The University of Florida names new Senior Director for Transportation and Parking Services. The University of Florida has named Louann Huynh as the new Senior Director of Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS). She will join the university on March 27. Huynh brings more than a decade of experience in parking and mobility management in higher education, most recently serving as Director of Parking and Transportation at the University of Central Florida. In that role, she led strategic planning and daily operations across five campuses, overseeing 12 parking garages and more than 40 parking lots that serve over 24,000 parking spaces.…

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Congratulations to the 2026 Business Affairs Superior Accomplishment Award Winners The Superior Accomplishment Awards recognize faculty and staff members who contribute outstanding and meritorious service or have created an impact on the quality of life provided to students and employees. This program celebrates those who demonstrate dedication to their roles and go the extra mile to advance our university’s mission and serve the community at large. Recognizing various aspects of achievement, the award categories include employee performance, rookie of the year, sustained excellence, and team collaboration. This year, the Business Affairs Division proudly celebrates fourteen winners across our diverse departments.…

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The University of Florida recognized as a Gold Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists. The University of Florida has been recognized as a Gold Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists. UF is the only school in Florida and one of only 31 nationwide to earn this prestigious Gold Rating. From a campus-wide speed limit to well-maintained bike lanes, UF has worked to create a safe and bikeable environment for students, faculty and staff and visitors year-round. Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) has played a central role in achieving this recognition, offering programs that make…

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The University of Florida is excited to welcome Kevin Sowers as the new Associate Vice President for Business Affairs, beginning June 23. Sowers brings more than 14 years of experience in higher education operations and financial strategy, and 11 years in the hospitality industry to his new role, where he will oversee a wide range of key areas, including Transportation and Parking Services, the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, Human Resources, and policy and event coordination. “I am thrilled to join the Business Affairs team and help our division to live its mission and vision each day,” said Sowers. “I look forward…

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From Court to Closet: UF Bookstore Scores Big for Fans They say teamwork wins championships—but it also brings championship apparel to the fans. That’s where the UF Bookstore, located in the J. Wayne Reitz Union, shines. Collaborating with partners across campus and vendors across the country, the bookstore delivered all the gear Gator Nation needed to celebrate the men’s team’s 2025 NCAA National Championship win. Getting that gear into the hands of fans, however, is no small feat. Josh Pulver, Area Director for the UF Bookstore, said preparing for such a historic moment takes weeks—sometimes months—of planning and coordination. Working…

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Brandi Renton Named Vice President for Business Affairs In case you missed last week’s news, President Fuchs officially appointed Brandi Renton as vice president for Business Affairs. “This marks the beginning of a new era for our division—one defined by growth, renewed priorities and strengthened leadership.” said Renton, “While our division has evolved in structure and focus, our unwavering commitment to serve this campus 24/7, 365 days a year remains the same.” Read more

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Congratulations to the 2025 Business Affairs Superior Accomplishment Award Winners The Superior Accomplishment Awards recognize faculty and staff members who contribute outstanding and meritorious service or have created an impact on the quality of life provided to students and employees. This program celebrates those who demonstrate dedication to their roles and go the extra mile to advance our university’s mission and serve the community at large. Recognizing various aspects of achievement, the award categories include employee performance, rookie of the year, sustained excellence, and team collaboration. This year, the Business Affairs Division proudly celebrates fourteen winners across our diverse departments.…

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Museum Road Reopens Dear campus community, The portion of Museum Road between Gale Lemerand and Reitz Union drives, which previously closed after a reclaimed water pipe ruptured late Friday, is now open. Traffic may resume immediately in both directions.  Additionally, the Gainesville Regional Transit System buses affected by this disruption are expected to resume their routine routes.  We are grateful to the UF Facilities Services staff who worked tirelessly to repair the rupture and safely reopen the road as quickly as possible. And thank you for your patience while these critical repairs were made.  Sincerely, Brandi RentonInterim Vice President for…

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Museum Road Partially Closed, Expect Traffic Detours and Delays Dear campus community, A portion of Museum Road, between Gale Lemerand and Reitz Union drives, remains closed after a reclaimed water pipe ruptured on Friday. While UF Facilities Services staff worked diligently through the weekend to repair the rupture, additional work is still necessary before the road can be reopened.  This road closure does not affect traffic on Gale Lemerand Drive or other campus roads. However, a number of Gainesville Regional Transit Service (RTS) bus routes are being detoured. Please visit the RTS website to learn which busses are facing route…

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From Custodian to UFPD Officer Growing up, Dwayne Williams always dreamed of becoming a law enforcement officer but when he began his career at the University of Florida  in 2020, he couldn’t imagine the twists and turns ahead. Williams, born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, but living in Gainesville since he was eight, always had a knack for making a positive impact on his community. At Gainesville High School, he was president of the “Canes On Da Mic” Poetry Club, President of the “Gentleman’s Club” and a National Thespian Honor Society member. Hired initially as a custodial worker for Facilities Services, Williams…

