which may or may not have been procured in an unofficial capacity in 1978 under the guise of darkness by some of his fraternity brothers.

But his most treasured mementos are the relationships he carries with him — from the university to the community to government offices across the state.

“My greatest fortune is the number of folks I’ve had a chance to work with and develop long-term friendships with.” — Fred Kittinger

“It takes that trio to make an impact — you’ve got to have private industry, you’ve got to have government, and you have to have the non-profit independent sector all working together,” he says. “My greatest fortune is the number of folks I’ve had a chance to work with and develop long-term friendships with. I’ve been very blessed.”

He says his proudest moments are wrapped up in some of the university’s biggest milestones, all made possible through partnerships: approval for the College of Medicine; the creation of 91�Թ��’s Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA); ��the 91�Թ�� Downtown campus; the growth of the 91�Թ�� Business Incubation Program that spans all Central Florida counties; and working on the team that secured $90 million in Tourist Development Tax revenues from the Orange County Board of Commissioners to invest in Acrisure Bounce House.

“His ability to build trust and make people feel valued has left a lasting impression on colleagues, partners and communities across our region,” says Janet Owen, 91�Թ�� vice president for government and��community relations and associate general counsel.

Fred Kittinger addresses the 2025 Legislative Scholars, a program he helped start in 2005.

More Than a Job

In addition to his role as an administrator, Kittinger played an active part in students’ lives for many years.

Alongside Holsenbeck and former government relations team member Alison Schultz, Kittinger helped form and guide the 91�Թ�� Legislative Scholars Program, a premier, immersive, full-time experience during state legislative sessions. From the classroom to the Capitol, students gain firsthand exposure to the legislative process by working directly with legislative staff and professional lobbyists in Tallahassee, Florida. Since the program’s inception in 2005, more than 320 students have participated.

Kittinger served as a longtime adjunct instructor in the , which is part of the College of Community Innovation and Education (CCIE).

Alongside his wife of 43 years, they established the Fred and Sandra Kittinger Scholarship Fund in 2020. This scholarship supports graduate students in public administration, assisting with tuition, textbooks, fees and any other items included in the cost of education.

“What has always set Fred apart is not just what he has done, but how he has done it,” Owen says. “He brings a genuine positivity and a welcoming presence to every interaction, approaching his work with kindness, thoughtfulness and a sincere interest in others. On a personal level, I am especially grateful for Fred’s friendship and counsel over the years. He will be deeply missed.”

5 Unique Funds to Support on 91�Թ�� Day of Giving

Lindsey Amick — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:48:17 +0000

Knight Nation’s single��largest day of impact��—��— takes place Thursday, April 9.��As a united Black & Gold community, we��will��Bounce, Stomp, Splash and Cheer our way toward major wins for 91�Թ�� students, faculty, programs, research endeavors and more.

With more than 200 participating funds and so many opportunities for inspiration, activation and growth — we’re counting down to liftoff by highlighting unique areas to consider supporting with your gift this 91�Թ�� Day of Giving.

As Knights, we challenge status quo. We charge boldly ahead toward industry evolutions and technological advancements. We dare to build a future the world has only begun to imagine. And it’s all driven through moments like this and individuals like you.

Together,��we’re��launching Knights to new heights.

91�Թ�� is committed to supporting and offering relief resources for our students. (Photo by Nick Leyva ’15)

When the unexpected arises,��help��sometimes��comes in the form of .��Created to support��Knights��facing��hardship that may��hinder��their education,��this fund��provides��financial support��for textbooks,��fees��and other education-related��expenses��for qualifying students.

Your gift ensures that��when��life’s��trials��test our��Knights,��they��pass��with flying colors,��securing��the education��and future��they��deserve.

From left to right: military officers and College of Medicine graduates Leeann Hu ’24MD, Tovah Williamson ’24MD and Asanka Ekanayake ’24MD.

The  provides services, programming and resources for thousands of military-connected students currently enrolled at 91�Թ��.

helps ensure��that��those who have served and their connected students are fully supported as they pursue their educational and career goals.

91�Թ�� has been recognized��with a��Gold Award��on the��Military Friendly��Schools list, as a Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus, a Best Military-Friendly Online College and on the Military Times’ ��2025��Best for Vets Colleges List.��Help us��continue that legacy��of��serving those��who’ve��served.

