This year’s tournament will be the first FIFA World Cup to be hosted by three nations — United States, Canada and Mexico — and the first to include an expanded field of 48 teams from across the globe. Eleven U.S. cities will host 78 matches June 11 – July 19, including the championship match in New York and third place playoff in Miami.

This historic event coincides with the United States’ 250th anniversaryÌıand marks the first time since 1994 the country has hosted the men’s World Cup.

Here’sÌıa look at some of the Knights bringing this event to life.

Izzy Angel ’23

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Role:Ìı²Ñ±ğ»å¾±²¹Ìı´Ç±è±ğ°ù²¹³Ù¾±´Ç²Ô²õÌı²¹²Ô»åÌı²õ±ğ°ù±¹¾±³¦±ğ²õ
FIFA location: Atlanta

I will be supporting media logistics, guiding photographers and press to designated areas, and facilitating press conferences and interviews. One of the biggest ways UCF prepared me for this opportunity was through its emphasis on networking, collaboration and real-world experience. That mindset opened doors to internships, jobs and experiences that helped me gain confidence in putting myself out there and connecting with people.

It’s been really fulfilling to meet people with completely different backgrounds and life experiences who are all coming together over a shared passion. Being part of something on such a global scale and feeling that sense of community has been incredibly special.

Brendon Boseja ’25

Bachelor’s inÌıintegratedÌıbusiness

Role:ÌıSeniorÌıcoordinator,ÌıClient Group ManagementÌıAccreditation
FIFA site: Miami

At UCF, I learned to network and make many connections in the industry and to continue these relationships. This has especially helped me throughout FIFA, especially since my main job is to communicate with every stadium involved in the tournament. Working for a sports organization as big as FIFA has been a dream of mine, and to be involved with an event like the World Cup is surreal to think about.

Taylor Culver ’23 ’26MSBM ’26MBA

Bachelor’s in kinesiology
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Master’s in business administration

Role:ÌıEventÌıexecutive, FIFA Fan Festival
FIFA site: Houston

“Because of the connections, mentorship and opportunities I gained through UCF, these experiences expanded my confidence and showed me that I truly belong in this industry.�

My role is to help create and execute large-scale fan experiences that bring the energy of the World Cup to life outside of the stadium. Being able to contribute to an event of this magnitude is both humbling and motivating, and I know it will be one of the most impactful experiences of my career. UCF prepared me for this opportunity by putting me in real-world sports environments early and constantly challenging me to grow as a leader. Through the program and my experience as a recruiting assistant for UCF Athletics with the football team, I learned how to operate in fast-paced environments where organization, communication and adaptability are critical. Because of the connections, mentorship and opportunities I gained through UCF, these experiences expanded my confidence and showed me that I truly belong in this industry.

Daniel Garzon ’23 ’24MSBM ’24MBA

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Master’s in businessÌıadministration

Role:ÌıWorkforceÌıintegrationÌıseniorÌıcoordinator,ÌıTournament Operation Center Services
FIFA site:ÌıMiami

I started my journey at FIFA as an intern with the volunteer management team shortly after graduating from the DeVos Sport Business Management program in 2024. As a recruitment coordinator, I spearheaded communications and recruitment strategy while sourcing and scheduling thousands of candidates. Now in my new role, I will be in the heartbeat of the headquarters of the tournament, fulfilling operational needs for all departments while manipulating data to make informed decisions for all the venues during the World Cup.

William Mendez ’26MSBM ’26MBA

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Master’s in businessÌıadministration

Role: Team protocol liaison officer
FIFA site:ÌıMiami

I will provide operational support as a main point of contact for the teams’ protocol representatives, managing VIP/VVIP seating, ticket distribution and logistics. I’m truly excited to be part of an event of this magnitude because FIFA ’26 goes beyond sports by bringing people together across cultures from all over the world. The DeVos Sport Business Management program at UCF has played a major role in preparing me for this moment, giving me the hands-on experience and confidence I need to contribute to an event of this scale.

Colin O’Toole ’26MSBM ’26MBA

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Master’sÌıin businessÌıadministration

Role: Accreditation center coordinator
FIFA site:ÌıBoston

I grew up watching the World Cup and always dreamed of being part of the most watched sporting event in the world. My experience in the soccer industry through both professional and volunteer roles gave me a strong foundation, and the DeVos program broadened my perspective. It exposed me to the business side of the industry, while simultaneously connecting me with incredible mentors and peers, ultimately giving me the confidence and network to land this opportunity with FIFA.

Connor Pank ’17

Bachelor’s inÌımanagement

Role:Ìı°Õ±ğ²¹³¾Ìı²õ±ğ°ù±¹¾±³¦±ğ²õÌı±¹±ğ²Ô³Ü±ğÌı´Ç´Ú´Ú¾±³¦±ğ°ù
FIFA site: Tampa, Florida

The sport business management minor at UCF offered plenty of opportunities to gain practical experience in the industry. My junior year, I was fortunate enough to land a season-long internship at Orlando City Soccer Club in the game day operations department, which then turned into a full-time position with seven amazing seasons of constant growth and experiences that I am forever grateful for.

Being involved in a FIFA World Cup has been a personal goal of mine since my early days with Orlando City SC, when we hosted a U.S. Soccer vs.ÌıPanama World Cup QualifierÌıahead of theÌı2018 FIFA World Cup.ÌıEvery teamÌıparticipatingÌıin the World Cup chooses a designated home base,Ìıwhich includes the team hotel, trainingÌısiteÌıand other operational support facilities as needed. My role is centered around acting as FIFA’s primary operational lead on-site for Cabo Verde’s home base in Tampa to ensure a seamless, world-class experience.

Annie Quaile ’06

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Role:ÌıVenueÌımanager,ÌıFIFA Fan Festival
FIFA site: Atlanta

I act as the bridge between FIFA, Atlanta and the commercial and operational partners delivering the Fan Festival experience. My role focuses on coordinating eventÌılogistics, operations, guest experience, VIP and talent management, and partner integration while ensuring FIFA brand standards are upheld throughout the event.

One of the biggest takeaways from my experience at UCF was learning how to balance creativity,ÌıleadershipÌıand problem-solving under pressure, which isÌıessentially theÌıfoundation of live event and operational management.ÌıThe FIFA World Cup is one of the few truly global experiences that brings together people from every background,ÌıcultureÌıand country around a shared passion.ÌıAll ofÌıthe planning, coordination and operational work happens behind the scenes for months, so finally seeing people from around the worldÌıgathering together, celebrating and creating memories is incredibly rewarding.

Andres Sifontes ’24

Bachelor’s in communication

Role:ÌıCoordinator, Accreditation Documentation and Training Operations
FIFA site: Houston

I joined the FIFA team in September 2024, supporting preparations for both Club World Cup 2025 and FIFA World Cup 2026. In my role now, I oversee Accreditation Center operations in Houston, assist volunteers, and ensure that key stakeholders — including partners like Coca-Cola, Adidas and Visa — receive proper credentials. UCF’s communication program, and especially myÌıCommunication Research MethodsÌı±Ê°ù´Ç´Ú±ğ²õ²õ´Ç°ù , equipped me with the tools I continue to apply every day in my role at FIFA by teaching me how to communicate effectively, carry myself professionally, and think strategically.

Since graduating, my goal has been to contribute to the growth of soccer in the United States. This passion has always been part of who I am, and UCF helped me build the foundation to pursue it professionally. After graduation, I worked with Inter Miami CF, and now with FIFA, I’ve been fortunate to play a role in supporting the continued development of the sport. I truly believe we are about to witness unprecedented growth for the game in this country. I hope that at the end of my career, I can look back and say I contributed to that growth — and that it all started at UCF.

