Introducing the College of Sciences Alumni Council  

The newly formed council brings together passionate alumni from UCF’s largest college to strengthen alumni engagement. 

Written by: Emily Dougherty | Published: October 29, 2025  

The College of Sciences (COS) has recently selected a new Alumni Council to represent and engage alumni from UCF’s largest college. Coming from an array of professional backgrounds, these Knights bring unique experience to help strengthen the bridge that keeps COS alumni connected.   

First-time council member Elizabeth Swart says having the opportunity to join the council is a way for her to expand her mentorship roles and strengthen her passion for research.   

“I was inspired by my colleagues in the UCF Department of Sociology,” she says. “I want to help inspire graduate students to embark on original and innovative research.”  

Alanna Reynolds, Security Operations Integration Lead at Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems and double Knight, says her involvement allows her to give back to UCF.   

“The scholarships, mentoring, and support I received as a UCF student were instrumental in shaping my professional career,” she says. “I’m incredibly appreciative of all the opportunities that I had at UCF and the College of Sciences.”  

Nicholson School of Communication and Media alumna Heather Bailey says while on the council, she aims to represent the bond between UCF and its alumni.   

“My goal is to represent the University, strengthen the connections between alumni and the college, and help the next generation of Knights succeed,” she says. “I hope my love and enthusiasm for UCF will inspire fellow alumni to reconnect with the university.”  

Manager of Public Affairs at UCF, Austin Wilson, shares that he sees this as a way to give back to the college that prepared him for his career. He hopes to highlight the impact COS has on its students through alumni engagement.   

“My time in the college gave me opportunities, mentors, and experiences that continue to influence how I serve others,” he says. “With COS’ reach spanning from the depths of the ocean to the frontiers of space, it continues to lead the way in discovery and innovation. It’s inspiring to be part of that momentum and to help connect fellow Knights to the college’s growing impact.  

As an educator, council member Aisha Turnquist says her time as a student at UCF has shaped her as a teacher and she values the sense of community that surrounds the educational environment.  

“The Arboretum is such a beautiful and peaceful space that represents the heart of science, sustainability, and community on campus. Many people don’t realize the educational value and volunteer opportunities it offers, not just for science majors, but for anyone who wants to connect with nature and learn outside the classroom,” she says. “It’s truly one of UCF’s hidden gems and a space that could benefit from even more awareness and support.”  

For returning councilmember Olivia Feild, she hopes to strengthen the connection with alumni who don’t live locally.   

“Being UCF Alumni means being part of a large family,” she says. “It allows me to feel connected to UCF communities all over United States and getting to meet new alumni always feels like discovering a family member you didn’t know you had.”  

Becki Douglas, realtor and psychology alumna, hopes to encourage more alumni to interact with students and be inspired by the work they do.   

“It’s important for me to give back to my community and stay connected with the University,” she says. “I hope I encourage others to be inspired by the amazing students and the extraordinary things they accomplish in making the world a better place.”  

As a first-generation college student in her family, councilmember and Show/Public Relations Manager at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Sade Teel says she is honored to have this opportunity to connect with her fellow alumni.  

“The opportunity to give back to my alma mater and inspire others to pursue higher education is a lifelong dream of mine,” she says.  

For alumni wanting to get more connected with their alma mater, Lauren Christie, Sales Operations Analyst, offers her advice.  

“Join Knights Network. It’s a great way to stay up to date on upcoming events and programs,” she says. “It’s a great way to see all of the things our students and alumni go on to accomplish.”  

Heather Bailey, B.A. Journalism, M.A. Journalism

Heather Bailey is an award-winning journalist and Executive Producer of Florida Road Trip, WUCF’s statewide PBS series celebrating Florida’s history and culture. A proud UCF alumna, she has built a distinguished career in public media and investigative reporting, earning recognition from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the Associated Press, and the Society of Professional Journalists for her impactful storytelling across Florida newsrooms.  
  

Lauren Christie, B.A. Political Science and Government

Lauren Christie is a proud UCF alumna and Sales Operations Analyst for GolfNow at Versant Media, where she applies data-driven strategies to optimize performance and efficiency. With a background in political science and human communication, she demonstrated leadership as Captain of the UCF Policy Debate Team and now continues her commitment to the university as a member of the College of Sciences Alumni Board.

Becki Douglas, B.A. Psychology, M.S. Educational/Instructional Media Design  

Becki Douglas is a dedicated real estate professional and proud UCF alum known for her client-centered approach and creative marketing strategies. With a background in psychology and a Master’s in Instructional Design, she brings both insight and innovation to her work. Beyond real estate, Becki is deeply involved in her community, serving on the Boards of the Women’s Council of Realtors and UCF’s College of Sciences Alumni Board.  

Olivia Feild, B.S. Forensic Chemistry, M.A. Forensic Chemistry

Olivia is a two-time UCF graduate with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in forensic chemistry and now serves as Board Chair of the College of Sciences Alumni Chapter. A lab analyst at Kennedy Space Center’s chemical analysis lab, she supports major space missions by ensuring the safety and quality of launch and life support materials. Dedicated to both science and service, Olivia also represents her department as safety steward through the lab union.  

Alanna Reynolds , B.A. English-Technical Communication, Spanish Language and Literature, M.A. Political Science and Government , Ph.D. Security Studies  

Alanna Reynolds is the Security Operations Integration Lead for Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems and a Ph.D. candidate in Security Studies at UCF. A proud Knight and Burnett Honors College graduate, she has earned multiple UCF degrees spanning English, Spanish, and Political Science. Recognized with UCF’s 30 Under 30 and Shining Knights Young Alumni Awards, Alanna is also dedicated to service—mentoring future national security professionals through Girl Security and performing as a violist with the Central Florida Community Arts Symphony Orchestra.  

Elizabeth Swart, Ph.D. Sociology  

Dr. Elizabeth Swart earned her Ph.D. in Sociology and Master of Social Work from the University of Central Florida, where her dissertation was recognized with the College of Sciences Outstanding Dissertation Award. She conducts ethnographic research in Kenya focused on women’s mental health in informal settlements and serves as a counselor in private practice in Orlando. 

Sade Teel, B.A. Journalism, M.A. Communication   

Sade N. Teel is an award-winning communicator and public relations professional serving as Show and PR Manager at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, where she leads communications for more than 4,000 events each year. A proud UCF alumna, she has driven high-impact campaigns for major organizations across Central Florida and continues to mentor and lead within the state’s PR community.  

Aisha Turnquist , B.S. Biology  

Aisha Turnquist is a secondary science educator with Orange County Public Schools and an active member of the UCF alumni community. A proud Knight and Orlando local, she’s passionate about inspiring students through science education, attending UCF events, exploring theme parks, and enjoying sci-fi and supernatural media. She now continues her connection to UCF as a member of the College of Sciences Alumni Council.  
  

Austin Wilson, B.A. Political Science, M.P.A Public Administration 

Austin Wilson is the Manager of Public Affairs in UCF’s Office of Government and Community Relations, representing the university before Florida’s Executive and Legislative branches. A proud three-time Knight with degrees in Political Science, Criminal Justice, and Public Administration, he’s passionate about leadership, service, and community engagement. Austin also gives back through roles with Town & Gown at UCF, the Young Alumni Council, and the College of Sciences Alumni Board.