Office of Development and Alumni Engagement
Executive Vice President & Chief of Development
Krista Bofill
Executive Vice President & Vice President of Development and Alumni Engagement
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Email: [email protected]
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How you can strongly impact Stetson University
Bio
Most recently, Bofill served as vice president of Institutional Advancement and Communications at Converse College, as the institution implemented a new strategic plan and fundraising. She also was a key member of the leadership team, whose work resulted in the creation of Converse University, with Converse College for Women as part of the university.
At Converse, Bofill more than doubled the annual fund, increased the annual run rate of major gifts, created new development events and increased community engagement while implementing a rebrand.
Senior AVP for Brand Development, Strategy, and External Affairs
Amy Gipson
Senior AVP for Brand Development, Strategy, and External Affairs
Contact me!
Phone: 386-822-7220
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
Scholarships, program support, capital projects, corporate philanthropy or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.
Bio
With more than 25 years in higher education, Amy previously served as vice president for marketing and communications at Stephens College for nearly seven years before joining Stetson in November 2012. In her 17 years at Stephens, a Missouri women’s college founded in 1833, she helped institute a turnaround marked by increased enrollment, enhanced public relations and partnerships, and revitalized academic and student programs and fundraising. She led the creative direction of recruitment and fundraising campaigns, oversaw the 2007 comprehensive re-accreditation report and visit, served as college spokesperson, and chaired the 175th Anniversary committee. She and her husband, Jason, live in DeLand, and they have two daughters and two dogs. A graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism, Amy also has an MBA from Stetson.
Director of Strategic Initiatives and Campaign Manager for Development and Alumni Engagement
Melanie Laboy
Director of Strategic Initiatives and Campaign Manager for Development and Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 386-822-7457
Email: [email protected]
Bio
Melanie started her career in higher education with Stetson in 2018 after more than 15 years in the private sector. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce and Political Science and earned her MBA here at Stetson.
Senior Director of Marketing and Communications
Natalia Masia-Gismero
Senior Director of Marketing and Communications
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Phone: 386-822-7783
Email: [email protected]
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Brand identity, marketing research, telling Stetson stories and increasing awareness.
Bio
A native of Madrid, Spain, she brings her eleven years of experience in corporate marketing and communications to the development team. She focuses on finding the most attractive and engaging ways to connect with Stetson constituents to generate brand awareness and build long-lasting relationships.
As an experienced communicator and marketing specialist, she supports defining and implementing strategic marketing campaigns and developing effective relationships with internal stakeholders and constituents. Generating creative and engaging content in various printed and online formats, she enjoys conducting research and data analysis to identify needs and trends. In addition, she is interested in integrating internal communications and the organization’s culture to provide exceptional experiences.
She is passionate about finding the human side of marketing practices that focuses on each individual, delivers personalized experiences, and finds the emotional connections that make all of us love Stetson.
Executive Assistant
Melissa Atwell
Executive Assistant
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Phone: 386-822-7481
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
Anything and if I don't know the answer, I'll find it for you!
Bio
Outside of work, she loves spending time in the great outdoors with her husband, Jeff, son, Cooper, and their pup Maya.
Senior Secretary of Development and Administrative Assistant to the President's Office
Sharon Hamil
Senior Secretary of Development and Administrative Assistant to the President's Office
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Phone: 386-822-7451
Email: [email protected]
Bio
Prior to joining Stetson’s staff in 2004, Sharon worked 11 years for a local CPA. She lives in DeBary and has three children, five grandchildren and four step-grandchildren.
Alumni Engagement
Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving
Amy Dedes '04
Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving
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Phone: 386-822-4234
Email: [email protected]
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Alumni Board, Homecoming, Career Networking
Bio
Amy earned her BA in Elementary Education from Stetson in 2004. She went on to earn her MS from Nova Southeastern University before returning to Stetson as a staff member. Amy has a love for Stetson that shows in her work with students and alumni. She was awarded the 2014 Spirit of Stetson Award at the annual employee recognition banquet. Outside of work, she volunteers with her sorority, Alpha Chi Omega, and spends time with her husband, John, also a Stetson graduate and their young children, Adonis and Ava.
Director of Alumni Engagement
Victoria Wright
Director of Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 386-822-7482
Email: [email protected]
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Leadership Stetson and Homecoming alumni reunion events!
Bio
Victoria previously worked at the University of Central Florida Foundation, Inc. managing alumni engagement efforts for the College of Nursing. Victoria is a four-time University of Central Florida alumna, most recently completing her graduate certificate in fundraising. She is a passionate mission-driven, nonprofit leader, who is committed to increasing alumni participation and philanthropic results in higher education. Victoria is enthusiastic to be on the Stetson team to share her passion for alumni engagement and to be a part of the rich history of the university. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, baking, and crafting.