Dennis Sprenkle ’01

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Role:ÌıDirector ofÌıworkforceÌıandÌıhumanÌıresources
FIFA site:Ìı²Ñ¾±²¹³¾¾±

My team oversees the employee journey from recruitment to offboarding across the three host countries (Canada, Mexico and the U.S.) and 16 host cities. We are responsible for everything from workforce planning, training, visa management, benefits, payroll, employee uniforms and just about every other aspect of human resources.

I have always had a keen interest in global political and business affairs, which is why I studied political science with an emphasis on international relations at UCF. Working for a governing body like FIFA in many respects is akin to working for the United Nations. … In order to be a successful leader in a global organization like FIFA, it is critical to have an open mind to effectively collaborate, plan and execute the largest sporting event in human history. My education and experience at UCF as a leader in Student Government certainly laid the foundation and has helped prepare me for this opportunity.

Ryan Taheri ’24

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Role:Ìı°Â´Ç°ù°ì´Ú´Ç°ù³¦±ğÌı´Ç±è±ğ°ù²¹³Ù¾±´Ç²Ô²õÌı³¾²¹²Ô²¹²µ±ğ°ù
FIFA site: Dallas

I grew up watching the World Cup with my family. Now, I occasionally stop for a second and realize how special it all is to be working behind the scenes on the operational side of the tournament. A big part of what I do in my role is coordinate with different functional areas like transportation, catering, accommodations, uniforms and venue operations to ensure the workforce is supported and operations run smoothly.

“UCF pushed me into leadership opportunities early and taught me how to work in fast-paced environments with a lot of moving parts.�

A lot of the role comes down to staying organized, communicating clearly and solving problems quickly. UCF pushed me into leadership opportunities early and taught me how to work in fast-paced environments with a lot of moving parts. Looking back now, I don’t think I realized at the time how much of my experience at UCF directly prepared me for working on something as large and complex as a FIFA ’26.

Alejandro Tarazona ’22

Bachelor’s in integrated business

Role:Ìı²Ñ²¹²Ô²¹²µ±ğ°ù,Ìı°Õ°ù²¹¾±²Ô¾±²Ô²µÌı³§¾±³Ù±ğÌı³Õ±ğ²Ô³Ü±ğÌı°Õ°ù²¹²Ô²õ±è´Ç°ù³Ù
FIFA site: Miami

I oversee transportation operations and logistics at all 75 training sites across U.S., Canada and Mexico — including shuttles, loading zones, team busses and their fleets, and parking lots for media, volunteers and guests. I grew up in Lake Nona and had an opportunity to play collegiate soccer at a Division II school in Florida, but financially, it just didn’t make sense for my family and me. Instead I enrolled at Valencia College and earned my degree through the .

UCF gave me the technical skills I needed for my managerial position now, like creating financial analysis for labor rates across 16 stadiums that we’ll be using in U.S., Canada and Mexico. As a former soccer player and as someone who is obsessed with the sport, working for one of the biggest and best sports organization in the world has been a lifelong goal. This experience has taught me to consider redefining what’s possible and keep setting goals.

Tomas Upegui ’22

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Role:Ìı¹ó±ô±ğ±ğ³ÙÌı´Ç±è±ğ°ù²¹³Ù¾±´Ç²Ô²õÌı²¹²Ô²¹±ô²â²õ³Ù
FIFA site: Miami

Growing up playing soccer, being involved with FIFA in any capacity is something I never imagined would become reality, especially this early in my career. I am supporting transportation and depot operations across all 16 host cities, contributing to transportation operations involving VIPs and trophy movements. Studying business taught me how to work efficiently in fast-paced environments and quickly adapt while balancing multiple responsibilities at once, which directly translates to my role.

One of the most exciting parts of this experience has been realizing the true scale of the FIFA World Cup and seeing firsthand how much coordination happens behind the scenes to make an event of this magnitude successful.

UCF is the leading producer of talent among Florida’s universities, awarding nearly 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 six esteemed speakers whose leadership and impact span some of Central Florida’s most influential industries:

• Barry Miller ’95, president of Voloridge Investment Management
• Brian Adams ’04MBA, president and CEO of AdventHealth Central Florida Division
• Gloria Caulfield, vice president of strategic alliances, Tavistock Development Company
• Barbara Gellman-Danley, president of Higher Learning Commission
• Maj. Gen. James Smith, commander, space training and readiness command at Patrick Space Force Base
• Peter Lee, president of Microsoft Science

Commencement Festivities

Held in the Addition Financial Arena, spring commencement will take place over six ceremonies spanning Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9.

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 livestreamed .

Commencement Photo-ops Across UCF

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

Grad Walk

On Thursday, May 7, 2:30-7 p.m. (doors close at 6 p.m.), spring 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 .

Commencement Schedule

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

Friday, May 8

9 a.m.

College of Business

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

2 p.m.

College of Health Professions and Sciences

College of Medicine

College of Nursing

7 p.m.

College of Arts and Humanities

Nicholson School of Communication and Media

Saturday, May 9

9 a.m.

College of Community Innovation and Education

2 p.m.

College of Sciences (excluding Nicholson School of Communication and Media)

7 p.m.

College of Engineering and Computer Science

College of Graduate Studies

College of Optics and Photonics

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

Commencement Speakers

Barry Miller ’95

President of Voloridge Investment Management

Barry Miller ’95 serves as president of Voloridge Investment Management, quantitative hedge fund manager, and Voloridge Health, a data science-based health tech company, both Florida based.

Miller, who graduated with honors from UCF with a bachelor’s degree in finance, recently made a transformational $50 million gift this spring to establish the Barry S. Miller College of Business at UCF. The largest single philanthropic investment in UCF history, the gift will accelerate a bold new model of business education designed for a world where technology, data and decision-making are inseparable.

Miller, also a member of the UCF College of Business Hall of Fame, brings years of executive experience, having previously served as CEO of LASAS Technologies, a finance and insurance company that he co-founded in 1998. His career experience includes financial analysis, capital raising, financial markets, actuarial experience, software development and in-depth company infrastructure formation.

After gaining valuable experience as an entrepreneur and chief executive officer, Miller’s ambition led him to join and invest in Voloridge Investment Management and then Voloridge Health. For both companies, he is responsible for many facets of leadership, including trading, back-office operations, compliance, sales and marketing, vendor relationships and strategic planning.

Brian Adams ’04MBA

President and CEO of AdventHealth Central Florida Division

Brian Adams is president and CEO of AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division, one of the nation’s largest faith-based health systems, whose 37,000 dedicated team members provide care for more than 3 million patients.

Known for building high-performing teams and ensuring the organization grows to meet the care needs of the community, Adams has led efforts to expand access to care, elevate quality and bring innovative solutions to rapidly growing communities. His leadership has continued to position AdventHealth as a trusted and innovative partner in Central Florida.

As a part of AdventHealth for more than 24 years, Adams has held senior leadership roles across the organization, including CEO positions in Tampa and Polk County, where he oversaw major expansions, facility investments and quality improvements.

He earned his master’s of business administration from the º£½ÇÖ±²¥ and a bachelor’s degree from Union College in Nebraska. Originally from Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, Adams and his wife have two teenage sons.

Gloria Caulfield

Vice president of strategic alliances, Tavistock Development Company

In her multifaceted role as vice president of strategic alliances at Tavistock, Gloria Caulfield manages business development and corporate partnerships, collaborates with national and global stakeholders to advance health innovation, and leads the development of cutting-edge strategies for the Lake Nona community.

She is the chief architect and creative force behind the Lake Nona Impact Forum. The revered global health innovation summit brings together many of the world’s most preeminent thought leaders and serves as a signature event of the Tavistock Group.

