Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below – many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.
Anna Vainelovich
I feel that I am exactly where I am meant to be. My true calling is to help people, and it doesn’t matter in what form this happens — whether as a pharmacist or as a nail technician. At one time, I chose medicine and for many years I helped people through pharmaceuticals. Read more>>
Cherice Greco
I believe I am doing what I was born to do. I absolutely love working with children and always wanted to do something tha involved kids, even when I was little. I used to play ‘teacher’ as a kid and even thought about becoming one after college. Read more>>
Kit Fox
I am head over butt in love with my job – and it’s a new and scary feeling. I am never so comfortable that I don’t believe it could be taken away from me some day. When I was a baker, I was excited to bake. When I worked with dogs, I was excited to see them. Read more>>
Monica Lanigan
Absolutely! I genuinely love what I do and I do it because I love it and I love the never ending knowledge to be gained. Read more>>
Lisa Wilkes
I’m the Director of Mentorship for UF’s LGBTQ+ Alumni Association, and I was asked to speak at a student-led assembly in Gainesville at the start of the fall 2025 semester. Given the recent hostility and social tension, this task made me very nervous. Typically, I enjoy public speaking, but I wasn’t sure how to articulate my thoughts during this challenging moment in history. Read more>>
Corry Graber
A grandmother texted me a photo from their monthly subscription box three generations gathered around a tiny boy taking his first-ever bite of chocolate. His eyes went wide, cheeks lifted, and for a second you could see pure discovery on his face. Read more>>
Priyanka Nanda
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “Trust the process and trust yourself.” Life won’t always go the way you imagine, and there will be struggles you don’t see coming—but every challenge is shaping you into someone stronger, wiser, and more compassionate. Read more>>
Adrian Jackson
Yes absolutely. I miss someone whom was very close to me her name was Coreen Tupponce, and she was absolutely one of the best things to ever happen to me. Our relationship started as work friends, and then from there our friendship branched out into something more. We went on a work trip together and ended up falling for each other. Read more>>
Mikala Bars
Suffering taught me lessons that success never could. Success feels amazing, but it can be temporary- suffering builds character, perspective and faith. The hardest seasons of my life showed me the importance of resilience, discipline, and leaning on God when things feel impossible. Pain has a way of stripping away distractions and forcing you to see who you really are and what you truly value. Read more>>
Ashley Humphrey
As a child and well into my adulthood, I believed that I wasn’t worthy of having a good life. I had some traumatic memories as a child that shaped the way I seen myself and the way I viewed others. I now know & believe I am worthy and deserving. Read more>>
Tiffany Critton
I begin my day by sitting in silence, meditating, expressing gratitude, and journaling. Early morning silence allows me to clear my mind and connect with my emotions. By doing this, I’m able to mentally prepare myself for whatever may come my way. It also allows me to set my intentions for the day so I can have a clear sense of directions. Read more>>
Todd Laslo
The art and paintings that I create are easy because I was born with a talent for it.That is not necessarily a true statement. While God did gift me with a talent for art, it’s is hard work and years of practice that can make it look easy. Hard work, practice, and dedication beat talent every day of the week. Read more>>
Kayth Sanchez
For a long time, I carried parts of my story in silence, the struggles, the losses, the setbacks that left deep marks. I used to feel ashamed of what I’d been through, but over time I’ve realized that life is nothing but lessons. Nothing is coincidence; everything arrives to shape you, to teach you, to make you rise. Read more>>
Kenna Schott
Life has changed a lot in the past year since having my son in August 2024. I went from being hyper-obsessed with work to slowing down a bit and savoring the moment with my little one. Read more>>
Douglas Holland
Being that I sell music I am impressed with the variety of styles of music my customers purchase, especially young people. They seem to be curious to check out things that surprise me. Read more>>
Dick Colligan
Wow, great question. I work for myself so I guess the answer would have to be yes!! Read more>>
