ALUMNI ASSOCIATION - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Business Consultant, Leadership Coach
- Founder & CEO of X - Factor Solutions
- President of FSU 's National Black
Ahli Moore is an Atlanta-based business consultant, leadership coach, and strategist with over 26 years of organizational development experience. Most importantly, Ahli considers himself a Nole for life!
Ahli currently serves as the President of FSU's National Black Alumni. As an undergrad, among many organizational affiliations, Ahli was the President of the Black Student Union and a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, where he is still an international life-member. Since graduation, Ahli has continuously given back to FSU, formerly serving as the Chairman of the FSU College of Communication & Information Leadership Board. He is a Legacy Life Member of the FSU Alumni Association, a Seminole Booster, a member of the FSU President's Club, and an active member of the ProfessioNOLE mentoring network. Ahli has helped to raise funds for numerous scholarships and initiatives to support students, including the construction of the new Black Student Union house, which opened in 2019.
Ahli is a double FSU alumnus with a MS in Marketing Communications & Information Technologies and a BS in Political & Public Affairs Communication. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Global Leadership and Change from Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology.
As the Founder & CEO of X-Factor Solutions, Ahli is passionate about helping people from all walks of life identify and grow their unique leadership talents. Since 1993, Ahli has worked with senior executives, training organizations, and human resources departments to increase organizational efficiency and employee performance across a multitude of industries. He has consulted for several Fortune 500 companies, federal government agencies, and non-profit organizations to develop customized performance improvement programs that span an array of interventions, including training, employee performance assessments, organizational needs assessments, and leadership development. Ahli is often a guest instructor at many prominent universities.
Ahli's other professional training includes Human Performance Architecture study at Loughborough University, Leicestershire, United Kingdom. He holds numerous certifications, including Inclusive Global Leader from Cal Berkeley - Robertson Center for Intercultural Leadership; Certified Facilitator from Core Strengths; and Master Trainer from Courageous Leadership - Giant Leap Consulting.
Ahli has also converted his corporate focus to the youth community, incorporating a non-profit youth leadership initiative entitled Building Future Leaders (BFL) which offers several programs to prepare young adults for lives as leaders.
Job Titles:
- Director of Alumni Engagement, Board Relations
- Director of Board Relations
Before joining the Alumni team in 2014, Aimee gained a lot of experience working in FSU University Relations for 20+ years. Outside of work, Aimee enjoys wine, reading, coloring and spending time with her daughters and her husband - the order of which depends on the day.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Executive Producer for Two 1 Rated Newscasts for WABC - TV
Alexander Quince is an Executive Producer for two #1 rated newscasts for WABC-TV in New York City, where he manages content for Eyewitness News, as well as digital content across social media platforms. Prior to joining WABC-TV, Mr. Quince was News Director for KTUL-TV in Tulsa, having worked his way up from an earlier role as assistant news director and news producer roles in Birmingham, Atlanta, Tampa/St. Petersburg, and Tallahassee.
Throughout his career, Mr. Quince has won multiple awards for his leadership, including four Emmy Awards and three regional Edward R. Murrow awards. He was also recognized by the Oklahoma Associated Press Broadcasters for having produced the 2015 Best Special Program and received a Citation of Congratulations from the Oklahoma State Legislature for Outstanding News Coverage, as well as earning first place for his coverage of online election reporting from the Society of Professional Journalists.
Mr. Quince served for two years as Vice President of the New York Association of Black Journalists and is a fellow with the Carole Kneeland Project for Responsible Journalism.
In 1992, he earned a bachelor's degree from Florida State University in Communication with a minor in English. While an undergraduate, he led training for student orientation, and was an advisor with the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement where he provided academic support to minority and economically disadvantaged students. Additionally, he achieved a position of Resident Assistant, collaborating with University staff to develop programs and services for students living on campus in residence halls.
Mr. Quince is married to Sandra Quince, a 1994 FSU graduate; the couple has one son.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Assistant Vice Chancellor of Public Policy
Tony Lee, Ed.D., is the Assistant Vice Chancellor of Public Policy and Advocacy. Dr. Lee communicates with the Legislature, Executive staff, and BOG colleagues to develop, evaluate, and analyze legislative bills and amendments. Additionally, he supports Public Affairs and collaborates with Government Relations Offices at Florida's 12 Universities to obtain insight, guidance, and understanding of how policies and funding will impact their university.
Previously, Dr. Lee spent more than twenty years in higher education and nonprofit development, building public and private partnerships and raising millions of dollars for those institutions (Florida Atlantic University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida State University, Radford University, and Zoo Tampa).
)Dr. Lee is a champion for alumni engagement, student success, and postsecondary education through community service and volunteerism. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science from Florida State University, a master's in communication from Florida International University, and an Ed.D. in Applied Learning Sciences from the University of Miami.
Dr. Lee was a presidential appointee to the board and plans to utilize his experience to assist the Alumni Association and Florida State University with engagement and member development.
Job Titles:
- Director of Seminole Clubs
A native of Stuart, Florida, Amanda Blount has over 20 years of experience in higher education. Before moving to Tallahassee, she served the students of Florida Southern College, most recently as the assistant dean of student conduct. Amanda is passionate about working with volunteers, mentorship and helping alumni connect to the Florida State University community. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Florida Southern College, a Master's degree in Higher Education from Florida State University and an Ed.D. in Education with a concentration in Organizational Leadership from Southeastern University. In her free time, Amanda enjoys following the PGA tour, discovering local restaurants and coffee shops, reading and spending time with friends and family.
Job Titles:
- Associate Director of Alumni Engagement for the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Amanda Coffman moved to Tallahassee in 2018 and immediately fell in love with FSU. She's still working on falling in love with the weather. When not working, Amanda can be found reading, playing video games and talking with her friends about their favorite shows.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Baptist Health South Florida
Anne Smith is an assistant vice president of marketing and communications for Baptist Health South Florida. Since joining Baptist Health 22 years ago, she has served in various roles to provide leadership in the development and execution of marketing and communications strategies. She began her Baptist Health career designing and implementing campaigns for Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute to launch numerous "first to market" heart and vascular procedures. She developed successful media relations plans and coverage for high-profile events with celebrities, including Celine Dion, whose concert benefited the Institute's expansion, and First Lady Laura Bush's visit to Baptist Hospital for the Go Red campaign promoting awareness of heart disease among women.
Most recently, Ms. Smith's focus is on mergers and acquisitions. Over the past two years, four hospitals, from Palm Beach County to the Middle Keys, have joined Baptist Health. Ms. Smith oversees and executes the transition, integration and brand conversion in new markets and leads the marketing and communications team that covers Baptist Health's 11 hospitals.
Ms. Smith earned her bachelor's degree in communications from Florida State University and a master's degree in administration from Barry University in Miami, Florida. While at FSU she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, served as Vice President, and was also an active member of numerous campus organizations. She continued her involvement with FSU by serving as a Miami Seminole Club board member for five years and its president from 1995-1996. She has given back to the community through volunteering and Board service, including The Commonwealth Institute, the American Heart Association, PTSA school boards and her church. In addition, she is a graduate of Leadership Miami (1995-1996).
She resides in Miami with her husband Gary, who is also a graduate of FSU (criminology, '87). Their son, Austin, graduated from FSU in May 2019 with a bachelor's degree in business (RMI). Other FSU family grads include her sister, nursing, '84; brother, communications, '89; and sister, J.D., '90, Florida State College of Law.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Proud to call Northeast Florida her hometown, Ashley Folladori has always had a passion for the region. Ms. Folladori's decade of experience at the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce has only served to make her a stronger advocate for the region's outstanding quality of life. As Vice President of Public Affairs, Ms. Folladori works daily to share the story of how our JAX Chamber members foster a business friendly environment to encourage sustainable economic growth in Northeast Florida.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Treasurer of the Board of Directors
- CEO & Executive Director of the Surplus Line Association of California
Ben McKay is the CEO & Executive Director of the Surplus Line Association of California (SLA), the largest association of its type in the country. Prior to leading the SLA, Ben spent eight years with the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) as its Senior Vice President for Federal Government Relations. In that role, Ben was named one of Washington, D.C.'s top lobbyists five times by The Hill, one of the city's leading political newspapers. Before his time at PCI, Ben served as Chief of Staff to a member of United States Congress in Washington, D.C. where he worked on financial services and international relations issues.
