Since joining Florida Tech in 2013, Gina Yates ’19 has dedicated her career to creating opportunities for Panthers past and present. Having spent a decade in athletic fundraising supporting scholar-athletes, she now serves as assistant vice president for alumni affairs, fostering lifelong connections with Florida Tech graduates across the globe—a mission that hits close to home for her own all-Panther family. We caught up with her to reflect on her journey, her passion for alumni engagement and what inspires her every day.
What is your title, and what do you do?
I am the assistant vice president of alumni affairs, which is part of the university’s advancement office. We work with alumni all over the world. We learn about what they have been up to since graduation and keep them engaged with the university. Our alumni enjoy learning what our current students are doing and how they can help them get the most out of their time here, on campus.
What do you love about your job?
Hearing about the incredible things our alumni are doing! Florida Tech alumni are making an impact around the globe, working in roles that improve lives and shape a better future for everyone. From advancing space initiatives and leading major organizations to conducting groundbreaking medical and technological research, our alumni are also working with animals and marine life to better understand how our worlds are interconnected. They are brilliantly driving innovation and making a difference in communities around the world!
“Florida Tech alumni are making an impact around the globe, working in roles that improve lives and shape a better future for everyone.”
Gina Yates, assistant vice president of alumni affairs, office of advancement
What is one of your favorite Florida Tech memories, and why?
The day my youngest son graduated from Florida Tech was especially meaningful: a Panther family! That day, I truly felt the impact Florida Tech has had on my life. My oldest son summed it up perfectly: He always thought of Florida Tech as the little college down the street, but once he became a student here, he realized how incredible it is and how many opportunities his education has provided him.
What do you see in the future for Florida Tech, and what are you excited about?
I love seeing the new residence halls going up and new opportunities for our students. I’m excited to watch Florida Tech continue to grow and to see the breakthroughs our alumni will achieve in the years ahead. So many industries are evolving and creating new opportunities every day, and our professors are constantly introducing new concepts while encouraging students to think outside the box. That combination of innovation and creativity will empower our graduates to make meaningful advances across a wide range of professions.
Share more about your life outside of work.
- Family: My husband and I have four adult children (all Panthers!!) and four grandchildren.
- Pets: We have three grand-dogs.
- Hobbies: Anything outside—the beach, walking, traveling, hunting and camping. I also love to cook.
- Favorite thing to do on a weekend: Spend time with family and friends!
This piece was featured in the fall 2026 edition of Florida Tech Magazine.