Caulfield serves on boards that reflect her passion for advancing the future of human health, including the StartUp Health Impact Board, which focuses on mobilizing entrepreneurs to solve the biggest health challenges of our time, and the LFE Capital Advisory Board, which supports female founders and impactful, wellness-oriented companies.

Prior to joining Tavistock, she had a distinguished career at AdventHealth. As senior executive director for community development, she provided strategic leadership for corporate partnerships and spearheaded critical community initiatives across Central Florida. Caulfield is an alumna of the º£½ÇÖ±²¥ of Arizona and brings visionary leadership to every aspect of her work.

Barbara Gellman-Danley

President of Higher Learning Commission

Barbara Gellman-Danley is president of the Higher Learning Commission, which accredits colleges and universities to ensure they meet high-quality standards and continuously improve.

Prior to beginning this role in 2014, she was president of the º£½ÇÖ±²¥ of Rio Grande/Rio Grande Community College in Ohio. She previously served as vice chancellor of the Ohio Board of Regents, president of Antioch º£½ÇÖ±²¥ McGregor, vice president at Monroe Community College and vice chancellor at the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Gellman-Danley sits on the boards of Credential Engine, which she chairs, and GlobalMindED. Her career includes previous board and commission memberships with the Association of Governing Boards Council of Presidents, the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, the American Council on Education’s Education and Attainment group and the Council on Adult and Experiential Learning.

Gellman-Danley holds degrees from Syracuse º£½ÇÖ±²¥, Simmons º£½ÇÖ±²¥, Oklahoma City º£½ÇÖ±²¥ and the º£½ÇÖ±²¥ of Oklahoma. She did post-graduate work at New York º£½ÇÖ±²¥, Cornell, Harvard, the º£½ÇÖ±²¥ of Chicago and MIT.

An honorary member of Phi Theta Kappa, she is a professional certified coach, certified executive coach and certified life coach. She holds certifications in change management, Agile and Lean Six Sigma, a professional credential validating expertise in data-driven process improvement aimed at reducing waste and defects.

Maj. Gen. James Smith

Commander, space training and readiness command at Patrick Space Force Base

As commander, Maj. Gen. James E. Smith is responsible for preparing the U.S. Space Force and more than 14,000 military and civilian guardians to prevail in competition and conflict through innovative education, training, doctrine and test activities.

Originally from Boise, Idaho, Maj. Gen. Smith commissioned in 1997 as the top graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. His career spans numerous space operations and acquisition positions, including command at the squadron, group, wing, garrison and Field Command levels.

Maj. Gen. Smith has deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and to the U.S. Embassy in Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Prior to his current position, Maj. Gen. Smith served as the vice director, Joint Force Development, J-7, the Joint Staff, Arlington, Virginia.

Peter Lee

President of Microsoft Science

Peter Lee is president of Microsoft Science, where his responsibility is to accelerate the pace of discovery in the physical, biological and medical sciences through the use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

Previously, he led the world laboratories of Microsoft Research. Before joining Microsoft in 2010, he established a new technology office at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency within the U.S. Department of Defense, creating operational capabilities in machine learning, data science and computational social science.

From 1987 to 2010, Lee was a professor and the head of the computer science department at Carnegie Mellon º£½ÇÖ±²¥. He is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and serves on the boards of several institutions in AI and medicine, including the board of trustees of the Mayo Clinic and the board of directors of the Kaiser Permanente School of Medicine. He served on President Obama’s Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity and has testified before both U.S. House and Senate committees.

He is the co-author of the book, The AI Revolution in Medicine: GPT-4 and Beyond. In 2024, Lee was named by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in health and life sciences.

Tomorrow’s leading video game developers areÌıbeing built today at UCF.

The university’s graduate video gaming program, , and undergraduate program continue to develop a pipeline ofÌıtalent to fuel Florida’s economyÌıat 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 andÌıPC GamerÌıhas 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.

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.�

Orlando: A Leading Tech Hub

With Electronic Arts (EA) and IronÌıGalaxy Studios located less than a mile fromÌıthe 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, SeattleÌıand 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.

But it’s not just the gamingÌıcompanies that eagerly hireÌıFIEA and GaIM graduates. The skillsÌıtaught in the two programs align perfectlyÌıwith 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.�

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

UCF’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 UCF 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.

With its numerous industries to sustain a career and vibrant culture to build a life, Orlando isn’t a hard sell. Still, when it comes to promoting all this city has to offer, you’d be hard pressed to find someone who loves it more than Andrea (Rodrigues) Sage ’12.

The advertising-public relations grad spent the last decade in various sales-related positions with the Tampa Bay Rays, Orlando Magic and insulated beverageware company Corkcicle (headquartered in Orlando).

That experience along with the leadership and life skills she developed at UCF and her beloved hobby as the mastermind behind — an immensely popular social media account that explores new activities, restaurants and happenings in Central Florida — gave her what she needed to land her dream gig as marketing manager for Visit Orlando.

“I get to marry my love for this community and something I’m passionate about doing — marketing this city. It’s perfect for me,� Sage says. “To find this opportunity with Visit Orlando, it truly has been a dream come true.�

Tourism Shapes Orlando

Sage’s mission in her role at Visit Orlando as a marketing manager, specializing in domestic tourism, is to bring visitation to the destination, period.

Orlando is the most visited destination in the U.S. bringing more than 75 million visitors. According to Visit Orlando, tourism supports 37% of all jobs in the region.

Central Florida’s tourism industry generated an economic impact of $94.5 billion in 2024, a 2.2% increase over the previous year, according to a study by Tourism Economics, a division of Oxford Economics and a leader in industry research.

As 2025 numbers work on being finalized, all signs point to the continued momentum of the region’s tourism.

It’s not hard to see why Orlando is in demand:

• Standard-setting theme parks
• Marquee sporting events — earning Orlando the No. 1 spot for Sports Event Cities in the U.S., according to Sport Business Journal
• Vibrant arts scene
• Top-of-the-line hotels and resorts
• 58 Michelin-recognized restaurants
• Proximity to beautiful beaches and Port Canaveral’s cruise ships

Sage gives a glimpse into what goes into helping shape Orlando’s reputation as one of the world’s most desirable destinations.

Advertising All of Orlando

Sage’s role with Visit Orlando oversees many facets. She might be placing a billboard in Baltimore, a well-timed ad on a streaming platform, or organize a tropical oasis in the middle of New York City on a 30-degree Fahrenheit day, enticing winter-weary New Yorkers to plan their next vacation.

She recently spent a week overseeing the production of an eco-tourism campaign video shoot at several locations to highlight the area’s natural beauty, hiking and springs.

“Culinary, arts, theme parks, nature, cultural experiences, whatever your travel bug is, this destination brings it all.� — Andrea (Rodrigues) Sage ’12

“Adults with kids, adults without kids, this vacation has all your needs — culinary, arts, theme parks, nature, cultural experiences, whatever your travel bug is, this destination brings it all,� Sage says.

Competing on the Global Stage

Orlando’s prime competitors in the tourism market depends on who you’re talking to.

It could be California (theme parks), Las Vegas (conferences), or Spain and Italy (international visitation). As cruise lines have come roaring back after the pandemic, the Caribbean is now in the mix, too. Orlando doesn’t just compete with other cities for tourists, but entire states and countries.

“Our destination is amazing, but every Jan. 1 the visitor tally resets, and there is a lot of work happening behind the scenes to make sure we remain top of mind,� Sage says.

