Staff Spotlight: Katrina Fields
Administrative Specialist
Bio: My name is Katrina Fields, and I was born and raised in Gainesville. I graduated from Gainesville High School. I started working at Publix at 19 years old and completed 22 years of management before I retired in November 2021. I have always dreamed of working at the University of Florida and I am honored to finally have that opportunity. I plan to stay here and make this my second career that I will retire from.
What is an identity you’re proud to share?
“I am proud to share that I am the first person in my family to successfully own and run a business that has helped so many people in our community. My husband and I own a mediation and arbitration firm where we service all of North Central Florida. My passion has always been to help others and maintain healthy relationships with the people in my community. I have been honored to receive several awards, one from the City of Gainesville for participating in the mentorship program where my company helped several other small business owners improve their business. I was also featured in Synergy magazine 2 years ago for the outstanding service we provide. Being a business owner and working full time has its challenges but I strive to make it work because it’s what makes me happy.”
What does your role entail?
“My role as an Administrative Specialist for Business Affairs includes managing day to day tasks for the office and ensuring our guests have a positive experience when they visit our office. I handle calendars and set up meetings for several of my co-workers. I also help with setting up special events and other office projects. I help manage our student assistants and work closely with them to ensure they are getting experience that will one day help them grow in the future.”
What is your favorite part about working at UF?
“My favorite part about working at UF is getting the chance to build relationships with people who can help me grow in my career. It’s clear that you have the opportunity to grow personally and professionally here at UF. I genuinely enjoy working with the group of people in my office. We are so much more than co-workers; we are a family who takes care of one another. We all have the same mission and that is to make sure our students have a great experience during their time here, and are successful in their future careers.”
Fun fact about you:
“I love horseback riding and country music. Whenever I get the chance, I go on a nice relaxing trail ride! “