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Florida Fresh Dining launches new meal deals at beaty and hub markets Through a collaborative effort with UF’s Student Government, Florida Fresh Dining recently launched a set of meal deals offered at Beaty and Hub markets on campus. The meal deals offer various options, such as a buffalo chicken tender wrap or a ham sandwich accompanied by fruit and a bottle of water for anyone with a meal plan. The meal deals also offer a convenient and affordable option as all items are packaged in a ‘grab n’ go’ style while priced under $10. “We want to thank the Student…

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Veteran officer tapped to lead uf police department After a months-long nationwide search, the University of Florida has named Bart Knowles the Chief of the UF Police Department, effective immediately. “Chief Knowles will lead our police department with integrity and a vision for the future of this great university and his department’s place in it,” Brandi Renton, Interim Vice President for Business Affairs said. “He is eminently qualified to lead UF in the crucial work of protecting our community.” Knowles began his law enforcement career as a Hernando County sheriff’s deputy in 1988 and transferred to the Gainesville Police Department…

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GatorSafe app named outstanding crime prevention program of the year Every year, law enforcement agencies across the country work to create new crime prevention programs or revamp existing programs to ensure the safety of their respective communities. This year, the University of Florida Police Department was recognized by the Florida Crime Prevention Association with the Outstanding Crime Prevention Program of the Year award for revamping the GatorSafe app. In November 2023, UFPD and the Department of Emergency Management revamped the GatorSafe app to make students, faculty, and staff safer on our campus. From talking directly to a police dispatcher to…

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Business Affairs Departments Unite to weather turbulent hurricane season Every year, hurricane season brings new challenges to the UF community. This year was no different, with three major hurricanes, Debby, Helene, and Milton, disrupting campus operations. Throughout those turbulent days and nights many of our Business Affairs staff worked tirelessly to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community. From pre-storm planning to post-storm recovery, departments such as Emergency Management, the University Police Department, Environmental Health & Safety, the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, and Business Services partnered with colleagues across campus to play crucial roles in keeping the UF…

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Updates to the Office of the Senior Vice President and CFO Jantz, Renton, and Lintner take new leadership roles The University of Florida today announced several leadership updates in the office of the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Effective June 13, Taylor Jantz was appointed as UF’s next senior vice president and chief financial officer. Jantz, who had served as UF’s interim SVP/CFO since July 2023, will oversee the comprehensive financial operations of the UF enterprise as well as the university’s business operations.  “The University of Florida has a bold mission, and we are well-positioned for success,” said…

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Closure of Buckman Drive The University of Florida will close a portion of Buckman Drive on Monday, Aug. 5, to repair an underground condensate line between Sisler and Dauer halls. This work continues the temporary repairs made in March. This closure will impact personal vehicle traffic in both directions on Buckman Drive, north of Union Road, and Gainesville Regional Transit System bus routes 34, 122, 126, and 127. For additional information, visit the  GNV RideRTS app or the  RTS website. UF Campus Connector routes will not be altered. Given the nature of the repair, the work is expected to take several weeks. A projected completion date is…

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UF Assistant Vice President of Public Safety Named 2024 Campus Safety Director of the Year In July, Linda Stump-Kurnick, the University of Florida’s Assistant Vice President of Public Safety, was named the 2024 Campus Safety Director of the Year at the Campus Safety Conference in Atlanta, Ga. Stump-Kurnick recently transitioned to the AVP role full-time after serving as chief of the UFPD for 21 years. UFPD Deputy Chief Bart Knowles, the department’s police commander, now serves as interim chief while a national search is underway. “Once again, the improvements implemented by this year’s Director of the Year nominees were phenomenal,”…

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Upcoming Campus Road Closures Dear UF community,  On May 6, the University of Florida will begin a road restoration project that will impact traffic flow on campus through early June.  The six phases listed below are part of an ongoing utility infrastructure update project timed to be conducted during the summer to minimize disruption to the campus.  Newell Drive from Museum Road South to the Harrell Building Service Drive: May 6-12 — Full road closure with local traffic access through the construction area. Newell/Museum intersection and North to Garage 4 entrance and east to Broward Drive: May 13-15 — Traffic…

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Business Affairs Welcomes New Senior Director of TAPS William MacDonald has been named as the new Senior Director of Transportation and Parking at the University of Florida. His journey in leading transportation and parking operations reached a pinnacle at Denver International Airport, where he managed the world’s largest airport parking operation. He was responsible for over 53,000 parking spaces there, generating more than $230 million in annual revenue. He led a comprehensive transportation service, facilitating over eight million passenger movements annually across the airport’s vast 53-square-mile campus with a fleet of over 60 transit-style buses. “I am excited to lead…

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Congratulations to the 2024 Business Affairs Superior Accomplishment Award Winners The Superior Accomplishment Awards recognize faculty and staff members who contribute outstanding and meritorious service or have created an impact on the quality of life provided to students and employees. This program celebrates those who demonstrate dedication to their roles and go the extra mile to advance our university’s mission and serve the community at large. Recognizing various aspects of achievement, the award categories include employee performance, rookie of the year, sustained excellence, and team collaboration. This year, the Business Affairs Division proudly celebrates twenty-one winners across our diverse departments.…