Success Fueled by UCF

A St. Petersburg, Florida, native, Rodrigues was recruited to UCF to play for the women’s soccer team. From 2008-12, she helped lead the Knights to five NCAA postseason appearances, including the 2011 Elite 8, three conference championships and one of the program’s highest national rankings (No. 6) in school history.

During her collegiate career, she also joined the Portuguese National Team, which exposed her to places and cultures that would ultimately spark her interests in travel and exploration today.

As an elite scholar-athlete, she points to the intangible soft skills she gained — work ethic, goal-setting, communication, collaboration and time management all at an elevated standard of excellence — as formative to her life as a working parent.

“Being a UCF student-athlete has made who I am.�

“Being a UCF student-athlete has made who I am,� Sage says. “I take interviews today as a 36-year-old and still talk about how it has positively shaped me. I would go from a 6 a.m. strength training to study hall to three classes to practice to a night class, still have homework and study and then travel to a road game the next day.

“The controlled chaos I lived in then, it is innate in me and still my normal today. I have two little kids, I’m married, I have a full-time job, I work out every day, I have a hobby. It just feels right. It is a controlled chaotic environment that I love.�

Living Where the World Vacations

Rodrigues says what she appreciates most about living in Orlando is getting to explore new places in her own backyard. She started @cheatdayorlando in 2021 after becoming a mother. Since then, she has grown the account to nearly 100,000 followers and landed a regular gig on the 106.7 FM morning show Johnny’s House spreading the word about new experiences in the area.

“It doesn’t feel like you’re stagnant in Orlando — you can have a different experience just 10 minutes away,� she says. “I love that there’s something for everyone to feel like home because we have a melting pot of culture.�

Spring Break Scene

Whether you’re a local enjoying a staycation or coming to Orlando for your Spring Break, Rodrigues shares her pro tips on some new experiences worth checking out:

• ICON Park will soon feature Ripley’s Crazy Golf, a glow-in-the-dark immersive indoor miniature golf course with many unconventional ways to putt.
• Harlow Grove Restaurant and Lounge, a new trendy restaurant in Winter Garden, opened this month and features a rooftop terrace and elevated menu.
• Maitland’s Enzian Theater is a single-screen independent cinema cafe that offers cozy, vintage decor and seating, with a full kitchen menu. For the parents out there with little Spring Breakers, consider the theater’s Peanut Butter Matinee Family Film Series, which offers free admission to kids 12 and under. Cars 2 will be featured at noon on March 22.

Over the past eight years, the awards have supported a wide range of projects across the arts, health, humanities and technology, reflecting the breadth of interdisciplinary work at UCF and the program’s commitment to addressing real-world needs through creative research and community partnership.

Each winning team will receive $25,000 to support projects that meaningfully integrate technology, demonstrate potential for sustainability and measure outcomes using a logic model framework. This year’s theme, “Tech for the Human Good,� emphasizes the power of arts, humanities, health and technology to create positive societal impact.

To qualify, teams must include at least one member from the College of Arts and Humanities, another UCF unit and a community partner. Submissions are evaluated on potential impact, sustainability and measurable outcomes.

Founded in 2018 by Chuck Steinmetz and Margery Pabst Steinmetz, the awards debuted as the Pabst Steinmetz Arts and Innovation Awards, becoming the first project supported by the couple’s joint foundation. Originally created to ignite research initiatives focused on arts and wellness, the scope of the awards has since broadened. Margery Pabst Steinmetz says the awards have the potential to drive innovation and lasting impact for both campus and community.

“This year’s applicant pool was especially strong and highly accomplished,� Margery Pabst Steinmetz says. “Over the last year, we made some changes to the award so more researchers and nonprofits could see how it applies to their work, but the mission remains the same: champion and grow interdisciplinary research that will have a lasting impact on our community and beyond.�

Learn more about the winning projects.

Limbitless Adaptive Sports League: Power Soccer

This project, led by Matt Dombrowski’05 ‘08MFA, professor of emerging media in the , in collaboration with Peter Smith ’05MS ’12PhD, associate professor in the , aims to develop a multiplayer adaptive sports video game for individuals who use power wheelchairs.

In partnership with UCF-based nonprofit Limbitless Solutions, the Mayo Clinic, Central Florida Dreamplex and Orlando Magic Dreamers, the project transforms competitive adaptive sports like power soccer — a sport specifically designed for individuals who use power wheelchairs — into an accessible virtual gaming experience.

The game uses an electromyographic controller to translate muscle movements into game commands, allowing players to compete while building skills that support independence, collaboration and social engagement.

“The project empowers wheelchair athletes by giving them a platform to compete, connect and develop skills in ways that weren’t previously possible,â€� Dombrowski says. “This award is deeply meaningful to me and to everyone at Limbitless, and we are sincerely grateful to the [Pabst Steinmetz Foundation] for recognizing and supporting this work.â€�

Dombrowski says his inspiration comes from former students, neighbors and colleagues who live or have lived with degenerative conditions. He and Peter Smith recently lost a respected research collaborator who profoundly shaped the project and inspired the game’s development. The collaborator introduced them to the world of power soccer, and the team proudly dedicates the effort to his memory.

“This project is special because it … supports undergraduate student creatives, brings athletes of all abilities into true partnership, and provides training and independence …” — Matt Dombrowski’05 ‘08MFA, UCF professor

“This project is special because it serves multiple communities at once. It supports undergraduate student creatives, brings athletes of all abilities into true partnership, and provides training and independence through Project Xavier, our hands-free power wheelchair control system,� Dombrowski says. “At its core, this work is about access, dignity and joy. Gaming and sport should be for everyone, across all abilities. No one should ever have to lose access to something they love.�

The initiative will host an annual eSports tournament, establish a scalable framework for adaptive sports games and provide professional development opportunities for interdisciplinary UCF students. Anticipated outcomes include increased social connection, physical activity engagement and overall well-being for participants, while advancing inclusive game design.

Collaborators:

• Paulette Belser, Orlando Magic Dreamers
• Matthew Dombrowski ’05 ‘08MFA, College of Arts and Humanities
• Cameron Gomes ’08, Central Florida Dreamplex
• Albert Manero ’12 ’14MS ’16PhD, Limbitless Solutions
• Björn Oskarsson, ALS Center of Excellence at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
• Peter Smith ’05MS ’12PhD, Nicholson School of Communication and Media, College of Sciences
• John Sparkman ’13 ’15MS, Limbitless Solutions

More information about the project can be found .

Designing for Resilience: Integrating Art and Wearable Technology for Firefighter Health, Safety and Well-Being

Led by Kaitlyn Crawford, associate professor of materials science and engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, in collaboration with Ashley Taylor ’12, assistant professor of emerging media and graphic design in the School of Visual Arts and Design, this project partners with the Sanford Fire Department to design wearable technology that monitors firefighter heat stress while incorporating artistic design and educational components.

The team is integrating wearable sensors — developed in collaboration with Northwestern º£½ÇÖ±²¥ — that track physiological indicators to detect heat stress. Custom graphic design elements and informational infographics will be incorporated to encourage adoption within the fire service. A design feedback loop with the local fire service in Sanford ensures the wearable designs align with firefighter culture and identity, promoting usability and long-term adoption.

“Through [the Pabst Steinmetz Foundation’s] support, we will be able to collaborate across disciplines to create critical technological advances … that result in positive societal impact.” — Kaitlyn Crawford, UCF associate professor

“The goal is to improve firefighter health and safety while respecting traditions and creating tools they’re excited to use,� Crawford says. “It’s an incredible honor to engage with our fire service community in this meaningful way. We are sincerely grateful to the [Pabst Steinmetz Foundation] for supporting this work. Through this support, we will be able to collaborate across disciplines to create critical technological advances and meaningful connections with the community that result in positive societal impact.�

The award will allow the team to scale the project across multiple regions and provide hands-on professional development opportunities for UCF students in design, engineering and research. By helping prevent cardiac events and other heat-related health risks, the initiative addresses an urgent community need while modeling how art, engineering and public service can intersect to improve lives.

