Celebrations honor service of longtime UF faculty and staff
Last month, the University of Florida celebrated years of dedication and service with two recognition receptions hosted at the Earl and Christy Powell University House. UF Interim President Donald Landry, M.D., Ph.D., and Vice President for Human Resources Melissa Curry honored faculty and staff who celebrated 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years of continuous service at UF in 2025.
“The long-term service of UF faculty and staff signifies their profound commitment to our mission – a contribution to our community justly celebrated,” said President Landry. “But more fundamentally, such longevity faithfully preserves and transmits the UF culture, a culture of excellence and the source of our success and the basis of our aspirations.”
“Through decades of change, growth and innovation, you stayed. You adapted. You led. And you helped shape the University of Florida into the world-class institution it is today,” said Curry. “That kind of dedication doesn’t happen by accident — it’s a choice, made year after year.”
For many attendees, the celebration offered an opportunity to reflect on the meaning behind years of service and the relationships built along the way.
UFIT Manager Thomas Summerford shared how his 25-year journey has been defined by teamwork and purpose.
“Over my 25 years of service to UF, I have interacted with so many talented people and worked on some truly impactful projects. I am always struck by how, collectively, we are so much greater than the sum of our parts. But what gets me most excited is thinking about the small tasks we complete in our daily work that contribute, brick by brick, to building this amazing institution and supporting our mission.”
Brenda E. Bissinnar, Employee Relations HR specialist in the College of Medicine, reflected on how her time at UF has shaped her life, both personally and professionally.
“Working at the University of Florida for 25 years has been more than a career — it’s been a community, a purpose and a privilege. I’ve spent most of my time at UF in the College of Medicine, and I truly love what I do. I’m grateful to work alongside so many wonderful people and to have the opportunity to help the UF community. I’m thankful for the growth, relationships and chance to make a difference every day.”
For Financial Analyst Miryam Braun, the milestone carried added meaning as she prepares to retire later this year after more than 35 years of service.
“I am proud to be working for UF … and to [have been] part of General Accounting and Financial Reporting for many years; I am a little sad that I will retire in four months. I started working at UF in what is now the IT department, and I am grateful for the opportunities I had to grow professionally in this institution … It will not be easy to leave UF; the Gators will always be in my heart.”
Luisa Amelia Dempere, Ph.D., UF faculty senate chair and College of Engineering Nanoscale Research Facility director, expressed appreciation for the recognition of service.
“At a time when long-term commitment is no longer the norm, being recognized for years of service at a university affirms that a faculty member’s dedication and sustained contributions to the institution are truly valued and appreciated.”
Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees. Your hard work and dedication continue to push the University of Florida to greater heights.
Photo albums for the Staff Appreciation Ceremony and the Faculty Appreciation Ceremony are now available online. Use your UF email address to log in, view and download the photos.