91�Թ��’s Aphasia House uses the latest clinical research to create a personalized course of therapy for everyone they serve.

offers an intensive, comprehensive therapy program��to those��navigating Aphasia, a��language��disorder that can arise from��health challenges such as��stroke,��brain��cancer��and brain injury,��and��affects��an individual’s ability to��read, write,��speak��and��comprehend��language.

Through the program,��individuals are��empowered to��make progress on their long-held goals, like talking with their grandchildren or ordering their favorite restaurant meal.

��on 91�Թ�� Day of Giving��supports the continuation of this��important��service for our community, as well as the hands-on experience 91�Թ�� student clinicians��receive.

Support 91�Թ�� College of Medicine researchers as they��break��into new realms of��understanding��around��the��country’s��second leading cause of death��— cancer.��Through��innovative science,��they’re��exploring key��avenues of discovery��including��the role that��genes play��in��determining��a person’s cancer risk, what causes cancer to spread��and how to harness the body’s immune system to kill cancer cells.

The goal: to prevent cancer and find new therapies that improve quality of life��for patients.�� brings��us one��step closer��to��lives saved,��families unburdened��and a cure��realized.

91�Թ��’s nationally ranked moot court team competes in a simulated court room setting against schools including Virginia, Yale, UT-Dallas and more.

Did you know��that 91�Թ�� has one of the top Moot Court��teams in the nation, ranking��among the top 15��overall��by the American Moot Court Association?��Supervised by the , these student advocates��are challenged��with arguing��mock supreme court cases��on constitutional amendments.

and��national��leadership��by��making a gift on 91�Թ�� Day of Giving.��Help��cover��competition travel expenses, as well as��the��cost of��the��annual tournament��hosted��at 91�Թ�� Downtown��each fall.

It’s��time for launch, Knight Nation! Join us��as��we rally around��our favorite causes, and��maybe even��uncover some��new��ones, during 91�Թ�� Day of Giving.��Find��more areas of support��by��exploring��the��, and��save the date to��on Thursday, April 9.��

91�Թ�� Earns 2026-27 Gold Award for Support of Military, Veteran Students

Jenna Marina Lee — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:08:17 +0000

91�Թ�� has earned a ��signaling the university’s growing support for military and veteran students. This is the first year 91�Թ�� has earned the��Gold��designation, following��many��years��as a��Silver��awardee.

“This recognition reflects years of intentional work across the university to better support military-connected students,” says Andrea Guzmán, 91�Թ�� vice president for access and community engagement. “We’ve focused on building stronger support systems, removing barriers, and ensuring students have clear pathways from enrollment through career.”

Army ROTC is a college elective program, designed to develop individual leadership skills for either a military or civilian career.

In addition to our Gold Award and recognition as a Military Friendly Spouse School, 91�Թ�� has been previously designated as a Purple Heart Institution, Florida Purple Star Campus, Best Military-Friendly Online College and��Military Times’�� 2025 Best for Vets Colleges List.

Today about��4,000��military-connected��students��are enrolled��at 91�Թ��, and there are a��range of services coordinated through the Office of Military and Veteran Student Success (MVSS) to support them:

Holistic Programming

An orientation dedicated��for��military-connected students and their families

Expanded student engagement and social activities, which include families and military veterans within our community

Collaboration with ��affiliates, most notably Valencia College, to streamline transition for transfer students

Academic Resources

Peer-to-peer tutoring in courses with high drop or fail rates

VA Work Study and university academic coaching programs prepare and train military-connected students to provide academic coaching to their peers

Career Readiness

Industry partnerships��— including��Amazon, JE Technology and Disney —��that provide opportunity and engagement through mentorships,��internships��and career fairs

Range of workshops, lunch and learns and professional development opportunities

Access to Financial Support��

Established an endowed scholarship to provide assistance to military-connected students

Potential for “meal plan” grants, emergency relief funds, tuition and fee waivers, and housing subsidies as part of co-curricular and academic support programs

Participates in the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs’ Yellow Ribbon Program, a tuition assistance initiative for veterans and eligible dependents

Additionally, MVSS��empowers 91�Թ��’s faculty and staff through professional development opportunities with strategies and tips on how to best serve and engage with��military-connected��students.

A new liaison program has been piloted in the last year, placing an MVSS staff member with VA work study students at the��Rosen College of Hospitality Management��and��91�Թ�� Downtown��to increase support services for military-connected students at those campus locations.��In��Fall��2026, the program is expected to expand to��the College of Business, College of��Sciences��and College of Arts and Humanities.

