{"id":143750,"date":"2024-11-01T21:11:40","date_gmt":"2024-11-02T01:11:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/?p=143750"},"modified":"2025-04-14T14:46:06","modified_gmt":"2025-04-14T18:46:06","slug":"ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/","title":{"rendered":"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Nine faculty members were honored for their trailblazing work and the impact they are making in our local communities, our nation and the world during UCF\u2019s annual Luminary Awards held Friday at the Orlando Museum of Art.<\/p>\n<p>The Luminary Awards \u2014 established in 2017 \u2014 are designed to recognize some of UCF\u2019s brightest stars who shine a positive light on the university and in their respective fields, as well as illuminate a path of discovery for those who will come after them.<\/p>\n<p>Honorees were selected based on nominations by deans, chairs and directors from across the university. The event was attended by the recipients, their close family and friends, as well as former awardees and special guests from the community.<\/p>\n<p>UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael Johnson, Vice President for Research and Innovation Winston Schoenfeld and Interim Vice Provost for Faculty Excellence Joel Cramer were on hand to recognize each winner.<\/p>\n<p>The 2024 Luminary Award recipients are:<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_143803\" style=\"max-width: 1200px;\" class=\"figure mx-auto d-block\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143803 img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web.jpg\" alt=\"Robertico Croes\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143803 img-fluid lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Robertico Croes\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Robertico_2Z7A4714_1_for_web.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"figure-caption\">Robertico Croes, UCF Luminary Award Winner (photo by Antoine Hart)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Robertico Croes<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Professor, Rosen College of Hospitality Management<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>For over two decades, Croes has focused his academic career on the critical intersection of socially sustainable tourism, economic growth, and poverty alleviation. In recent years, he has made waves with pioneering research on travel health and infectious disease control. Leading the charge as principal investigator, Croes secured $4.5 million in funding to help mitigate the severe social and economic impacts of pandemics on the hospitality and tourism industry. His work emphasizes the survival of small businesses and the well-being of disabled people, aiming to protect the future of both.<\/p>\n<p>One of the most notable outcomes of this funding is Rosen College\u2019s first intellectual property: a personalized health-based travel app.<\/p>\n<p>Croes\u2019 expertise has also garnered global recognition, leading to his recent invitation by the president of the United Nations General Assembly to discuss sustainable development goals as they pertain to tourism\u2019s role in alleviating poverty.<\/p>\n<p>Croes\u2019 contributions to sustainable tourism have had far-reaching impacts, benefiting UCF, the Rosen College, and impacted populations both in the U.S. and internationally. His commitment to mentoring students and faculty has helped shape the future of the tourism industry while enhancing global economic sustainability.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_143805\" style=\"max-width: 1200px;\" class=\"figure mx-auto d-block\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143805 img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web.jpg\" alt=\"Craig Crossley\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143805 img-fluid lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Craig Crossley\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Craig_2Z7A4721_for_web.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"figure-caption\">Craig Crossley, UCF Luminary Award Winner (photo by Antoine Hart)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Craig Crossley<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Associate professor, Department of Management, College of Business<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Crossley has earned global recognition for his impactful research and leadership, most notably through his prestigious role as the Fulbright-Hanken Distinguished Chair in Helsinki, Finland. Each year, fewer than 30 scholars worldwide receive this distinction, the Fulbright Program\u2019s highest honor designated for eminent figures across all academic disciplines. Despite the demanding nature of this position, Crossley has continued to fully serve UCF while fulfilling his Fulbright obligations over two consecutive summers.<\/p>\n<p>Crossley\u2019s research excellence is well-reflected in his citation count, with more than 6,000 citations, nearly half of which were garnered in the last three years alone. His work puts him in the top 3% of scholars in his field, demonstrating his growing influence in the management discipline. Over the past three years, he has given nine presentations at international conferences, serving as chair or keynote speaker for four of them.<\/p>\n<p>Beyond academia, Crossley\u2019s work has widespread societal impact. He has formed partnerships with organizations such as the Children\u2019s Home Society of Florida and global entities like the Irish and U.K. governments, helping organizations with difficult business environments and business challenges, such as navigating Brexit.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_143806\" style=\"max-width: 1200px;\" class=\"figure mx-auto d-block\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143806 img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web.jpg\" alt=\"Matt Marino and Eleazar Vasquez\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143806 img-fluid lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Matt Marino and Eleazar Vasquez\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Marino_Vasquez_2Z7A4730_for_web.