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2023 UF Mentor Protégé Program Graduation Earlier this month, the UF Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity celebrated its annual Mentor Protégé graduation. This special event recognized the achievements of this year’s Mentor Protégé teams and highlighted their accomplishments.  Mentors in the program consist of mature and established companies that currently work or have worked with UF, or a comparable sized entity within the last year. Protégés are small businesses at various stages of development, interested in providing their products or services to the institution.  “Since last year’s relaunch of the UF Mentor Protégé Program due to COVID, the number of protégé graduates has almost doubled and the industries…

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UFPD Awarded Crime Prevention Unit of the Year This October, the University of Florida Police Department (UFPD) was recognized as the Crime Prevention Unit of the Year (Small Agency) at the 2023 Florida Crime Prevention Association (FCPA) award ceremony.   This award recognizes the special efforts and exceptional accomplishments performed by an agency’s Crime Prevention Unit. UFPD’s Crime Prevention Unit is just one of the great divisions tasked with providing presentations and classes for all groups on campus.   “Every day we commit to our campus community to be the best that we can be on three levels; reactive measures to crime,…

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Closure of Center Drive Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff, The University of Florida will close a portion of Center Drive as of Oct. 9 to allow for the critical repair of underground sanitary lines that service the UF Health Science Center. The closure will be near the Health Science Center building and is projected to be completed in January 2024. To see the impact on RTS bus routes, use the GNV Ride RTS app or site. To see the impact on the UF Campus Connector routes, go here. Access to the UF Health parking garage will still be available. See…

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Campus safety resources and improvements

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Business Affairs Departments Come Together as One for Saturdays in the Swamp The University of Florida is not only ranked the No. 1 public institution on the 2024 Wall Street Journal’s Best U.S. Colleges, it’s also home to Gator athletics one of the most iconic sports programs in the country. Often referred to as an ‘everything school’ Gators men’s and women’s sports are admired worldwide.    During Saturdays in the Fall, 90 thousand fans flock to campus to attend sold-out games at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and the campus fills with tailgaters and fans dressed in orange and blue.    What you…

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Lake Alice Watershed Management Plan Upcoming Workshops The University of Florida is hosting a series of visioning workshops to gather input from key stakeholders on the Lake Alice Watershed Management Plan. There will be three opportunities for those interested to share their input. Two virtual meetings, on September 12 from 12-1 p.m. and September 27 from 7-8 p.m., and one in-person on October 4 from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Straughn Professional Development Center on the UF campus (no registration necessary for in-person and participants can attend any time between 4:30-7 p.m.). The Lake Alice Watershed is approximately 1,000 acres, primarily on the…

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Facilities FaSTPath Training Program Ceremony On August 15th, 29 Facilities Services staff members received a FaSTPath Training program certificate for completing various stages in their trade journey. The FaSTPath Training program provides trade specific training for Facilities Services employees in the areas of Carpentry, Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, Water Distribution, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Roofing, Fire Alarm, and High Voltage. Employees in these shops develop their skills, build knowledge in their trade, and advance to the next competency level.   Presenting the awards included Jared Howard, Waste Water Treatment Superintendent, Chuck Rolling, Utility Electrical Superintendent, and Kim Mull, Director of Maintenance and Operations.…

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Celebrate 10 Years of Tree Campus Recognition at UF On a sunny day in Gainesville, students flock to campus to set up their hammocks, grab a shady spot to study, or simply sit down under a tree with their friends to relax. From the picturesque live oaks in the Plaza of the Americas to the loblolly pines around Lake Alice, there’s no shortage of stunning trees to admire on the UF campus. In fact, UF has received the Tree Campus Higher Education recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation for 10 consecutive years! But do you know what it really takes to be…

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UFPD Presented with First Place Traffic Safety Award The University of Florida Police Department recently was awarded first place at the annual Florida Law Enforcement Liaison (LEL) Traffic Safety Challenge.    The Florida Law Enforcement Liaison (LEL) Program is a grant-funded program sponsored by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).  This prestigious award reflects UFPD’s commitment to traffic safety as they reduced overall crashes by 40%, injury crashes by 50%, impaired crashes by 80%, motorcycle crashes by 83%, pedestrian/bike crashes by 52%, and 100% of speed-related crashes.  “One of UFPD’s top commitments is…

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Business Affairs Departments Collaborate on Conservation Area Land Management (C.A.L.M.) Plan Birds sing alongside the oak trees. The smell of earth and soil fills the air. As three UF employees trek through the Lake Alice Conservation Area, to their surprise, a family of otters is spotted along a creek nearby. Quickly, they snap a picture to capture the moment. This was just one of many incredible experiences shared by Rachel Mandell, Senior Planner for Planning, Design & Construction, Kaylee August, Sustainability Program Coordinator for the Office of Sustainability, and Angelique Hennon, GIS/CAD Technician for the Business Affairs Technical Services (BATS) as…