An infographic illustrating the wearable device and project logic model is available .

Collaborators:

• Carter Clingan, a materials science and engineering undergraduate student at UCF
• Kaitlyn Crawford, College of Engineering and Computer Science
• David Giordano, a biomedical engineering graduate student at UCF
• Ronnie McNeil Jr., Sanford Fire Department
• Ashley Taylor ’12, College of Arts and Humanities
• Studio Pegasus students, College of Arts and Humanities

From the rush of a rocket launch to the thrill of catching a wave to the joy of exploring natural and wild spaces — all only a 45-minute drive from Orlando — Cranis and his team have been a driving force behind the revival of Florida’s Space Coast as a premium, sought-out destination.

In recognition for the strides the area has made since he took his leadership role in 2019, Florida Trend recently named him among the state’s 500 Most Influential People, and Space Coast Daily chose him the Person of the Year for 2025. But for Cranis, these accolades aren’t a product of one person’s merits.

“The awards mean I’ve hired the right people and allowed them to do what they do best,� he says.

The two-time communications alum and Nicholson School of Communication and Media Hall of Famer also served as an adjunct professor in both Nicholson and the Rosen College of Hospitality Management.

Here he shares his experiences and knowledge.

On the growing popularity of The Space Coast:

Our tourist development tax (TDT) hit a record $26 million in 2025 — up $10 million since 2019. I can’t deny we have things here that no one else has — to the north, we can watch space launches and cruise ships heading out. If I want to clear my head at lunchtime, I can go across the street to put my toes in the sand or walk around a maritime hammock. But attracting tourists isn’t easy — even for a bucket-list destination along 70 miles of beaches.

On getting creative to address challenges:

Competition is our biggest challenge. People can visit beaches all around the state, from the Keys to Jacksonville and around the Gulf Coast to the Panhandle. Keep in mind the marketing budgets in larger destinations can be 10x higher than ours. So, everything we do has to be effective in engaging travelers.

On the different eras of “the Space Coast�:

The term “Space Coast� isn’t new. For years, people associated it with the Apollo era, back when visitors would come in hopes of meeting an astronaut. As the shuttle program wound down, there were assumptions that everything here would shut down with it. That became another big challenge: educating travelers that we’ve modernized with really nice hotels and we’ve moved into a new phase.

“No other destination has an active space center and miles of world-class beaches.�

On reviving “the Space Coast�:

The first thing I wanted us to figure out when I started in 2019 was this: How do we excite potential visitors again? We decided to lean back into “Space Coast� because those words say it all. No other destination has an active space center and miles of world-class beaches. So, we positioned that message with specific locations — “Melbourne on Florida’s Space Coast� or “Titusville on Florida’s Space Coast.� It’s a natural jumpstart into our exclusive story. And now, with SpaceX and Blue Origin, we have as many as 10 launches a month. What had become old is new again — only better.

On lessons learned in boosting your brand:

I worked 16 years with Visit Orlando, and we spent a lot of energy trying to brand Orlando apart from the theme parks. It took until probably 2012 until travelers globally really knew Orlando. That’s the nature of marketing. Be patient. When you think about it, UCF followed a similar trajectory to national recognition.

On the unforgettable lesson he learned as a UCF student:

I was a journalism guy, the sports editor of UCF’s student newspaper, The Central Florida Future. I’d call people and say, “This is Peter from The Future,� which immediately got their attention. One class, organizational communication, gave me a look into the real world of business. For a group project, we went to a company to ask leaders and employees, separately, about communication. The employees said communication wasn’t so great. The leaders said it was fine. In fact, they shut down our presentation. I’ve applied that lesson to my own work — encourage communication and listen with an open mind.

On the (hopefully) lasting lesson he shared as a UCF adjunct professor:

I’d tell students to use their voices. Don’t be passive. During my career in tourism, I’ve learned a lot from young graduates and interns. Your thoughts matter. Also, learn everything possible about business in school. Some of it might seem irrelevant, but you never know when that knowledge will benefit you. Look at me.

On his job being very, very personal:

When I was 14 our family moved from Connecticut to Melbourne, Florida. I spent a lot of time at the places we’re talking about now — the beach, Merrit Island National Wildlife Refuge, Lori Wilson Park. When the opportunity came up to return and live near my mom who’d been in the same house all those years, it was emotional for me. I never thought I’d have a business life along the Space Coast, but — divine intervention. It’s another reason I’m in awe every day, and why I want as many people as possible to come and be awed, too. Once you’ve experienced this, you’ll be back.

The UCF-based nonprofit celebrated 10 years of developing and creating pediatric prostheses in 2024 and is also renowned for its complementary advancements in gamified training that empower patients to master their accessible medical technologies.

Limbitless researchers recently published two new studies aimed at improving training games. One, published in , explores how machine learning may streamline level design for bionic arm training games. The other, a playtest study published in , evaluates the efficacy of a new training game to assist patients with severely limited mobility who use an eye-tracking wheelchair.

Together these two studies exemplify Limbitless’ continued commitment to ensuring patients feel connected to the new technologies they receive, gain confidence in overcoming their conditions and ultimately transform their lives.

“TheseÌıgames are now fully integrated into the Limbitless experience,â€� says Peter SmithÌı’05MS ’12PhD, Limbitless’ head of game development and training, associate professor and director of the games and interactive media program within the Nicholson School of Communication and Media. “The kids get the games first to learn to use and strengthen muscles they may not have needed to use before. The goal is to have the kids practice and learn in the games, and have all their failures in the games so that when they get their arms, they are immediately successful.â€�

The researchers at Limbitless aim to give patients comprehensive care. It isn’t enough to provide a bionic arm, nor is it enough to make a game that’s just fun but lacking in training, says Limbitless Creative Director Matt Dombrowski ’05 ’08MFA.

“Limbitless is more than technology, games or picking things up — it’s about giving children with limb differences agency,� says Dombrowski, who’s also a professor at UCF’s School of Visual Arts and Design (SVAD). “The training games are designed to be the first step on that journey to build trust, excitement and self-belief through play. Embedding this development inside SVAD and Nicholson, with guidance from Peter and I, we ensure the work stays grounded in both creative innovation and research-backed methodology.�

“The training games are designed to be the first step on that journey to build trust, excitement and self-belief through play.” — UCF Professor and Limbitless Creative Director Matt Dombrowski ’05 ’08MFA.

The idea of using immersive gamified training was conceived early on, says Albert Manero ’12 ’14MS ’16PhD, executive director and co-founder of Limbitless Solutions.

“One of our colleagues here at Limbitless reached out to some of the faculty at SVAD and asked them if they could help create some of the cosmetic components of the prosthetic limbs,â€� Manero says. “One of those faculty members countered with, ‘Have you ever considered making video games around these arms?’Ìı Ever since then, it’s just kind of snowballed into what we have here today, which is being able to improve the quality of the training and the onboarding for our patients, whether those are with the bionic arms or the face gesture-controlled wheelchair.â€�

The Journey Forward

Limbitless’ Project Xavier is a specialized wheelchair that uses the same electromyographic (EMG) technology used in the bionic arms to power an electric wheelchair completely hands-free. It works by using a sensor placed on a person’s temple to detect subtle facial movements and translate them into directional control.

The wheelchair is designed to help people with limited mobility, such as those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), regain autonomy and use some of the muscles that are the last to lose function as the condition progresses.

