Natalie Sellers ’03 M.S. has used her experience, as well as the knowledge she gained from Florida Tech, to grow as a leader within Parrish Medical Center.
We talked with Sellers about her career, favorite Florida Tech memory and advice for other Panthers in the College of Psychology and Liberal Arts.
Job: Senior Vice President of Communication, Community & Corporate Services, Parrish Healthcare
Florida Tech Degree: Managerial Communication, M.S.
Why did you choose Florida Tech?
I chose Florida Tech because of its stellar academic reputation and the curriculum associated with the managerial communication program.
How did your experience at Florida Tech prepare you as a professional?
Having the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of student professionals served to broaden my perspectives. I used my experience and applied the knowledge gained to grow as a leader within my organization.
Specifically, were there any courses or faculty that had a significant influence on your education?
Professor [emeritus] Judith Strother [’76 MBA] was not just an amazing teacher, but a mentor. Her teaching style, experience and depth of knowledge were a source of inspiration.
Share your best Florida Tech student memory.
I appreciated most the in-classroom learning. I valued being in a classroom with others to engage in face-to-face conversations—to share and challenge ideas with mutual respect. Today, so much is done online, which has value, too. But as a communication professional, I believe the most effective communication and learning happens in person.
What have been the highlights and milestones of your life and career so far?
I have been honored and humbled to earn a number of professional recognitions. Among them was being named Florida Tech’s Outstanding Graduate Student in managerial communication; earning fellow status with the American College of Healthcare Executives; and experiencing career advancement, from starting as https://news.fit.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dr_wiggenhorn1-1.jpg communications coordinator to now serving as senior vice president overseeing several departments, including https://news.fit.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dr_wiggenhorn1-1.jpg communications, human resources, people development (education), patient experience, volunteer services, security and safety and the foundation. Also, I am the proud grandmother of four.
What advice do you have for current COPLA students who want to make the most out of their time at Florida Tech?
Embrace the diversity of thought from your fellow students and professors, and approach all the learning opportunities afforded to you with an open mind.