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UF Public Safety Building Grand Opening June 21, 2023. Gainesville, FL – Members of the University of Florida and the greater Gainesville community gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the new UF Public Safety Building. The event included a Flag Raising Ceremony and special remarks made by Vice President for Business Affairs, Curtis Reynolds, Assistant Vice President of Public and Environmental Safety, Chief Linda Stump-Kurnick, and UFPD Chaplain Bishop Christopher Stokes. Guests were offered tours of the new building along with refreshments. The building is home to the University of Florida Police Department (UFPD) along with the Department of Emergency Management…

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Inner Road to close for construction The University of Florida will close Inner Road to all traffic as of April 12, as previously outlined in the university’s comprehensive planning effort. The closure will allow for the replacement of aging underground utilities that support neighboring campus facilities, such as Broward and Newell Halls. Once the underground updates are complete, Inner Road will be a two-way traffic corridor including bicycle and pedestrian-safe spaces. The project will take about 16 months with a projected reopening of Inner Road in August 2024. The construction will impact parking and personal vehicle traffic along Inner Road,…

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Reminder to not block bike lanes, sidewalks, and other restricted areas A routine safety review of vehicular movement on campus by the Office of Business Affairs has revealed an increase in vehicles temporarily parking on sidewalks, bike lanes, and otherwise restricted areas. This behavior interferes with accessibility for persons with disabilities, pedestrians, and cyclists, in addition to placing their safety at risk. Additionally, improperly parked vehicles may obstruct or delay first responders’ vehicles during an emergency. While traffic patterns and vehicle restriction changes can be a cause for confusion, we all have a part to play in this process by…

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Congratulations to the 2023 Business Affairs Superior Accomplishment Award Winners The following individuals are recipients of the 2023 Business Affairs, Division 7, Superior Accomplishment Awards. We congratulate them for their outstanding and meritorious service in their fields. In the Category of Support  Services: Crystal Dix Crystal is a Custodial Worker in the department of Facilities Services. She is always willing to help other employees and her positive attitude is one of her many strengths. In the Category of Administrative/Supervisory: Renee D. Barfield Renee is a Custodial Supervisor in the department of Facilities Services. She is committed to assisting and training…

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P.K. Yonge Green Building Certification This past December, members of Planning Design & Construction (PD&C), P.K. Yonge students, and staff met to celebrate the accomplishment of UF’s 92nd green building certification. The impressive 3-story P.K. Yonge Middle and High school building received LEED Gold certification, reflecting the project’s highly sustainable efforts.  LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized green building rating system and symbol of sustainability achievement. LEED provides a framework for efficient, cost-saving green buildings that also positively impact the health and wellbeing of the building’s occupants. LEED establishes four levels of certification (certified, silver,…

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UF Mentor Protégé Program Graduation   It was a celebration of lifelong connections and an accomplished year for the 2022 UF Mentor Protégé Teams, as they joined for a graduation ceremony on a beautiful December evening.  UF has a strong commitment to providing long-lasting significant opportunities for small businesses. For the past twenty-eight years, the UF Mentor Protégé program facilitated by the division of Small Business & Supplier Diversity (SBSD) has fostered the foundation of effective relationships between mature established companies and emerging small businesses, including women and minority owned companies.   “This program has had a significant impact on small businesses working…

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Vehicle-restricted zone – Frequently Asked Questions The University of Florida has reinstated a vehicle-restricted zone designed to improve pedestrian safety on campus. The vehicle-restricted zone is marked with signs and flashing red lights that will activate from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on weekdays when pedestrian traffic is heaviest.   The campus community is encouraged to view the frequently asked questions below to learn more.

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Chomp Chat with Cydney McGlothlin Cydney McGlothlin is always looking for ways to express her creativity. With her father and brother both being architects, creativity has always been a large part of Cydney’s life.   Working at UF for nearly 20 years, Cydney contributes to the programming of buildings on campus with just a few of her notable projects being Steinbrenner Band Building, Harn Museum Asian Art Wing, the Reitz Union expansion and renovation, the Career Connections Center expansion and renovation, and the Herbert Wertheim Laboratory for Engineering Excellence. Holding the position of the University Architect and recently obtaining membership to…

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Newell Gateway Ribbon Cutting October 19, 2022. Gainesville, FL – On a beautiful brisk fall morning, representatives of the University of Florida, the City of Gainesville, and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) gathered to celebrate a ribbon cutting for the Newell Gateway.   The new UF branded brick gateway framing the tree line pedestrian pathway, creates a welcoming area along University Avenue connecting to the Plaza of the Americas. Newell Gateway is part of a broader set of campus pedestrian and bicyclist safety improvements including its sister project, the Northeast Gateway, located at the intersection of SW 13th Street and SW…

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UF Transitions to Virtual Parking Permits The University of Florida will transition to virtual parking permits this fall. The new virtual parking registration system for the 2022-23 academic year will replace the use of physical parking decals. Instead, the permit holder’s license plate will serve as the parking permit. This new technology will allow for UF Transportation and Parking Services, or TAPS, staff to perform parking enforcement more efficiently than the previous method of visually inspecting each decal. Additionally, the discontinuation of physical decals will eliminate the expense and use of materials associated with printing and mailing the permits, as…