Their recently published research explores how a training game called Limbitless Journey can help determine muscle strength, assess user comfort with using the wheelchair and examine the potential for integrating eye-tracking technology.

“We want to make that experience the lowest stress possible and the most beneficial as possible for wheelchair users,â€� Manero says. “This research paper really looks at that usability evaluation and helping be able to understand how humans interact with machines and simulations … Ìıto better improve dexterity and mobility control.â€�

Manero says he saw a need for a specialized wheelchair that can adapt to its users as their body changes over time. ÌıRecognizing that this technology may seem complex and potentially intimidating, Limbitless was inspired to go one step further and develop a training game to accompany Project Xavier.

“The wheelchair project came about from a friend who was using a powered wheelchair. ÌıWe really learned [that] for [people with] neuromuscular disorders, there can come a point when their hand is just not sufficient to be able to control their wheelchair,â€� Manero says. “As we learned more and more about the experience for those patients, we realized that there is a real need for hands-free wheelchair technology.â€�

Evaluating how people use the training game to learn how to use their wheelchair was the key takeaway from the study. Participants in the study praised the level of design and provided suggestions, stating that eye-tracking technology could be improved. The researchers also concluded that objective-based minigames within the game may be implemented.

With this feedback, the Limbitless team members say they are hopeful that the training can reach its full potential.

“This research paper really looks at that usability evaluation and helping be able to understand how humans interact with machines and simulations … Ìıto better improve dexterity and mobility control.â€� — Albert Manero ’12 ’14MS ’16PhD, executive director and co-founder of Limbitless Solutions.

“We started working with a clinical trial with the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. In that trial we found that people were nervous to learn how to use the chair,� Smith says. “So we started building this game that would allow them to practice before getting put into that experience.�

The game’s eye-tracking technology works by using an infrared camera across from the user to detect eye movement and translate it to the user interface. The user can “select� an option by maintaining eye contact with a specific point on the screen for a duration of time.

Receiving steady gameplay input from testers is crucial to designing a training game that is both intuitive and enjoyable, Smith says.

“I think that the key for any kind of training game is to make sure that you’re focusing on the learning objective or the training outcome that you want,â€� he says.

Navigating through feedback and customizing the experience for all levels of users is something that Dombrowski says he bears in mind when developing training games.

“It’s really about understanding [that] our audience is ever-changing and each person is going to be completely different,� he says. “Our big goal is to make this scalable, to have experiences that are peaceful, slow and calm, and then also have experiences that maybe ramp that up a little bit more.�

The team is encouraged by the valuable input the testers provided and are excited to keep the project rolling, Dombrowski says.

Training Together with Machine Learning Agent PAUL

Limbitless has been using gamified training to help pediatric patients feel empowered when receiving and using their arms.

Their latest research on training games takes their concept further and explores the efficacy of machine learning to reduce user frustrations and streamline game development.

“The study helped us build on the testing and validation of the level design, which supports improvingÌıthe testing,â€� Manero says. “It also helps our team to accelerate the design phase so that we can have the games in use by our bionic kids.ÌıBuilding on the use of machine learning will enable us to make training games that support faster and more robust learning, while we work to have them be as much fun as possible for bionic kids.â€�

For this work, a machine learning agent dubbed “PAULâ€� (Program for Autonomous Unity Learning) was integrated into an endless runner game calledÌıLimbitless Runner,Ìıwhich contains obstacles and power-ups that the user must avoid or collect. Past work withÌıLimbitless RunnerÌıproved effective in training muscles with an EMG game controller to prepare users for bionic arms.

The researchers concluded PAUL can determine the feasibility of gameplay. The machine learning agent allowed the team to refine the design process, provided an artificial intelligence (AI) player to race against in the game, and offered comparisons in optimizing and evaluating user progress.

The researchers say they envision future work focusing on using machine learning to reduce potential frustrations by recognizing imperfect reactions and much more.

“We envision a future where all these types of AI can exist in our training games and support the bionic kids in using their prosthetics,â€� Smith says.Ìı“Going forward, we will likely use more machine learning agents for verification and possibly for non-player characters, but we are also interested in other AI applications.â€�

Dombrowski says he believes machine learning can expand access and even customize the experience for patients.

“This holds exciting potential for helping us fine-tune training protocols,� he says. “We can identify patterns and make data-informed adjustments to how difficulty is scaled or how muscle control challenges are presented. Eventually, [AI] could even support automatic personalization for each child based on their learning capability and progress, ensuring that training meets them where they are.�

Gamified training also provides an exceptional opportunity to study how children may interact with their bionic arms in ways that are distinct from a lab setting. This gives researchers a fuller perspective, Dombrowski says.

“Games provide immediate feedback, narrative immersion, and, perhaps most importantly, a space where failure is expected and retrying is encouraged,� he says. “This mindset shift is critical because if a prosthesis doesn’t work perfectly right away, it can negatively affect a child’s willingness to continue using it.�

“We envision a future where all these types of AI can exist in our training games and support the bionic kids in using their prosthetics.â€� — Peter SmithÌı’05MS ’12PhD, Limbitless’ head of game development and training.

By blending machine learning with nearly a decade of existing gamified training knowledge, the goal of training games like Limbitless Runner is to take a proactive approach by helping patients build confidence, Dombrowski says.

“Helping children hone their muscle control in game environments gives them the foundation to succeed once they transition to the real prosthetic,� he says. “Over time, they progress from simply making a basic flex to using different levels of muscle engagement to trigger multiple gestures and controls, creating an intuitive pathway from gameplay to real-world usage.�

Gamified training is deeply integrated into the Limbitless experience — from researcher to patient — so the opportunity to continue building on proven concepts is exciting, Manero says.

“We are still working to prove the improvements from the training, but we have seen the impact anecdotally,� he says. “The gamified training is a key component of our clinical trials, with each arm being accompanied by a training video game system. Our study revealed some unintended responses to design decisions and gave our team a great opportunity to strengthen our design and testing.�

A Full Body of Work: Where Art Meets Engineering

Interdisciplinary collaboration is a hallmark of UCF’s research enterprise. The convergence of art, engineering and game design is a critical component of Limbitless’ success, and it helps give students engaged in the nonprofit’s research a fuller experience, Manero says.

“I think one of the most exciting parts about Limbitless is seeing how our student researchers can go from video games to engineering to the clinical sciences, and translate that to our patient group,â€� he says. “It’s a special environment to watch artists, game designers, engineers, and premedical students all sit together and work on a project. And that seems to be unique to UCF and Limbitless Solutions.â€�

Seniors Delaney Gunnell and Maanya Pradeep, who are both majoring in biotechnology and biomedical sciences, respectively, say that their experience working on the eye-tracking wheelchair paper has enriched their exposure to undergraduate research and accelerated their exposure to collaboration across disciplines.

“This has been a great learning process,� Gunnell says. “I gained a ton of experience, and now I’m able to use the skills we learned together for coding and analysis to help other scholars here with their projects.�

Being immersed in the research and interfacing with colleagues allowed Gunnell and Pradeep to quickly develop a leadership role amongst their peers and prepare for careers after graduation.

“I think something that’s really valuable for me was the manuscript writing and the technical skills associated with that,� Pradeep says. “We’ve been helping other scholars here get into writing their own manuscripts, and that’s been a key takeaway. I’m also applying for medical school right now, and so conducting research at Limbitless [has] helped open my eyes to how accessible technology should be designed. As a future physician, it gives me an idea of the patient care aspect of the research process.�

Almost nine years ago, Smith and Dombrowski joined Limbitless and began guiding the next generation of creators by giving them practical education in developing training games.

