Imagine stepping onto a college campus with the weight of your future resting on the edge of your choices. For students at Florida Tech, that choice now includes a rare opportunity to become not just scholars, but trailblazers—leaders who shape the university’s legacy.
At the start of the fall 2024 semester, Florida Tech launched the President’s Ambassadors program, an ambitious initiative that invites a select group of standout students to step into the role of visionaries, embodying the very values that define Florida Tech.
Inspired by a similar program he launched at the University of New Orleans, Florida Tech President John Nicklow brought this vision to life at Florida Tech with the hope that it would not only elevate the student experience but also amplify the university’s impact in ways never before imagined.
A Visionary Beginning
The President’s Ambassadors program is rooted in two key goals: promoting Florida Tech’s values—leadership, service, inclusivity and academic excellence—and developing students into servant leaders who will shape the university’s growth and success.
“The inspiration behind starting the program was twofold,” Nicklow says. “One aspect is helping a group of students network with a broader group of individuals—community members, board members and alumni. The second aspect is fostering connections between alumni and community leaders and the university. What better way to do that than by having them talk directly to a student?”
Dressed in matching crimson blazers, the President’s Ambassadors are easily recognizable at events. Their presence has already left a lasting impression on Florida Tech’s community and beyond.
“I can talk to alumni and community members until I’m blue in the face about all the great things happening here, but when they hear it from a student, it’s real,” Nicklow says. “They are a critical keystone in what we’re trying to accomplish.”
The inaugural cohort consists of 15 exceptional students selected from 63 applicants, forming a diverse group of sophomores, juniors, seniors and graduate students. These students embody the university’s best: leaders with a passion for progress, a commitment to Florida Tech’s mission and a desire to leave an indelible mark on the university.
“These students are leaders among leaders,” Nicklow says. “They were selected for this one-year experience because of their leadership experience, dedication to Florida Tech, passion for promoting change, desire to learn and grow, campus involvement and ability to mentor or inspire others.”
The program brings together students from a wide array of organizations and leadership roles, including scholar-athletes, resident assistants and members of organizations like the Panther Spirit Squad, Greek Life, Student Government Association and honor societies.
Being an ambassador is a volunteer position with unparalleled opportunities for growth and impact. Ambassadors act as the welcoming face of Florida Tech, greeting guests at university events and fostering meaningful dialogue.
The Crimson Connection
What makes these ambassadors so special? It’s their ability to turn every handshake into a bridge and every conversation into an opportunity.
“They’re the ones who will welcome you to the event—‘Hey, hello. Welcome to Florida Tech.’ They’ll engage with you, want to know more about who you are as a guest and be prepared and eager to ask or answer questions about their experiences at Florida Tech,” says Julia Martinus ‘21, ‘23 M.S., event planning and production manager who serves as the program’s advisor.
One of the most significant opportunities the ambassadors experience is mingling with Florida Tech’s board of trustees at exclusive events. These gatherings provide unparalleled networking opportunities, allowing the ambassadors to interact with university leaders, alumni, and community stakeholders.
“They truly represent Panther Pride and are able to speak about the student experience,” Martinus says.
Beyond attending board of trustees meetings, the ambassadors have also participated in high-profile events like the Legacy of 37 reception and President’s Circle gatherings, where they played a key role engaging with community and university leaders.
Ambassadors may also be invited by various university organizations or departments to represent the student body at Florida Tech events. These requests are managed through Engage, the university’s student engagement platform.
Building Tomorrow’s Leaders
The program isn’t just about appearances—it’s about cultivating growth. Ambassadors undergo extensive training in leadership development, professionalism, networking and goal setting. Weekly cohort meetings with Martinus reinforce these skills, preparing them to represent the university confidently.
“Throughout the program, students not only contribute to Florida Tech’s mission and vision, but they are also given the tools to become better individuals and more capable young professionals,” Martinus says.
The ambassadors’ impact is matched by the program’s effect on them. Many have expressed newfound confidence and skills, while bonds formed among the cohort promise lasting friendships.
“The program has provided many opportunities to grow as a leader and professional,” ambassador Deztynee Bryan says. “Through this program, I’ve developed valuable skills, built meaningful connections and worked alongside an inspiring cohort of individuals who constantly motivate me to strive for excellence.”