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Unmasking the Gators: Iceland, Kayaks, and Adventures Mairead Baker, Jordan Benton, Cami Sincer and Jeff Cutaio of Business Affairs are world travelers. When they venture out of the states, they enjoy exploring a variety of foods, landscapes, and cultures. While Cami, Jeff, and Mairead share a love for exploration, they each have a unique approach to travel. Jeff Cutaio, Application Developer Analyst for Business Affairs, recently ventured to Iceland! He has also travelled to the Bahamas, Mexico, and Australia. With such an extensive list of destinations, one might assume that Jeff’s favorite place would be somewhere abroad. However, Jeff says…

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Impact Small Business Supplier Diversity has on Gainesville The Office of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD) at UF actively helps small businesses no matter what stage the business may be in. From the Mentor Protegee Program to the Emerging Small Business Program, there are numerous opportunities available for small and diverse businesses and their owners to participate in at UF. Joe Burns and David Delancy are two business owners who have participated in SBSD programs in the past. According to both, the department has had a positive impact on their respective companies. David Delancy is the President and CEO…

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Chomp Chat with Captain Sasser: UFPD’s Wonder Woman  Captain Sasser of the University of Florida Police Department likes to stay organized. “I am always making to-do lists and marking things down in my very detailed color-coded calendar,” she declared. Once you realize how many hobbies she balances along with work, you’ll understand why she likes to stay on top of things. Captain Sasser has been teaching barre since 2016. She is also an avid reader and book club member. She is a member of the Board of Directors for the Gainesville Commission on the Status of Women (GCOSW). She loves…

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UF SELECTS CHARTWELLS HIGHER EDUCATION AS ITS PARTNER FOR CAMPUS DINING Charlotte, N.C., May 2, 2022 – The University of Florida announced today it has chosen Chartwells Higher Education as the official food provider for campus dining, effective July 1. UF issued a call for proposals from qualified food service companies in July 2021. After a thorough selection process, Chartwells was ultimately selected for its expertise in the higher education industry, ability to reinvent the on-campus dining experience, and mission to engage with and serve students in innovative and meaningful ways. “We were very pleased with Chartwells’ ability to customize its food offerings and…

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The Beacon of the University of Florida’s Safety has a National Talent Search Public Safety employees at the beautiful University of Florida (UF) say that Gainesville is a nature lovers paradise. From nature trails, local natural springs and family friendly activities like Gator sporting events, there are always activities to enjoy in sunny north-central Florida. The UF Police Department is recruiting top talent to fill many different roles, from administrative to law enforcement who are committed to providing safety and security for a community that consists of all social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.  This commitment is reflective of the UF…

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Small Business, Big Impact: What is SBSD? “UF benefits when we tap into the energy, talent, perspectives and ambition of everyone in our community and state, and that includes the diversity of small business owners we engage with,” said UF President Kent Fuchs. “Their help gives us a leg up in meeting the needs of faculty, staff and students across our very comprehensive and diverse campus.”  Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD) at UF does just that. They are a small department at UF, but like the businesses it supports, the department is mighty and spans across a statewide network.…

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Ballpark Way Ribbon Cutting March 16, 2022. Gainesville, FL – Tents, tables, chairs and a podium were staged behind the new brick University of Florida gateway on Ballpark Way leading to Archer Road for a celebratory ribbon cutting. The new road, Ballpark Way, is part of a broader set of campus transportation improvements consisting of a new roundabout at Radio Road and Museum Drive, a rebuilt intersection at Archer Road, and modifications to turn lanes, medians, and crosswalks along Hull Road.  Together, these improvements provide better accessibility for all modes of transportation – vehicles, buses, bicycles and pedestrians. The improvements…

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Celebrating Significant Transportation Improvements The SW Campus Transportation Improvements project consists of several components including the roundabout at Radio Road and Museum Drive, the new Ballpark Way with a rebuilt intersection on Archer Road, and modifications to turn lanes, medians, and crosswalks along Hull Road.  Together, these improvements provide better accessibility for all modes of transportation – vehicles, buses, bicycles and pedestrians.    The improvements had been recommended in the Campus Master Plan and the Long-Range Transportation Plan of the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization (MTPO) for many years.  The recent opening of the university’s new baseball stadium provided an opportunity…

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UF Gets Silver Rank in the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System UF regularly engages in the STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) framework to benchmark and improve sustainability progress across campus. Scoring is based on an institution’s overall percentage of points earned through the credit system. Senior Program Coordinator for the UF Office of Sustainability, Liz Storn, shares, ”We are pleased with our silver level rating because it demonstrates the hard work that we have been doing. We strive to reach the gold level rating, which will require dedication across campus to improve scores.” The most recent UF…