Ben received his Bachelor of Science from Florida State University, his Master in Public Administration from Harvard University, and his Juris Doctor from Catholic University. While at FSU, he was involved in the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and was an avid participant in FSU intramural sports. He is a Legacy Life Member of the FSU Alumni Association and a member of the Seminole Boosters.
Ben lives in Danville, California, with his wife Danielle and their three children: Margaret, Elizabeth, and Gus. Ben and his family enjoy many outdoor activities but especially fishing, running, and scuba diving.
Job Titles:
- Director of University Advancement Communications, Marketing & Branding
Beth joined the University Advancement team in December 2023. Although she has spent most of her career in higher education, she most recently served as communications director for the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. She is excited to return to the university and continue telling the stories of FSU. Away from the office, Beth stays busy volunteering with local non-profit organizations, listening to podcasts while walking her dog, adding more books to her "to read" pile, and traveling with her husband and daughters.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Manager for Charlotte County
Cameron Pennant is the Legislative Manager for Charlotte County, Florida and manages the county's state and federal policy and budget affairs. He represents the interests of the Board of County Commissioners before the Florida Legislature and Governor's office, the U.S. Congress, the White House, and federal regulatory agencies. Mr. Pennant has more than 10 years of government relations and political affairs experience, including key public policy and process management positions.
In early 2011, he charted a path to work in key roles at the Florida Legislature. Prior to his current position, he served as Legislative Analyst for the Florida House Majority Office's with a focus on health and tax policy. Mr. Pennant also served as a Legislative Intern, Reading Clerk, Assistant to the Speaker pro tempore, and Analyst for the Florida House Majority Office.
In addition to his formidable Florida politics background, Mr. Pennant has an array of experiences that cross industries and countries. In the last five years, Mr. Pennant represented FSU as a Co-Seminar Leader at the European Marshall Center for Security Studies in Germany. Upon his return, he began guest lecturing at FSU with a specific focus in international crises and global affairs. Upon completion of his master's degree at FSU in public administration with a concentration in emergency management and homeland security, he broadened the scope of his guest lecturing work to include domestic affairs.
A two-time graduate from FSU, Mr. Pennant has been directly assisting students enrolled in the FSU C.A.R.E Program. As the Business, Government, Hospitality, and Entrepreneurship Learning Specialist he has provided students with strategic planning and career advice for the last four years, noncongruently. In 2020, Mr. Pennant created the Pennant Scholars, the inaugural scholarship for the FSU C.A.R.E S.C.O.P.E Program, consistent with his policy-solutions mindset. The scholarship's focus is on "removing all common and unique barriers to students so that they can be better prepared to achieve their dreams."
Mr. Pennant's passion for policy solutions that will enact real and lasting change has been the cornerstone of his career, and the guiding principle for his advocacy, and audacious endeavors.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Director of University Advancement Communications, Digital and Creative
Job Titles:
- Coordinator of University Advancement Communications, Social Media
Carmen is a two time graduate of FSU and her favorite place on campus is the stained glass clad Heritage Museum in Dodd Hall. When not capturing content on campus, she can be found exploring trails with her two rescue dogs, browsing thrift stores and sewing.
Job Titles:
- Associate Vice President
- Member of the Board of Directors
Cecil Howard is the Associate Vice President for Diversity, Inclusion & Equal Opportunity and the Chief Diversity Officer for the University of South Florida System in Tampa, Florida.
He has also served as Chief Legal Counsel for the Florida Commission on Human Relations as well as Chief Diversity Officer for the City of Gainesville, Florida, and has maintained a solo law practice. Mr. Howard is a licensed attorney and has 35 years of civil rights, diversity, and social equity experience through governmental, non-profit, and higher educational settings.
Mr. Howard earned his bachelor's degree in Government from FSU in 1981 and law degree from Texas Southern University's Thurgood Marshall School of Law in 1984. While at FSU, he joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and went on to become National General Counsel of the fraternity, as well as Associate Counsel for the fraternity's National Education Foundation, in addition to holding many other regional and national committee chair assignments. He was also a candidate for General (National) President of the fraternity.
Mr. Howard was elected as FSU's first black Homecoming Chief in 1980, and served as National President of the FSU Black Alumni Association from 1987 to 1989. Mr. Howard is a member of the Seminole Boosters. Additionally, he and his wife, Priscilla (B.S. '82, M.S. '86), recently created a scholarship in the James D. Westcott Legacy Society through the FSU Foundation.
The former Southern Scholarship Foundation resident (Selby III Scholarship House) recently completed his first book, entitled, "Pains for a Purpose." He and Priscilla have four children, Alexandria (UNF), Coleman (UCF '15 and FAU ‘18), Gabrielle (USF ‘16) and Nataleh (FSU '17).
When Cecil is not spending time with his two granddaughters Giselle and Nissa Rae, he spends time serving on committees at his church, mentoring young men, and serving on community boards that advance eradication of hunger, homelessness and domestic violence.
Job Titles:
- Administrative Specialist
Clayton Stallworth is a graduate student at the FSU College of Education pursuing a Master of Science in School Counseling with a Specialist Degree in Educational Therapy. He graduated from FSU Law and received his Juris Master's degree in 2019. Clayton spends his free time traveling, spending time with his family and friends and playing golf.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Senior Vice President and Manager of the Funds Treasurer
Colleen Dean is senior vice president and manager of the Funds Treasurer's Office at PIMCO in the New York office. Ms. Dean serves as assistant treasurer for PIMCO Funds, PIMCO ETF Trust, PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, PIMCO Equity Series, PIMCO Equity Series Variable Insurance Trust, the PIMCO Closed-End Funds and the PIMCO Managed Accounts Trust. Prior to joining PIMCO in 2013, she was a vice president in the investment administration group at Cohen & Steers Capital Management. Prior to that, she was with Franklin Templeton Investment where she was a manager in the fund accounting group.
Ms. Dean was a member of Delta Sigma Pi and received a bachelor's degree in Accounting from Florida State University's College of Business in 2002. She earned her MBA from the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Nova Southeastern University. Ms. Dean is a founder of Harlem Girls Cheer, Inc., a non-profit organization founded in 2016 to provide a supportive environment that allows young women to build their self-esteem while simultaneously encouraging healthy behavior, teaching accountability, providing leadership opportunities and building character.
She is a Legacy Life Member of the FSU Alumni Association.
Job Titles:
- Coordinator of Regional Engagement
Cortney Hamilton, originally from Princeton, West Virginia, moved to Tallahassee to pursue her Bachelor's in Media Communication Studies, graduating in 2021. She successfully completed her Master's in Integrated Marketing Communications in the summer of 2023. In her free time, Cortney enjoys traveling, F45, watching Formula 1, and spending time with her Aussie doodle, Percy.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Dazi Lenoir is a legal and sales professional who was a founding and managing partner of Lyons & Lenoir LLC, now Lyons Legal, LLC that specializes in personal injury and wrongful death litigation. She began her legal career concentrating on personal injury and wrongful death litigation with the Parks & Crump law firm of Tallahassee, where she settled her first $1 million case. She later practiced for a personal injury firm in Orlando, where she served as a pre-suit attorney and settled more than $1 million in cases for Central Florida clients. She began her professional career in Indianapolis, Indiana where she worked for Pacers Sports & Entertainment in their sales and marketing department.