The bonds forged within the program are as meaningful as the skills gained, encouraging personal growth while building enduring friendships between cohorts and deepening their commitment to advancing Florida Tech’s mission.
“In the beginning, some of them were nervous and didn’t really know each other. However, there was an overwhelming commonality among all of them: They each wanted to give back to Florida Tech,” Martinus says. “Now, students who didn’t know each other before this program are having an amazing experience together. Seeing their growth as young professionals and watching their confidence increase has been absolutely amazing.”
The benefits for ambassadors go far beyond leadership development, networking opportunities and relationship building. Nicklow has also extended a standing offer to provide ambassadors letters of recommendation for jobs, graduate school or internships.
“In preparation for upcoming job applications, I reached out to Dr. Nicklow for a letter of recommendation, and he graciously provided it,” ambassador Asa Barnhart said. “I am incredibly grateful for his support and encouragement, and I am excited to take all I have learned serving at this school into my future.”
A Legacy in the Making
The program is just beginning, but its potential is already clear. With a $100,000 endowment from an anonymous alumnus, the program is set for sustained growth. Ambassadors are encouraged to leave their mark by creating new initiatives, raising funds for scholarships and leading campus activities.
“They’re the face of the institution,” Nicklow said. “When we talk about supporting education and our students, people can now put a face to that cause. They represent us so well, and I want to thank the ambassadors for what they do. I’m proud of them individually; I’m proud of the program, and I know it will have a positive impact on the future of Florida Tech.”
With its strong foundation, the President’s Ambassadors program promises to remain a cornerstone of leadership development at Florida Tech for years to come, continuing to foster Panther Pride—one conversation, one connection and one crimson blazer at a time.
To learn more about the President’s Ambassadors and support their mission, follow them on Instagram to stay updated on their activities.
Meet the President’s Ambassadors
Asa Barnhart
Classification: Junior
Major: Biomedical Engineering, B.S.
Hometown: Auburn, California
Fun fact: Asa is an undergraduate research assistant in the cardiovascular flow laboratory.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. John Nicklow for his support and leadership, as well as for the opportunity to be part of the President’s Ambassador program. This experience has been invaluable, allowing me to connect with incredible people, sharpen my professional and networking skills and grow both personally and professionally. Thank you, Dr. Nicklow, for pioneering this extraordinary opportunity.”
Erin Brasher
Classification: Junior
Major: Marine Biology, B.S.; Biomedical Science, B.S.
Hometown: Benton, Arkansas
Fun fact: Through Florida Tech’s ocean engineering and marine sciences department, Erin has visited the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest and the Galápagos Islands.
“It has been such a joy getting to meet and work with these incredible and impressive students toward a common goal of serving our campus community and representing the student body. Through the events we attend and the people we get to meet, the President’s Ambassadors have the privilege to not only bring our unique perspectives to different areas of the school, but we get to see many different aspects of our university and each of their traditions, progress and plans for the future. It’s an unbelievably rewarding experience that has helped me grow as a leader, a professional and a person, and I am beyond grateful for it.”
Deztynee Bryan
Classification: Senior
Major: Meteorology, B.S.
Hometown: Anguilla
Fun fact: Deztynee is an “island girl” whose love for meteorology was sparked by the impact of Hurricane Irma on her hometown in 2017.
“The President’s Ambassadors program has been an extraordinary and transformative experience. Representing Florida Tech is an incredible honor, and I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity.”
Darryl Chamberlin
Classification: Senior
Major: Physics, B.S.; Astronomy & Astrophysics, B.S.
Hometown: North Port, Florida
Fun fact: In addition to his studies at Florida Tech, Darryl plays bass in the orchestra and jazz band.
Parker Christensen
Classification: Senior
Major: Mechanical Engineering, B.S.
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
“The program has been eye-opening, allowing me to see how brilliant other people on campus are. It’s been great to talk with like-minded individuals about the state of the university, including the board of trustees and other prominent figures on campus.”
Ava Dorow
Classification: Junior (FastTrack)
Major: Biomedical Engineering, B.S., M.S.