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"figure-caption\">Matt Marino and Eleazar Vasquez, UCF Luminary Award Winners (photo by Antoine Hart)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Matt Marino and Eleazar Vasquez<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Professors, School of Teacher Education, College of Community Innovation and Education<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Marino and Vasquez, leaders of the Toni Jennings Exceptional Education Institute in UCF&#8217;s School of Teacher Education, have earned national recognition for their impactful contributions to exceptional student research and education. Together, they have transformed the institute into a vital ecosystem serving regional, statewide, and national communities through innovative policy and practices.<\/p>\n<p>As the institute\u2019s director and former interim director, respectively, Vasquez and Marino have created strong collaborations with school districts and stakeholders like Orange County Public Schools, the nation\u2019s eighth-largest district. Their partnerships benefit countless students, educators and families, and extend to supporting students with intellectual disabilities through the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities.<\/p>\n<p>Vasquez\u2019s leadership earned him a White House and Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee invitation in May to discuss artificial intelligence and education, and he is part of a team securing several federal research awards, including a $50 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education Office of Elementary and Secondary Education Full Service Community Schools Programs to enhance community partnership schools in Florida.<\/p>\n<p>Marino, likewise, has recently secured several awards, including $6.5 million over five years from the Office of Special Education Programs and a three-year grant from the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities to expand the institute\u2019s work. Their collective efforts have positively impacted 1.5 million scholars, 35,000 teachers, and hundreds of families. They consistently publish research studies in high-impact journals, present at key conferences, and have secured more than $82 million in grant funding since 2017. These achievements demonstrate excellence in education, research and societal impact.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_143822\" style=\"max-width: 1200px;\" class=\"figure mx-auto d-block\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143822 img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized.jpg\" alt=\"Matt Dombrowski\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143822 img-fluid lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Matt Dombrowski\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized-360x240.jpg 360w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/matt-resized.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"figure-caption\">Matt Dombrowski, UCF Luminary Award Winner<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Matt Dombrowski \u201905 \u201908MFA<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Associate professor, School of Visual Arts and Design, College of Arts and Humanities<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Dombrowski has demonstrated exceptional dedication to interdisciplinary research, innovative teaching, and impactful service. His contributions to the field of animation and visual art and his role as creative director at Limbitless Solutions have significantly advanced UCF&#8217;s mission of fostering creative and scholarly excellence.<\/p>\n<p>His scholarly work encompasses varying fields, with peer-reviewed articles exploring groundbreaking technologies such as electromyographic video game controllers for improving prosthetic outcomes, innovative 3D printing strategies for prosthetic components and control schemes for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. His publications often include undergraduate researchers, underscoring his dedication to both mentorship and innovation.<\/p>\n<p>In his role at Limbitless Solutions, Dombrowski has overseen a total of over 500 interdisciplinary students comprised of seven UCF colleges. His leadership has forged partnerships with industry giants like Adobe, Autodesk and Microsoft, securing significant support, including over a quarter of a million dollars in funding from companies like Adobe, Unity, Epic Unreal and Disney. His work also extends to impactful community projects like bionic arm delivery with Arnold Palmer, Orlando Health and Oregon Health &amp; Science University along with Project Xavier, a hands-free wheelchair initiative with the Mayo Clinic.<\/p>\n<p>Dombrowski\u2019s advocacy for Limbitless has taken UCF undergraduates to prestigious venues such as the United Nations and the Smithsonian. His national recognition, including being named an Adobe Creator to Watch in 2023 by Adobe and <em>Forbes<\/em> magazine, reflects his transformative contributions to UCF and the broader community.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_143807\" style=\"max-width: 1200px;\" class=\"figure mx-auto d-block\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143807 img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web.jpg\" alt=\"Mindy Shoss\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143807 img-fluid lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Mindy Shoss\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Mindy_2Z7A4736_for_web.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"figure-caption\">Mindy Shoss, UCF Luminary Award Winner (photo by Antoine Hart)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Mindy Shoss<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Professor, Department of Psychology, College of Sciences<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Shoss has been instrumental in building and maintaining UCF as a powerhouse of workplace psychology research, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, layoffs and the future of work. This includes helping UCF become selected as a site for a targeted research training program funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.<\/p>\n<p>Her research has been featured in <em>Harvard Business Review<\/em> and in leading media outlets such as <em>The New York Times<\/em>, <em>The Wall Street Journal<\/em> and <em>The Washington Post<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Shoss has also delivered high-profile presentations for the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, the American Psychological Association (APA), and the National Safety Council. Her influence has extended to advising the APA, U.S. Congress, and the U.S. Surgeon General\u2019s Office on workplace mental health.