Office of Development and Alumni Engagement

Krista Bofill

Executive Vice President & Chief of Development

Krista Bofill

Executive Vice President & Vice President of Development and Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

How you can strongly impact Stetson University

Bio

Krista Bofill has more than 25 years of successful and progressive leadership experience in developing and managing donor, investor and constituent relationships, and brings a diverse set of fundraising and higher education experience to the position.

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.

Amy Gipson

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

Amy has worked at Stetson for more than a decade, primarily with Development and Alumni Engagement but also with University Marketing and the President’s office. She is a parent of an alumna, now living and working in Washington, D.C., as well as the parent of a current student. Amy works closely with donors on their philanthropic gifts and on initiatives that engage them in the life of the university and enhancing the student experience. As a member of the Development senior leadership team, she also oversees Communications as well as Donor Relations.

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.

Melanie Laboy

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

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7457
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Melanie in her role, works closely on philanthropy efforts with the Vice President and Associate Vice President of Development & Alumni Engagement to strategically align development initiatives for funding opportunities. As a member of the leadership team she oversees the division’s administration and also acts as liaison for the vice president to the president’s office as well as the University.

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.

Natalia Masia-Gismero

Senior Director of Marketing and Communications

Natalia Masia-Gismero

Senior Director of Marketing and Communications

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7783
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Brand identity, marketing research, telling Stetson stories and increasing awareness.

Bio

Natalia joined the Office of Development and Alumni Engagement in the spring of 2022 after collaborating with Stetson’s Marketing Department for two years. She earned her MBA from Stetson in 2018.

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.

Sharon Hamil

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

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7451
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Sharon serves as the administrative secretary for the Office of Development and the major gift officers. In this capacity she utilizes the university database to retrieve lists and prepare materials for use by the Vice President prior to donor visits. She also prepares trip itineraries and makes airline and hotel reservations for the development team. Sharon is responsible for transcribing reports and letters and for drafting correspondence and acknowledgement letters and data entry of information into the Banner record. Sharon maintains gift officers budget records and monthly budget reports, as well as preparing expense reports for the major gift officers.

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

Amy Dedes

Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

Amy Dedes '04

Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-4234
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Alumni Board, Homecoming, Career Networking

Bio

Amy joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the fall of 2008 and has held many titles within the office including Director of Alumni Engagement. As Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving, Amy now helps to guide the leadership of both departments to help them achieve their engagement and fundraising goals. Amy has previously worked on the planning of alumni events across the country, including district get-togethers for alumni and current parents, recruitment events for prospective students, and on-campus events like Leadership Stetson and Homecoming. Her work on Homecoming 2012 earned a CASE Award for Special Merit in Alumni Programs.

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.

Victoria Wright

Director of Alumni Engagement

Victoria Wright

Director of Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7482
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Leadership Stetson and Homecoming alumni reunion events!

Bio

Victoria joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the fall of 2024. As Director of Alumni Engagement, Victoria helps to guide the leadership of the alumni engagement department to help them achieve their engagement goals.

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.

Brittney Cunningham

Senior Associate Director of Annual Giving and Young Alumni

Brittney Cunningham MBA '24

Senior Associate Director of Annual Giving and Young Alumni

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7487
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Student Philanthropy, Senior Class Gift, Student Support Foundation, Forever Green

Bio

Brittney joined Stetson in the spring of 2022 as the Student Philanthropy Coordinator. Promoted to assistant director in the summer of 2023. Brittney oversees the student organization, Green, White and YOU, which serves as the student alumni association, the Senior Class Gift Campaign, Student Support Foundation Club, and the Forever Green Young Alumni Program. Her work with Green, White and YOU earned a 2023 CASE Circle of Excellence Award for Student Engagement.

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.

Nikki Natriello

Associate Director of Alumni and Community Engagement

Nikki Natriello

Associate Director of Alumni and Community Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7329
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

How we can feature your achievements and professional or personal updates!

Bio

Nikki joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the Spring of 2022, where she assists the team in facilitating programming and relaying engaging content to Stetson Alumni and current parents. She also helps to grow and expand giving campaigns alongside the team. Nikki provides support for various alumni activities such as Homecoming, Leadership Stetson and Alumni Board meetings. She collaborates with other campus and community partners to connect with alumni and spread awareness of alumni benefits and opportunities.

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.

Kim Pesiri

Assistant Director for Programming, Alumni Engagement

Kim Pesiri

Assistant Director for Programming, Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7368
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Alumni Programming, Homecoming, Upcoming Events

Bio

Kim became the Assistant Director of Programming for Alumni Engagement at Stetson in the fall of 2024. Collaborating with the Director of Alumni Engagement, she organizes and oversees events for alumni, students, and parents, both on the DeLand campus and in various regions across the country.

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.

Nicole Bunt

Assistant Director for Student and Alumni Engagement

Nicole Bunt ‘20

Assistant Director for Student and Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7483
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Alumni ID Cards, Alumni profile updates, Upcoming events.