A two-time graduate of FSU, Lenoir earned a bachelor's degree in English literature with a concentration in business in 2002 and a master's degree in sports administration in 2003. As a student at FSU, she was elected the 2001 Homecoming princess. In addition, she was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha and the Student Government Association President's Cabinet from 1999-to 2001. She was named Member of the Year of the Garnet & Gold Girls recruiting organization in 2000 and served as vice president in 2001. Lenoir is a Legacy Life Member of the FSU Alumni Association.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Dr. Cyd Bougae has had a distinguished professional and academic career. Academically, she is a past full time professor at New York University in the Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism and at Montclair State University in the Feliciano School of Business, teaching classes in the Department of Management. Professionally, she has held executive leadership roles with several global membership organizations. This includes serving as Senior Vice President of Professional Development for the Club Managers Association of America, a membership association for managers of private clubs and as a Regional Director of Human Resources for Club Corp, a membership organization, comprised of private golf, country clubs, business clubs and resorts.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Director of Government Relations at Project Lead
Ebo Entsuah serves as the Director of Government Relations at Project Lead the Way, a national nonprofit that develops STEM and Career Technical Education Curriculum for K-12 students. Since 2020, Ebo has also served as an elected official on the Clermont City Council, where he is the youngest person to serve in the City of Clermont. Ebo has a passion for community service and helping people achieve their full potential, which serves as the driving force behind his professional and public service work.
Ebo currently serves on a number of distinguished boards, including the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council, the Give-A-Day Foundation, the Lake Sumter Seminole Club, the FSU Young Alumni Council and as a member of the Orlando Economic Partnership's Political Leadership Institute class of 2020. Ebo has earned recognition for numerous awards such as Florida Politics' 30 Under 30 Rising Star award, Maverick Pac's Future 40 award, and the Black Conservative Federation's 30 Under 30 award. Additionally, Ebo was appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to the board of Volunteer Florida, Florida's state agency for volunteerism and national service.
Ebo is a first generation American who is the product of the American dream. Ebo's family immigrated from Ghana, West Africa to give him and his sister a better life. Ebo is a two-time graduate of Florida State University, earning a bachelor's degree in International Affairs and Sociology and a Juris Master's from the Florida State College of Law. During his time at FSU, he was a member of the Chi Phi Fraternity, a Global Ambassador, a member of FSU Rugby and also spent multiple years playing football for the Florida State Seminoles, eventually winning a National Championship.
Ebo lives in Clermont with his wife, Morgan and their two dogs, Milo and Maverick. Aside from his love for education, the environment and public policy, he enjoys working out, hiking, traveling and watching the Seminoles.
Proud to call Northeast Florida her hometown, Ashley Folladori has always had a passion for the region. Ms. Folladori's decade of experience at the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce has only served to make her a stronger advocate for the region's outstanding quality of life. As Vice President of Public Affairs, Ms. Folladori works daily to share the story of how our JAX Chamber members foster a business friendly environment to encourage sustainable economic growth in Northeast Florida.
Job Titles:
- Special Events Coordinator
Originally from Orlando, Florida, Emily Balke graduated from FSU with her Bachelor's degree in Sport Management in 2018. She's worked for Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports as an events competition coordinator and regional property manager for Publix Super Markets. She and her husband have since returned to Tallahassee, and Balke is excited to work with and meet fellow FSU alumni. In her free time, she enjoys baking, taking walks with her dog Ava and spending quality time with friends and family.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Glen E. Hallowell is a Department of Air Force Civilian working for the United States Special Operations Command. Mr. Hallowell leads a team supporting requirements for special operations units across the globe. In addition to United States Special Operations Command, Mr. Hallowell has worked for Special Operations Command Central, and Naval Special Warfare Command.
Mr. Hallowell is a 2009 graduate of Florida StateUniversity and earned a Bachelor of Science in Geography and certificates in Urban Planning and Emergency Management. While at Florida State, he was a founding member of the Collegiate Veterans Association and the group's third President. Mr. Hallowell was also a founding member of Student Veterans of America and brought FSU in as a founding University. Student Veterans of America is focused on addressing the needs and concerns of American military veterans in higher education. FSU continues to be an invaluable member of Student Veterans of America.
Prior to attending Florida State University, Mr. Hallowell was on active duty in the Marine Corps for nine years with deployments supporting Operation Gallant Venture, Operation Enduring Freedom,Operation IraqiF reedom, and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. Mr. Hallowell's duty stations included locations at Augusta, Georgia; Okinawa, Japan; and Oahu, Hawaii.
Mr. Hallowell is married to his wife Jamie who he met at Florida State during a tailgate for a Miami game.Mr. Hallowell and Jamie were also married during a Miami game, both of which the Seminoles were victorious.
Mr. Hallowell and Jamie have a dog named Buster that enjoys traveling with them. In addition to all things Florida State, the Hallowell's are avid Rays and Buccaneers fans.
As a government civilian, Mr. Hallowell's awards include the Joint Civilian Service Achievement Award, the Joint Civilian Service Commendation Award, and the Department of Navy Civilian Meritorious Service Award.
Job Titles:
- Media Specialist of University Advancement Communications
Since moving to Tallahassee in 2011, Harleigh has grown to love not only the city but Florida State University. Having graduated in the summer of 2022, she is thrilled to now be working for her alma mater. When not at work you can find Harleigh baking, watching a classic rom-com, or spending time with her husband, family and friends.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Chairman of the FSU Emeriti Alumni Society
- President, Emeriti Alumni Society
J. Michael "Mike" Pate currently serves as chair of the FSU Emeriti Alumni Society. He has been actively involved with FSU since his 1968 graduation from the FSU College of Business. He was one of the co-founders of the FSU Marching Chiefs Alumni. He was named to the Marching Chiefs Alumni Hall of Fame, is a member of the Circle of Gold, a Grad Made Good and in the College of Business Hall of Fame. He was a member of the FSU Foundation Board of Trustees, the Marching Chiefs Alumni board, the College of Business Legacy Hall building committee and helped former FSU president Sandy D'Alemberte start the FSU's Opening Nights Arts Festival. He is a Legacy Life Member of the Alumni Association, a Seminole Booster and a member of the Bowden Society.
Mr. Pate was president and publisher of the Tallahassee Democrat for 9 years and earlier for the Myrtle Beach (SC) Sun News for 18 years. He also held management positions with the Biloxi (MS) Sun Herald and The Miami Herald. Mr. Pate spent 37 years working in the newspaper business from which he retired.
After retiring, Pate led a community building program in Tallahassee called the Knight Creative Communities Institute. The focus of the institute has been to make Tallahassee an even better place to live, work and play.
He is married to Judy Baker Pate, who is also an FSU graduate and a member of the Circle of Gold. Together they established, through a charitable remainder trust, the Pate Family Scholarship. The scholarship will support two scholarships annually for members of the Marching Chiefs, one for a business major and one for a music education major. The couple has one son Brian, daughter-in-law Kirke and four grandchildren.
Job Titles:
- Associate Director of Alumni and Student Engagement for the Division of Undergraduate Studies
Jacey Darrah has over six years of experience in the higher education industry. Before moving to Florida, Jacey served in various roles at the University of New Hampshire including Senior Event Specialist and Alumni Board Relations Manager. Jacey has a passion for planning events and creating meaningful experiences for others. Jacey holds a Bachelor's Degree in TV, Film, and New Media from San Diego State University, a graduate certificate in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Plymouth State University, and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire. Jacey and her fiancé Cory recently purchased a house in Crawfordville, FL and she is excited to use her interior design and thrifting skills to decorate their new home.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Global Client Service Partner With Ernst & Young LLP
Javi Borges is a Global Client Service Partner with Ernst & Young LLP (EY) dedicated to serving large, complex, global organizations. Located in Miami, Florida, he brings over 20 years of experience helping commercial and public sector organizations achieve their strategic, operational and risk management goals.