Senior Associate Director of Annual Giving and Young Alumni
Brittney Cunningham MBA '24
Senior Associate Director of Annual Giving and Young Alumni
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Phone: 386-822-7487
Email: [email protected]
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Student Philanthropy, Senior Class Gift, Student Support Foundation, Forever Green
Bio
Brittney earned her BA in Early Childhood Education and BA in Marketing from the University of North Florida. During her time there, she was a member of the Honors in Marketing program and Order of Omega Honors Society. Outside of work, she volunteers with her sorority, Alpha Delta Pi, is a member of the University of North Florida Alumni Board of Directors and enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
Associate Director of Alumni and Community Engagement
Nikki Natriello
Associate Director of Alumni and Community Engagement
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Phone: 386-822-7329
Email: [email protected]
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How we can feature your achievements and professional or personal updates!
Bio
Nikki earned her BS in Public Administration with a minor in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Central Florida in 2021. Nikki’s background consists of community-oriented roles through which she has cultivated a passion for serving her community. She spends her free time volunteering with local organizations and traveling.
Assistant Director for Programming, Alumni Engagement
Kim Pesiri
Assistant Director for Programming, Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 386-822-7368
Email: [email protected]
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Alumni Programming, Homecoming, Upcoming Events
Bio
Kim earned her BFA in Graphic Design, with double minors in Mass Communications and Leadership. While at the University of North Florida, she gained experience working with brands such as Kendra Scott and Victoria’s Secret Pink in roles related to marketing, event planning, and project management. Additionally, she was a member of the Hicks Honors College and served as chapter president for her sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. In her personal life, Kim enjoys spending time with friends and family, as well as traveling.
Assistant Director for Student and Alumni Engagement
Nicole Bunt ‘20
Assistant Director for Student and Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 386-822-7483
Email: [email protected]
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Alumni ID Cards, Alumni profile updates, Upcoming events.
Bio
Nicole earned her Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Marketing and a minor in Professional Sales at Stetson University in 2020. While at Stetson Nicole was highly involved across campus, including being a member of our close organization – Green, White and YOU, where she worked alongside events to enhance current student and alumni engagement and philanthropy efforts across campus. Nicole was also involved with Alpha Kappa Psi and the American Marketing Association. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and reading.
Major Gift Officers
AVP University Development Initiatives
Tara Hamilton
AVP University Development Initiatives
Contact me!
Phone: 386-822-7993
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
The College of Arts and Sciences, Brown Hall, Chaudoin Remodel or any philanthropic support for Stetson.
Bio
Tara focuses on developing relationships with Stetson alumni and friends that lead to philanthropic support for the university. As a member of the leadership team, Tara also oversees a team of fundraising professionals ensuring they are successful in each of their roles. Prior to joining Stetson, Tara spent 10 years at the University of Central Florida (UCF) Foundation. She began her advancement career working in alumni relations and then moved into development where she held positions with the College of Arts and Humanities, central development and the College of Business Administration. Before transitioning into higher education, Tara worked as an event planner and volunteer coordinator with the Brevard Cultural Alliance in Melbourne.
Tara graduated with honors from UCF with a bachelor's degree in advertising and public relations and completed her MBA at UCF in 2009. Tara is a native Floridian and lives near downtown Orlando with her husband.
Chief of Staff & Senior Development Officer
Rina Arroyo
Chief of Staff & Senior Development Officer
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Phone: 386-822-7773
Email: [email protected]
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Why I love Stetson – I'd love to hear why you do as well!
Bio
Previously, Rina served as Stetson’s associate vice president for development as well as dean of students and vice president for campus life. This makes her a tremendous resource for parents and alumni alike. Rina joined the Stetson team in 2005 after nearly a decade at Rollins College and other small private liberal arts institutions throughout the country. Throughout her 30 plus years in higher education, she has been involved in numerous professional associations and has presented at several national conferences. In 2013, Rina was presented with the NASPA Region III Bob E. Leach Award for Outstanding Service to Students.
Rina holds a bachelor's degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a master's degree in Higher Education Administration from Western Illinois University.
Director of Development
Jeff Altier
Director of Development
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Phone: 386-822-7986
Email: [email protected]
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The proud tradition of Stetson Athletics and how you can personally make a difference in the life of a student.