Bio

Nicole joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the Summer of 2023 as Administrative Assistant where she helps with answering questions alumni may have on different events and benefits that come with being a Stetson Alumni. She is eager to share her passion for Stetson through interactions with other Alumni and the Stetson community.

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

Tara Hamilton

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.

Rina Arroyo

Presidential Liaison for Philanthropic and Strategic Partnerships

Rina Arroyo

Presidential Liaison for Philanthropic and Strategic Partnerships

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7773
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Why I love Stetson – I'd love to hear why you do as well!

Bio

Rina serves as the Presidential Liaison for Philanthropic and Strategic Partnerships. Rina previously served as the Chief of staff and assisted the President in accomplishing the top priorities of the University, while building authentic relationships with alumni and parents to understand where their talents, passions and resources might connect within the university to have the greatest impact on the current student experience.

Rina also has 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.

Angela Smucker

Director of Development

Angela Young Smucker

Director of Development

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7585
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Scholarships, program support, School of Music advisory board, or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.

Bio

Over the course of 20+ years, Dr. Angela Young Smucker has built a multi-faceted career in nonprofit arts administration, performance, and education. She served as founding Executive Director for Third Coast Baroque—“Chicago's most accomplished period instrumentalists and singers" (Chicago Tribune).

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.

Alicia Scott

Director of Development

Alicia Scott

Director of Development

Contact me!

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

Alicia L. Scott is the Director of Development at Stetson University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Business Administration from National University. She earned an MA in Teaching from Rollins College and a BA in Broadcast Journalism from Bethune Cookman University. Scottis also an adjunct professor in the School of Business, teaching Professional Communications.

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.

Kerri Carlyon

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

Kerri joined Stetson University in late 2022. She focuses on building relationships with alumni, parents, and friends in Northeast Florida and developing philanthropic support for the students, programs, and strategic priorities at the University. Kerri takes great care to align a donor’s philanthropic goals with the right initiative to achieve the most impact and have a fulfilling giving experience for the donor.

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.

Heather McCormick

Director of Corporate, Foundation, and Government Relations

Heather McCormick

Director of Corporate, Foundation, and Government Relations

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-6707
Email: [email protected]

Office of Annual Giving

Alex Herron

Director of Annual Giving

Alex Herron '16

Director of Annual Giving

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7482
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Alex joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the fall of 2019 as Assistant Director, transitioning over from the Stetson Athletic Department. He was promoted to Associate Director in July of 2021, Director in July of 2023 and then Director of Annual Giving in June 2024

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.

Brittney Cunningham

Senior Associate Director of Annual Giving and Young Alumni

Brittney Cunningham MBA '24

Senior Associate Director of Annual Giving and Young Alumni

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7487
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Student Philanthropy, Senior Class Gift, Student Support Foundation, Forever Green

Bio

Jennifer Williams

Associate Director of Annual Giving

Jennifer Williams

Associate Director of Annual Giving

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7456
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

The Stetson Fund, Annual Giving, Giving Challenge

Bio

Jenn joined the Annual Giving team in 2024. She is excited to bring her Stetson Spirit to the world of Annual Giving. Jenn helps coordinate the annual Giving Challenge and other fundraising events. She created personal relationships with donors and alumni. Jenn’s goal is to fundraise for the Stetson Fund, which is the unrestricted fund for the university. The Stetson Fund helps with things like scholarships, classroom technology and materials, enabling the college to recruit top-notch faculty, and maintaining and preserving the beautiful and historic campus.

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.

Development Operations

Lisa Marchi

Executive Director of Development Operations

Lisa Marchi

Executive Director of Development Operations

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7464
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Lisa Marchi is a graduate of Curry College in Massachusetts. Holding a degree in Business Management and a minor in Education, Lisa has worked with the Darlington School in Rome, GA and Berkshire School in Sheffield, MA as Dormitory House Head while raising her three daughters and co-parenting three stepsons.

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.

Don Burrhus

Director of Development Operations/Data Analyst

Don Burrhus

Director of Development Operations/Data Analyst

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-4220
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

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.

Tracey Torain

Director of Prospect Management & Research

Tracey Torain

Director of Prospect Management & Research

Contact me!

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.

Christine Martin

Associate Director for Development Operations

Christine Martin

Associate Director for Development Operations

Contact me!

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.

Claudine Verdone

Assistant Director for Development Operations

Claudine Verdone

Assistant Director for Development Operations

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7465
Email: [email protected]

Karen Alexander

Assistant Director of Development Operations Support

Karen Alexander

Assistant Director of Development Operations Support

Contact me!

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

Arzie Stephens

Senior Director of Gift Planning

Arzie Stephens

Senior Director of Gift Planning

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7459
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

How to make a gift to Stetson in your estate plan.

Bio

As Senior Director of Gift Planning, Arzie's responsibilities include the university's charitable estate planning outreach, ongoing stewardship of all Stetson Society members, and the in-house administration of estate gifts. He is also involved with the university’s volunteer boards and welcomes the opportunity to speak on the benefits of planned giving.