Javi has served in various roles successfully growing and transforming the business of EY. He has held positions in EY's tax, markets, health sciences, and government & public sector practices. He has served fortune 1000 companies in Florida and some of the largest state governments across the U.S.
In 2016, Javi was selected as a Young Hispanic Corporate Achiever by the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR). He also served on EY's Latino Professional Network Steering Committee and is committed to driving diversity, inclusiveness and equality in the workplace.
Javi and his wife Lauren have two children and are proud Florida State University Alumni. Javi served as President of the Seminole Club of New York City, where he helped establish the Noles in NYC program and the 9/11 memorial scholarship at FSU. He also served as President of the Miami Seminole Club where he established the '77 Club, which honors Seminole alumni from south Florida who have shown special dedication to our alma mater.
Javi has a B.S. in International Affairs and Multinational Business from FSU graduating in 1997; he is a Legacy Life Member of the FSU Alumni Association and a Seminole Booster.
Job Titles:
- Vice Chair of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Jeanne M. Miller is an experienced lawyer with a passion for public service. Ms. Miller brings her diverse and unique set of skills and experiences to the FSU Alumni Association's National Board of Directors.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Jeanne Curtin earned three degrees from Florida State University and continues to share her time and talent with the university. She brings the perspective of an alumna, former professor, volunteer, donor and Assistant Dean for Development for the university to the FSU Alumni Association National Board of Directors. Ms. Curtin is a lawyer and serves as the Policy Chief, Florida House of Representatives Water Quality, Supply & Treatment Subcommittee, and Attorney, Select Committee on Hurricane Resiliency & Recovery.
Ms. Curtin served as Co-Chair of the State Health Improvement Plan Priority Area 9 - Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias and as an Ex-Officio Council Member of the Florida Council on Homelessness. She served on the board of the Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross, including terms served as chair of the board, secretary, and chair of the annual gala; she was twice honored with the Donna O'Meara Chairman's Award. She also served on the executive committee of the Women for Florida State University, including serving as chair of the strategic planning committee.
Ms. Curtin is a Legacy Lifetime member of the FSU Alumni Association, a member of the FSU College of Law's Board of Visitors, a member of Seminole Boosters - The Platinum Chiefs, a member of the Bowden Society, a member of the Westcott Legacy Society, and an annual donor to the FSU College of Law.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- President and Chief Executive Officer of the Jacksonville Civic Council
Ms. Miller currently serves as president and chief executive officer of the Jacksonville Civic Council, where she works closely with Northeast Florida's most dynamic and influential leaders to identify and promote solutions to the region's most complex business and public policy challenges. Immediately prior to joining the Civic Council, Ms. Miller served as General Counsel & Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Florida State College at Jacksonville, where she oversaw the transition from community to four-year college. Her other experience includes corporate and municipal legal practice and service as both Deputy Executive Director and Interim Executive Director of the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission, where she helped grow hundreds of jobs and add over $500M to the Duval County tax base.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Adjunct Professor at the Florida State University College of Law
Jeff Kottkamp graduated from Florida State University in 1984 with a B.S. degree in political science.
He currently serves as the Executive Vice President and General Counsel for Florida TaxWatch and President of Jeff Kottkamp, P.A. Jeff is an AV Preeminant-rated attorney and has been licensed to practice law for over 35 years.
In 2000 he was elected to the Florida House of Representatives where he served for three terms.While in the House he served as Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Chairman of the Judicial Appropriations Committee, Chairman of the Government Operations Committee, Vice Chairman of Rules and was Deputy Majority Whip.
In November of 2006 he was elected as the 17th Lieutenant Governor of Florida. As Lieutenant Governor, he oversaw the Governor's Office of Drug Control, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, the Office of Adoption and Child Protection, and the Governor's Office of Film and Entertainment. Governor Kottkamp also served as Chairman of Florida's Children & Youth Cabinet, Chairman of Space Florida Board of Directors, and Chairman of the Florida Sports Foundation. On June 18, 2008 he served as the Acting Governor of the State of Florida.
Jeff has served as an Adjunct Professor at the Florida State University College of Law teaching Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law. He was named to the FSU "Circle of Gold" in 2007. His firm achieved the "Seminole 100" designation in 2020, 2021, and 2022. He is Past President of the Seminole Club of Lee County.
He and his wife Cyndie have been married for 26 years. They have one son, Jackson, who attends Florida State University.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Senior Editor and Writer for ESPN
Jeremy Willis is a senior editor and writer for ESPN where he currently covers college football. During his career in journalism, starting at ESPN in 2005, Jeremy has become a leader in the digital content organization not only for his creativity and acumen, but for his focus on the group's culture and his fellow colleagues. Jeremy has, in some fashion, covered almost every major sport as well as the World Cup and Olympic Games. He has worked with some of sports media's best writers, reporters and editors to deliver the best sports journalism out there.
At ESPN, Jeremy has also focused on service. Jeremy serves on the V Foundation leadership board whose goal is to advance the mission of finding a cure for cancer. The V Foundation is ESPN's lone charity. On the committee, Jeremy serves as the digital coordinator and seeks to raise awareness and drive engagement and donations through digital content coordination and communication. Jeremy also serves on the Salute Disney Veteran's Employee Resource Group leadership council. Through mentorship, career coaching and advocacy, Jeremy has helped advance the causes of United States military veterans in the workplace. Jeremy is a leader on the ESPN's digital organization's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion council leading efforts in corporate culture and employee retention.
As a first-generation college graduate, the experiences and education at FSU have long stayed with Jeremy. He has focused that sentiment to give back to other FSU students, serving as a ProffesioNOLE Mentor and hosting FSU students for multiple career days through the FSU Career Center.
Jeremy graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English and became the first college graduate in his family. While at FSU, he wrote for the FSView and Florida Flambeau. He also worked as a student equipment manager for the FSU football team. His time working in the athletics department has led him to partner with classmates from FSU to endow a scholarship for FSU managers. Jeremy met his wife at Smith Hall at FSU and they've been married since 2005. He has one son, Nathaniel.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Vice President
- Director
- Member of the Board of Directors
Jessica J. Washington is assistant vice president and director of payments research and outreach with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. In this role, Jessica is a recognized thought leader through her collaboration with industry participants, such as financial institutions, fintechs, regulators, law enforcement, the legal community, and others in the Federal Reserve System. She regularly convenes and speaks to payments industry stakeholders to discuss trends in payments and to promote the mitigation of payments risks. Jessica shares her research through blogs, papers, presentations and hosting forums.
In addition to her outreach role, Ms. Washington manages tactile objectives tied to the Bank's strategic priorities by serving on a strategy workgroup which makes connections between payments and economic mobility and resilience. She has also recently served as Deputy Chair of the Diversity Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Advisor to NACHA's Payments Risk Accreditation Oversight Panel, Board Member of The Payments Institute Board of Regents, Advisor to Accredited ACH Certification Board, and Member of FS-ISAC's Payments Risk and Fraud Group.
Ms. Washington brings nearly 10 years of association management experience. Prior to joining the Federal Reserve, Jessica served as senior vice president for PaymentsFirst, a not-for-profit trade association. In this role she provided member services such as education and consulting. Jessica managed all aspects of the association such as: information technology, accounting, communications, government and industry relations, human resources and other day-to-day functions. She also reported to the board of directors and participated in board strategic planning in order set association strategies and objectives. Today, Jessica serves on the Board of ePay Resources, a similar payments trade association.
In 2020, Jessica was elected to serve on the Florida State Alumni Association Board of Directors, serving on the audit and business development committee. She earned her bachelor's degree in English from FSU in 2004 with a major in creative writing and minor in childhood development. She is a lifetime member of the FSU Alumni Association, a ProfessioNole Mentor, and active volunteer for Girl Scouts of America. Post-graduate, Jessica obtained her Accredited ACH Professional Certification in 2007, Six Sigma Green Belt in 2017 and Prosci Change Management Certification in 2019.
