MEET THE TEAM
The award winning Career Connections Center staff are committed to helping our students find their future. We believe that everyone can create meaningful connections by bridging the gap between inspiration and action, and we’re here to help our students, alumni, and employers to do just that.
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ORGANIZATION CHART
Whether we work directly with students, employers, or support staff internally, we’re still one team…the Career Connections Center team. Find out more on how our office operates by viewing our organizational chart.
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PARAPROFESSIONAL STAFF
The backbone of the Career Connections Center is our paraprofessional staff made up of talented University of Florida students. Discover who this dynamic group of professionals are on the Meet Our Paraprofessional Staff page.
Meet the Directors
Ja’Net Glover
Senior Director for Career Services
Ja’Net Glover
Senior Director for Career Services
EMAIL: JGlover@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-392-1601
My advice to students would be to never forget the power of experience. In the career center we have a saying 'Experience Changes Everything'. As a first-generation college graduate I understand the power of exposure, immersion, and connectivity. I encourage students to participate in different experiences such as jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities. These activities can help you not only meet new people but to learn about yourself, acquire new skills, understand what you like and also learn what you don't like. Never take an experience for granted because it may help you to uncover an opportunity and career path that you weren't aware of.
• Southern Association for Colleges and Employers (SoACE), Finance Director, 2020 - 2022
• University of Florida Mental Health Task Force, JED Foundation, 2020
• National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), College Chair, The Future of We Committee - 2019
• Southern Association for Colleges and Employers (SoACE), External Review Chair, 2018 - 2020
Angel Iverson
Director for Career Foundations
Angel Iverson
Director for Career Foundations
EMAIL: AIverson@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273-2309
Certified Master of Career Services, National Career Development Association
Nicole Yucht
Director for Integrated Partnerships
Nicole Yucht
Director for Integrated Partnerships
EMAIL: NYucht@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-392-1601
Business Administrative Services
I manage the fiscal and accounting functions for the Career Connections Center.
I graduated from Rasmussen College with a Bachelors in Healthcare Administration.
Enjoy the journey, Have Fun and know the rights things will come to you!
Kristin Knopf
Administrative Assistant
EMAIL: KKnopf@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-392–1601
I support the Career Connections Center full time and student staff through human resources and administrative functions. Another large part of my role is the coordination of special departmental events and meeting planning for our staff and visitors to the Career Connections Center.
Stay active - don't let things pass you by but experience them and seize opportunities!
• Division of Student Affairs Superior Accomplishment for Clerical/Office Support, 2020
Phyllis Pena
Administrative Support Assistant I
Phyllis Pena
Administrative Support Assistant I
EMAIL: PPena@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2300
Charity Reynolds
Associate Director for Administrative Services
Charity Reynolds
Associate Director for Administrative Services
EMAIL: CWiggins@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2318
Certified Career Services Provider, National Career Development Association
Certified Green Dot Facilitator, 2019
I lead the Business Administrative Services team with providing vision, strategy, and support in the areas of finance, human resources, facility/operations, and general administrative functions. Our strategic focus areas include: Operational Excellence, Financial Stewardship, Strategic Communication, and Business Process Improvement.
University of Florida - BS in Health Education; M.Ed. in Student Personnel in Higher Education
Learn to enjoy the process! Discover your natural talents, they lead you to your purpose. Use your time in college and the university educational platform as a tool to enhance your interests, build tangible skills, and gain experiences.
Operations and Engagement
Rachel Esser
Assistant Director for Operations and Engagement
Rachel Esser
Assistant Director for Operations and Engagement
EMAIL: REsser@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273-2328
I manage Gator CareerLink system, lead the C3 Data Strategy, and support C3 staff in reporting and promotions.
University of Central Florida, BS in Psychology and MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology; University of South Florida, MEd in Instructional Technology
Be open to trying new things!
• Committee Member, University of Florida Student Conduct Committee, October 2019 - Present
Jessica Phillipe
Campus Engagement Specialist
Jessica Phillipe
Campus Engagement Specialist
EMAIL: JPhillipe@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2314
I serve as a point of contact and creates resources for first-generation, UF Online, admissions, families, and prospective students. I also manage the live streaming of Career Center workshops. Additionally, I oversee the Molm Family Gator Career Closet.