“The support the office provides is some of the most efficient and effective support I have encountered at 91�Թ��,” says��finance��major��Abigail Kost. “I have scored interviews from career fairs and connections from lunch and��learns. The office is also a pillar of emotional wellbeing and has helped me navigate VA benefits and scholarship opportunities. I would not have come as far as I have without the office’s resources.”

91�Թ��: Committed to Serving Veterans

91�Թ��’s commitment to serving veterans is not singularly confined to��our��Office of Military and Veteran Student Success.

In January, U.S. News & World Report ranked��91�Թ�� No. 6 for online bachelor’s programs for veterans.

91�Թ�� is home to , a nonprofit clinical research center and treatment clinic��established��to change the way post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related concerns are understood, diagnosed, and treated.

Led by 91�Թ�� Trustee Chair and Pegasus Professor Deborah Beidel, who is currently��, the organization employs a unique and effective approach to treatment. A combination of exposure therapy, emerging technology and individual and group therapy sessions resulted in 66% of participants with combat-related trauma and 76% of first responders no longer meeting the diagnostic criteria for PTSD following three weeks of intensive treatment.

Virtual reality is used in exposure therapy at 91�Թ�� RESTORES to help treat PTSD.

Last year,��91�Թ�� became one of 12 universities nationwide��— and the only school in Florida and the southeast —��to participate��in a new Service to Service initiative. The national pilot program is dedicated to connecting veterans and their families with graduate educational pathways in public service and helping them find impactful long-term careers in public leadership.

A partnership between 91�Թ�� College of Medicine and Orlando VA Medical Center��—��located��next door to each other in Lake Nona’s Medical City —��ensures every medical student��receives training in specialties including surgery, internal medicine,��neurology��and psychiatry at the Orlando VA Medical Center.

Medical Student Gary Saloman examines a patient under the guidance of Andrew Taitano at the Orlando VA Medical Center.

91�Թ��’s history department has been documenting veterans’ stories��as part of the Library of Congress’��Veterans History Project��since��2010.��91�Թ��’s Veterans Legacy Program, which was founded in 2017 as a partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration, focuses on documenting the lives of those buried in Florida’s nine national cemeteries.

About Military Friendly

Founded in 2003, Military Friendly is an organization that measures organizations’ commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefit for the military community.

Military Friendly Schools strive toward and succeed in the areas that matter most in helping veterans make the transition from the military to school and, ultimately, satisfying careers in the civilian world. Earning the designation shows a school meets the minimum criteria.

Military Friendly’s final ratings for its Schools list were determined by combining each institution’s survey responses, government/agency public data sources, and measurements across retention, graduation, job placement, repayment, persistence, and loan default rates for all students and specifically, for student-veterans.

Orlando Magic Inducts 91�Թ�� Alum Into Hall of Fame

Jenna Marina Lee — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:23:43 +0000

One of Orlando’s most influential figures��and��prominent��91�Թ��graduates,��Alex Martins ’01MBA, now has another superlative to add to his name: hall of famer.

A well-regarded civic leader who has helped propel Orlando’s trajectory as the fastest major metro area in the United States, Martins has spent 30 of his nearly 40 years in professional sports management as part of the Orlando Magic organization. For his many years of dedicated service and leadership, Martins became the 14th person inducted to the NBA franchise’s Hall of Fame.

The 91�Թ��grad, who earned his��master’s in business administration��in 2001,��joins��the likes of��fellow Hall of Famers��Shaquille O’Neil, Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway and Dwight Howard.

“His decades of work with the Orlando Magic and his continued investment in our university reflect the character and commitment that define 91�Թ��.” — 91�Թ�� President Alexander N. Cartwright

“Chair Martins��leads with humility,��generosity��and a deep sense of responsibility to this community,” says��91�Թ�� President Alexander N. Cartwright. “His decades of work with��the Orlando Magic and his continued investment in our university��reflect the character and��commitment��that��define��91�Թ��. As chair of our Board of Trustees, I see every day how deeply he believes in this institution and the��opportunities��we��create for��Central Florida. His induction into the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame is a well-deserved recognition of a remarkable career��and��all of us at��91�Թ��are��proud to celebrate this moment with him.”

