Meet two of our Knight Authors: Jana Piragic ’07 ’09MA and Lori Levoy ’08
Tell us a little about yourself
Jana: I am a PROUD UCF aluma, freelance writer, real estate agent, and adjunct professor – but my most cherished roles in life are as a wife and mother. I was born and raised in Minnesota, where I spent most of my free time playing indoor volleyball. During my time at UCF, I had the opportunity to play collegiate volleyball along side the most talent and fun teammates – many who have become lifelong friends. We made unforgettable memoires wining on the court, dancing in the locker room, and, of course, learning in the classroom. I was honored to serve as a two-year team captain and earn four varsity letters. UCF gave me a strong foundation for my career, as I earned my bachelor and master degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders. My volleyball days are behind me, so I’ve redirected my aces to the tennis court. I’ve unofficially added cheerleader, caddy, and health coach to my mom duties for my two little boys. We currently call the Palm Beaches home. I absolutely love raising my family in this beautiful, wellness focused community.
Lori: I’m a Varsity Knight and former UCF cross country and track athlete. I currently serve as an educator at Mainland High School, where I’m honored to support our student-athletes as the Academic and NCAA Clearinghouse Advisor and College Recruiting Liaison.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
Jana: I’ve always enjoyed writing as a creative outlet, but when I became a speech-language pathologist and mother, it took on a deeper meaning. I’ve seen first-hand just how powerful reading with young children is – it strengthens the parent/child bond, develops language, introduces new concepts, stimulates brain growth, sparks creativity, and so much more! I’d written academic content for many years but began writing stories for my own children to help them learn, grow, and feel loved. This passion led me to create my first book, UCF Knight in Training.
Lori: When my daughters were little, there wasn’t a children’s book about UCF, and I wanted them to have something special to connect them to the school I love. That’s when I decided to write one myself.
What’s your writing process? What inspires your writing?
Jana: The process depends on that material and the audience – what do I need to convey and how can I make it meaningful. As for inspiration, for UCF Knight in Training, that came from our amazing fan base! I believe, the love for UCF by our students and alumni is unmatched by any university. I hope this book instills our school spirit with the next generation of UCF Knights!
Lori: I wouldn’t say I have a formal writing process. My writing is inspired by love—by the people and places that have touched my heart and stayed with me over time.
What was the biggest thing you learned during your time as a Knight that you apply to your life today?
Jana: The biggest lessons I learned during my time at UCF were independence and resilience. Managing academics and athletics was challenging – For the first time in my life, I had to prioritize what’s important to me, stay focused, and follow through with commitments. I certainly didn’t master this in college but learned from this period my life and it taught me how to confidently trust myself, take the initiative, and reform my priorities.
Lori: The greatest thing I learned at UCF is that life is really about the people we meet. The greatest people touch our hearts, remind us of who we are, and change our lives for the better. We are all just walking each other home.
What was a class or club at UCF that helped you grow as a writer?
Jana: Preschool Language Disorders. I learned SO much in this class that helped me professionally and personally.
Lori: Although I didn’t take a specific writing class or join a writing club at UCF, the community and experiences I had there shaped my perspective—and that sense of connection inspired my writing.
Who are some of your favorite authors or books?
Jana: Hands down, Lori Levoy! She is the author of I am going to be a UCF Knight. She is an amazing mother, friend, author, the biggest UCF supporter and probably the best human on the planet!
Lori: My favorite book is The Alchemist. It’s a simple story, yet it’s full of timeless lessons about trusting the journey, listening to your heart, and finding meaning in every step.
If UCF had a time machine, what moment on campus would you go back to?
Jana: Take me back to freshman year when we made history by competing in the second round of the NCAA Volleyball tournament!!
Lori: If I could travel back in time at UCF, I’d relive so many moments. What I loved most was witnessing my friends achieve incredible things—the pride, excitement, and love in those moments are unforgettable.
If your UCF experience were a meme, what would it be?
Jana: Holy Airball! – In the most positive way! At the time, I didn’t realize how wonderful and meaningful my college experience would be! UCF surprised me!
Lori: If my UCF experience were a meme, it would be “How it started vs. How it’s going.” I started as an athlete with big dreams and left with a heart full of purpose. Now, as an educator and NCAA advisor at Mainland High School, I get to pour that same spirit into helping others believe in what is possible.
Anything else?! What are you currently working on right now?
Jana: I’m currently working on academic and lifestyle pieces.
Lori: I’m currently finishing my master’s degree in Educational Leadership at Stetson University, which I’ll complete this November. At the same time, I’m in the process of starting my own business.