Double Gator MS in Management (in progress) and a BA in Sociology from UF
Amanda Pillar
Communications Specialist for Marketing and Strategic Communications
Amanda Pillar
Communications Specialist for Marketing and Strategic Communications
EMAIL: APillar@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-846-5002
I graduated from the University of Florida with my Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications and a minor in Communications Studies.
Keira Simmonds
Senior Assistant Director for Campus Engagement
Keira Simmonds
Senior Assistant Director for Campus Engagement
EMAIL: KSimmonds@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2333
Certified Master of Career Services, National Career Development Association
Certified Green Dot Facilitator, 2019
I lead the center's globalization efforts and paraprofessional training and development as well as serve as a liaison to strategic partners aiding in the career development of underrepresented student populations and alumni.
Webster University with a Masters in Management and Leadership, York College with a BA in Psychology
Give yourself time, space and grace to grow.
• University Participation, UF Multicultural Mentor Program Mentor, 2019, 2018
• Committee Member, Association of Black Faculty and Staff Fundraising Committee, 2019
• Committee Member, Association of Black Faculty and Staff Professional Development Committee, 2019, 2018
Julia Vollrath
Associate Director for Operations and Engagement
Julia Vollrath
Associate Director for Operations and Engagement
EMAIL: JVollrath@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2302
Certified Master of Career Services, National Career Development Association
Certified Green Dot Facilitator, 2019
I oversee the Operations and Engagement Team, champion the center's experience areas of on-campus employment and study abroad, serve as a liaison to Division of Student Affairs IT, Marketing and Assessment, and oversee the center's data strategy.
I graduated from the University of South Florida with my Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and my Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Student Affairs.
Take it all in, this is a special time in your life where you get to try out so many different paths. Be open to new adventures and know there is no right way to do this.
• Committee Member, University of Florida Student Conduct Committee, October 2019 - Present
Career Engagement
Sara Gould
Senior Assistant Director for Career Engagement
Sara Gould
Senior Assistant Director for Career Engagement
EMAIL: SGould@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-294-3927
Certified Career Services Provider, National Career Development Association
I supervise the Career Ambassadors, oversee Express Drop-In, Resume/LinkedIn Labs, Adulting 101, the outreach database, career planning, and present workshops.
I graduated from Slippery Rock University with my undergrad in Psychology and my graduate degree is in Student Affairs in Higher Education.
Try things! Get out of your comfort zone.
Division of Student Affairs Superior Accomplishment Award Nominee, 2018
Jaime Harsell
Senior Assistant Director for Career Engagement
Jaime Harsell
Senior Assistant Director for Career Engagement
EMAIL: JHarsell@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-294–3928
Certified Career Services Provider, National Career Development Association
• Committee Member, UF Presidential Advisory Committee for the LGBTQ+ Affairs, 2018 - Present
Alison Noonan
Assistant Director for Career Engagement
Alison Noonan
Assistant Director for Career Engagement
EMAIL: ANoonan@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2335
Certified Career Services Professional, National Career Development Association
As part of my role on the Career Engagement Team, I oversee the CliftonStrengths initiative in the C3, the Majors & Minors Fair hosted every fall and the Career Speakers Bureau series. I am also responsible for coaching students in one-one-one Career Planning, providing support with outreach presentation and Express Drop-in Services and building relationships with campus partners. Additionally, I currently supervise the Career Engagement team's graduate student from the Student Personnel in Higher Education (SPHE) Graduate Program.
University of North Florida - BA in Political Science-Concentration American Politics, Minor in Professional Education, Certificate in Leadership; Masters of Education in Educational Leadership-Concentration Advanced Teaching and Learning, Graduate Certificate in Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Explore the possibilities and engage in the opportunities that take you out of your comfort zone and stretch you as a person. Discover your strengths, cultivate them, and leverage them in both your academics and out of the classroom experiences. Take time to reflect. Grow as a leader.