<\/p>\n<p>With over 100 published works, including 32 peer-reviewed articles since 2021, Shoss\u2019 research is highly regarded. She has secured $3.8 million in external funding. Recognized as a fellow of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Shoss continues to shape the future of work and workplace well-being.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_143823\" style=\"max-width: 1200px;\" class=\"figure mx-auto d-block\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143823 img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize.jpg\" alt=\"Mona Shattell\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143823 img-fluid lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Mona Shattell\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize-360x240.jpg 360w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/mona-resize.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"figure-caption\">Mona Shattell, UCF Luminary Award Winner<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Mona Shattell<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Professor, College of Nursing<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Shattell, a distinguished scholar in psychiatric-mental health, has earned an international reputation for her groundbreaking research on the well-being of nurses and long-haul truck drivers. Her extensive work highlights her commitment to advancing mental health and well-being in often overlooked populations.<\/p>\n<p>She has served as editor-in-chief of the <em>Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services<\/em> for the past seven years, curating impactful content and co-authoring multiple editorials, including one with a doctoral student. In addition to her editorial duties, she co-authored nine articles in high-impact journals, focusing on workplace mental health issues.<\/p>\n<p>Shattell\u2019s contributions extend beyond academia. She is the lead author of Social Media in Health Care: A Guide to Creating Your Professional Digital Presence, a practical guide that has become a key resource for healthcare professionals. Her strong social media presence, with nearly 9,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter), amplifies her influence and thought leadership in the mental health field.<\/p>\n<p>Her expertise is frequently sought by the media, having conducted multiple interviews and appearing as a guest on national podcasts, including a Sirius XM show about mental health in the trucking industry. She has also delivered keynote addresses at international conferences and received the prestigious Melva Jo Hendrix Award from the International Society of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurses in 2023.<\/p>\n<p>With her national and international recognition, Shattell\u2019s work continues to improve mental health care for populations in need, solidifying her impact on the field.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_143808\" style=\"max-width: 1200px;\" class=\"figure mx-auto d-block\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143808 img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web.jpg\" alt=\"Ladda Thiamwong\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143808 img-fluid lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Ladda Thiamwong\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Ladda_2Z7A4742_for_web.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"figure-caption\">Ladda Thiamwong, UCF Luminary Award Winner (photo by Antoine Hart)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Ladda Thiamwong<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Professor, College of Nursing<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Thiamwong has earned international recognition for her innovative aging research and leadership, highlighting her significant contributions to the field. Over the past three years, Thiamwong has secured over $4 million in National Institutes of Health funding, with an additional $4 million pending, and has produced an impressive 76 scholarly works, including 62 peer-reviewed articles. Her research is collaborative and involves disciplines that span engineering, kinesiology, computer science, psychology, and statistics, helping to transform the field of geriatric nursing.<\/p>\n<p>Thiamwong\u2019s work has garnered widespread media attention, including a recent feature on the front page of the <em>Orlando Sentinel<\/em>. She has delivered 53 international presentations in the past three years, including a keynote address, and serves as an associate editor for Frontiers in Public Health. Her expertise is frequently sought locally as well, including as a member of the Orlando Mayor\u2019s Committee on Livability and Healthy Aging.<\/p>\n<p>Among her numerous accolades, Thiamwong was inducted as a fellow in both the American Academy of Nursing and the National Academies of Practice. She also received the Excellence in Geriatric Nursing Research Mid-Career Award and was recently named the Florida Blue Endowed Professor for Healthy Communities.<\/p>\n<p>Her dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists and her contributions to aging research are promoting significant progress and innovations that will have long-lasting impacts in the field.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_143809\" style=\"max-width: 1200px;\" class=\"figure mx-auto d-block\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143809 img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web.jpg\" alt=\"Thomas Wahl\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"figure-img size-full wp-image-143809 img-fluid lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E\" alt=\"Thomas Wahl\" srcset=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns%3D%22http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg%22%20viewBox%3D%220%200%201200%20800%22%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web-360x240.jpg 360w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/Wahl_2Z7A4746_for_web.