“It’s a unique academic pipeline that turns classroom learning into real-world, impactful experiences that advance the research and give students tangible outcomes and a deep sense of purpose,â€� he says. “Cross collaboration and ensuring that everyone plays a vital role is really what UCF is all about, and the positive of it all is [that] we’re helping people.”

Limbitless Co-founder and Director of Research and Development John Sparkman ’13 ’15MS, along with Program Support Specialist Viviana Rivera ’23 ’24MS also contributed to both research projects. Pradeep and undergraduate student researcher Eric Gass ’24 contributed to the prosthesis research.

Limbitless Solutions’ gamified training research is supported by funding through their Unity for Humanity initiative, the Epic Games MegaGrant program and the Pabst Steinmetz Foundation.

Researchers’ Credentials:

Dombrowski is a professor in UCF’s School of Visual Arts and Design, where he combines creative leadership with a commitment to innovation and social impact. As the creative director of Limbitless Solutions, he leads interdisciplinary teams that develop expressive 3D-printed bionic arms, immersive training video games and inclusive digital experiences for children with limb differences. Dombrowski’s work blends digital art, immersive technology and accessibility-driven design. His projects have been featured by Adobe, Unity, Epic Games, Autodesk, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Game Developers Conference, SXSW EDU and the Gates Foundation. He has helped secure major support through initiatives like Unity for Humanity, the Epic MegaGrant, and national clinical partnerships. A nationally recognized educator, Dombrowski has received numerous teaching honors from UCF, including the º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching award and the Chuck D. Dziuban Award for Online Teaching. He is a four-time recipient of the CAH Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching award and was named an Adobe Creative Campus Innovator and Adobe Education Leader. Through his teaching, research and creative practice, Dombrowski inspires students to harness visual storytelling and design thinking to drive positive change, expanding what’s possible when the arts intersect with science, healthcare and technology.

Manero is the executive director and co-founder of Limbitless Solutions. He received his doctoral degree in mechanical engineering and his master’s and bachelor’s degrees in aerospace engineering from UCF.

Manero also holds courtesy research appointments in UCF’s mechanical and aerospace engineering department within the College of Engineering and Computer Science, graduate faculty scholar appointments from the College of Graduate Studies and the College of Engineering and Computer Science, and a research appointment in Mayo Clinic’s neurology department. He’s also a member of UCF’s Biionix faculty cluster initiative.

Smith is an associate professor and associate director of UCF’s Digital Media: Games and Interactive Media program. His research focuses on games for health, rehabilitation, education and alternative controllers. Smith has developed and contributed to a wide range of funded and creative games, and he is the lead for game development and training at Limbitless Solutions. His work spans virtual reality post-traumatic stress disorder therapy systems, health and rehabilitation games, educational games and experimental control games. These projects have been exhibited internationally and have received awards such as Alt.Ctrl.GDC Finalist, Most Innovative Game at I/ITSEC. He has served as principal investigator or co-principal investigator on projects funded by sources such as the U.S. State Department, the U.S. National Science Foundation, Unity 3D, Disney, Epic Games and the Pabst Steinmetz Foundation.

Castillo was only one of 40 students selected from more than 4,000 applicants for the . Interns from various academic backgrounds in the program are placed with teams and departments that stretch across the NASCAR industry, including 23XI Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Daytona International Speedway and more.

“It absolutely means the world to me to be chosen out of 4,000 applicants,� she says. “It’s truly incredible to work alongside professionals and see the reality of what it’s like to actually be working in this exciting industry.�

Castillo’s role within the content team gives her insight into the digital side of motorsports, where she helps the brand connect with new and existing fans.

“My department specifically works with influencers, inviting them to a track to spread awareness and create content that shares the love of the sport,� she says. “It’s been a great experience connecting and working with these influencers.�

Having this internship opened new doors for Castillo and provided her with the opportunity to travel to Chicago and see her work come to life.

“Traveling to Chicago for the first time and having the chance to work alongside talented professionals and help grow the sport through influencer outreach is fulfilling to see,� she says. “It showed me how hard work pays off.�

Castillo says she’s always been a fan of motorsports, which encouraged her to apply when she made connections in the industry though UCF student organizations and opportunities such as the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) and NSCM’s Intern Pursuit.

“One of the people I met through networking opportunities on campus works in communications for NASCAR in Daytona,� Catillo says. “I connected with her to learn how to start in the industry. She was kind enough to share information about the NASCAR Next Internship Program.�

As a first-generation college student, Castillo says her goals have been shaped by the hard work and devotedness she grew up surrounded by.

“My parents were very young when they moved to the United States and seeing their dedication has always inspired me to earn a degree,� she said. “It’s so important to provide a space for communities to share their voice and be heard — and journalism has helped provide that pathway for me.�

Castillo says she credits networking events and UCF’s student organizations for this incredible opportunity.

“If I didn’t go to these networking events or if I wasn’t part of student organizations here at UCF, I wouldn’t have made those important connections or even know that this internship exists,â€� she says.

As an engaged journalism student, Castillo shares that she has earned priceless professional experience in many areas of media, including NPR’s Are We There Yet? podcast, reporting on UCF Athletics with ESPN+, partaking in Spanish spoken news broadcasts with NAHJ, and contributing to , UCF’s student-run news organization.

“The journalism program does a fantastic job in helping students connect with professionals,� she says. “Those opportunities really prepared me for the real world and taught me how to communicate effectively, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.�

Professor and Associate Director of the Film and Mass Media program Lisa Mills is hoping for a win for the students and shares that this historic recognition speaks to the talent and creative vision of UCF’s filmmakers on a national level.

“As the quality of our students continues to increase and our film program grows, so does our national reputation as an outstanding film degree program.�

Mills says the intersection of technology and creativity plays a vital role in filmmaking, which is highlighted in UCF’s innovation driven film program.

“Filmmaking is a technology-based art at its foundation,� Mills says. “As UCF frames itself as a technology leader, film students show us how technology combined with creativity evokes emotion and brings ideas to the screen.�

Acquiring hands-on experience and working with industry standard technology, such as high-definition cameras and editing software, is a central part of UCF’s film program, and this unique competition provides that opportunity for students. Coca-Cola Refreshing Films Program Manager and Producer Katie Pryor says this program gives students a chance to showcase their skills with professional experience.

“The goal of this program is to give students a real-world experience creating content for a big brand,� Pryor says. “It’s meant to provide students with an opportunity to experience the commercial side of filmmaking and receive industry mentorship.�

Pryor says that brands are in need of content and students need opportunities to further their experience, creating natural alignment with this program.

“This program has a profound impact by providing participants with the opportunity to create branded content while still in school and giving them access to high level equipment, including a RED Digital Cinema Camera, and a professional color session at Company 3 during postproduction,� Pryor says. “It not only empowers individuals to achieve their personal and professional goals but also contributes to the growth of the industry by fostering the next generation of talent.�

Making it to the finals is a first-time experience for Knights, and Pryor emphasizes the creativity and unique vision that set UCF apart from other entries.

“The UCF students’ theme celebrated the real magic of going to the movies,� she says. “The script tapped into a very relatable idea that the movies can spark our imagination and allow us to dream. The idea of a person imagining a future for themself on a date being sparked by the movies was a unique take on the date night concept and something we hadn’t done before.�

Pryor worked with film students Kenny “K.L.� Sanon ’24, who graduated in December 2024, and Grace Tompkins ’24, a film alumna who is currently pursuing a bachelor’s in English at UCF, and says that working with them has shown the skills and experience they gained as Knights.

