Recapping 2025 National Networking Knight

If you would like to be part of the excitement, contact knights@ucfalumni.com.

On Thursday, March 6, 2025, hundreds of Knights from across the nation gathered in their local alumni communities for National Networking Knight—a dynamic event designed to strengthen professional networks and foster lasting connections.

Launched in 2022, NNK offers UCF alumni an engaging platform to expand their professional networks and connect with peers at every stage of their careers. From Atlanta to Boston to Chicago, Knights mingled, exchanged contact information, and caught up on life after UCF—while some attendees benefited from insights provided by career coaches and resume experts.

For the past two years, the UCF Washington, D.C. Alumni Community has hosted its NNK event at Florida House on Capitol Hill. This beautifully restored Victorian, located just steps from the Supreme Court and Library of Congress, provided an iconic backdrop—one that even graced the headshots of attendees with the U.S. Capitol Dome.

“We had an incredible event,” said William Lusk ’09 ’13MA, NNK Lead for the Washington, D.C. Alumni Community. “We are so grateful for our stunning venue at Florida House, made possible by UCF Government and Community Relations, and for the exceptional coordination between our community and the UCF Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving office.”

In Orlando, hosted by Greater Orlando NNK Leads Sarah Chapman ’20 and Anne Wilsen ’11, participants gathered at the FAIRWINDS Alumni Center, where the ballroom buzzed with networking energy and upstairs spaces hosted private coaching sessions. A new highlight was the Knugget Talks, held in the inviting John C. and Martha Hitt Library lobby. During these sessions, invited speakers shared practical job search tips, real-world networking strategies, and best practices for crafting a professional resume.

“I had an absolutely incredible time at National Networking Knight,” said Atiyah Appline ’20 ’22MPA, a council member of both the UCF Greater Orlando Community and the UCF Black Alumni Community. “Reconnecting with fellow Knights was as inspiring as ever, and participating in the inaugural Knugget Talks panel was a true honor. Sharing insights on the transformative power of networking and supporting both alumni and students reminded me why this event is so special. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute and witness the spark of new connections that will undoubtedly lead to meaningful collaborations. I can’t wait to see the impact we’ll create together and am already excited for what’s in store next year!”

Next year’s NNK is scheduled for Thursday, March 5, 2026. UCF Alumni staff are reaching out to communities to gather key takeaways and explore additional ways to support their efforts.

“I want to thank all of our Knights for attending their community’s National Networking Knight,” said Heather Junod ’98. “It was wonderful to see everyone reconnecting with old friends and forging new connections. I am also deeply grateful to the volunteers across the country who helped make their community’s NNK a success. You have my eternal gratitude, and I can’t wait until next year! Keep Charging On!”