Faculty Excellence News

A celebration of life will be hosted on the UCF campus in February 2026.

The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST) Center has aided thousands in need of assistive devices; trained caregivers and future clinicians; and served as a key partner in research initiatives over the last 20 years.

The awards debuted during UCF Space Week to recognize talent and contributions that are fueling the future of space.

The honor recognizes some of UCF’s brightest stars who reflect the best of the university’s research and impact efforts.

Selected from over 150 applicants, Nordin will receive a $450,000 grant to develop infrared detectors that could enhance military surveillance, autonomous vehicles and medical imaging.

Brad Heim will serve alongside former cabinet members, congressional leaders, state legislators and experts in the field of public administration to provide nonpartisan guidance to the United States government.

Claire Connolly Knox will be awarded the prestigious honor, which recognizes her impact on UCF’s program and students, at the 2025 International Association of Emergency Managers conference.

As the recipient of the 2025 Exemplary Research Practices Award, Sejal Barden continues to advance innovative work in the field of counseling.

With a $600,000 grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation, Professor Jun Wang aims to make AI foundation models more accessible to individuals and small businesses.