UF Academy creates confident leaders
Samesha Barnes Ivey, Ph.D., director of prestigious awards and the McNair Scholars Program in UF’s Division of Undergraduate Education and Student Success, has built a career rooted in purpose and mentorship. A self-described introvert, Ivey credits the UF Academy with helping her grow into a more confident, intentional leader.
Read on to learn how the UF Academy transformed Ivey’s view of leadership and continues to influence her work today.
Tell us about your professional journey and how you came to be in your current position at UF.
My professional journey has been defined by a willingness to pivot toward purpose. After college, I began my career as an R&D engineer in the Inkjet Media Division of Hewlett-Packard in San Diego. I loved the innovation, problem‑solving and excitement of bringing new products from concept to market, but I also sensed that something essential was missing.
That realization led me to UF, where I initially pursued a master’s in Materials Science and Engineering before transitioning into the Ph.D. program. During graduate school, I became increasingly involved in mentoring, leadership and teaching. Those experiences revealed strengths and passions I hadn’t previously considered and sparked my interest in student development and academic support.
After completing my doctorate, I served as a postdoctoral associate with the NSF SEAGEP program, where I helped prepare STEM doctoral students for academic careers and led study abroad courses in Chile, China, and Brazil. My work with SEAGEP solidified my commitment to student development and led me into academic leadership.
For the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of directing the UF McNair Scholars Program, where I have mentored over 300 undergraduate scholars as they prepare for graduate school. Recently, I transitioned into a broader leadership role as Director of the Office of Prestigious Awards within Undergraduate Education and Student Success. In this role, I can expand my impact by supporting high-achieving undergraduates and alumni as they pursue nationally and internationally competitive fellowships.
To me, this work is more than a job — it’s a calling to help students recognize their potential, see what’s possible for their futures and not just succeed, but truly thrive during their time at UF.
What motivated you to participate in the UF Academy?
I was at a point in my career where I wanted to grow as a leader, not just in my role as a program director. I was especially interested in understanding how leadership operates at a complex institution like UF and gaining a broader perspective beyond my own unit.
As an introvert, I also saw the Academy as an opportunity to stretch myself and step outside of my comfort zone to build meaningful relationships across campus. I was excited about the opportunity to engage with and learn from UF’s senior leaders.
What impact has the UF Academy had on you professionally and, if applicable, personally?
The UF Academy transformed my view of leadership. I entered assuming that senior leaders might share similar personalities or styles. What I discovered was the opposite. Authentic leadership looks different for everyone. Hearing candid stories about challenges, setbacks and growth helped me see that there is no single “right” way to lead. Professionally, it strengthened my confidence and prepared me for greater responsibility. Personally, it affirmed that I can lead effectively by being fully myself while continuing to grow.
Are there specific resources or connections you made during the program that you found most valuable and why?
The 360-degree assessment was one of the most impactful parts of the experience for me. Receiving candid feedback from my colleagues and supervisor gave me a clearer understanding of how others experience me as a leader. It was both affirming and eye-opening. It strengthened my confidence while also highlighting areas where I could continue to grow.
The cohort and instructor relationships were incredibly meaningful. I connected with incredible leaders from all areas of campus. These are people I likely would not have met otherwise, and those relationships have lasted well beyond the program. We still keep in touch, making a point to get together at least once or twice a year, and genuinely support one another.
I also valued the opportunity to engage with UF’s senior leadership. Hearing their candid stories, not just their advice but their real experiences and challenges, offered insights that you can’t get from a book or a workshop.
How have you applied what you learned in this program in your role as a leader?
I lead more intentionally now. I think more strategically about how I engage with my team, how I make decisions and how I communicate. I also lead with greater confidence by leaning into my strengths while remaining open to growth. I regularly draw on lessons from the UF Academy around collaboration, influence and leading within complexity and change.
What would you tell a colleague who is considering applying to this program?
A quote that I sometimes share with students immediately comes to mind: “Do something today that your future self will thank you for.” The Academy will stretch you, help you build impactful relationships with leaders from across campus and give you a deeper understanding of both UF and yourself. More importantly, it will help you grow in confidence and gain clarity about the kind of leader you want to be. It’s truly a worthwhile investment.
Applications for the 2026–27 UF Academy cohort are open now through Friday, May 1. Apply on the UFHR website.