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"figure-caption\">Thomas Wahl, UCF Luminary Award Winner (photo by Antoine Hart)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Thomas Wahl<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Department of Civil, Environmental and Construction Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Wahl has established himself as a leader on the impact of sea level rise and storm surges on the built environment. His work integrates engineering with atmospheric and oceanographic sciences and influences policy at national and international levels.<\/p>\n<p>Since joining UCF in 2017, Wahl has attracted nearly $6 million in research funding, contributing to projects totaling over $55 million. His scholarly output is remarkable, with more than 100 peer-reviewed journal papers with over 5,000 Scopus citations. His research has been published in prestigious journals such as <em>Nature<\/em>, and his excellent ability to communicate the importance of his work to stakeholders and the media elevates UCF\u2019s prominence nationally and globally.<\/p>\n<p>Wahl\u2019s numerous accolades include the Huber Prize from the American Society of Civil Engineers and early career investigator awards from both NASA and the U.S. National Science Foundation. He is also a dedicated mentor, having guided students like Javed Ali, a recent Order of Pegasus awardee. His research has gained widespread media attention, appearing in <em>The Washington Post<\/em>, <em>National Geographic<\/em> and numerous state and local media outlets.<\/p>\n<p>With his impressive achievements and significant contributions to addressing sea level rise, Wahl continues to push the boundaries of research and innovation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The honor is designed to recognize some of UCF\u2019s brightest stars who shine a positive light on UCF and in their respective fields.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":199,"featured_media":143768,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"lazy_load_responsive_images_disabled":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":"","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[5,23,24],"tags":[900,17023,7309,17177,973,4869,982,8279,11747,54187,8687,50213,15761,5590,4068,4168,17532],"tu_author":[],"class_list":["post-143750","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-colleges","category-research","category-science-technology","tag-civil-engineering","tag-college-of-arts-and-humanities","tag-college-of-business","tag-college-of-community-innovation-and-education","tag-college-of-engineering-and-computer-science","tag-college-of-nursing","tag-college-of-sciences","tag-department-of-psychology","tag-eleazar-vasquez","tag-ladda-thiamwong","tag-matt-dombrowski","tag-mindy-shoss","tag-pegasus-briefs","tag-robertico-croes","tag-rosen-college-of-hospitality-management","tag-school-of-visual-arts-and-design","tag-thomas-wahl"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v22.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards | University of Central Florida News<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The honor is designed to recognize some of UCF\u2019s brightest stars who shine a positive light on UCF and in their respective fields.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The honor is designed to recognize some of UCF\u2019s brightest stars who shine a positive light on UCF and in their respective fields.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"University of Central Florida News | UCF Today\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/UCF\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-11-02T01:11:40+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-04-14T18:46:06+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/luminary_awards2024.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"683\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Robert Wells\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@UCF\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@UCF\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Robert Wells\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Robert Wells\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/9512118dceafb8df4e29be3674361895\"},\"headline\":\"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-11-02T01:11:40+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-04-14T18:46:06+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2080,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/wp-content\\\/blogs.dir\\\/20\\\/files\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/luminary_awards2024.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"civil engineering\",\"College of Arts and Humanities\",\"College of Business\",\"College of Community Innovation and Education\",\"College of Engineering and Computer Science\",\"College of Nursing\",\"College of Sciences\",\"Department of Psychology\",\"Eleazar Vasquez\",\"Ladda Thiamwong\",\"Matt Dombrowski\",\"Mindy Shoss\",\"Pegasus Briefs\",\"Robertico Croes\",\"Rosen College of Hospitality Management\",\"School of Visual Arts and Design\",\"Thomas Wahl\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Colleges &amp; Campus\",\"Research\",\"Science &amp; Technology\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"copyrightYear\":\"2024\",\"copyrightHolder\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/#organization\"}},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/\",\"name\":\"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards | University of Central Florida News\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/wp-content\\\/blogs.dir\\\/20\\\/files\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/luminary_awards2024.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-11-02T01:11:40+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-04-14T18:46:06+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/9512118dceafb8df4e29be3674361895\"},\"description\":\"The honor is designed to recognize some of UCF\u2019s brightest stars who shine a positive light on UCF and in their respective fields.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/wp-content\\\/blogs.dir\\\/20\\\/files\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/luminary_awards2024.