Bio
Jeff is a double Hatter, married to a double Hatter (Sarah Altier, PhD), parent of an alum (Heath), and has been a DeLand community leader serving as President of DeLand Rotary, Director of DeLand Little League and founding member of the DeLand Sports Redevelopment Association. Professionally, he has held the position of Chair of the NCAA Division I Baseball Committee, a member of the NCAA Leadership Council, member of the NCAA AEC Cabinet, as well as chair of many ASUN Conference committees. Jeff has been recognized as the Division I Southeast Athletic Director of the Year, ASUN Conference Stellar Service Award recipient, West Volusia Sport’s Person of the Year, and as a member of the Stetson Sports Hall of Fame.
Director of Development
Angela Young Smucker
Director of Development
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Phone: 386-822-7585
Email: [email protected]
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Scholarships, program support, School of Music advisory board, or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.
Bio
As an accomplished mezzo-soprano, Angela has performed with world-class ensembles, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Third Coast Baroque, Haymarket Opera Company, Bach Collegium San Diego, Santa Fe Desert Chorale, Conspirare, Seraphic Fire, and more. She has been an adjunct faculty member at Valparaiso and Stetson Universities and will return to teaching “Career Skills for the Entrepreneurial Musician” at Stetson this year. Angela holds multiple degrees: a Bachelor of Music Education from Valparaiso University, Master of Music from University of Minnesota, and a Doctor of Musical Arts from Northwestern University.
Director of Development
Alicia Scott
Director of Development
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Phone: 386-822-8874
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
The School of Business Administration and any philanthropic support for Stetson. I am your point of contact if you are located in Central Florida, West Florida, or North Carolina.
Bio
She previously served as Chief of Protocol for the Bethune Cookman University President, Executive Director of the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center, and the former Director of Communications at Stetson University. Scott was the Editor and Writer for Stetson Today and a contributing writer for Stetson Magazine. She served on Central Florida boards such as the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts Circle of Friends Board and the Vince Carter Embassy of Hope Board. Currently, she serves on the Executive Board of the Ormond Memorial Arts Museum and the Let’s Kick Asthma Board of Central Florida.
Director of Development
Kerri Carlyon
Director of Development
Contact me!
Phone: 386-822-8741
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
Scholarships, program support, capital projects, College of Arts and Sciences advisory board or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.
Bio
Prior to joining the Stetson team, Kerri spent over 11 years at her alma mater, Flagler College. Her experience includes roles in major gift fundraising, alumni relations, donor relations, and overseeing annual giving and family engagement. Before working in higher education, Kerri spent six years as an advertising account executive.
A native of Indiana, Kerri has called St. Augustine her home since 2002. A graduate of Flagler College, she earned degrees in business administration and communication.
Director of Corporate, Foundation, and Government Relations
Heather McCormick
Director of Corporate, Foundation, and Government Relations
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Phone: 386-822-6707
Email: [email protected]
Office of Annual Giving
Director of Annual Giving
Bio
Alex earned his B.BA in Sport Business from Stetson in 2016 and worked in the Athletic Department as a volunteer and intern throughout his time as a student. He was also a member of the Stetson Sport Business Association. Alex left the DeLand area after graduating for positions with the Washington Nationals and then the Miami Dolphins, before returning to Stetson in early 2018. Alex has a passion for Stetson and enjoys working and interacting with all members of the Stetson Community.
Associate Director of Annual Giving
Jennifer Williams
Associate Director of Annual Giving
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Phone: 386-822-7456
Email: [email protected]
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The Stetson Fund, Annual Giving, Giving Challenge
Bio
Jenn has been at Stetson University since 2013 as a student and 2016 as a professional. During her time at Stetson, she earned both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Business Administration. She served in the Office of Admissions as Assistant Director of Transfer Admissions and later Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions for the College of Arts and Sciences until 2021. She also oversaw the Experiential Learning retirement and Professionalism Certificate in her role as Assistant Director of the J.J. Master Center for Professionalism.
Assistant Director of Annual Giving
James Rhodes
Assistant Director of Annual Giving
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Email: [email protected]
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The Stetson Fund and Crowdfunding
Bio
Development Operations
Executive Director of Development Operations
Lisa Marchi
Executive Director of Development Operations
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Phone: 386-822-7464
Email: [email protected]
Bio
Joining the nonprofit Landmark Volunteers as Admissions & Diversity Outreach Coordinator, Lisa was instrumental in annually placing 800 high school students in various community service projects through the US. After eight years with Landmark, Lisa began her fund development career with Berkshire South Regional Community Center as the Development Associate for Grants, Research and Records. She moved into the position of Director of Development & Communications in 2012 leading the fundraising initiative for the Center.
