A 1984 grad with a degree in Elementary Education, Cynthia has 30+ years of experience
in higher ed. She currently serves a dual role in which she directs the University
of South Florida Board of Trustees operations, as well as partnering with University
leadership to facilitate, coordinate and promote the university’s consolidation efforts
uniting three campuses into One USF.
I chose Southeastern for its Elementary Education academic program. The College of
Education had a great reputation and I wanted to attend a small school.
Strawberry Field…wonderful times watching Lions football but more importantly my
sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi used to hold a keg roll (an empty key attached to a lawn
mower handle) in which they would roll a keg for 24 hours throughout campus (mile
route) to raise money for our national philanthropy, Arthritis Research. We would
roll the keg on campus during daylight (faculty “loved” us), then at dusk, we would
move to the stadium and roll the keg around the track until sunrise. Friends and other
Greek organizations would join us throughout the evening. The event brought numerous
organizations together in a safe environment raising money for an important philanthropic
cause. Remember, this was in the 80s!
Serving as a President’s Lady, group of ambassadors who assisted President (Larry)
Crain at events. The opportunity to represent the University during high profile events
was a tremendous honor. On a few occasions we traveled to events in the surrounding
area with the president. During my tenure as Chief of Staff at USF, I reflected fondly
on these experiences and worked to ensure the students where I work had similar positive
opportunities.
I took Louisiana History with Dr. Howard Nichols and found him to be so passionate
about our state’s history. His teaching style and love of history inspired me so much,
that I ended up with a history minor. I believe my love of international travel, exploring
historical landmarks, was inspired by the passion I developed for history during Dr.
Nichols’ class.
No, I decided after my student teaching experience that I preferred higher education
administration. It’s amazing the skills I use from my education days, but just on
a higher level. I periodically guest lecture.
The co-curricular experiences and classes I participated in at Southeastern provided
me the opportunity to be actively engaged and develop leadership and organizational
skills. The elementary education program, at least when I was a student, provided
a lot of opportunities for activities and volunteering in the area schools and was
designed to create your own innovative teaching style. The combination of classroom
and co-curricular activities provided a well-rounded real-life experiences. I continue
to look back at my time at Southeastern as one of the most fulfilling times in my
life.
I would give similar advice that was given to me, “first you learn, then you earn,
then you return”. Take time to listen, observe, and engage with those who can shape
your career.
Don’t ever let “no” stop you!
Be a life learner!
And lastly, don’t ever tell an employee to do something that you yourself wouldn’t
do.
International traveling with my husband and playing golf with friends.
The current pandemic has changed our lives completely, but what I found out is I love
taking naps! Working from home affords me the opportunity to periodically take a nap.
I have found it to be refreshing getting away from Microsoft Team meetings. I love
periodic naps!