Jessica, a College of Fine Arts graduate, is an FSU trivia powerhouse since working in the university's Sesquicentennial office upon graduation in 2001. As our graphic designer, Jessica strives to use garnet and gold as if they were the only two colors in the spectrum. When not on campus Jessica might be found hunting for treasures or starting art projects she doesn't tend to finish.
Jodane Mowatt OPS Gifts Processor jom20@fsu.edu 850.644.2761 Read Bio Born and raised in Jamaica, JoJo moved to Florida in December 2017. She is a senior with a major in Interdisciplinary Studies and a minor in Communications. Taking an active interest in advocacy and networking, this led to her involvement with the Student Alumni Association where she currently serves as the 2023 President. Throughout working with SAA, JoJo has found a love for alumni affairs and is now an intern for Programs and Outreach at the Alumni Association. She continues to bridge the gap between students and the alumni community through a shared love and understanding for the Florida State University. Averi Albritton Executive Assistant Read Bio Bio coming soon!
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Chief Executive Officer of Byte Back
Joe Paul is the Chief Executive Officer of Byte Back, a tech nonprofit committed to closing the digital divide by providing under-resourced communities an equitable pathway into the digital economy. Prior to joining Byte Back, he served as the 29th Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Before that, Joe founded Campus 2 Careers Strategies; a training organization dedicated to equipping individuals with essential skills to successfully navigate both personal and professional relationships. Joe is the immediate past Chief Operating Officer for The Stafford Foundation, a charitable organization committed to doing good around the world. He is the author of "Morning Cup of Joe," "Love Yourself," "100 Ways to Change the World, One Good Deed at a Time," and a devoted philanthropist.
Prior to starting his own business, Joe worked with Management Leadership for Tomorrow where his strategies and tactics led to a 300% increase in overall outcomes - attracting and connecting high achieving, high potential underrepresented minorities to the nation's top business schools and meaningful career opportunities at Fortune 100 companies. Before joining MLT, Joe served as the Human Resources Officer for the District of Columbia government. Joe comes from Haitian immigrant parents and is the first of his 10 siblings to graduate from college.
Prior to graduating from Florida State University with a double bachelor's degree in Social Science and Russian and Spanish, Joe led and was actively involved in more than 2 dozen organizations culminating his service as the Student Body Vice-President and Homecoming Chief, among other honors. In 2002, Joe was inducted into FSU's Hall of Fame. Joe is also the recipient of the coveted "Outstanding Brother of the Year" award, which is the highest honor Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. bestows on its over 200,000 members worldwide. Joe was recognized as the 2018 "Alumni of the Year" by the FSU Black Alumni Association and the 2019 "Unconquered Spirit" Recipient from FSU's National Alumni Association. One of his proudest accomplishments occurred in 2018 when Joe Paul became the first African American President of the Seminole Club of Greater Washington DC in its 55-year history. The following year, Joe was successfully re-elected to serve a second term.
Joe proudly serves on the following boards: FSU National Alumni Association, The Seminole Club of Greater Washington DC (Past-President), Black Men Vote, EFO Ventures, United Way Emerging Leaders, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and Hope for Haiti. Joe enjoys rooting for the Noles, exercising, reading, volunteering, writing, traveling internationally, playing golf and is an avid cyclist.
Job Titles:
- OPS Administrative Assistant
Jordyn Adams is a senior at Florida State University pursuing her undergraduate in Media and Communication Studies with a minor in English. Throughout her time as a student, she has focused on furthering her skills as a reporter and producer for various departments around the university. Outside of her educational pursuits, Jordyn works as a group fitness instructor at the Leach Recreational Center. After graduating, Jordyn plans to continue developing her abilities as a multi-media journalist for a mainstream news outlet.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Founder and Director of the Institute for Defense Robotic Surgical Education
Lt Col. Josh Tyler, an active-duty U.S. Air Force colorectal and general surgeon at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi, is the chief of colon and rectal surgery and director of robotic surgery. He started the Air Force's first DaVinci Xi robotic surgery program. He serves as the colorectal surgery consultant to the US Air Force Surgeon General, and was recently named Chair of the Robotic Surgery Steering Committee for the Defense Health Agency, overseeing robotic surgery throughout the Department of Defense.
Dr. Tyler is the founder and director of the Institute for Defense Robotic Surgical Education (InDoRSE), a joint enterprise between the Department of Defense and Intuitive Surgical. It serves as a teaching facility for all Department of Defense and Veteran's Affairs surgeons and is the only such facility in the nation. He also has a volunteer civilian practice serving the local nonmilitary population as the only colorectal surgeon in Mississippi, and he serves as director of robotic surgery at Merit Health Biloxi.
Dr. Tyler received the 2017 USAF Air Education and Training Command Field Grade Officer Award for Clinical Excellence. He was named a Notable Nole and received the Reuben O'D. Askew Young Alumni Award from the FSU Alumni Association in 2016. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery, and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American College of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.
During his time at FSU, Dr. Tyler served as director of Health Concerns for the Student Government Association and as president of Phi Delta Theta. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Seminole Torchbearers, Air Force ROTC and Burning Spear.
Dr. Tyler has four children: Drew, Luke, Blake and Austen who all plan to be FSU alumni one day. He is a Legacy Life Member of the FSU Alumni Association, a member of Seminole Boosters and a member of the FSU Foundation's President's Club. He also serves on the board of directors for Seminole Torchbearers.
Job Titles:
- CEO
- Leader
- Member of the Board of Directors
- President
- Administration and Operations
- President and Chief Executive Officer of the Florida State University
Julie began her service to FSU in November 2018. In her role, she has the privilege of serving the best alumni staff in the country as well as our 391,000+ alumni around the world. She allegedly enjoys throwing pottery, photography, music and reading. Her favorite getaway spot is the beach when it's not the mountains.
Julie Decker is president and chief executive officer of the Florida State University Alumni Association. Decker has spent 20 years as an alumni relations strategist, having also worked in the alumni associations of the University of Georgia, the University of North Carolina, and Coastal Carolina University. Decker's wide-ranging résumé includes in depth experience in program development, membership, fundraising, budgeting, student leadership, and working with boards and volunteers.
Decker is a recognized leader in alumni relations. She is often called upon to share practices and trends to help further alumni work at other universities, colleges, and with vendors who specialize higher education advancement. Decker strongly believes that alumni relations should be a leader in supporting the overall advancement efforts of the university.
Julie's past accomplishments include being recognized as a member of "The Exceptionals", a group of emerging young community leaders, a graduate of L.E.A.D. Athens, named "Rookie of the Year" for the American Cancer Society, and received recognition as an Outstanding Career Mentor. Additionally, she has served as Vice President and Secretary for the Board of Directors of Nuci's Space and Southeast Clarke Park respectively. In 2020, she became a member Leadership Tallahassee Class 37.
Decker is proud to represent Florida State University as a member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) where she has been recognized as Distinguished Faculty and a "Stellar Speaker" for five consecutive years. She has provided leadership as a CASE District III conference committee member responsible for developing the Alumni Relations sessions for 1200+ attendees. Additionally, she has been called upon to serve as a faculty member for the Institute for Senior Alumni Relations professionals; and most recently for the CASE Institute in Alumni Relations where faculty develop new alumni relations practitioners. Julie also represents FSU as a communications committee member for the Council of Alumni Association Executives (CAAE).
Julie holds two degrees from the University of Georgia: a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies and a Master of Education in human resource and organizational development. In addition, she has completed doctoral coursework in human resources and organizational development (HROD) in higher education at UGA, studying the changing landscape of alumni relations in the overall advancement framework.