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Love is in the Air or on the Golf Course for Brent Ransom Brent Ransom, the Assistant Director of Education and Training at Facilities Services, has been golfing since before Tiger Woods made it cool. Well, actually, the famous golfer’s real name is Eldrick Tont Woods. “But who wouldn’t rather go by ‘Tiger?’” Brent asked. Brent grew up in Seattle, Washington as the youngest of three brothers. He and his brothers loved to play all kinds of sports, especially football. However, the large age gap between him and his older siblings meant that it was hard for him to compete…

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SBSD Launches New Program for Emerging Small Businesses The University of Florida’s Office of Small Business & Supplier Diversity has announced the launch of its Emerging Small Business Program in a collaborative effort with the University’s Division of Planning, Design and Construction as well as Facilities Services(Operations).The Emerging Small Business Program is a two-year endeavor designed to develop small and diverse businesses within the construction industry. The program’s goal is to increase the pool of qualified businesses seeking opportunities with the University of Florida. During the program, small businesses can expect to receive direct guidance from representatives from Planning, Design…

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2021 Elite Gator Award Winners  

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Physical Security and Information Technology Collaborate to Create Safer Storage of Campus Security Footage With the University of Florida updating physical security technology across the Gainesville campus including PK Yonge Developmental Research School, storage of security footage was needed. The servers that were in place lacked to meet the minimum requirement of 30 days retention of video and was not compliant with Florida statute. The campus plan to add new and upgrade existing cameras required a server and storage infrastructure that could support the growth of over 2,000 cameras, many of which will be added with the new construction across…

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Employee Spotlight: Jamie Serrato of Physical Security Over the last fourteen years, Jamie Serrato has been an integral part of the University of Florida’s safety. He has helped the Physical Security department evolve into what it is today. He is, as Souza describes, “an expert on UF’s Security System.”    Serrato’s role at Physical Security is essential for keeping the campus safe. He explains that he is “a manager for the department of Physical Security with the responsibility of overseeing maintenance, implementation, and design of security systems for the university.”   His role at UF has put Serrato in charge of many aspects of campus security over the…

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The Women Divers Hall of Fame to Welcome Cheryl Thacker of EH&S Locating sunken ships and lost planes, helping to discover new species, and inspiring others to scuba dive – these adventures only make up a fraction of what Cheryl Thacker has accomplished throughout her career.    Environmental Health and Safety’s own Diving Safety Officer Cheryl Thacker was recently inducted into the Women Divers Hall of Fame (WDHOF). This is the highest honor for “women leaders and innovators of the diving community,” according to the WDHOF.    Thacker started scuba diving in 1984. Her family is from Missouri, but she went to…

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Since Jordan Benton began her career at UF, she has advanced through Facilities Services and solidified a presence for herself across campus.   Benton is a UF graduate and a Gainesville native. She earned her Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Political Science and a Bachelor’s of Science in Marketing before returning later for her Master of Business Administration degree. Just as she furthered her education, she worked to further her career.  “UF initially appealed to me from a career standpoint because of the wide variety of career paths available. There is a huge opportunity for growth and development within higher education,” writes Benton. In 2015, Benton…

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  The UF Mentor-Protégé Program educates small businesses during all phases of development, helps them network and grow within the university. Mentors consist of mature and established companies that currently work or have recently worked with the institution, whereas proteges are small businesses at various stages in their development, interested in providing their products or services to the institution. The mentors pass on their knowledge through this program to form lasting connections with small businesses and help foster business growth within the Gator Community.   Businesses interested in participating should apply by October 29th, 2021.    The Mentor-Protégé Program will…

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Physical Security Director Joe Souza is not the only one who spends a lot of time surveying campus.   Director Souza was sitting in his office in the Security Building on Radio Road when he saw a shadow fly by his window. After checking the building cameras, he spotted a red-tailed hawk.  “I see this one, or a friend of his, fly by nearly every day circling over the parking lot. They’re easy to detect, as they are always calling out when soaring above,” writes Souza.  Red-tailed hawks can be seen year-round in Florida, just like how Physical Security is always present around campus.  “Physical security…

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The new transit app, GNVRideRTS, replaces RTS’ old TransLoc bus tracker app for campus and city bus service. The new GNVRideRTS app will be released to the public on October 1, 2021 for Apple, Android and desktop (at www.RideRTS.app) in order to give students, faculty and staff a more efficient and user-friendly way to plan their daily routes. RTS and the transit-based app developer, Clever Devices, collaborated on the development of GNVRideRTS to create an improved bus tracking app. “The new app will deliver more reliable and accurate information to ensure a better customer experience,” said Jeremiah McInnis, Transportation Manager…

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Each day at the University of Florida, students receive a one-of-a-kind education that will help them succeed and strive to find solutions to the toughest challenges we face. Meanwhile, a network of utility systems operates quietly in the background to ensure campus facilities are prepared to meet the needs of the Gator community. An efficient and resilient infrastructure solution is essential to support the pursuit of the university’s primary research, educational and patient care missions. “Our campus infrastructure provides students, faculty and staff the ability to thrive by utilizing robust utility production and distribution capabilities. This infrastructure powers critical research…