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

Brian Piazza

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

Libby Molesky

Associate Director of Donor Relations

Libby Molesky

Associate Director of Donor Relations

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7461

Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

How wonderful our Donors are!

Bio

Libby studied at West Virginia University, her background is in Marketing & Public Relations with extensive experience in developing market analysis and leading strategic marketing efforts. She enjoys building strong relationships and working at all levels of an organization.

College of Law

Brandon Prescott

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

With years of experience at higher education institutions and nonprofits, Brandon Prescott has shown exceptional fundraising prowess throughout his career. He has a proven track record of securing six- and- seven-figure gifts through effectively cultivating partnerships with corporate and community foundations as well as state and local governments. He has worked in critical development roles at University of South Florida College of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Sustainable Harvest International, Mount Saint Mary’s University, Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, Council for Children’s Rights, and The University of Southern Mississippi Foundation.

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.

Patricia Toups

Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Patricia Toups

Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 727-562-7985
Email: [email protected]

Bio

A long-time resident of St. Petersburg, Patricia Toups earned her undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Stetson University. Toups has worked in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations since 2001 in various roles. As associate director of development, Patricia brings a broad breadth and knowledge to the development team that includes historical timelines, practices and procedures, fiscal management and most importantly, a loyalty and devotion to Stetson Law, the alumni and students.

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.

Marc Small

Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Marc Small

Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 727-562-7913
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Stetson College Law's Trial Advocacy and Legal Writing National rankings!

Bio

Marc Small, originally from Ohio, earned his undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Tiffin University (OH), and his master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction from Lake Superior State University (MI). He has over 20 years of experience working in higher education. Marc is one of the newest members of the Development & Alumni Engagement team at Stetson Law. His position is based in Orlando FL; in efforts to increase alumni’s engagement and facilitate alumni and friends’ support of students and programs at the college. Marc is proud to help the College of Law solidify a strong presence in the Orlando area as well as Stetson’s Deland campus.

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.

Becky Ellingwood

Associate Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Becky Ellingwood

Associate Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 727-562-7893
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Becky Ellingwood grew up in Virginia and now resides in St. Petersburg. Prior to joining the team, Becky served as House Manager and Weekend Manager of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Norfolk, VA. As Associate Director at Stetson Law, she establishes and grows relationships with alumni and friends, and connects them to the college through philanthropy, programs, and events.

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.

Madelyn Landry

Assistant Director, Annual Giving and Communications

Madelyn Landry

Assistant Director, Annual Giving and Communications

Contact me!

Email: [email protected]

Bio

Originally from Maine, Madelyn Landry moved to Florida where she received her undergraduate degree from Stetson University in International Business and Business Law. Madelyn manages the department’s social media accounts and digital engagement strategies and serves as liaison between various teams on the Gulfport and DeLand campuses.

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.

Tomeka Jackson

Manager of Development and Alumni Engagement

Tomeka Jackson

Manager of Development and Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 727-562-7976
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Tomeka Jackson provides administrative support for the entire department, and in particular, works closely in helping to prepare for the College of Law's multitude of events. A graduate of Florida Metropolitan University (BS - Criminal Justice) and a graduate of Nova Southeastern University (MSCJ - Criminal Justice), Jackson most recently worked at Raymond James Financial in St. Petersburg.

In her free time, Jackson enjoys shopping, traveling and visiting with family and friends

University Events & Conference Services

Julie Hunter

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

As Executive Director of University Events & Conference Services, Julie oversees the production, management and creative direction of events and summer programing held on the DeLand campus.

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.

Megan Lohsen

Director of University Events

Megan Lohsen

Director of University Events

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7453
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Megan earned her bachelor's degree in Event Management from the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management. After graduating, she worked with some of the top wedding vendors and venues in Orlando and held positions in planning and coordination, as well as venue management and sales. Megan appreciates a good challenge and loves the opportunity to experience new things.

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.

Taylor Church

Director of Conference Services

Taylor Church

Director of Conference Services

Contact me!

Phone: 386-740-6619

Email: [email protected]

Bio

As Associate Director of Conference Services, Taylor oversees the execution of summer camps, conferences, and external events around campus. Taylor earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Masters in Business Administration from the University of South Florida. Prior to joining Stetson, he worked at several Universities including University of South Florida St. Peterburg, Appalachian State University and University of Washington managing the events and operations of Student Centers.

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.

Cindy Backel

Event Manager

Cindy Backel

Event Manager

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7918

Email: [email protected]

Bio

As Event Manager, Cindy oversees campus event logistics including the production of the event support schedule, supervision of major reservable spaces on campus, and management of alcohol and specialty linen requests.

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.

Brian Coldiron

Event Support

Brian Coldiron

Event Support

Contact me!

Email: [email protected]

Bio

As Event Support, Brian manages the setup and strike of event equipment across campus, and oversees rental inventory and venue maintenance.

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.

Ed Thysell

Event Support

Ed Thysell

Event Support

Contact me!

Email: [email protected]

Bio

As Event Support, Ed manages the setup and strike of event equipment across campus and oversees rental inventory and venue maintenance.

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.