Job Titles:
- Intern, Programs and Outreach
Justus is a fourth-year dual degree student intern with the Alumni Association. Before joining the Programs & Outreach team, Justus was a member of the Student Alumni Association. Serving as the Director of Events for this on-campus organization prompted his interest in the Alumni Affairs of FSU. Justus is a North Florida native who enjoys reading, traveling, and keeping up with sports in his free time. Post-grad, Justus seeks to pursue a J.D. and a career in the legal field, specifically business law.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Director of University Advancement Communications
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Member of the Panther Clan
- Seminole Tribe Representative
Kyle Doney is a member of the Panther Clan in the Seminole Tribe of Florida. From a young age, Florida State University was always his first and only choice for school.
Mr. Doney graduated from FSU in 2007 with a bachelor's degree in political science and a minor in criminology. As a Tribal member, he has had the honor of participating in the Tradition of Tribute for three games. The first, at the Miami game on Labor Day 2005, was in response to the NCAA and their ruling to take away Native American "mascots" from universities. With the support of his Tribe, he is proud to be a Florida State University Seminole.
Mr. Doney resides in Hollywood, Florida, where he works for the Seminole Tribe's Native Learning Center. As the deputy executive director, he works to educate Native Americans of different Tribes throughout Indian Country.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement, Students and Young Alumni
Landon, a Tallahassee native, graduated from FSU in 2020 via Zoom from his mom's guest bedroom. As a student, he was very involved on campus working as a Resident Assistant, Orientation Leader and serving on the Executive Board for Dance Marathon's 25th anniversary year. Now, Landon helps advise the Student Alumni Association and hopes to help every student make the most out of their time at FSU.
Job Titles:
- Communications
- Executive Director of University Advancement Communications
Job Titles:
- Student Alumni Association Graduate Assistant
Lauren is a first-year graduate assistant with the Alumni Association. Before joining Florida State University, she obtained a bachelor's degree in communications from the University of West Florida. She also holds a vocational training certificate in medical assisting and an associate of arts in business from Pensacola State College. Lauren considers Pensacola her hometown after a military-ordered move from NAS Millington. She enjoys music, reading, and digital art. Post-grad, Lauren seeks to pursue a Ph.D. and a higher-education career, specifically with the non-traditional student experience.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Principal and President of Legacy Toyota
Les Akers is an accomplished business man with many years of commitment to Florida State University. He has been a faithful supporter of University initiatives and he brings his extensive leadership experience to the FSU Alumni Association's National Board of Directors.
Mr. Akers is the dealer principal and president of Legacy Toyota in Tallahassee, Florida. He is also the president and majority stockholder of Wayne Akers Ford in Lake Worth, Florida - the city where he spend the early part of his life. As a second generation Ford dealer, he grew up in the business and worked in all departments within the company before assuming management roles after college. Since relocating to Tallahassee in 1992, he has maintained senior management and ownership positions in several franchised dealership. Currently, Mr. Akers oversees the operation at his Ford dealership in Lake Worth in addition to his responsibilities at Legacy Toyota.
Mr. Akers earned a bachelor's degree in risk management and insurance from the Florida State University College of Business in 1973. He was a member of the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity at Florida State, an organization which he has continued to support. He has remained engaged with the University as a member of the College of Business President's Club and the Florida State University National Campaign committee. He has served on the Seminole Boosters Board of Directors, is a Legacy Life Member of the FSU Alumni Association and, in recognition of his service to Florida State University, Mr. Akers was inducted into the FSU Alumni Association's Circle of Gold in 2006.
Mr. Akers lives in Tallahassee, Florida with his wife Ruth. He remains very involved in the Tallahassee community having supported FSU's Opening Nights, the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, Capital Area Chapter of the Red Cross, and Habitat for Humanity. He has served on the board for Live the Life Ministries, University Musical Associates, Phi Kappa Tau - Beta Iota Chapter at Florida State University, and the Tallahassee Quarterback Club. He currently serves on the Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare Foundation Board of Directors and the Capital City Bank Advisory Board. Mr. Akers is also a past winner of the Rotary Clubs Ethics in Business Award.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Dr. Smith is an education and professional development consultant with a specialization in distance learning. From 2014 through 2019, she served as Professor and Program Chair for the Master of Distance Education and E-learning (MDE) program at the University of Maryland Global Campus.
She received her Ph.D. in Instructional Systems from Florida State University (FSU) where she also taught graduate courses in the Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Department and currently teaches graduate courses in the Education Psychology and Learning Systems Department. She also received B.A. and M.A. degrees from FSU.
She is involved internationally for work in both academe and professional development, including consulting and teaching in higher education. From 2010-2019, she served as Coordinator of Online Courses and Professional Development Consultant for the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers.
Prior to work in higher education, she was a senior staff director for many years for the Social Security Administration in Baltimore, MD, where she led projects of national scope. Her current service activities include supporting education programs at Florida State University.
Job Titles:
- Associate Director of Volunteer Engagement
Lindsey, a Florida State alumna, joined the Alumni Association team in 2019, after working at the FSU Foundation for two and a half years. As a graduate of the College of Fine Arts and art enthusiast, you can catch her at almost any gallery and museum opening in Tallahassee. Lindsey also enjoys exploring state parks and listening to true crime podcasts-usually not at the same time.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- President of the Student
- President, Student
Madeline King is the President of the Student Alumni Association from Clearwater, Florida. She is majoring in Criminology with minors in Psychology and Mathematics on a Pre-Law track. She has held multiple leadership positions in various programs in addition to SAA, including the Panhellenic Council, her sorority, Chi Omega, the legislative and executive branch of Student Government, Garnet and Gold Key Honorary, and FLI. She also co-founded 1910 Honorary, the first women's honorary on campus. Outside of her positions here at the university, she has volunteered at local high schools, and currently works for a law firm here in Tallahassee. She aims to attend law school upon graduation.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Secretary of the Board of Directors
- Director of Business Management at NextEra Energy, Inc
Mahogany B. Campbell is the Director of Business Management at NextEra Energy, Inc. a leading clean energy company. Mahogany is responsible for the overall P and L management of over 50 NextEra generating renewable assets. She drives strategic decision-making with respect to such assets, including hedging, operations, and maintenance, and identifies opportunities and analyzes impact on the company financials to maximize P and L profitability.
Prior to her current role she was Director of Operations at Trans Bay Cable (NEET) where she was responsible for directing the safe, reliable, and cost-effective operations of transmission, substation, protection, and control operations for transmission assets in the west coast region.
Mahogany has served in various other roles within FPL and NextEra Energy Resouces (NEER), including Power Delivery General Manager of Reliability, Distribution Area Manager, Operations Leader - FPL and NEER, Operations Specialist - PGD, Technical Services Transformer Principle Engineer, and Protection & Controls Engineer. Mahogany joined FPL in 2002 and has worked at NextEra Energy for 20 years.