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September 17, 2021 – University of Florida Small Business & Supplier Diversity (SBSD) launched digital tools to aid and connect small businesses with potential University opportunities. Under the leadership of Director Dwan Courtney, SBSD is supporting small and diverse businesses (including women, minority, veteran, service-disabled veteran, HubZone and disadvantaged businesses) and connecting them with UF departments and academic units. Increasing small and diverse business use across the University is now easier than ever as resources are now available to support this undertaking. Vice President for Business Affairs, Curtis A. Reynolds said “having the ability to offer resources to small, minority,…

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“Ron has come to be perceived as the wise ol’ grandfather of the department,” states Scott Fox, director of Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) at UF. Fifteen years of working at the University of Florida has taught Ron Fuller a variety of lessons. He has become an integral part of the TAPS department while working as the Associate Director of Operations, and his presence has grown across campus. He has led an inspirational career.  When Fuller first started working at TAPS, he had no previous knowledge of parking. He states that he “realized they weren’t really looking for someone with parking experience, they were looking…

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Retirement is often referred to as a turning point in one’s life. It marks a new chapter and a shift in lifestyle. In the case of Craig Hill, his retirement marks a turning point in the lives of his colleagues and a change in how they view the workplace. Hill’s time spent as Associate Vice President of Business Affairs has fostered many friendships across UF. He has influenced everyone he has worked with. Whether he is sharing knowledge, inspiring others, or supporting the community, he is always making a difference. Vice President of Business Affairs, Curtis Reynolds, said that “Craig is one of the most focused and passionate colleagues that I have had…

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Engineers utilize science, mathematics, and technology to solve problems. They are transformers of the global community. As society faces daily challenges, engineers are needed to help devise solutions. But first, they need a place to develop, innovate, and design. The H. Wertheim Laboratory for Engineering Excellence is such place. The new building has recently secured multiple honors for the 2021 Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Project Achievement Awards. The CMAA Florida Chapter 1 voted the engineering facility as “Project of the Year” and “Best Project for Higher Ed Over $25M.” The CMAA does not hand out such rewards lightly.…

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Dr. Shailendra Singh will begin working as the Director of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) on August 6. EH&S is a department within the Business Affairs. The department focuses on providing a safe and healthy environment for the University of Florida. Dr. Singh has a Ph.D. in Physical Science, an MBA, a CHMM (Certified Hazardous Material Manager), and over eighteen years of experience in the field, which made him an excellent candidate for the position. Assistant Vice President of Public and Environmental Safety and Chief of Police, Linda Stump-Kurnick said “Dr. Singh’s credentials speak for itself. He is a continual…

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Across the 11 divisions within Business Affairs are interns that have been taking their education beyond the classroom. Today, we celebrate all of the Business Affairs interns and their ability to assist us with university-wide agendas. These students are learning by doing and we thank them immensely for sharing their skills, creativity, and eagerness with us.   Business Affairs, Office of the Vice President Business Affairs has two interns at the Vice President’s Office. Multimedia Marketing Assistant, Kenzie Rennemann and Communications Assistant, Grace Carlisle . Both of these student employees joined Business Affairs in 2020 in the thick of the…

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The University of Florida, through its office of Business Services, operating under the Division of Business Affairs, has released the Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) for its food services program. This document outlines the competitive bid process to identify the university’s food services supplier for the next contract period. The search will be conducted over the next six months. The University’s contract operator is charged with delivering excellent nutrition on UF’s campus, while focusing on local procurement, increasing sustainability efforts, and offering the highest quality food and customer service. With the release of the ITN, the university will accept proposals from…

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The University of Florida’s “Chomp & Go!” has recently won Food Management Magazine’s 2021 “Best Concept Awards.” “Chomp & Go!” from UF Gator Dining delivers a new concept that could be utilized in multiple locations across campus also giving each location a branded signature offering, while utilizing local, minority and women-owned businesses. The innovative concept of it being one location with many options for customers could propel and evolve other dining locations. By highlighting locally owned businesses, each site would have unique signature offers and menu plans. No area would have the same menu, thus creating a destination dining experience…

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The University of Florida was ready for Tropical Storm Elsa before it made landfall in Florida.

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The University of Florida Police Department became the first university communications center in the state of Florida to receive the Florida Telecommunications Accreditation (FLA-TAC). The accreditation process consisted of a thorough review of all files, policies, procedures and operations by the FLA-TAC accreditation assessors. Due to the leadership and diligence of the entire Communications Center, this accreditation achievement was obtained. We want to thank our Police Communications Officers for their tireless work keeping UF safe and being the crucial communication line between our campus community and our law enforcement officers. Additionally, the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA) voted…

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Employee Spotlight: Major Brad Barber Major Brad Barber always knew he wanted to help people. He knew that serving and protecting others was his calling. He has gotten to fulfill this calling at the University of Florida Police Department over the last twenty-five years. This December, he plans on retiring. Early Career Just two days after retiring from the U.S. Army as a Major, Brad Barber began his first day at the UFPD as a civilian Public Information Officer (PIO) on October 4, 1996. “Finally, having received my bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Florida, when the opportunity presented itself at UFPD, it…