More recently, Lisa worked with Converse University in the role of Director of Advancement Services before coming to Stetson University as the Executive Director of Development Operations.
Director of Development Operations/Data Analyst
Don Burrhus
Director of Development Operations/Data Analyst
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Phone: 386-822-4220
Email: [email protected]
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The great rodeo of ones and zeros.
Bio
Don joined Stetson’s Information Technology team in 2007. In 2019, Don transitioned into the Development and Alumni Engagement arm of the institution where he served in Donor Relations before moving into his current role in Development Operations as a Data Analyst. Prior to Stetson, Don served in Information Technology leadership roles at Mount Ida College and Dean College, both located in the Boston, Massachusetts area.
Director of Prospect Management & Research
Tracey Torain
Director of Prospect Management & Research
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Phone: 919-316-9033
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
Finding colleagues’ "superpowers" and guiding their path is what I call true teamwork. What’s your superpower?
Bio
Bringing more than two decades of development experience at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, I have grown from an administrative assistant into a trailblazer—building prospect pipelines nearly a decade ahead of the rest of Duke. I look forward to applying my well-rounded skill set at Stetson to help raise the bar in fundraising. I consider myself a Professional Fundraising Intelligence Officer, thriving in fast-paced environments to create dynamic pipelines that drive 8-figure results for globally established teams. I take pride in encouraging colleagues with grit and determination to be their best—just as they push me to be mine. My motto? “If YOU don’t look good, I don’t look good.” I’m thrilled to become a Hatter and dig deep to help our fabulous team grow and succeed.
Associate Director for Development Operations
Christine Martin
Associate Director for Development Operations
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Phone: 386-822-7229
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
Gift receipting and updating your contact information
Bio
Christine has worked at Stetson since 2012, first in Annual Giving and currently in Development Operations. As an experienced professional in the field of development operations within higher education, the Associate Director of Development Operations is responsible for overseeing the efficient and effective administration of development operations. This includes managing systems and processes related to donor stewardship and engagement, gift processing, reporting and analysis, and database management.
Assistant Director for Development Operations
Claudine Verdone
Assistant Director for Development Operations
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Phone: 386-822-7465
Email: [email protected]
Assistant Director of Development Operations Support
Karen Alexander
Assistant Director of Development Operations Support
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Phone: 386-822-7463
Email: [email protected]
Bio
Karen has worked for Stetson since 2010, first in Human Resources and then the Office of Finance as both a Accounts Payable Specialist and a Payroll Specialist before joining the Development Operations team.
Office of Gift Planning
Senior Director of Gift Planning
Arzie Stephens
Senior Director of Gift Planning
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Phone: 386-822-7459
Email: [email protected]
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How to make a gift to Stetson in your estate plan.
Bio
Arzie obtained his law degree from Florida A&M University. A certified specialist in planned giving (CSPG), Arzie is also a Marine Corps veteran.
Donor Relations
Director of Donor Relations
Brian Piazza
Director of Donor Relations
Contact me!
Phone: 386-822-4259
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
The Impact of Donor-Funded Scholarships, opportunities to meet with Stetson students, becoming a Member of the 1883 Society
Associate Director of Donor Relations
Libby Molesky
Associate Director of Donor Relations
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Phone: 386-822-7461
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
How wonderful our Donors are!
Bio
College of Law
Executive Director of Development and Alumni Engagement
Brandon Prescott
Executive Director of Development and Alumni Engagement
Contact me!
Phone: 727-562-7318
Email: [email protected]
Bio
He has also performed volunteer work at numerous nonprofit organizations. Ensuring efficiency and effective engagement with current and future alumni alike, Brandon has a strong command for all relevant CRM and engagement platforms in the digital space.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Louisiana Tech University and an Institute for Leaders in Development Certification from University of Denver.
Director of Development and Alumni Engagement
Patricia Toups
Director of Development and Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 727-562-7985
Email: [email protected]
Bio
Patricia previously worked in the Office of Admissions at Stetson Law from 1980 to 1984. In 2004, she was staff_named Employee of the Year. She received the Dean's Award for service to the law school in 2007 and 2012. She has two sons, a daughter and granddaughter. One of her sons is a graduate of Stetson University College of Law.
Director of Development and Alumni Engagement
Marc Small
Director of Development and Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 727-562-7913
Email: [email protected]
Ask me about!
Stetson College Law's Trial Advocacy and Legal Writing National rankings!