Hometown: Portsmouth, New Hampshire
“President’s Ambassadors has allowed me to interact more with people from other disciplines and be able to connect with more people outside my field.”
Graziela Encarnacion ’24
Classification: Graduate Student
Major: Business Administration, MBA – International Business Specialization
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Fun fact: Graziela is the first person in her family to attend college and will be the first to earn a master’s degree.
“It’s been an amazing opportunity to be able to share my love of Florida Tech with everyone and help them know just a little bit more on what makes this place a home.”
Anna Grimm
Classification: Senior (FastTrack)
Major: Chemistry, B.S. – Premedical Emphasis; Biochemistry, M.S.
Hometown: Kannapolis, North Carolina
“My experience as a Florida Tech president’s ambassador has been nothing short of amazing. I am surrounded by phenomenal leaders, from my fellow ambassadors and advisor to President Nicklow. Being able to work alongside President Nicklow to highlight some of the best parts of our campus and its students has been an opportunity I will always be grateful for. I look forward to continuing our work and building a strong program that will flourish with future ambassadors.”
Steven Holmberg ’24
Classification: Graduate Student
Major: Aerospace Engineering, M.S.
Hometown: Forked River, New Jersey
Fun fact: Since he started at Florida Tech in 2020, Steven has been involved with numerous research labs and has worked on several grants. He also loves going to the beach and surfing.
Kian Jamal
Classification: Senior
Major: Aerospace Engineering, B.S.
Hometown: McKinney, Texas
Fun fact: Kian will graduate after just three years.
“Being part of the President Ambassador program has been an incredible journey so far, offering invaluable experiences and the opportunity to connect and learn with inspiring individuals.”
Marcello Mattei ’22, ’23 M.S.
Classification: Graduate Student
Major: Biomedical Engineering, Ph.D.
Hometown: Caracas, Venezuela
“This program has been quite a different opportunity to get involved on campus from a more professional perspective. I am surprised how interested the community, our president, the board of trustees and the college deans have been when meeting us in events.”
Alita Regi ’19, ’21 M.S.
Classification: Graduate Student
Major: Human-Centered Design, Ph.D.
Hometown: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Fun fact: Alita loves painting and dancing.
“I love the vibrant student body.”
Mackenzie Smith
Classification: Senior
Major: Multiplatform Journalism, B.S.
Hometown: Flower Mound, Texas
Fun fact: Mackenzie loves live music. By the end of 2024, she will have gone to 22 concerts. Her favorite music genres are indie/alternative and country.
“Being a president’s ambassador has given me the opportunity to learn so much more than I thought I would going into this program. I’ve learned how to give an elevator pitch, proper event and dining etiquette, how to give a good handshake, the history of Jerome Keuper and Florida Tech, and how to efficiently network, among other things. It’s an experience that I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of.”
McKenna Taylor
Classification: Senior
Major: Astronomy & Astrophysics, B.S.; Astrobiology, B.S.
Hometown: Arkadelphia, Arkansas
Fun fact: McKenna is one of this year’s Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF) Astronaut Scholars.
“I have greatly enjoyed my time as a president’s ambassador so far. It has provided me with the opportunity to interact with alumni, the board of trustees and, of course, Dr. Nicklow in ways that have allowed me to speak on the student experience at Florida Tech. I have been able to express my gratitude for everything that attending Florida Tech has done for me, while also being able to serve as a voice for the student body. I am so grateful to Dr. Nicklow for bringing this program to Florida Tech!”
Liana van Woesik ’24
Classification: Graduate Student
Major: Conservation Technology, M.S.
Hometown: Melbourne Beach, Florida
Fun fact: Liana enjoys scuba diving and is a PADI-certified Divemaster and American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) Scientific Diver.
“Serving the Florida Tech community as a president’s ambassador has been a valuable experience to me that has strengthened my viewpoint that our campus community is an amazing place full of inspiring people. Having the opportunity to lead by example and work to encourage others to find the best within themselves has been an honor. The Florida Tech community is strong in our ability to pursue academic excellence with curiosity, determination, innovation and imagination, and I am happy to be a part of this journey.”
This piece was featured in the winter 2025 edition of Florida Tech Magazine.