“We’ve been very impressed with Kenny and Grace’s collaborative nature and their amazing crew of UCF students and teachers,� she says. “It’s been wonderful to see the support they’ve received from faculty and their peers. The UCF community has rallied to see this project succeed.�

Tompkins’ journey to her directorial debut has been an unlikely one and represents the culmination of hard work and creativity.

“My love of movies started at a very young age. Growing up in the foster care system, I faced a lot of difficult moments, and during those times, books and films became my refuge,â€� she says. “Movies made me feel seen, like I belonged somewhere, and that feeling stuck with me. Now, as a writer and director, I’m passionate about creating stories that can do the same for others. I believe storytelling has the power to comfort, inspire and transport us, and being able to create that kind of magic for someone else — that’s everything to me.â€�

Tompkins, who worked as the director on set, wrote the script for UCF’s finalist entry, Screening Love, for Coca-Cola Refreshing Films. She shares that this opportunity is more to her than filling a role on set.

“I set out to write a story that could make people smile, something relatable and uplifting, and as a director, I had the chance to visualize how all our hopes and ideas could come together,� Tompkins says. “It wasn’t just about directing, it was about building a team, a family, and leading us toward a shared vision.�

She shares that the team she helped build had a major impact on set and the final cut of the film.

“Our crew was mostly made up of UCF film students, and we were lucky to have a few amazing professionals on set as well,� Tompkins says. “K.L. and I put a lot of care into building the right team for our film, and I’m so proud of the work we all did. I walked away from this with lasting connections and a deep appreciation for collaborative filmmaking. It’s been an unforgettable experience.�

Tompkins had previously submitted to the program and continued to do so for several years with the support of lecturer Bruce Wood, who served as the liaison from UCF.

“I read dozens of submissions each year. I thought her concept was original — I wasn’t the slightest bit surprised when it was chosen as a semi-finalist and eventually a finalist Wood says. “I am extremely proud of UCF film’s success in this program — it’s a large, time-consuming project and while we are a bit of an underdog entry, this finalist recognition shows our strength against other longstanding film programs in the country.â€�

K.L., who served as the producer on set, says that having a career in film has long been a dream of his.

“Storytelling has always been at the core of who I am, but I didn’t initially pursue it because I was discouraged and guided toward a career that offered financial security,� he says. “However, during the pandemic, I decided to pivot and take the risk of following my aspirations.�

As a nontraditional student, K.L. shares how juggling his full-time job and Coca-Cola Refreshing Films was a struggle at times, but it also made him a stronger filmmaker.

“Being on set was a challenge. I came from working an eight-hour shift and jumped straight into a 12-hour production,� K.L. says. “However, watching all the planning, organization, and logistics come together to bring the story to life, highlighted the power of collaboration and perseverance.�

Looking back on this experience, K.L. says that blending both sides of his career made a considerable difference in how he was as a producer.

“For the longest time, I thought I had to keep my corporate and creative identities separate, but this program made me realize that I need both. This opportunity refined everything I knew about film production,� he says. “Managing a $20,000 budget, securing film insurance, executing effective marketing initiatives, handling contract releases and audits, and following operational practices have all given me the confidence to compete seriously and push my creative endeavors.�

K.L. also emphasizes the significance of UCF’s selection for the program, highlighting what it means to Knights.

“Initially, I believed only larger film schools were selected for this program,� he says. “Seeing UCF chosen means a lot—it speaks to the creativity, hard work, and dedication of the talented UCF students and staff.�

Reflecting on what participating in this program means to her, Tompkins says the whole experience has been an excellent opportunity for her as she is already meeting the goals she envisioned for herself as a filmmaker.

“Collaborating with Coca-Cola for this opportunity has had an enormous impact on my professional film experience. To have my directorial debut tied to such an iconic global brand is surreal,� she says. “Every filmmaker dreams of seeing their work on the big screen, and because of this partnership, and the support from theaters, I’m achieving that dream early in my career. It’s a milestone that has brought me to a new level, and I’m excited to keep building on that momentum in the future.�

That momentum is something Mills says she sees as the future of UCF’s film program.

“We’re proud of all our film students,â€� Mills says. “K.L. and Grace’s artistic vision and strong work ethic are intrinsic to students in our program. Making a high-quality film in a short amount of time with a small budget isn’t easy but these students embrace the challenge every day.â€�

EA SPORTS College Football 25 returned July 19 after an 11-year hiatus. The simulation-style football game’s focus provides an authentic college football experience that is specific to each school, including UCF.

Game day elements that Knights fans are accustomed to are featured as part of College Football 25. Before kick-off, fans perform the signature U-C-F arm sign, while the team runs out the tunnel, running past the virtual Marching Knights playing UCF’s fight song, Charge On. When the ball is kicked off, the fans yell out “U-C-F Knights,� just as they do in real life. For the first time, real-life players will also be featured in the game, further replicating a realistic experience for gamers. UCF’s reputation of being a leader in space research and education is showcased through an occasional in-game rocket launch, like the real-life SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch during a game against Kent State in Fall 2023.

Behind the scenes, dozens of UCF alums, including 42 graduates of the university’s Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA), helped to create College Football 25. FIEA, the world’s top-ranked graduate video gaming school, is located at UCF Downtown, across the street from EA Orlando and is a strong pipeline of talent to the game developer.

Torres, a digital media alum who earned a minor in marketing, is one example of the invaluable experience UCF students can gain through internships. Last summer, she modeled and textured indoor and outdoor environmental assets based on real-life photographs taken at FBC Mortgage Stadium and Raymond James Stadium in Tampa for College Football 25 and the Madden NFL series.

Torres and her team used many tools, including LiDAR scanners to capture the lighting in the stadium. One scanner was placed in the middle of the stadium and scanned the entire facility, creating a 3D model. They also used individual scanners to capture models ranging from trash cans to cleats, which were then modified to the smallest detail. For example, a trash can in the stadium was scanned, then designers patched up any topology errors or holes, and added digital trash cans into the game.

Beyond scanning, the team took pictures of everything. Torres captured chairs at every angle, so artists were able to replicate them easily. She used a color palette, placing it next to the chairs, to help pinpoint the exact colors. Torres also worked with a pen-like scanner that identified the exact hex color of an object, adding further detail.

When scanning 3D objects, Torres says the main thing she tried to keep in mind was making sure the environment, whether it’s a prop or a whole scene, tells a story. An example of this was the first prop she created for EA, a coffee table for Madden NFL. The designers wanted the table to be around one or two years old, so she referenced her own coffee table that was around that age, mimicking details such as rings left from cold glasses and hot plates.

“That’s something that you really need to have as an environment artist, you need that eye to tell a story of things as simple as a coffee table, that maybe most people won’t even notice,â€� Torres says. “I think that’s the main thing, and that’s something that I still follow today. And working on portfolio pieces now, just doing my very best to tell stories without there being text.â€�

The lessons Torres has learned over her career come from a variety of places and mentors, such as EA SPORTS Environment Director Ingrid Aguero ’07 ’08MS, a graduate of UCF’s FIEA program. As a student at UCF, the most useful information Torres says she learned was in the 3D modeling classes. Under the instruction of Nicholas Hunter ’17 ’18MS, an instructor in and a FIEA alum, Torres gained knowledge on how to make assets that have good topology and UV mapping, which serves as a bridge between 2D textures and 3D objects. Torres also learned how to use Autodesk Maya, the industry standard program.

After being gone for over a decade, College Football 25 means many things to fans who have clamored for the game. For Torres, it’s a combination of her favorite things — Knight Nation, UCF football and video games.

“It honestly doesn’t feel real, I have a piece of my work inside my alma mater, in a game that is making a comeback after 11 years,â€� Torres says. “Everyone’s hyped, and it’s … really cool to see the game.â€