Bio
Marc previously served as the Director of Partnerships & Promotions at Florida Tech and prior to that he served as Alumni Outreach Coordinator for Florida A&M University. Early in his professional career he spent time as a Director/Head Track & Field coach. Therefore, in his free time, he enjoys running and volunteer coaching professional Track & Field athletes. Marc currently resides in DeBary FL with his wife Pricilla and two kids Marc and Layla.
Associate Director of Development and Alumni Engagement
Becky Ellingwood
Associate Director of Development and Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 727-562-7893
Email: [email protected]
Bio
Becky graduated from George Mason University, receiving her B.A. in public relations with an event management minor. In her free time, she enjoys weightlifting, cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles, and soaking up the sun every chance she gets.
Assistant Director, Annual Giving and Communications
Madelyn Landry
Assistant Director, Annual Giving and Communications
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Email: [email protected]
Bio
Before joining Stetson Law, Madelyn interned at several non-profits, including the Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve and the Neighborhood Center of West Volusia. As a recent graduate of Stetson University, Madelyn brings her experience as a student to the team while connecting with alumni. In her free time, Madelyn enjoys exploring the Tampa Bay area with her dog, weekends at the beach, and summers in Maine.
Manager of Development and Alumni Engagement
Tomeka Jackson
Manager of Development and Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 727-562-7976
Email: [email protected]
Bio
In her free time, Jackson enjoys shopping, traveling and visiting with family and friends
University Events & Conference Services
Executive Director of University Events & Conference Services
Julie Hunter
Executive Director of University Events & Conference Services
Contact me!
Phone: 386-822-7712
Email: [email protected]
Bio
With more than 20 years of experience in marketing and event production, Julie provides distinct brand and creative visions for the university's academic and premiere events, programs, and productions as well as leadership in services of consultation, event management, logistical support for both internal and external clients.
Prior to Stetson, Julie produced events at Warner Bros. Studios in Southern California, Easter Seals of Central Florida, and the American Heart Association. Away from the office, Julie enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, visiting local theme parks, and reading.
Director of University Events
Bio
As a proud Delandite, Megan was born, raised and currently lives in Deland. In her free time, she enjoys adventuring with her husband, spending quality time with her friends and family and going for walks her two Siberian huskies.
Director of Conference Services
Taylor Church
Director of Conference Services
Contact me!
Phone: 386-740-6619
Email: [email protected]
Bio
Returning to his hometown of DeLand, Taylor is excited about growing Stetson Events and continuing to build relationships with the community. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and dog, traveling, and supporting his favorite sports teams.
Assistant Director Conference Services
Sarah Ward
Assistant Director Conference Services
Contact me!
Phone: 386-740-6620
Email: [email protected]
Bio
Sarah earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship and is currently pursuing her Masters in Business Administration from Stetson University. During her time at Stetson, Sarah gained valuable experience as a Graduate Assistant for the Prince Entrepreneurship Program in the School of Business Administration and as a Student Event Coordinator in the Office of University Events & Conference Services before joining the team full-time.
A Florida native from West Palm Beach, Sarah is thrilled to continue her journey in Central Florida. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, and all things Harry Potter.
Event Manager
Bio
Cindy holds a Bachelor's Degree in Resort and Hospitality Management with a Minor in Marketing from Florida Gulf Coast University bringing a diverse industry background to her role. Before starting at Stetson her primary focus was in the wedding industry. She’s worked with numerous venues around the Orlando area where she gained experience as Day of Coordinator and Venue Manager. Cindy’s hands-on approach and attention to detail make her an asset in the world of event planning.
A proud 6th generation Floridian, Cindy was born and raised in Orlando and returned home after completing her studies. She has a deep love for the Sunshine State, which you can find her embracing on her days off with her husband — whether it’s fishing, relaxing at the beach, or cheering on their favorite football teams.
Graduate Assistant, Conference Services
Bio
Jeremiah earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Studio Art from Florida State University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration. His artistic background and business knowledge enable him to create impactful promotional content that enhances the visibility of conferences, summer camps, and other campus events. In his free time, Jeremiah enjoys drawing, playing sports, and attending church, where he finds inspiration and balance outside of his professional pursuits.
Event Support
Bio
Brian has been working in this role since August 2023, having previously worked in the Grounds division of the Facilities Department. Brian officially joined the University Events & Conference Services team in January 2025 when the position was transferred from the Facilities Department. Away from work, you can find Brian spending time with his kids or attending car shows.
Event Support
Bio
Ed has been working in this role since November 2023, and officially joined the University Events & Conference Services team in January 2025 when the position was transferred from the Facilities Department.Outside of work, Ed enjoys fishing, hunting, playing pool, and spending time with his family.