UCF Advancement and Partnerships

09/04/2026

UCF research is making an impact across Florida and beyond. 💛🖤

Eight UCF faculty members have been selected for the 2026 class of the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida, recognizing their groundbreaking contributions across AI, energy, advanced manufacturing, coastal resiliency and more.

Their recognition reflects the depth of expertise and innovation driving UCF forward, and the power of investing in research that can shape a better future.

🔗 Read more:

UCF faculty were recognized for their advancements and impact in artificial intelligence, medical diagnostic technology, computer science, energy and manufacturing, and coastal resiliency.

09/02/2026

One Knight’s journey making an impact for future Knights! 💛🖤

During a dark time in her life, Hannah Pierson ’19 summoned the courage to light her own way by pursuing an education and career in photonics at UCF.

09/02/2026

From startups to established companies, UCF alumni are turning big ideas into growing businesses across industries. Explore 25 of the fastest-growing alumni-led companies and the stories behind them in the post below.

Meet 25 of UCF’s fastest-growing alumni-led companies, showcasing the innovation, ambition and entrepreneurial spirit of Knights making an impact across industries.

Get to know the alumni behind these growing businesses and their stories in the link below!
https://www.ucf.edu/news/25-of-ucfs-fastest-growing-alumni-led-companies/

09/01/2026

🚀 UCF is helping shape the future of space exploration.

NASA has selected 18 innovative concepts for its 2026 NIAC program, including a project led by UCF’s Anish Damodaran to transform submillimeter space interferometry using photonic technologies.

This recognition highlights the groundbreaking research and innovation happening at UCF as we push the boundaries of what’s possible in space. 🌌

Read more: https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-awards-2026-innovative-technology-concepts/

The NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program has created 18 new awards to support visionary ideas to improve aerospace technologies in areas ranging

08/28/2026

For Andrea Borowczak ’92, a UCF scholarship helped make her future possible. Today, she and her husband, Mike, are paying it forward by investing in opportunities for the next generation of Knights. 💫🚀

Their story is a reminder that one opportunity can change everything.

Read their story below and discover how they’re helping UCF reach what’s next. https://bit.ly/4chHIFw

08/24/2026

Today marks the first day of the 2026–2027 school year! 💛🖤

Get a first-hand look at what the generosity through UCF Day of Giving is making possible for Knights. Join UCF senior Antonio as he shares how donor support is helping students thrive, learn and Charge On!

08/14/2026

Truly an amazing partnership between UCF and Universal Destinations & Experiences! Check out this new story about Alumnus Doug Akers!

08/07/2026

August is National Make-A-Will Month, a time to create a plan that protects the people and causes you care about most. By creating your will, you can provide peace of mind for your loved ones and help shape a legacy that lasts for generations.

UCF has partnered with FreeWill to make the process simple, secure and completely free. In about 20 minutes, you can take the first step toward planning your future. Make a will today: https://frwill.link/44UIwvG

07/31/2026

Transformational giving creates transformational opportunities.

Ron and Julie Cartwright have committed $750,000 to UCF Athletics, investing in the success of current and future student-athletes. Their commitment reflects the powerful impact of giving in expanding opportunities, strengthening programs and empowering Knights to excel on and off the field.

Thank you, Ron and Julie, for helping shape the future of UCF through your extraordinary generosity. 💛🖤

UCF Athletics will name the Ron and Julie Cartwright Head Coaches Corner, a landscaped gathering space located near IOA Plaza between the north and south entrances of the new Roth Tower at Acrisure Bounce House.

07/30/2026