Man of the Hour

Martins��was��inducted on Monday, March��23,��at��Kia Center, near the Orlando Magic Fan Experience.

“We are excited to welcome Alex Martins into the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame,”��says��Orlando Magic��chairman��Dan��DeVos. “His innovative business acumen has transformed our organization, while working tirelessly to make the Magic an invested community partner. For his efforts that spanned three decades, this is truly a worthy recognition for Alex and his family, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in his role as vice chair.”

(From left to right) 91�Թ�� President Alexander N. Cartwright, Alex Martins ’01MBA, and Lockheed Martin COO Frank St. John.

Ties that Bind

Martins��was named��in 2021 and��also��serves on the dean’s executive council for the��. Martins served on the developmental board of the globally acclaimed ��at 91�Թ��, which is funded through a $9 million endowment by Rich and Helen DeVos and awards dual master’s degrees in��sport management��and business administration. Under Martins’ leadership, the Magic contributed $1.5 million to the construction of��91�Թ�� Downtown��in 2015, the first major private donation for the campus.

He��is a member of the College of Business’ Hall of Fame and recipient of the university’s Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Alex Martins during his early days as CEO of the Orlando Magic.

Magic Career

Martins��serves as vice chair of��the Orlando��Magic. In this position, he acts as a senior advisor to the Magic Board of Directors to advance long-term strategic initiatives and serve as a resource to Magic executives.

Martins also represents the Magic as the team’s alternate governor to the NBA Board of��Governors, and��oversees all operations of the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL and the Osceola Magic of the NBA G League.

Martins served as the Orlando Magic’s��CEO��for 14 seasons (2011-25). He has held various senior-level management capacities with the Magic between 1989-98 and upon his return to the organization in 2005, including director of media relations, executive vice president of marketing and franchise relations,��president��and chief operating officer.

During his tenure as CEO, the��Sports Business Journal��named the Magic as one of the “Best Places to Work in Sports,” the only franchise in the four major professional sports leagues to receive the recognition��in 2024.

His effort and collaboration with local business and political leaders��helped to��secure the Kia Center as a sports and entertainment home, which opened in October 2010. The Kia Center was named the��Sports Business Journal’s Sports Facility of the Year in 2012.

Martins has also held senior executive positions with the New Orleans Hornets, the NFL’s Cleveland Browns and Tavistock Group. He started his career as a student assistant in the��Villanova sports information department,��assisted��in the Philadelphia 76ers public relations department and was also the assistant sports information director at Georgetown University.

91�Թ��’s Video Game Design Programs Rank Among World’s Best for 2026

Jenna Marina Lee — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:08:28 +0000

Tomorrow’s leading video game developers are��being built today at 91�Թ��.

The university’s graduate video gaming program, , and undergraduate program continue to develop a pipeline of��talent to fuel Florida’s economy��at a standard of excellence few can match, affirmed by The Princeton Review and PC Gamer’s Top Video Game Design Schools 2026 rankings.

The Princeton Review and��PC Gamer��has recognized FIEA as one of the top two programs of its kind in the world six of the past seven years.

GaIM improved two spots from last year to its highest ranking, rising to No. 3 in the world. Both programs continue to hold the title of No. 1 in the South.

Neri St. Charles ’19 ’20MS (standing) and Elon Grant ’24 (seated) collaborate at FIEA’s studio at 91�Թ�� Downtown. (Photo by Kadeem Stewart ’17)

Strategy for Success

Since their inception, FIEA and GaIM have modeled their classrooms as close to a real-world, studio-like environment as possible, led by faculty with industry experience. That real-world perspective shapes every course, every project and every student who graduates.

“Our program intentionally emulates a collaborative ecosystem with a range of diverse talent in artists, designers and programmers, which is crucial to developing products and intellectual property,” says Nicholas Zuccarello, a 3D art instructor at FIEA who has previously worked for Sony Online Entertainment and Electronic Arts Tiburon. “We even structure projects to emulate real-world development pipelines as closely as possible within an educational setting.”

The Creative Village, home to 91�Թ�� Downtown and FIEA. (Photo courtesy of City of Orlando)

Orlando: A Leading Tech Hub

With Electronic Arts (EA) and Iron��Galaxy Studios located less than a mile from��the programs’ home base in downtown’s , Orlando is the perfect setting to transition from college to career and now mentioned in the same breath alongside traditional tech-giant territories San Francisco, Seattle��and Los Angeles.