Mahogany is a Florida State University Alumni Association life member, Vice President and board member of Project Pink and Green Foundation, Inc., chairman of the Diversity and Inclusion Council for FAMU/FSU's College of Engineering, and leads Racial Equity initiatives for NexteraEnergy. As a student at Florida State University she was involved in various organizations and selected as President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Mahogany holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from FSU and is a certified Six Sigma Green Belt. She currently resides in Jupiter, Florida, is married to husband Keino with one sone Chase Alexender, and enjoys volunteering, mentoring, traveling, and anything dealing with numbers.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement, Marketing and Business Development
Maia is a Daytona Beach, Florida native who earned a pair of bachelor's degrees from the University of South Florida in 2018, and eventually landed in Tallahassee to pursue a graduate degree at Florida State. As a self-proclaimed "jill of all trades", in her free time, Maia loves debating, screenwriting, producing music, dancing, baking, and spending time with friends and family.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director, Alumni Engagement, Operations and Administration
What does a television producer, high school teacher, college assistant professor and an associate dean all have in common? I am not sure either, but Marcus has served in each of those roles. After 13 years as an educator, he has been noted as a consummate negotiator, professional convener and strategic thinker - a set of skills perfect for bringing any team together. When he is not entertaining his wife and two children with random jokes and drum beats, he enjoys writing screenplays and eating barbeque.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- President
- Vice President
- Vice President for University Advancement & President, FSU Foundation Inc
Marla Vickers joined Florida State University in October 2022 as vice president for University Advancement and president of the FSU Foundation. In this joint role, Vickers oversees Florida State's fundraising, alumni and donor relations and real estate giving. She also provides strategic leadership for FSU's next comprehensive campaign. Vickers is an accomplished development professional with more than two decades of experience in higher education. In her previous work as associate vice president of advancement at Emory University, Vickers directed fundraising and alumni and constituent engagement efforts in eight academic schools and units. She also contributed to building the university's major and principal gifts pipeline as part of a $4 billion comprehensive campaign. Vickers has held Advancement roles at Yale University, the University of Chicago, George Washington University, Duke University and Georgetown University. With her collective experience in fundraising, business development, project management and leadership, Vickers is a dynamic leader with a successful track record as a fundraiser and manager. Vickers earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia, a master's degree from Florida State University and an MBA from George Washington University. She is currently pursuing a doctor of education degree at Vanderbilt University.
Job Titles:
- Executive
- Member of the Board of Directors
- President and Chief Executive Officer of Vyne Corporation
Melinda "Lindy" Benton is an experienced executive in the healthcare information technology industry. She has held several senior executive positions within the nation's leading healthcare information technology companies and played a critical role in shaping the industry over her more that 30 years of leadership.
Ms. Benton is the president and chief executive officer of Vyne Corporation, a provider of secure healthcare communications, electronic attachment and health information exchange solutions to the hospital, dental practice and payer markets, with offices in Atlanta and Knoxville. Ms. Benton is a past board member for the Florida Hospital for Children Foundation; a fellow and a past president of the Florida Chapter for the Health Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS); and she continues to serve on executive councils for several health-related committees and industry associations.
Ms. Benton is part of a long line of FSU legacy graduates, dating back to 1910 when her great aunt graduated from the Florida State College for Women. Ms. Benton received a bachelor's and master's degree from the FSU College of Education with extended post-graduate work in measurement and statistics. She has continued to support FSU alumni by mentoring many FSU graduates in her past and current positions in the healthcare industry.
Ms. Benton has been recognized as one of the "Most Powerful Women in Healthcare IT" by Health Data Management for three consecutive years; she has been named one of the FSU College of Education's Distinguished Alumni in Business and Industry; and she was a finalist for the Women in Tech's 2016 Woman of the Year Award.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Chief Human Resources Officer at Alston & Bird
Michael Stephens is the Chief Human Resources Officer at Alston & Bird, an international law firm with more than 1800 lawyers and employees in thirteen offices. Alston & Bird has been recognized by Fortune Magazine on their annual list of "100 Best Companies to Work For©" for the past 23 consecutive years. In his role, Michael manages all human resources operations, including supporting the firm's award-winning culture that prioritizes trust, service, and inclusion. He also serves on the firm's Diversity & Inclusion and Data Privacy & Security Committees. Michael pursued human resources training through the Stern School of Business at NYU and the School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University.
In 2020, Michael completed his term as Chair for the Association of Legal Administrator's Diversity & Inclusion Committee, where he lectured and provided diversity and inclusion best practices to law firms across the country. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Science from FSU, class of 1991. During his time at Florida State University, he served as a member of the Marching Chiefs and was a Seminole Ambassador. He is passionate about FSU and is an annual donor to the School of Theatre, School of Social Science, Seminole Boosters, Marching Chiefs, and is a Legacy Life Member of the FSU Alumni Association.
He is dedicated to community involvement and public service. Michael has served as a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, Year Up Greater Atlanta, and POSSE. Currently, Michael serves on the Board of Trustees for the Historic Oakland Cemetery Foundation.
A native of Miami, Florida, Michael currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia and is married to Collen Reedy. Together they are proud parents of two Boston Terriers, Jake and Hudson. In his spare time, he enjoys running half marathons, travelling internationally, and supporting the Florida State Seminoles.
Job Titles:
- Associate Director of Student and Alumni Engagement, College of Social Work
Naomi Molina is a two-time graduate of Florida State University with a bachelor's in Media/Communication Studies and a masters in Integrated Marketing Communication. Throughout her career she has worked in various roles in fundraising, marketing, communications, and event planning. She has been with the College of Social Work since July 2021 and has supported college wide events as well as student and alumni engagement initiatives. Naomi loves working with and supporting the CSW and is passionate about continuing to make the college a better, more fun, and inclusive place for all students, alumni, faculty, and staff. In her spare time, Naomi loves to go thrift shopping and antiquing with her husband Alex, take their dog Nellie on long walks, and spend time with friends and family.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement, Marketing and Business Development
Olivia, a two-time graduate of Florida State, joined the Alumni Association in August 2021. She is a small-town Florida girl who came to FSU to pursue her degrees, while also meeting her now husband and becoming a military wife. Olivia enjoys all things home-renovation, outdoors, Target, and analytical. If she isn't at an FSU game or on campus, she is with her dog Luke (a Collie that looks like Lassie), starting a home renovation, traveling wherever she can get a cheap plane ticket to, at Target, or at a coffee shop-preferably Lucky Goat.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Deputy City Manager for Bal Harbour Village
Ramiro J. Inguanzo is the Deputy City Manager for Bal Harbour Village, Florida where he assists in the day-to-day management and operations of this coastal community in Miami-Dade County. He served as the President of the Miami-Dade County / City Management Association (MDCCMA), the professional association of city managers in Miami-Dade County from 2019-2021. Previously, he worked for the City of Miami Beach as the Chief of Staff and Director of Human Resources/Labor Relations from 2001-2012.
Prior to his work in local government, Ramiro was the Senior Advisor to the College President and Assistant Dean of Students at Miami Dade College, the largest and most diverse institution of higher education in the U.S. where he oversaw government and community relations and has taught as an Adjunct Professor since 2005 teaching courses in government and the U.S. Constitution. He was also the Director of Leadership Development at the Council for Excellence in Government in Washington, D.C. and worked as a Legislative Fellow for the Florida House of Representatives. He was appointed, twice, by Florida's former Governor Lawton Chiles to serve as a member of Florida's Postsecondary Education Planning Commission (PEPC), the state board responsible for making policy recommendations to the Florida Board of Education. During his tenure as a member, he led the initiative to implement service-learning programs in Florida's higher education curriculums.
Currently, Ramiro serves as a board member on the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) affiliate Local Government Hispanic Network; board member of the Miami-Dade County Neat Streets Miami; and board member of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Secure Our Future Advisory Committee.
Ramiro is a proud two-time graduate of Florida State University (FSU) having graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science/Communication and a Master's degree in Public Administration. While at FSU, he was inducted into the FSU Gold Key Hall of Fame; awarded the Seminole Torchbearer Award; and was the first-ever recipient of the FSU Apollo Visko Award. Since 2015, he has served as a Board Member of the Student Affairs Development Council (formerly Seminole Torchbearers). In 2021, he was appointed to the FSU Alumni Association Board of Directors.
Job Titles:
- Associate Director of Student and Alumni Engagement in the College of Engineering
Robin is originally from Ft. Lauderdale and is a proud FSU alumna. Robin moved back to Tallahassee to be close to her twin girls, who were seniors at FSU at the time. She spent most of her career in sales before working at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering in research and graduate studies, then recruiting.
