On Thursday, Oct. 16, during the heart of Homecoming Week, the Pegasus Grand Ballroom at the UCF Student Union will shine even brighter as Knight Nation gathers for the 2025 Shining Knights Alumni Awards. This celebration recognizes nine extraordinary honorees whose lives and legacies exemplify the highest ideals of the university — visionary leadership, transformative service and unwavering devotion to their alma mater.
Since its inception in 2017, the Shining Knights Alumni Awards have honored individuals whose impact transcends campus and community. The inaugural awards were presented to former UCF President John C. Hitt and his wife, Martha, who became the university’s first Honorary Alumni. Among the most prestigious distinctions is the Michelle Akers Award, presented to alumni whose achievements have brought global acclaim to UCF — named for the legendary 1989 graduate, Olympic gold medalist, and one of the greatest soccer players of all time.
“This year’s honorees are nothing short of inspiring,” says Heather Junod, associate vice president for Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. “Each has illuminated their field with brilliance, carried UCF’s values into the world, and uplifted the lives of others in ways that make our entire Knight Nation proud. They are proof that when Knights charge on, the world takes notice.”
Distinguished Alumni Award
The highest honor bestowed annually upon a UCF graduate.
Kenneth Dixon ’75
A visionary leader and champion of UCF, Dixon’s influence spans more than five decades — from founding the Kenneth G. Dixon School of Accounting to advancing UCF Athletics and student career development. His generosity has elevated UCF’s reputation and inspired generations of Knights to pursue greatness. Dixon’s steadfast commitment has shaped UCF into a powerhouse for academic and athletic achievement, leaving a legacy that will transform both individuals and the university for generations.
Kevin ’92 and Christine Wydra ’93
For more than three decades, the Wydras have enriched UCF through leadership, generosity and vision. Their commitment inspires students and alumni to carry the torch forward. From supporting scholarships to advancing programs that fuel innovation and community impact, Kevin and Christine have left a lasting mark on campus life and cultivated a culture of giving that will inspire Knights for years to come.
Jason Eichenholz ’95MS ’98PhD
Eichenholz is a serial entrepreneur, executive, philanthropist and recognized pioneer in laser and optics. Over the past two decades, he founded multiple companies that have raised over a billion dollars of investor funding. He is the current CEO and founder of hollow core fiber company Relativity Networks. When he’s not reshaping industries, Eichenholz dedicates himself to serving others — both as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, and through his greatest passion: the Jonathan’s Landing Foundation, a nonprofit creating a comprehensive community for adults across the autism spectrum.
Cathleen Wheatley ’17DNP
As president of Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist and Davie Medical Centers, Wheatley leads with excellence while championing nursing education through the Knightingale Society. Her leadership has touched thousands across North Carolina and the world. Known for her vision and compassion, she has strengthened healthcare delivery and inspired the next generation of nurses and healthcare leaders.
John C. and Martha Hitt Honorary Alumni Award
The highest honor for a friend of UCF
Mary Palmer
A global educator and founder of the Florida Alliance for Arts Education, Palmer has enriched generations through teaching, philanthropy and advancing arts education statewide. Her advocacy has opened doors for countless students, while her mentorship and leadership have cultivated a community that values creativity as central to learning and growth. Palmer’s vision continues to inspire students and educators to pursue excellence and innovation in the arts.
N. Donald Diebel Sr.
A retired physician whose leadership sustains the UCF College of Medicine’s KNIGHTS Clinic, Diebel ensures vital healthcare for underserved communities. Beyond his clinical work, he has championed programs that train future physicians in service and empathy. His dedication has improved countless lives and inspired students and colleagues to embrace medicine as both a science and a calling.
Young Alumni Award
The highest annual honor for a recent 30 Under 30 honoree.
Padmavathi Ganduri ’21
From first-generation college student to serving in the Department of Homeland Security, Ganduri is now pursuing her juris doctorate at George Washington University with ambitions to return to public service and make an even greater impact.
Distinguished Student Award
The highest honor for a current UCF student.
Ossyris Bury
An aerospace engineering major and Burnett Honors College Scholar, Bury has mentored hundreds of STEM students, welcomed thousands of prospective Knights and earned national recognition for her research in structural dynamics. Her leadership and excellence embody UCF’s bold future.