Many alums go directly into the game industry including Epic, Microsoft, Nintendo, Sony and more.

FIEA has graduated 1,160 students since its first class in 2006 — about 100 of whom worked on several of the most popular games sold in the U.S. in 2025, including EA SPORTS College Football 26, EA SPORTS Madden NFL 26 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

FIEA’s headquarters showcases video games alumni have worked on as professionals. (Photo by Stephanie de Sousa)

But it’s not just the gaming��companies that eagerly hire��FIEA and GaIM graduates. The skills��taught in the two programs align perfectly��with some of Orlando’s top industries.

Graduates land roles in the modeling, simulation and training sector. Others find their footing in medical technology, where interactive systems and game-based design are transforming how clinicians train and how patients heal. Knights can be found at many of the region’s big-name employers, including Disney, EA, Lockheed Martin, and Universal Destinations & Experiences, among others.

“Our students don’t just make games, they develop the creative and technical fluency to work wherever those skills are needed.” — Associate Professor Peter Smith ’05MS ’12PhD

“Our students don’t just make games, they develop the creative and technical fluency to work wherever those skills are needed,” says Associate Professor Peter Smith ’05MS ’12PhD, who serves as the associate director of GaIM. “That’s what makes GaIM graduates competitive across industries. It is a true honor to see The Princeton Review recognizing this accomplishment of our students and faculty.”

Nitin Bakshi ’21, who joined FIEA’s faculty as a technical art instructor after graduating with his master’s in interactive entertainment, says the program takes great pride that many of our alumni continue to live and work in Florida, contributing directly to the local economy.

“These companies rely on artists, designers and programmers who understand real-time production,” he says. “That is exactly the kind of training our program is built around.”

Jenna Stellmack ’25MS is accepted a full-time role as a designer for Cuhaci Peterson, a Central Florida-based commercial design firm, after graduating from FIEA. (Photo by Mark Godin)

Serious Business

Interest in the program has risen in the past year. FIEA recently drew its largest applicant pool with more than 200 applicants resulting in 90 new enrollees, the largest cohort to date.

For good reason.

The average starting salary for a FIEA graduate is $83,000, and 80% of graduates are in their desired fields at over 400 companies around the world.

The global market size for gaming, hardware and software sales is more than $189 billion (NewZoo’s 2025 Global Games Market Report), overshadowing music and movie industries combined.

“Adapting to the needs of the industry has always been one of our strengths,” Bakshi says. “Whether it is new real-time technologies, new platforms, or new ways of collaboration, we work hard to make sure the program grows along with the field. Seeing the program attract more talented students each year, while continuing to evolve with the industry, is what makes me most excited about the future and about the impact these programs will continue to have.”

Climbing the Leaderboard

91�Թ��’s GaIM improved two spots from last year to its highest ranking, rising to No. 3 in the world and continues to hold the title of the No. 1 program in the South.

The bachelor’s in digital media with a track in game degree design blends theory and practice with a sharp focus on industry readiness. The program stands out as one of the few programs that combine a strong emphasis on both art and technology.

Students develop skills in programming, game design, game programming, as well as 2D and 3D art and visual effects.

The GaIM Maker Space lab, located on the 91�Թ�� Downtown campus, reflects that commitment in concrete terms: nearly $500,000 in mixed-reality technology including augmented and virtual reality, motion capture, physical computing, 3D printing, and web and mobile development equipment, alongside dedicated research space for applied work.

The impact on the quality of the students’ education and training is undeniable.

“The tools the maker space provides are integrated deeply into virtually every class in GaIM,” Smith says. “Students in early classes are printing board games and 3D printing game pieces, seniors are recording audio and motion capture sequences that are integrated directly into their capstone projects.”

The Rankings’ Methodology

The Princeton Review and PC Gamer’s game design school rankings are based on more than 40 data points derived from the company’s survey of administrators at 150 schools offering game design courses and/or degrees. Most of the institutions are in the U.S., with two in Canada and four abroad. The 50-question survey covered four areas: academics, faculty, technology and career topics.

91�Թ��� Downtown Archives | 91�Թ��� News

91�Թ��� Awarded $500,000 Grant from JPMorganChase to Support STEM Education and Strengthen Pathways to 91�Թ��� for Parramore Youth