• Division of Student Affairs Superior Accomplishment for Community Service Award Winner, 2019
• UF Homecoming Pageant Judge, October 2019
Allie Simon
Associate Director for Career Engagement
Allie Simon
Associate Director for Career Engagement
EMAIL: ASimon@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273-2311
Certified Career Services Provider, national Career Development Association
I lead the “student experience of career services” charge for the career center and university. I provide the vision and strategy for all career development initiatives that involve students transitioning into the university. In addition, I lead the Career Engagment team that supports all student programming in the center.
Graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Education and Education Specialist in Counselor Education.
It's okay to not to know! Be a lifelong learner and constantly check-in with yourself first.
• Committee Member Presidential Committee - Persons with Disabilities, 2019 - Present
• Committee Member, Undergraduate Advising Council, 2014 - Present
• Committee Member, Division of Student Affairs- Student Retention and Success Sub Council, 2017 - 2019
Integrated Partnerships
David Adams
Manager for Integrated Partnerships - College of Journalism and Communications
David Adams
Manager for Integrated Partnerships - College of Journalism and Communications
EMAIL: DAdams@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-392-1601
I cultivate relationships between College of Journalism and Communications students, faculty and staff, and employer partners. My goal is for all CJC students to achieve their career aims through providing engaging outreach, education, and support.
Taylor University, where I received both a B.A. in Journalism/Media Writing and an M.A. in Higher Education and Student Development.
Getting involved on campus and in the community is one of the best ways to gain experience, try new pursuits, and meet new people! That experience can lead to opportunities and connections you would never have imagined. I can see this in my own career path: I was on my campus newspaper staff all four years of undergrad, but I never guessed my journalism experience would integrate so strongly with my higher ed experience in my current role with C3 and CJC!
Andie Cochran
Associate Director for Integrated Partnerships
Andie Cochran
Associate Director for Integrated Partnerships
EMAIL: ACochran@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2334
Certified Career Services Provider, National Career Development Association
I lead the Defined Programs team, made up of embedded liaisons in various colleges. I also develop and lead the initiative for industry engagement across the University.
University of Colorado-Boulder with a BA in Psychology and Webster University with an MBA
There is a lot to juggle during your college years, academics, career planning, involvement....but between it all, make sure you leave time to have fun!
Matthew Cowley
Associate Director for Integrated Partnerships
Matthew Cowley
Associate Director for Integrated Partnerships
EMAIL: MCowley@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2330
I provide vision and strategy for all career development initiatives that involve students transitioning out of the university, and their transformation from student to professional. I leads the interdisciplinary programs team and support all student programming taking place within the colleges and departments that host our Career Coaches.
I graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and a Masters of Education in Administration of Higher Education.
Be fully present in each thing you choose to experience. There is much to do and much to figure out, but you will only have these experiences once.
Certified Master of Career Services, National Career Development Association
Cassidy Gourley
Manager For Integrated Partnerships - College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Cassidy Gourley
Manager For Integrated Partnerships - College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
EMAIL: CGourley@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-294-1000
Florida Teaching Certificate Grades 6-12 Science.
I support students of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as they develop professionally throughout their time at UF. Through career planning appointments and outreach, I strive to holistically address student needs and to get them ready for life after UF. I also collaborate with industry partners and college faculty to create customized career services.
I am a double gator. I have a bachelor’s degree in Biology from the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and a master’s degree in Science Education from the UF College of Education. Go Gators!
My advice to students would be to enjoy your college experience and utilize the resources around you. There are so many programs and courses at UF that can allow you to learn something new and discover your passions. Take advantage of all that UF has to offer, including your resources here at the Career Connections Center.
Tiffany Griffith
Assistant Director for Integrated Partnerships – Health and Human Performance
Tiffany Griffith
Assistant Director for Integrated Partnerships – Health and Human Performance
EMAIL: TGriffith@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-294-2046
Certified Career Services Professional, National Career Development Association
In my role in HHP I collaborate with students, staff, faculty, and industry professionals to create specialized career development opportunities for students. I also cultivate partnerships with employers to connect them to the college as a way to increase and diversify internship and employment opportunities for students.