She enjoys spending time with her three daughters, grand kitty Naru and two pups, Moose and Murphy. She is passionate about yoga and is a certified instructor.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Principal With the Griffin Group
Robyn serves as a Principal with The Griffin Group, a Florida based lobbying firm providing a tailored, client-focused approach to government relations, business development, nonprofit management, and public affairs. She leads the nonprofit and education practice at the firm. Robyn has over a decade of experience advocating and developing solutions to improve outcomes for Florida's most vulnerable children. Robyn previously served as the Director of Special Projects with the Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking, and as the Statewide Director for the Open Doors Outreach Network, providing 24/7 care and support to survivors of sex trafficking in Florida. She also served as the Associate Executive Director for the American Children's Campaign, advocating for policy change on behalf of children in Florida.
Robyn currently serves as a board member on the board of directors for the National Florida State University (FSU) Alumni Association, Statewide Healthy Start MomCare Network, and the South City Foundation - Tallahassee. She has held various volunteer roles with organizations including the Leon County Children's Services Council, Junior League of Tallahassee, and Guardian Ad Litem and previously served on the FSU College of Social Work Alumni Group board of directors.
Robyn received her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW) with a concentration in Social Policy and Administration and Master of Public Administration (MPA) from FSU. She was named a 2020 Notable Nole (formerly 30 Under 30) from the FSU Alumni Association and in 2016 she received the Distinguished Young Alumni Award from the FSU College of Social Work.
Originally from Sarasota, FL, Robyn resides in Tallahassee with her husband Michael and her dog Hoyt.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Director of University Advancement Events
Samantha Keller is a seasoned hospitality professional. Over the last six years, she's owned and operated Samantha Nicole Weddings & Events, a wedding and event planning company in addition to her corporate career. Keller is passionate and aims to create seamless and impactful events while building lasting relationships with colleagues, vendors and clients. She has a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Florida State University. In her free time, Keller enjoys spending quality time with her husband and bonus son, going to the beach, cooking, baking and having adventures.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Director of Alumni Programs and Outreach
As a Tallahassee Native and two-time graduate of Florida State, Sarah has been a proud Seminole her entire life. Before joining the Alumni Association in 2023, Sarah gained knowledge within the hospitality and insurance industries. Outside of the office, you can catch her at the coast with her beloved lab Maggie or enjoying time with friends and family.
Job Titles:
- Development Officer
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Vice President of Community Operations for Children 's Miracle Network Hospitals
Staci Cross is a seasoned development officer with nearly 20 years of experience in multimillion-dollar fundraising programs.
Staci Cross is the Vice President of Community Operations for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. In her current post, she provides strategic and operational leadership to a department responsible for increasing fundraising through a large portfolio of hospitals, universities, media partners, national and regional corporate partners, donors and advocates across the Southeast region of the United States. She is also responsible for developing and implementing the business development strategy across North America and leading the team as they seek new corporate partnerships for her organization.
Working directly with companies such as Aflac, GameStop, Coca Cola and others, Staci has helped bring corporate social responsibility to life through customer point-of-sale campaigns, event sponsorships, consumer package goods, employee giving, and more. Staci also created several fundraising events, including Dance Dash, Miracle Jeans Day, and Miracle Challenge, which raised more than $2M in within its pilot phase. During her time with Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, Staci has served in a variety of capacities, including managing relationships with corporate partners, serving as a Regional Director for 30+ east coast hospitals, creating national events, and business development.
Now an experienced fundraiser for the nonprofit industry, Staci's career path began when she was a student at Florida State University. She discovered her passion for helping communities through Florida State University Dance Marathon (DMFSU), an organization raising funds for children's hospitals, after volunteering for the organization and serving on its executive team.
Staci earned a bachelor's degree in biology and psychology from Florida State University, and currently serves on the FSU Alumni Association National Board of Directors. She earned a master's degree in public service administration from Texas A&M University, where she was awarded the George H.W. Bush Presidential Leadership Award. Staci also earned a Certificate of Professional Fund Raising from Boston University.
Ms. Cross now lives in Pinehurst, North Carolina, but maintains roots in South Florida where she serves on the board of the Crockett Foundation. She spends her weekends rooting for the Seminoles and remaining free time traveling to new countries and communities across the globe.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Susan Pollack Delgado leads the new Tax Integration team at Amazon, which is responsible for generating value for the worldwide Direct Tax Organization by focusing on process improvement, seamless integration between tax and other functions, and overall efficient operations.
Prior to joining Amazon and moving to the west coast, Susan spent 25 years working in the Atlanta area in the Corporate Tax field in a variety of roles. She spent over 13 years at General Electric (GE) supporting the overall finance organization on cross-functional projects while managing the foreign income tax compliance for entities in more than 65 countries for the GE Power business. During her tenure at GE, she was the primary tax member on a GE initiative to streamline and standardize processes worldwide for accounting and tax.
From 1999 to 2004, Susan led the US Tax Compliance function at Coca-Cola Enterprises. Under her leadership, the US tax compliance process was entirely re-engineered. She was later chosen to partner with a business CFO to create a team to manage a unique joint venture with all the US Coca-Cola Bottlers, which ultimately generated significant procurement savings for the group. Susan completed her Bachelor's degrees in Accounting in 1991 and her Master degrees in Accounting in 1992. Susan was a member of Beta Alpha Psi, a teaching assistant and a tutor for the athletic department.
While at FSU, Susan was 4-year letterman on the Swimming & Diving team, twice qualifying for the regional diving championship and culminating with a win for FSU women at the Metro Conference championship in 1991. Susan was a two-time winner of the FSU Scholar Athlete award provided to a varsity athlete with the highest GPA for the year. She was also awarded the Metro Conference Post Graduate Scholarship.
She is a member of the FSU Alumni Association and a lifetime member of the Varsity Club. Susan is an active participant as a pilot for the charitable organization Pilots n Paws. The organization supports animal rescue groups and shelters by offering transportation of animals to other rescues that can place the animals in forever homes.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Dr. Cyd Bougae has had a distinguished professional and academic career. Academically, she is a past full time professor at New York University in the Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism and at Montclair State University in the Feliciano School of Business, teaching classes in the Department of Management. Professionally, she has held executive leadership roles with several global membership organizations. This includes serving as Senior Vice President of Professional Development for the Club Managers Association of America, a membership association for managers of private clubs and as a Regional Director of Human Resources for Club Corp, a membership organization, comprised of private golf, country clubs, business clubs and resorts.
Job Titles:
- Coordinator of Alumni Networks
Tatia's undergraduate years at Florida State University exposed her to the dynamic blend of academic excellence and the rich cultural fabric that defines this university, becoming an integral part of her formative experience. While pursuing her master's at the University of Central Florida, Tatia's heart remained tethered to Tallahassee and her alma mater. Drawn back by the unique opportunities and cherished connections, she is enthusiastic about contributing her passion for connecting alumni and students alike. When not working, you can catch her walking around town with her rescue dog, Zeus, and his famed underbite.
Job Titles:
- Director of Graphic Services of University Advancement Communications
Job Titles:
- Executive Director, Advancement Events and Alumni Outreach
Whitney has been managing the Alumni Association's events since 2010, creating gatherings for alumni all around the world. She's a Florida panhandle native who enjoys all things Florida, especially sunshine, the beach and camping at local state parks with her daughter (class of 2034) and husband.
Job Titles:
- Coordinator of Regional Engagement
Zeyris is originally from the Dominican Republic, but grew up in Miami, FL. She graduated from Dartmouth College in 2022 with a Bachelor's in Sociology and a Minor in Theater. Zeyris is very excited to serve Florida State University's alumni as a Coordinator of Regional Engagement! In her free time, Zeyris enjoys spending time with her family and friends, attending concerts and going to the movies.
Zia is originally from Bonita Springs, Florida and relocated here to Tallahassee to pursue her undergraduate degree at Flagler College. Prior to joining the Alumni Association, Zia worked in event management and sales, and is excited to serve Florida State alumni nationwide in her new role. In her free time, she enjoys exploring local eateries and traveling to Maine and South Florida to see her family.