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/wp-content\\\/blogs.dir\\\/20\\\/files\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/luminary_awards2024.jpg\",\"width\":1024,\"height\":683,\"caption\":\"Luminary Award winners were selected based on nominations by deans, chairs and directors from across UCF. (Photo by Antoine Hart)\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/\",\"name\":\"University of Central Florida News | UCF Today\",\"description\":\"Central Florida Research, Arts, Technology, Student Life and College News, Stories and More\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/9512118dceafb8df4e29be3674361895\",\"name\":\"Robert Wells\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/da6c5f5dad08c8318c0d4b3a62b8300d0b8a4eb7bc9674684eb34f58a4a8b1d9?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/da6c5f5dad08c8318c0d4b3a62b8300d0b8a4eb7bc9674684eb34f58a4a8b1d9?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/da6c5f5dad08c8318c0d4b3a62b8300d0b8a4eb7bc9674684eb34f58a4a8b1d9?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Robert Wells\"},\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/author\\\/ro438467\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.ucf.edu\\\/news\\\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\\\/#local-main-organization-logo\",\"url\":\"\",\"contentUrl\":\"\",\"caption\":\"University of Central Florida\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards | University of Central Florida News","description":"The honor is designed to recognize some of UCF\u2019s brightest stars who shine a positive light on UCF and in their respective fields.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards","og_description":"The honor is designed to recognize some of UCF\u2019s brightest stars who shine a positive light on UCF and in their respective fields.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/","og_site_name":"University of Central Florida News | UCF Today","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/UCF","article_published_time":"2024-11-02T01:11:40+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-04-14T18:46:06+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1024,"height":683,"url":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/luminary_awards2024.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Robert Wells","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@UCF","twitter_site":"@UCF","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Robert Wells","Est. reading time":"11 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/"},"author":{"name":"Robert Wells","@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/#\/schema\/person\/9512118dceafb8df4e29be3674361895"},"headline":"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards","datePublished":"2024-11-02T01:11:40+00:00","dateModified":"2025-04-14T18:46:06+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/"},"wordCount":2080,"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/luminary_awards2024.jpg","keywords":["civil engineering","College of Arts and Humanities","College of Business","College of Community Innovation and Education","College of Engineering and Computer Science","College of Nursing","College of Sciences","Department of Psychology","Eleazar Vasquez","Ladda Thiamwong","Matt Dombrowski","Mindy Shoss","Pegasus Briefs","Robertico Croes","Rosen College of Hospitality Management","School of Visual Arts and Design","Thomas Wahl"],"articleSection":["Colleges &amp; Campus","Research","Science &amp; Technology"],"inLanguage":"en-US","copyrightYear":"2024","copyrightHolder":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/#organization"}},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/","url":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/","name":"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards | University of Central Florida News","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/luminary_awards2024.jpg","datePublished":"2024-11-02T01:11:40+00:00","dateModified":"2025-04-14T18:46:06+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/#\/schema\/person\/9512118dceafb8df4e29be3674361895"},"description":"The honor is designed to recognize some of UCF\u2019s brightest stars who shine a positive light on UCF and in their respective fields.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/luminary_awards2024.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/luminary_awards2024.jpg","width":1024,"height":683,"caption":"Luminary Award winners were selected based on nominations by deans, chairs and directors from across UCF. (Photo by Antoine Hart)"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"UCF Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/","name":"University of Central Florida News | UCF Today","description":"Central Florida Research, Arts, Technology, Student Life and College News, Stories and More","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/#\/schema\/person\/9512118dceafb8df4e29be3674361895","name":"Robert Wells","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/da6c5f5dad08c8318c0d4b3a62b8300d0b8a4eb7bc9674684eb34f58a4a8b1d9?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/da6c5f5dad08c8318c0d4b3a62b8300d0b8a4eb7bc9674684eb34f58a4a8b1d9?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/da6c5f5dad08c8318c0d4b3a62b8300d0b8a4eb7bc9674684eb34f58a4a8b1d9?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Robert Wells"},"url":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/author\/ro438467\/"},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/ucf-recognizes-nine-top-faculty-at-2024-luminary-awards\/#local-main-organization-logo","url":"","contentUrl":"","caption":"University of Central Florida"}]}},"thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/20\/files\/2024\/11\/luminary_awards2024-300x200.jpg","primary_category":5,"primary_tag":14916,"author_byline":"Robert Wells","acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/143750","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/199"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=143750"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/143750\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":146196,"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/143750\/revisions\/146196"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/143768"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=143750"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=143750"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=143750"},{"taxonomy":"tu_author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tu_author?post=143750"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}