University of Florida, Double Gator: BS in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism; ME in Student Personnel in Higher Education
Take time to reflect on your experiences so you can learn from your mistakes and celebrate your successes.
Daneen Johnson
Assistant Director for Integrated Partnerships – Education
Daneen Johnson
Assistant Director for Integrated Partnerships – Education
EMAIL: DJohnson@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-392–1601
Certified Career Services Provider, National Career Development Association
In my role at the Career Connections Center, I support students in the College of Education through career planning appointments, outreach, and customized career resources. I also support EduGators by connecting them to employers and career opportunities.
BA in Restaurant and Foodservice Management and Hospitality Management; MA in Educational Leadership both from the University of Central Florida.
Be patient with yourself. Be kind to others. And, never lose your wonder.
Rachel Koepsel
Assistant Director for Integrated Partnerships - College of Public Health and Health Professions
Rachel Koepsel
Assistant Director for Integrated Partnerships - College of Public Health and Health Professions
EMAIL: RKoepsel@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: (352) 273-2315
I support the College of Public Health and Health Professions through engagement with faculty/staff, students, and employers. I conduct individual career planning appointments, customized outreach, and collaborate with employers on recruiting Gators.
The Ohio State University (dual BAs in Latin American Studies and Spanish), MA from University of Denver in International Studies with a graduate certificate in Humanitarian Assistance.
Gain experience while you are still a student and consider going global. It is a phenomenal way to learn about yourself and interests, grow as an individual, develop the ability to appreciate diverse cultures, and see the world through different lenses.
Erin Lin
Assistant Director for Integrated Partnerships – Engineering
Erin Lin
Assistant Director for Integrated Partnerships – Engineering
EMAIL: ELin@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2319
Certified Career Services Provider, National Career Development Association
I support the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering through engagement with faculty/staff, students, and employers. I conduct individual career planning appointments, customized outreach, and collaborate with employers on recruiting Gators.
Beijing Normal University- BA in Psychology, MA in Psychology, Ph.D in Psychology.
MBA from CEIBS
Be an expert of yourself, translate your experiences into your own assets. Don't beat yourself up too hard, enjoy the journey!
Outstanding Support of Women in Engineering Huy D. Huynh Hall of Fame Inductee, 2020
Sammie Walker Herrera
Manager for Integrated Partnerships – College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
Sammie Walker Herrera
Manager for Integrated Partnerships – College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
EMAIL: SWalker@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-294-1001
I serve as an educator for all students while specializing in the custom needs and industry trends that impact students in the College of Agricultural & Life Sciences (CALS). This education often looks like individual career planning appointments and customized outreach. I work equally with students, faculty/staff, and employers who recruit Gators to ensure that students are prepared to encounter the opportunities that propel their life and career journeys.
Carnegie Mellon University (dual BAs in Psychology and Hispanic Studies), MA from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania in Student Affairs in Higher Education.
My advice is to update your master resume (your long, draft resume you'll continue updating throughout your career!) at least once a semester. Take this time to reflect on what you've learned about yourself, what skills you've developed and how they tie to industry, and what themes are interwoven in your story.
Recruitment Relations
Erica Betz
Associate Director for Recruitment Relations
Erica Betz
Associate Director for Recruitment Relations
EMAIL: EBetz@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2303
Certified Career Services Provider, National Career Development Association
• Committee Member, University Presidential ROTC Committee, August 2019 - Present
Eirini Chaddon
Assistant Director for Recruitment Relations
Eirini Chaddon
Assistant Director for Recruitment Relations
EMAIL: EChaddon@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2329
• Committee Member, SEED Committee, August 2016 - Present
• Committee Member, UF Campaign for Charities, 2018 - 2019
Kristen Smith
Assistant Director for Recruitment Relations
Kristen Smith
Assistant Director for Recruitment Relations
EMAIL: KSmith@ufsa.ufl.edu
PHONE: 352-273–2308
Certified Career Services Professional, National Career Development Association
I graduated from Florida International University with a Bachelors of Business Administration in Marketing and Western Kentucky University with a Masters of Arts in Education in Student Affairs in Higher Education.