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View Article as PDF   In August 2021, UF will begin two picturesque gateway projects from the Landscape Master Plan that will enhance outdoor spaces and create a pedestrian-focused campus. The entrances will enhance outdoor spaces that will offer students, faculty, and staff opportunities to gather and collaborate as well as to sit, relax, and enjoy the scenic nature campus has to offer. The Landscape Master Plan (LMP) was produced in 2019 as a means to outline key projects to enhance campus in a beautiful and sustainable way. Using plants indigenous to North Florida has increased the natural beauty of…

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Graduation is an important milestone in students’ lives. It is a commemoration of the skills and knowledge they have acquired through their time at the University of Florida. Last year, 2020 graduation ceremonies were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, placing these celebrations on hold. Spring of 2021 brought new life onto campus, with the first on-campus graduation ceremonies since December of 2019. Units within Business Affairs such as Facilities Services and the Stephen C. O’Connell Center (SOC) staff came together to ensure safe and memorable ceremonies were held. This year, the Facilities team is collaborating with the SOC to…

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In the photo (left to right): Major Brad Barber, Sergeant Chad Holway, Vice President Curtis Reynolds, and Lt. Jake Pruitt Business Affairs has switched gears and gone electric! Units across Business Affairs have evaluated their fleets and made the switch to electric vehicles. With the rise of carbon pollution threatening the planet, changing to EV is instrumental towards environmental health. Carbon emissions through personal vehicles are a leading cause of global warming. Increased global temperatures, rising sea levels, and extreme weather are just some of the consequences. Hannah Ulloa from the Office of Sustainability states, “Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered…

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UF’s Physical Security Department has finally moved into a newly renovated building they can call home.

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Difficult times single out individuals who are willing to go above and beyond to help others. Sam Zaldivar is one such individual. Last year, Sam Zaldivar led others to work efficiently during a strenuous period. As the Warehouse Manager for the Facilities Services Central Stores and Health Science Center (HSC), Sam has incorporated his leadership and organizational skills to keep the school running. His time and dedication kept the campus safe during the pandemic, and he went well above his line of work to help Gator Nation. The Central Stores Warehouse that Sam manages keeps the University of Florida (UF) facilities running. Each day,…

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The historic and original WRUF Radio Station will be demolished and repurposed by the University of Florida. After a ninety-three-year history at the university, the building is no longer functional as the UF Police Department’s headquarters. However, this does not mean UF will forget the building and its legacy. The wood-constructed building was built in 1928. Renowned Florida architect Rudolph Weaver designed the building in the Tudor Revival architectural style instead of the popular Collegiate Gothic. This artistic choice sets the station apart from other buildings on campus. The building has been listed in the US National Register of Historic…

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The League of American Bicyclists, the premier grassroots advocacy organization encouraging better bicycling and protecting the rights of people who bike, has honored the University of Florida (UF) with a gold-level Bicycle Friendly University award in recognition of the institution’s achievements in promoting and enabling safe, accessible bicycling on campus. UF held a silver award prior to the hiring of Jacob Adams, the UF Campus Bicycle Program Coordinator for Transportation and Parking Services and the Office of Sustainability, who has been instrumental in creating a gold-level bicycle friendly campus. “It is so energizing to have UF among our cohort of…

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“Saving the bees” and “sustainability” are a couple of terms that have gained quite a buzz over the last few years. For a good reason, too. The decline in the bee population and increased carbon emissions have led to concern amongst many environmentalists and ecologists. However, the University of Florida has recently taken action to confront these concerns in a brilliant way. The first-in-state Platinum level certification was awarded to the Honey Bee Research and Extension Lab (HBREL) at UF last November. Platinum is the highest level certificate that the Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC) offers. The lab can now…

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Tara Hollow is the Operations Manager of Events and Permitting for University of Florida owned properties across the state of Florida. She reviews and manages requests from University colleges and departments, non-registered student organizations and non-UF organizations. Tara worked with UF Student Affairs IT team to utilize their self-developed permitting system, GatorConnect, to set-up and implement the first online event permitting system for Business Affairs. She has been an employee with the University of Florida since 2014.            

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FROM: Eddie Daniels, Assistant Vice President for Business Affairs I am pleased to announce that Dwan Courtney has begun her role as the Director of the Office of Small Business & Supplier Diversity (SBSD) as of Jan 22, 2021. As a part of Business Services, a division of Business Affairs, SBSD provides services and support designed to facilitate utilization of small diverse businesses by UF departments and academic units. As the director, through collaborative relationships with campus and local community and business leaders, Courtney will develop programs and services designed to encourage small businesses to participate in university procurement opportunities.…

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Fall 2019, students made the University community aware of their interest in blue light phones on fraternity row. Blue light phones can be found around campus, which provides an additional safety measure for anyone who seeks emergency assistance. Fraternity Row was an exception, as blue light phones were absent in that area. With cell phones being easily accessible to most and the go-to medium for emergency calls, most schools have done away with blue light phones. Seeing how students want additional blue light phones, multiple units came together to make the installation happen. “This project was initiated in the fall…

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